Volunteer Leadership Conference 2025 Celebrates Community, Connection and Knight Pride
The spirit of Knight Nation was in full force during the 2025 Volunteer Leadership Conference, held June 6–7 across Central Florida. This annual event brought together dedicated UCF alumni and supporters from regional, college-based, and affinity communities to celebrate volunteerism, share best practices, and build deeper connections across the UCF network.
Attendees participated in sessions that highlighted UCF’s newest strategies for alumni engagement and volunteer leadership, while also taking time to share successes and brainstorm ways to continue driving impact in their communities.
One of the highlights of the weekend was a special appearance by UCF Head Football Coach Scott Frost. In his address to attendees, Coach Frost expressed gratitude for their continued support of the university and the football program. He spoke about the qualities of strong leadership—on and off the field—and applauded the volunteers for giving their time and energy to make UCF a stronger, more connected institution.
Volunteers from across the country attended the event, representing all 13 UCF colleges as well as a wide range of affinity and regional communities.
Honoring Excellence: 2025 Volunteer Impact Awards
The conference culminated in the annual Volunteer Impact Awards ceremony, which celebrates individuals and groups whose dedication, innovation, and Knight pride have gone above and beyond in the past year. Here are this year’s standout honorees:
Shooting for the Stars Award
Awarded to a group demonstrating outstanding alumni engagement growth.
🏆 Winner: College of Engineering and Computer Science Alumni Chapter
Through strategic outreach and the creation of hybrid volunteer experiences, the College of Engineering and Computer Science increased engagement by 59% year-over-year. Their capstone event successfully connected students, alumni, and industry professionals in a dynamic, flexible format that expanded their reach far beyond campus. Pictured above: Shannon Chapman ’09, JC Perez ’16, Michael Ferrante ’15, and Harmony Brown, staff.
Nominees:
- Chicago UCF Knights Community
- College of Engineering and Computer Science Alumni Chapter
- UCF Black Alumni Community
Out of This World Award
Recognizes creativity and innovation in programming.
🏆 Winner: College of Community Innovation and Education Alumni Chapter
Their “Knight About Town” event in Orlando’s Packing District brought together alumni and community leaders through food tastings, networking, and scholarship fundraising—earning high attendance and nearly $1,000 in[HJ1] [CD2] scholarships to support future Knights.
Nominees:
- UCF Black Alumni Community (Homecoming Tailgate)
- College of Community Innovation and Education Alumni Chapter (Knight About Town)
- College of Engineering and Computer Science Alumni Chapter (Senior Design)
- Greater Orlando UCF Knights Community (National Networking Knight)
Pegasus Pride Award
Celebrates an individual or group showing exceptional UCF spirit.
🏆 Winner: Xavier Henderson ’17 ’21MS
A passionate advocate for access and innovation, Xavier embodies Knight pride in everything he does—strengthening connections, uplifting voices, and inspiring others to Charge On.
Nominees:
- Atlanta UCF Knights Community
- UCF Black Alumni Community
- Greater Orlando UCF Knights Community
- Henry Willis ’76
- Xavier Henderson ’17 ’21MS
- College of Community Innovation and Education Alumni Chapter
All Star Awards
Recognizes exceptional contributions from regional, college and affinity communities.
Regional Winner: 🏆 Greater Orlando UCF Knights Community
This group goes above and beyond in activating all four engagement modes—experiential, philanthropy, communication, and volunteerism—to build strong alumni connections.
College Winner: 🏆 College of Engineering and Computer Science Alumni Chapter
Their dedication to mentorship, university-wide initiatives, and engagement continues to shape a strong future for UCF.
Affinity Winner: 🏆 UCF Black Alumni Community
With a dynamic council and a mission rooted in service and engagement, this community excels in creating transformative experiences and elevating the alumni experience.
Celestial Awards
Honors individual volunteers who shine bright in service to UCF.
Regional Celestial Award:
🏆 Raina Mack ’98, Chair of the Atlanta UCF Knights Community
Raina’s leadership has strengthened UCF’s presence in Atlanta and inspired fellow alumni to stay connected and engaged.
College Celestial Award:
🏆 Katie Bowyer ’17 ’20MS, Chair of the College of Community Innovation and Education Alumni Chapter
Katie has consistently demonstrated thoughtful leadership, supported college initiatives, and mentored students—leaving a lasting impact on the UCF community.
Affinity Celestial Award:
🏆 Jessica Malberti ’16, Chair of the Young Alumni Community
From leading impactful service efforts to mentoring students, Jessica exemplifies heart-driven leadership and has elevated the profile of young alumni across Knight Nation.
These awards not only recognize individual and group achievements—they also reflect the collective spirit, resilience, and impact of UCF’s alumni community. Each honoree plays a vital role in strengthening UCF’s mission and extending its reach far beyond campus.
As the 2025 Volunteer Leadership Conference ended, attendees left reenergized, inspired, and ready to continue charging on—together.
Thank you to all who participated, supported, and made this weekend unforgettable. Go Knights! Charge On!
