Interface 2025 graphic with muted colors and shapes.

 

Interface 2025
Cultivating Well-Being in Higher Education:
A Holistic Approach to Learning  

The Interface Teaching Conference promotes innovative strategies for teaching and learning through interactive breakout sessions. This one-day event will feature sessions designed to integrate ways to support well-being into teaching and learning.  This year’s keynote speaker will be Peter Felten.

Join us on April 22, 2025, for a transformative day exploring the multifaceted dimensions of promoting well-being in higher education. This conference will delve into strategies for building inclusive and supportive learning and teaching environments, addressing faculty burnout, and fostering the mental health of everyone in the campus community. By prioritizing well-being, we can empower each other to thrive in an increasingly complex academic landscape.

The conference will be held in person at Emerson Alumni Hall.
All sessions will be face-to-face without virtual options.

Register for Interface here. 

 

Keynote Speaker

An image of Peter Felton outside wearing a blue pull over.

Professor Peter Felten is executive director of the Center for Engaged Learning, professor of history, and assistant provost for teaching and learning at Elon University. He has published seven books about undergraduate education, including Connections are Everything: A College Student’s Guide to Relationship-Rich Education (Johns Hopkins University Press, 2023) co-authored by Isis Artze-Vega, Leo Lambert, and Oscar Miranda Tapia – with an open access online version free to all readers. His next book, The SoTL Guide, is co-authored by Katarina Mårtensson and Nancy Chick, and will be published in late 2025. He is on the advisory board of the National Survey of Student Engagement (NSSE) and is a fellow of the Gardner Institute.

 

 

 

Conference Hotel Accommodations

Conference Hotel Accommodations

We are pleased to offer special hotel accommodations for attendees of the Interface 2025 conference at a discounted rate of $171 per night plus tax. A limited number of rooms are available for one night on April 21 at the Hilton University of Florida Conference Center Gainesville.

Reservation Details:

  • Reservation Deadline: March 31
  • Rooms Available: 14
  • Group Name: Interface 2025
  • Group Code: 500
  • Hotel Phone Number: 352-371-3600

Book your room today to ensure your stay at the conference!

Interface Agenda:

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Interface Agenda

Breakfast: 8:00 AM - 8:20 AM

Welcome: 8:20 AM - 8:35 AM

Cultivating a Culture of Health and Wellbeing in Higher Education: 8:40 AM - 9:10 AM

Ernesto R. Escoto, PhD
Division of Student Life Health and Wellbeing

In higher education, fostering student success requires more than academic support—it necessitates a holistic commitment to health and wellbeing. This session will provide an in-depth look at how our institution prioritizes the wellbeing of students, faculty, and staff through the strategic initiatives led by Health and Wellbeing (HAWK). We will explore key aspects of the Health and Wellbeing Strategic Plan, including targeted programs that address mental, physical, and emotional health, innovative wellbeing initiatives, and collaborative efforts across campus to create a supportive and thriving community.

Central to this discussion will be six guiding principles that reinforce our commitment to a culture of wellbeing: shared responsibility, work-life balance, community and belonging, the connection between physical and emotional health, the importance of faculty and staff wellbeing in student success, and the role of communication in building trust.

Attendees will leave with a clearer understanding of the resources available, actionable strategies to promote wellbeing within their own roles, and inspiration to contribute to a campus culture that values and sustains the whole person. Join us as we explore how a commitment to health and wellbeing enhances not only individual lives but also the academic excellence and mission of our university.

Breakout A: 9:20 AM - 10:10 AM

Breakout A

The Ripple Effect of Engagement: How Student-Centered Design Fosters Connection for Both Learners and Faculty
Presenters: Kathryn Rush,  Dr. Bojan Lazarevic, PhD., Jason Frank, EdD., Sooyoun Ahn, Meredith Nappy
Location: Classroom

In an AI-haunted world, fostering a sense of connection in online learning is paramount for both student success and faculty satisfaction. This interactive session explores the powerful ripple effect of student engagement: when courses are intentionally designed to prioritize student needs, and foster a sense of belonging, it creates a more positive and fulfilling experience for everyone involved. We'll delve into the reciprocal relationship between student and faculty connection, demonstrating how a student-centered approach can lead to increased engagement, motivation, and a stronger sense of community. The panel will discuss practical strategies for designing engaging online learning experiences, including incorporating active learning techniques, facilitating meaningful interaction, and leveraging technology to personalize the learning journey. Participants will leave with actionable insights and a renewed understanding of how prioritizing the student experience can create a more vibrant and connected online learning environment that benefits both learners and educators.

Wellbeing in Action: How Occupational Therapy Faculty are Enhancing Student Educational and Clinical Preparation Experiences
Presenters: Rebecca (Becky) Piazza, OTD, MS, OTR/L, BCPR, Pam Hess, OTD, OTR, DipACLM, PMH-C, Heidi M. Horwitz, OTD, MOT, OTR/L
Location: President’s Ballroom A

This workshop will help graduate doctorate students in occupational therapy understand the role of OT in promoting wellness. OT focuses on enabling individuals to engage in activities that enhance physical, emotional, and social well-being. In clinical settings, OTs improve cognitive function, develop emotional regulation, facilitate social participation, and promote healthy habits. Instructors can support student well-being and nervous system regulation by creating a safe learning environment, encouraging self-care, providing mindfulness opportunities, fostering resilience, and modeling stress management practices. Prioritizing these aspects prepares students for clinical practice and academic success.


From Small Steps to Big Wins: Stress-Free AI Strategies for Maximizing Student Growth
Presenters: Jennifer Wooten and Laura Jervis
Location: President’s Ballroom B

The unpredictability of AI can make incorporating it into coursework feel daunting—for both instructors and students. But with the right approach, AI becomes less of a stressor and more of a game-changer for learning. In an online beginning Spanish course, students engaged in low-stakes, AI-powered activities designed to build confidence and encourage experimentation. Instead of worrying about THE perfection of the product, students completed reflective surveys about their experiences, what they learned, and how they used the tools to meet their goals.
Here’s the twist: the surveys were the grades. By removing the fear of technical missteps impacting their grades, students were free to focus on experimenting, analyzing their experience, and improving their skills and confidence in using both Spanish and AI effectively. Many students found the activities so helpful they continued practicing with AI independently, taking ownership of their learning journey.
Aligned with the theme of cultivating well-being in higher education, this presentation demonstrates how small, intentional steps with AI can lead to big wins in student growth - both academically and personally.

Helping Students in Distress
Presenter: Rosa West
Location: President’s Ballroom C
College students face a lot of stress that can impact their life, both personal and academic. Whether faculty, staff, administrator, family member, or friend this presentation will focus on how to help you as you address your concerns about a UF student. Participants will learn about signs & symptoms of distress, how to speak with a student in distress, and how to connect students to mental health resources. Participants will also be connected to tools and resources to help you help a distressed student.

 

 

Breakout B: 10:20 AM- 11:10 AM

Breakout B

Transform your online course into a haven of calm: Mindful UX design techniques to create a stress-free learning environment
Presenter: Lori Gibbons
Location: Classroom

Are you passionate about teaching and sharing your subject matter with students but worried that your wealth of course materials might overwhelm them? Do you envision creating an online learning environment that engages and reduces anxiety for both you and your students?
A well-designed online course can make all the difference. Cluttered interfaces, confusing navigation, and information overload can be a recipe for disaster, leading to increased stress for your students (Guaglianone, 2023). In this session, we will explore the power of intentional course design and discover how simple UX principles and DesignPLUS tools within Canvas can help you craft an online course that's inspirational, informative, and stress-free. You will gain practical strategies to organize your course content effectively and practice with DesignPLUS tools and templates that can transform, and simplify, how you design your courses.

Signs, Signals and Support: Considerations for navigating the Uncomfortable, Strange and Scary
Presenters: Nadene R Reynolds, Chris Summerlin, Ph.D, Meggen Tucker Sixbey, Ph.D
Location: President’s Ballroom A

Educators frequently work with students facing a range of complex personal and professional challenges that may impact their ability to fully engage with course content. While subject matter expertise is invaluable, educators may not always have the training to address these challenges. Often, offering a listening ear is sufficient, but there are times when understanding how to take appropriate action is essential.

Promoting Lifelong Wellbeing: Leveraging the 10 Dimensions of Wellbeing Framework
Presenters: Jennifer Kennymore Royer and Palani Te, PhD
Location: President’s Ballroom B
Incorporating an ecological and multidimensional approach to student wellbeing is central to GatorWell’s mission of supporting lifelong student wellbeing. As part of this commitment, GatorWell has developed the "10 Dimensions of Wellbeing" framework, which aims to educate and empower student behaviors, while also enhancing access to specific campus resources. In this session, participants will gain an overview of the 10 Dimensions of Wellbeing framework, with a focused discussion on three specific dimensions: digital, environmental, and social wellbeing. Data on key academic impediments impacting student success will also be presented. Participants will engage in scenario-based discussions, applying the framework to practice a multidimensional approach to wellbeing. Finally, the presentation will highlight select campus resources designed to connect students with the support they need for holistic wellbeing.

Green Zone
Presenters: Linda Steele, M.Ed. and Shawn Ham

Location: President’s Ballroom C

The process of transitioning from the military to civilian life can pose challenges for all service members and their families. Green Zone training was developed for higher education to respond to the increase in the number of military-affiliated students on campus over previous years. The Green Zone term is used by military personnel to represent a supportive place.  Green Zone is designed for faculty and staff to receive training about issues potentially facing active service members, student veterans and their families.  The training provides an understanding of the military experiences and emotional cycle of deployment, an understanding of the potential issues facing students as they transition from the military to campus.  It includes awareness of the resources available to student veterans and their families on- and off-campus.  The Breakout Session is presented in two parts.  Part One is a presentation that includes participant discussion and a supplemental handout.  Part Two is interactive scenarios that are designed to illustrate unique situations that may present in the classroom.  Participants will work together in small groups to discuss the scenarios and a resolution.  Participants would also be able to take an additional online module, through canvas, to receive a badge, and certificate that can be displayed in their classroom or office.

Posters & collaboration 11:15 AM - 11:45 AM

Lunch is served: 11:45 AM - 12:45 PM

Keynote: 12:50 PM - 1:50 PM

Connecting, Mattering, and Learning: Cultivating Well-being for Students - and for Us
Peter Felten

The classroom – whether physical, virtual, or hybrid – can be a place where students and instructors thrive if we design for connecting, mattering, and learning. With the rise of generative AI, human interactions are even more important for motivation, trust, well-being, and meaning-making. In this interactive session we will explore research on how intentional academic interactions offer flexible, scalable, and humane approaches to ensuring that all students experience welcome and care, become inspired to learn, and explore big questions. We also will consider how meaningful professional relationships contribute to faculty and staff well-being.

 

Resource Fair: 1:55 PM - 2:45 PM

Breakout C: 2:55 PM - 4:05 PM

Breakout C

30 minute sessions. Please note these breakout sessions have two workshops per room in the given timeframe with break to change rooms.

Instructional Designers’ GenAI Use: Implications for online teaching and learning
Presenters: Swapna Kumar, Ed.D., Ariel Gunn, Ed.D., Margeaux Johnson, Rhiannon Pollard, PhD
Location: Classroom

Generative AI (GenAI) technologies promise to transform higher education through personalized learning, more engaging assessments, inclusive learning environments, and efficient course creation. However, it can be daunting for faculty to find time in their full schedules to explore the possibilities of GenAI to support their teaching practices. Instructional Designers (IDs), as experts at the intersection of educational technology, learning theory and teaching best practice, can play a crucial role in supporting faculty with the integration of GenAI.

Faculty well-being includes having meaningful support for core faculty responsibilities including course design, development, delivery, and evaluation. Two strategies for reducing faculty burnout around GenAI technology integration are 1) partnering with IDs for AI tool support and 2) leveraging generative AI to assist with course creation. We will present our findings from interviews and a survey conducted with IDs across the U.S. about GenAI use in higher education. IDs have reported a variety of uses for GenAI to create engaging and inclusive courses as well as make course creation more efficient for time-intensive tasks such as creating accessible content, rubrics, and reading summaries. They guide faculty in their use of AI for teaching, provide professional development to multiple stakeholders, and contribute to guidelines surrounding GenAI on campus. In this endeavor, they take a cautious approach, emphasize the importance of ethical and appropriate use of GenAI, and express concerns related to copyright, privacy, bias, and inaccuracy of information. We will share these innovative approaches in our presentation.


UF Analytics and AI Tool for Instructors
Presenter: Aaron Thomas
Location: Classroom

UF Information Technology has developed a tool that brings together Canvas data, institutional data, and student feedback as a plugin accessible from the instructor's Canvas page. The tool provides a day by day analytic that allows the instructor to evaluate differences between current and historical performance trends. In addition, the tool leverages Large Language Models (LLMs) to summarize student feedback and allows the instructor to leverage student feedback to provide personalized recommendations for course strategies and improvements. The job aid features quiz analytics that allow instructors to evaluate how students perform at the quiz item level along with longitudinal analysis to evaluate trends in the percentage of students who receive full-credit for all quiz items used in a Canvas course. The tool also allows instructors to extract data for assignment rubrics at the criterion level along with a visualization of student performance. The potential of the job aid's suite of analytics, visualizations, AI, and course management tools to improve teaching and learning will be the primary focus of the session.

Developing Personal Learning Goals with AI
Presenter: Monica Webb
Location: President’s Ballroom A

According to the National College Health Assessment the greatest impediments to college student academic success are procrastination (49.3%), stress (39.2%), anxiety (32.8%), sleep difficulties (23.9%), and depression (22.7%). One effective strategy to combat these impediments is developing personal learning goals. By setting clear, achievable objectives, students can create a structured plan that helps them stay focused and motivated. This approach not only reduces procrastination but also provides a sense of direction and purpose, which can alleviate stress and anxiety. Additionally, having specific goals can improve time management, leading to better sleep patterns and overall mental health.
Oftentimes, it is difficult to start developing learning goals. This session will provide participants with relevant AI prompts and tools to support the development of personal learning goals in alignment with course expectations and syllabi. A self-reflection assignment will be provided for participants to easily integrate into their course. The activity includes academic strengths, challenges, and learning style identification. Session participants will use copilot with sample prompts that can be adapted to their course. They will walk away with an introductory activity for students to support their well-being and course success.

Beyond Detection: Creating Accountability in Writing with AI
Presenter: Mia Lilienthal
Location: President’s Ballroom A

As UF evaluates and integrates AI into the curriculum, having visibility into how students engage and use AI is critical to ensuring it serves as a tool for learning rather than a shortcut. Hosted by the Grammarly for Education team and joined by UF faculty participating in a spring pilot, this session will explore how Grammarly Authorship provides faculty and students with a clear, objective view of the writing process, helping categorize text sources into human writing, AI-generated content, and sourced material. By shifting from AI detection to AI transparency, UF is fostering accountability and equipping students with the skills they need in an AI-driven world. Join this session to hear firsthand from UF faculty on how AI transparency supports academic integrity and student learning. Walk away with concrete strategies to implement Grammarly responsibly and ensure it serves as a tool for learning.

Designing Mindful Spaces in the Libraries: Fostering Calm and Focus through Wellness Support
Presenters: Lisa Campbell, Ariel Pomputius, MLIS, AHIP, Brittany Kester, PhD, MLIS, Jennifer Crumpton, MLIS, MOT, CRDH
Location: President’s Ballroom B
As a "third space" outside of the classroom, lab, clinical learning environment, or home, the UF Libraries offer physical spaces and equipment, circulating collections of books and technology, and active programming to support the wellbeing of students, staff, and faculty. As the six unique libraries at UF serve different colleges and centers, past efforts by the Libraries focused on the unique needs of the visitors who utilized the library space.  However, in a post-COVID educational environment, a unified push for wellness across campuses is more important than ever; the National College Health Assessment 2024 survey of the American College Health Association found over 75% of students experienced either moderate or high stress (NCHA 2024). To support wellness initiatives on campus, the Libraries are expanding their efforts to create new mindful spaces, develop specialized collections of circulating technology that foster wellbeing, and offer additional programming during times of high stress. In this presentation, we will discuss the current ways the Libraries support student wellness as a third space, review the use of mindfulness resources available for students, staff, and faculty through the Libraries with a focus on how to locate and access, and promote the in-progress wellness projects that the Libraries are pursuing. As part of the presentation, there will be an interactive component to encourage visitors to think of new ways the Libraries’ third space can support the wellness needs of their students and peers.

Three Centers Check-in: A practice to support whole-person presence in the classroom
Presenter: Kim Holton
Location: President’s Ballroom B

 

The three centers check-in is a mindfulness practice that supports students in bringing their whole selves to the classroom. In this practice, students are guided in a three-centers (head, heart, and body) check-in offered at the beginning of class. The practice can be done in as short as five minutes or as long as 15 minutes. It directs students to non-judgmentally acknowledge what is happening for them in each center as well as connecting with the intelligence at each center: (1) head includes awareness of thoughts and cultivating connection to the intelligence of this center through noticing the space between thoughts and beneath thoughts; (2) heart includes awareness of emotional state of being and cultivating connection to the intelligence of this center through allowing vulnerability to feel emotions and cultivate compassion, and (3) body includes awareness of sensations of the body and cultivating connection with the intelligence of this center through relaxing into the aliveness of the body. This session offers an experience of the practice and discussion of its use with students.

Strategies for Improving Student Belongingness
Presenters: Danielle Wolf, Marcy Baughman and Glen Garrett 
Location: President’s Ballroom C

A strong sense of belonging is a key predictor of student engagement, persistence, and success in higher education. Yet, many students report feeling disconnected in their college experience. This interactive workshop will equip instructors with research-backed strategies to create inclusive learning environments where all students feel valued and supported. The session will begin with an overview of research findings on the impact of belongingness, highlighting its role in student academic performance, retention, confidence, and self-esteem. Participants will then engage in small-group discussions to share their own experiences and effective practices for fostering belonging in their classrooms. These ideas will be synthesized and shared with the larger group, allowing for collaborative learning and strategy-building. To model an inclusive instructional approach, the workshop will incorporate the digital response system iClicker, demonstrating how such tools can enhance student belonging and engagement. Additionally, participants will explore new digital resources designed to support inclusion and provide real-time feedback on their potential applications. By the end of the session, participants will leave with research-based insights, peer-driven strategies, and practical digital tools they can immediately apply in their teaching. This session is ideal for instructors seeking to create more welcoming, engaging, and student-centered learning environments.

Maximizing your course materials through UF All Access
Presenter: Joshua Pulver 
Location: President’s Ballroom C
Learn how UF All Access and the UF Bookstore can help you and your students save time and money on course materials. Discover the benefits of inclusive access programs, streamlined purchasing options, and digital resources, while gaining insight into how to make the most of these services for a seamless academic experience.

Closing: 4:10-4:20 PM

Presenters

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Lori Gibbons

An image of Lori Gibbons.

Lori Gibbons

Assistant Director, Graphic and Web Design

Center for Online Innovation and Production (COIP)

Designer and visual strategist with a passion for digital communication, UX design, and storytelling, Lori serves as the Assistant Director of Graphic & Web Design at COIP. She leads a team in crafting interactive online learning experiences and develops departmental marketing and multimedia initiatives. Enthusiastic about sharing design skills, Lori serves as an adjunct instructor for CJC.

Lisa Campbell

An image of Lisa Campbell.Lisa Campbell

Instruction and Outreach Librarian
University of Florida, Smathers Libraries

Lisa Campbell (MLIS) is the Instruction and Outreach Librarian at the University of Florida, where she supports the University Writing Program and Dial Center for Speech and Communication studies and engages with undergraduate students across subjects to develop information and digital literacies.

Ariel Pomputius, MLIS, AHIP

A photo of Ariel PomputiusAriel Pomputius, MLIS, AHIP

Health Sciences Liaison Librarian

George A. Smathers Libraries / Health Science Center Libraries

Ariel Pomputius (MLIS, AHIP) is a health sciences liaison librarian at the University of Florida Health Science Center Libraries and supports the research and information needs of several departments in the College of Medicine.

Brittany Kester, PhD, MLIS

A photo of Brittany KesterBrittany Kester, PhD, MLIS
Education Librarian
George A. Smathers Libraries / Departmental Libraries

Brittany Kester (PhD, MLIS) is the education librarian at the University of Florida and supports the research and information needs of the College of Education’s School of Teaching and Learning, and Early Childhood Education and Special Education programs.

Jennifer Crumpton, MLIS, MOT, CRDH

an image of Jennifer CrumptonJennifer Crumpton, MLIS, MOT, CRDH

Health Sciences Liaison Librarian

George A. Smathers Libraries / Health Science Center Libraries

Jennie Crumpton (MLIS, MOT, CRDH) is a health sciences liaison librarian at the University of Florida and supports the research and information needs of the College of Dentistry, as well as several departments in the College of Medicine, and one department in the College of Health and Human Performance.

Jennifer Wooten

Jennifer Wooten
Instructional Professor
Department of Spanish and Portuguese Studies

Jennifer Wooten is the Director of Language Instruction and Instructional Professor in UF's Department of Spanish and Portuguese Studies. She provides professional development for language educators, designs curricula for the Lower Division Language Program, and researches how 21st Century Skills and AI are transforming language learning.

Laura Jervis

a photo of Laura JervisLaura Jervis

Instructional Designer

CITT

Laura Jervis has a bachelor's of science in journalism and a master’s in bilingual/bicultural education from the University of Florida. Before finding instructional design, she taught academic English to post-secondary language learners. Now she applies her teaching experience to the work she does to support UF faculty.

Jennifer Kennymore Royer

an image of Jennifer Kennymore Royer. Head shots of the GatorWell Health Promotion Services team on Monday, May 22, 2017 at Cypress Hall Gathering Room in Gainesville, FL / UF Student Affairs photo by Matt Pendleton.

Jennifer Kennymore Royer

Interim Director, GatorWell Health Promotion Services

GatorWell Health Promotion Services, Division of Student Life

Jennifer Kennymore Royer, MPH, MCHES®, NBC-HWC is the Interim Director with GatorWell Health Promotion Services at the University of Florida. Jennifer received a Master of Public Health degree with a concentration in Community Health from the Colorado School of Public Health in 2010 and became an MCHES® in 2021.

Palani Te, PhD

A photo of Palani Te, PhDPalani Te, PhD

Health Promotion Specialist, GatorWell Health Promotion Services
GatorWell Health Promotion Services, Division of Student Life

Palani Te, PhD is a Health Promotion Specialist with GatorWell Health Promotion Services at the University of Florida. His focuses include lifelong wellbeing, health communication, mixed method research design, clinical music interventions, and behavioral intervention design. His experience includes behavioral intervention and campaign message design at the college campus level.

 

Swapna Kumar, Ed.D.

an image of Swapna Kumar, Ed.D.Swapna Kumar, Ed.D.

Clinical Professor, Educational Technology
College of Education

Dr. Swapna Kumar is a Clinical Professor of Educational Technology. Her research interests include online teaching and learning; online doctoral education; online mentoring; quality in online programs; and the integration of AI in online teaching and learning, instructional design, and research.

 

Ariel Gunn, Ed.D.

Ariel Gunn, Ed.D.

Instructional Designer
Southeastern National TB Center, College of Medicine

Dr. Ariel Gunn is an instructional designer at the Southeastern National Tuberculosis Center. With a background in teaching academic writing, she emphasizes student-centered, inclusive, and accessible learning. Her research interests include equitable and authentic assessment and the role of instructional designers in integrating existing emerging technologies effectively.

Margeaux Johnson

Margeaux Johnson

Learning & Organizational Development Specialist
AI2 Center and Center for Teaching Excellence

Margeaux Johnson is a Learning & Organizational Development Specialist with UF’s AI2 Center. With 20+ years in higher education, she has designed learning experiences across diverse fields including Libraries, Health Sciences, and Engineering. Her research as a doctoral candidate examines integrations of AI into teaching practices across the curriculum.

Rhiannon Pollard, PhD

an image of Rhiannon PollardRhiannon Pollard, PhD
Interim Director, UF Online
UF Online

Dr. Rhiannon Pollard is Interim Director of UF Online, leading initiatives supporting the success of fully online students, programs, and faculty.  A “quadruple Gator,” she also teaches graduate courses in the College of Education and researches online learning, faculty development, online student success, and instructional design.

Aaron Thomas

Aaron ThomasAaron Thomas
Associate Director of Data Science
UFIT

Dr. Aaron Thomas is Principal Data Scientist and Associate within UF Information Technology. He and the UFIT data science team design and develop descriptive, predictive, and prescriptive analytics to support student success at the University of Florida.

Rebecca (Becky) Piazza, OTD, MS, OTR/L, BCPR

an image of Rebecca (Becky) Piazza

Rebecca (Becky) Piazza, OTD, MS, OTR/L, BCPR
Clinical Assistant Professor
University of Florida College of Public Health and Heatlh Professions

Dr. Becky Piazza is a clincial assistant professor at the University of Florida's College of Public Health and Health Professions Department of Occupational Therapy.

Pam Hess, OTD, OTR, DipACLM, PMH-C

An image of Pam HessPam Hess, OTD, OTR, DipACLM, PMH-C
Clinical Assistant Professor
Public Health and Health Professions Department of Occupational Therapy

Dr. Pam Hess serves as a Clinical Assistant Professor with a joint appointment in the Department of Occupational Therapy, College of Public Health and Health Professions, and the Department of Surgery, Division of Education in the College of Medicine

Heidi M. Horwitz, OTD, MOT, OTR/L

an image of Heidi M. HorwitzHeidi M. Horwitz, OTD, MOT, OTR/L
Clinical Assistant Professor Academic Fieldwork Coordinator
College of Public Health and Health Professions Department of Occupational Therapy

Dr. Heidi Horwitz is a clincial assistant professor and the Academic Fieldwork Educator (AFWC) at the University of Florida's College of Public Health and Health Professions Department of Occupational Therapy.

Monica Webb

an image of Monica WebbMonica Webb
Adjunct Lecturer
Department of Health Education and Behavior

Dr. Webb has over 20 years of experience in health education, completing degrees in public health and health behavior. Over the course of her career, Dr. Webb has championed wellbeing for students from Kindergarten to College. She serves in various professional organizations and works to strengthen the health promotion profession.

Linda Steele, M.Ed.

an image of Linda Steele, M.Ed.Linda Steele, M.Ed.
Associate Director, Collegiate Veteran Success Center
Division of Student Life | Dean of Students Office

Linda Steele is an Air Force Veteran and paramedic.  She holds a M.Ed. in Educational Leadership.  She is passionate about veterans and their families and is excited to work with the CVSC team to support the academic, financial, physical and social needs of our veteran, military-connected students and their families.

Shawn Ham

A photo of Shawn Ham

Shawn Ham
Program Coordinator, Collegiate Veteran Success Center
Division of Student Life | Dean of Students Office

Shawn Ham is currently a sergeant  (E-5) in the Army Reserves with six years active-duty experience at Ft. Campbell, KY and a deployment to Poland.  Shawn holds a Master's Degree in Social Work and is excited to be working as the Program Coordinator of the Collegaite Veteran Success Center.

Nadene R Reynolds

Nadene R Reynolds
Assistant Dean and Director of Campus Assistance and Resources for Empowerment (CARE)
UF Dean Of Students Office

Nadene Reynolds is the Assistant Dean and Director of Campus Assistance and Resources for Empowerment (CARE) at the University of Florida.
As the Assistant Dean of CARE she leads the team that educates, empowers, and advocates for students who experience uncertainty, distress and crisis.
Nadene has worked in various areas of Student Life over her career in higher education, including student engagement and career services.
Chris Summerlin, Ph.D

Chris Summerlin, Ph.D
Dean of Students
UF Dean of Students Office

Dr. Chris Summerlin serves as the Dean of Students for the University of Florida. He has worked in various areas of Student Life over his career in higher education, including student housing, student conduct, behavioral response, and care services. Dr. Summerlin graduated from Brewton-Parker College with a degree in communications before attending American InterContinental University, receiving a master’s degree in instructional technology. Dr. Summerlin also holds a Doctor of Philosophy in Education from Capella University in leadership for higher education.

Meggen Tucker Sixbey, Ph.D

Meggen SixbeyMeggen Tucker Sixbey, Ph.D
Assistant Director
UF Police Department

Dr. Meggen Tucker Sixbey is the Assistant Director at the University of Florida’s Police Department, overseeing the Behavioral Services Division which includes a mental health support team of clinicians who respond with law enforcement officers to calls that are determined to present as mental health related. Additionally, she is one of 12 clinical-law enforcement learning site partners who were selected by the Bureau of Justice Administration’s Council for State Governments to provide content expertise in informing law enforcement-mental health collaboration policies and procedures nationally.

Kathryn Rush

Kathryn Rush
Instructional Designer III
University of Florida

Kathryn is an instructional designer at the University of Florida's College of Agricultural and Life Sciences. She has taught at the University of Florida, Florida State University, and Santa Fe College and holds an M.F.A. in Visual Art from the University of Florida.

Dr. Bojan Lazarevic, Ph.D.

Dr. Bojan Lazarevic, Ph.D.
Clinical Assistant Professor
University of Florida

Bojan Lazarevic specializes in instructional technology, focusing on online learning, media development, and emerging technologies. His interdisciplinary work connects learning science and innovative online pedagogy with fields like medicine, language, and art, fostering collaboration and advancing education across diverse academic disciplines.

Jason Frank, Ed.D.

an image of Jason frankJason Frank, Ed.D.
Instructional Design Coordinator
Santa Fe College

Experienced Instructional Designer with a demonstrated history of working in the higher education industry. Strong arts and design professional with a Doctor of Education (EdD) focused in Educational/Instructional Technology from University of Florida.

Sooyoun Ahn, Ph.D.

Soohyoun AhnSooyoun Ahn, Ph.D.
Lecturer
University of Florida

Soohyoun (Soo) Ahn is a lecturer in Food Science and Human Nutrition Department at UF. She is a nationally acclaimed food safety expert with expertise in pathogen detection techniques and food safety practice at small-sized farms and facilities.

Meredith Nappy

a photo of Meredith NappyMeredith Nappy
Undergraduate Program Coordinator I
Public Health and Human Performance

Meredith Nappy is a higher education professional and doctoral candidate in Educational Technology at the University of Florida. With over a decade of experience, her work focuses on innovative course design and leveraging AI to enhance learning, build critical thinking skills, and promote instructor and student success.

 

 

Rosa West, Ph.D.

A photo of Rosa West.Rosa West, Ph.D.
Interim Director/Clinical Associate Professor
UF Counseling & Wellness Center

Dr. Rosa West is the Interim Director for the Counseling & Wellness Center at the University of Florida. She is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Marriage & Family Therapist in the State of Florida, with 20 years of experience in mental healthcare service, college student wellbeing, and higher education.

Kim Holton

An image of Kim HoltonKim Holton
Instructional Assistant Professor
College of Health and Human Performance

Kim Holton is an instructional assistant professor in the Department of Health Education and Behavior and serves as associate director of UF Mindfulness. Kim has been teaching yoga and meditation since 2002 and is a certified narrative enneagram teacher.

 

Marcy Baughman

an image of Marcy BaughmanMarcy Baughman
Vice President, Learning Science & Research
Macmillan Learning

Marcy Baughman, VP of Learning Science & Research, leads a research team using evidence-based practices to design digital learning products. With 20+ years in educational research, she has partnered with institutions and led Gates Foundation-funded studies on the impact of evidence-based teaching on student outcomes.

Katie Schultz

Katie Schultz

Joshua Pulver

Joshua PulverJoshua Pulver
UF Bookstore Area Director
UF Bookstore

Joshua Pulver is the Area Director at UF Bookstore, part of Follett Higher Education Group. With extensive experience in bookstore management, he has led operations across multiple campuses, focusing on enhancing student services, product offerings, and retail strategies in higher education environments.

Mia Lilienthal

Mia Lilienthal HeadshotMia Lilienthal
Strategic Partnerships Director
Grammarly

Mia Lilienthal is the Strategic Partnerships Director for Grammarly for Education in the Southeast. She partners with leading institutions to develop practical strategies for responsible AI use that prioritize academic integrity. With 12 years of experience in education and technology, she assists institutions in navigating AI’s evolving role in teaching, learning, and student success.

Ernesto R. Escoto, PhD

Ernesto R. Escoto, PhD

Associate Vice President of Health and Wellbeing
Division of Student Life, University of Florida
Executive Director and Licensed Psychologist
Clinical Associate Professor, Counseling and Wellness Center

Chris Summerlin, Ph.D

Dr. Chris Summerlin pose for an official Division of Student Life headshot on Monday, April 1, 2024 at University of Florida in Gainesville, FL / UF Student Life photo by Dakota Williams.Chris Summerlin, Ph.D

Dean of Students

UF Dean of Students Office

Dr. Chris Summerlin serves as the Dean of Students for the University of Florida. He has worked in various areas of Student Life over his career in higher education, including student housing, student conduct, behavioral response, and care services. Dr. Summerlin graduated from Brewton-Parker College with a degree in communications before attending American InterContinental University, receiving a master’s degree in instructional technology. Dr. Summerlin also holds a Doctor of Philosophy in Education from Capella University in leadership for higher education.

Sponsors


UF Bookstore logo

Past Interface Resources

Select a year to view handouts, presentations, and sponsors.

Interface 2024
Please visit the 2024 webpage here.
Interface 2023
Please visit the 2023 webpage here.
Interface 2022
Please visit the 2022 webpage here.
Interface 2021

“Better Together: Unstoppable Student Teams”

Interface Teaching Conference Overview

Although students may have diverging opinions on group work, creating diverse teams that collaborate on creative assignments can energize students and result in greater learning that incorporates multiple perspectives.

Handouts and Presentations

  • Virtual Experiences Research Group (Day 1 Welcome), Jacob Stuart
    Recording [11:53]
  • Virtual Storytelling for All to Improve the Social Good (Day 2 Welcome), Benjamin Lok, Ph.D.
    Recording [11:31]
  • Care, Community and Hospitality: Supporting Student Collaboration in Online and Hybrid Environments (Keynote), Maha Bali, Ph.D.
    PowerPoint | Recording [34:13]
  • The Future of Inclusive Teams (Keynote Panel), Natalie Asorey, Gina Hong, Joshua Walden, Kevin MacPherson, David Silvestain and Marko Suvajdzic
    Recording [54:15]
  • Building Cultural Competence Virtually: Virtual Exchange Projects, Erika Brooke, Ph.D.
    Handout | PowerPoint | Recording [32:27]
  • Global Learning Gaps? First, Tell Me Who You Are: The Impact of Ethnicity and Gender, Paloma Rodriguez, Timothy Brophy, Ph.D., and Mary Kay Carodine, Ph.D.
    Handout | PowerPoint | Recording [20:49]
  • Team-Based Virtual International Interactions in STEM Courses, Diba Mani, Ph.D.
    PowerPoint | Recording [25:31]
  • The Secret Sauce: Optimizing Outcomes with Team-Based Learning, Harrison Hove
    Recording [25:46]
  • Ensuring Student Success with Honorlock, Jose Gonzalez
    Recording [25:30]
  • Streamline Your Inclusive Course Design, John Scott, Ph.D. & Jennifer K. Smith
    Recording [27:58]
  • Utilizing Tools for Creativity and Collaboration in Online Project-Based Courses, Johnny Wu
    Handout | PowerPoint | Recording [23:26]
  • Starting at the Beginning: Understanding Yourself and Your Role in Group Dynamics, C.C. Suarez, Ph.D. & Jarred Shellhouse
    Recording [30:37]
  • Collaborative Learning Teams + Doses of Intention = Student Teamwork Skill Development, Priti Patel, Pharm.D. & Stacy Miller, Pharm.D.
    Handout | PowerPoint | Recording [28:02]
  • Teaching and Learning About Pandemics During the COVID-19 Crisis, Sara Agnelli, Ph.D., Gabriela Hamerlinck, Ph.D. & Rania Gollakner, Ph.D.
    PowerPoint | Recording [16:23]
  • Designing Active and Collaborative Learning Opportunities in Online Biology Courses, Stefanie Gazda, Ph.D. & Kellie Goughnour
    Handout | Recording [20:16]
  • Inclusive Environments in STEM: Exploring Social Factors Affecting Team Dynamics and Performance, Sindia Rivera-Jimenez, Ph.D.
    Recording [27:17]
  • Connecting UF Classes and the Global Language Community Through Virtual Exchange, Jennifer Wooten, Ph.D. & Laura Callahan
    Handout | PowerPoint | Recording [20:30]
  • Engaging Diverse Teams of Students in Research via Course-Based Undergraduate Research Experiences (CUREs), Anthony Auletta, Ph.D. & Peter DiGennaro, Ph.D.
    Handout | Recording [38:34]

Sponsors

  • Blackboard Ally
  • Honorlock
  • McGraw Hill
  • Perusall
  • iClicker
  • UF Conference Department
  • UF Distance Learning
Interface 2019

“Learning Beyond 4 Walls”

Interface Teaching Conference Overview

Join other faculty, staff, and graduate students in expanding student learning beyond the classroom!

Handouts and Presentations

  • Experiential Learning through Virtual Exchange Part I: Global Perspectives, Crystal Marull, Ph.D., Ginny Greenway, Ph.D., Mary Risner, Ed.D., and Sonia San Juan
    Powerpoint
  • Escape Rooms: Helping Students Find the Key to Real-World Problem Solving, Angelina Vascimini and Stacey Curtis, Pharm.D.
    Handout | Powerpoint
  • Virtual Spaces and Graduate Research Mentoring, Swapna Kumar, Ed.D.
    Powerpoint
  • Out of Your Seats and into the Streets, Kevin Baron, Ph.D.
    Handout | Powerpoint
  • Experiential Learning through Virtual Exchange Part II: Student and Faculty Voices, Crystal Marull, Ph.D., Ginny Greenway, Ph.D., Mary Risner, Ed.D., and Sonia San Juan
    Handout | Powerpoint
  • Augmenting the Curriculum: Pedagogical Possibilities for Augmented Reality, Jason Crider, Madison Jones, Shannon Butts, and Sid Dobrin, Ph.D.
    Powerpoint
  • Integrating Career Readiness into your Curriculum, Jaysen Williams and Nili Cimand
    Powerpoint
  • Global Learning Spaces, Monika Oli, Ph.D. and Paula Delpech, Ph.D.
    Powerpoint
  • Connecting the Dots with ePortfolios, Andie Cochran, Mutlu Çitim-Kepic, Paloma Rodriguez and Rori Bloom, Ph.D.
    Resources
  • Excursion Learning: Innovating Curriculum Inside and Outside the Classroom, Meg Leroy, Ph.D. and Rachel Slivon, Ph.D.
    Powerpoint
  • Experiential Learning among Native Americans: Challenges, Opportunities, and Insights for Political Scientists, Richard Conley, Ph.D.
    Powerpoint

Sponsors

  • ProctorU
  • Adobe
  • 3PlayMedia
  • iClicker
  • Canvas
  • Turnitin
  • Top Hat
  • Zoom
  • Shadow Health
  • Conference Department at UF
  • UF Distance Learning
  • Honorlock
Interface 2018

“Student Voices Transform Teaching”

Interface Teaching Conference Overview

Interface 2018 is your ticket to making good use of the formative and summative information that students can provide. Learn how UF faculty collect and integrate student feedback into their courses.

 

Handouts and Presentations

Sponsors

  • Platinum
    • ProctorU
  • Silver
    • Adobe
    • 3PlayMedia
    • iClicker
    • Canvas
    • turnitin
Interface 2017

“Beyond Multiple Choice: Creative Assessment”

Interface Teaching Conference Overview

UF Faculty will share proven assessment strategies. Learn how your colleagues effectively integrate and manage different types of assessments into their courses. Get tips on how to evaluate alternative types of assessments efficiently. Gain insights into helping your students get the most out of their
feedback. Transform the teaching and learning experience and be inspired by your
colleagues from different disciplines across campus!

Presentation Teasers

Recordings, Handouts & Presentations

Sponsors

  • Platinum
    • ProctorU
    • Adobe
    • Turnitin
  • Gold
    • Capsim
  • Other
    • UF Conference Department
    • Distance and Continuing Education
    • Center for Teaching Excellence
Interface 2016

“Lessons Learned by Instructors: Combining Active Learning with Technology.”

Interface Teaching Conference Overview

The Spring 2016 Interface Teaching Conference will be an interactive event highlighting low- and high-technology learning tools. Faculty presenters will share experiences and time-saving tips from their use of technology in teaching to support active learning methods. Try out the tools others have used to transform the teaching and learning experience. Be inspired by your colleagues from different disciplines across campus!

 

Handouts and Presentations

Sponsors

  • Center for Teaching Excellence
  • UF Conference Department
  • UF College of Medicine
  • UF Distance & Continuing Education
  • Adobe
Interface 2015

“Critical Reflection in Action”

Interface Teaching Conference Overview

The reflective practitioner values the “bigger picture” and the relationship between learning activities, courses, academic programs, and past and future life experiences and plans. The purpose of the Interface Teaching Conference is to look through the lenses of quantitative and qualitative methods and use these perspectives for reflection on practice. This process has a great deal of ambiguity; there is often no one right answer or solution for everyone. Rather, the intent of Interface Teaching Conference is to spark ideas and foster discussion and conversation. Together, we will critically reflect on our own beliefs and actions, and create opportunities for growth, in teaching.

Videos

Sponsors

Interface 2014

“Enhancing Creativity and Engagement through Academic Communities”

Interface Teaching Conference Overview

The challenge is how to create, leverage, and sustain these kinds of academic communities at the University of Florida not just for academics, but also for students in our academic environment. Creating various types of academic communities can be an effective way to build engagement both inside and outside of the classroom.

Sponsors

Interface 2013

Interface Teaching Conference Overview

Explore and examine pedagogy, the science of teaching, and the teaching practice itself in blended learning environments as they relate to “reading, reflecting, displaying, and doing” in our disciplines.

Sponsors

Interface 2012

“Open Resources, Open Possibilities”

Interface Teaching Conference Overview

For ten years, MIT has made all of its educational content available for anyone wanting to use it. During the same time period, Stanford has championed Creative Commons, which has defined and made available a form of open intellectual property attribution. Many other institutions and organizations are moving in the direction of open content and resources. At the University of Florida, we are exploring the implications of “Open Resources, Open Possibilities” and the impact on teaching and learning in higher education by focusing our Interface Faculty Seminar on the use of open and free resources on our own campus.

Presentations

Sponsors

Interface 2011

Interface Teaching Conference Overview

The Fall 2011 Interface program will feature a series of “lightning rounds” – short demonstrations of technology use and instructional practices – presented by selected UF instructors identified for their innovative and effective use of technology in teaching. In addition to viewing these demonstrations, Interface participants will have opportunities for face-to-face discussion with both presenters and peers.

Sponsors

College of Journalism and Communications

Interface 2010

Interface Teaching Conference Overview

Interface is an opportunity to recognize innovative faculty, provide a forum for professors to share their work with other disciplines and foster interdisciplinary collaborations on future projects.