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College of Education and Professional Studies Announces 2026-2027 EPIC Ambassadors


Posted on April 28, 2026 by Tiffany Dawkins
Tiffany Dawkins


EPIC Ambassadors data-lightbox='featured'
All smiles after an evening of honor and celebration, from left, Glenda Carpenter, Rebekah Nicholson, Dr. Susan Ferguson, Dr. Shelly Bates, Kathryn Stevens, Dr. Becky Giles, Dr. Amy Upton, Dr. Karen Anderson, Dr. Angela Barlow and Jennifer Simpson.

The College of Education and Professional Studies recently announced the selection of 32 dedicated students to serve as the 2026–2027 Education and Professional Studies Impact Crew, known as the EPIC Ambassadors.

The EPIC Ambassadors are a select group of student leaders who help build community, support recruitment efforts and represent the College of Education and Professional Studies. Now entering its second year, the program connects prospective students with real student experiences while giving ambassadors opportunities to grow as leaders.

Ambassadors use their firsthand knowledge of college life while participating in student panels, Jag Days, campus tours and college events.

“The EPIC Ambassador program reflects our commitment to developing student leaders who not only represent the College of Education and Professional Studies, but also help shape its culture through service, mentorship and engagement,” said Carjetta Taylor, EPIC advisor.

Through campus engagement, community outreach and recruitment events, ambassadors represent the college to prospective students, families and the community. Members also build valuable leadership, teamwork and communication skills while collaborating with faculty and networking with alumni and community leaders. These experiences help prepare students for success beyond graduation.

The elected 2026-2027 officers are: 

  • President Stephen Kee, junior, Secondary Education and History
  • Vice President Gia Almuna Carreno, sophomore, Secondary Education
  • Secretary Makala Wilson, junior, Exercise Science
  • Social Media Specialist Tiffany Gookin, junior, Exercise Science

After an inaugural year the following students are returning:

  • Sydnee Cook, junior, Elementary Education
  • Madeline Kate Hamilton, junior, Elementary Education
  • Tera Johnson, senior, Elementary Education
  • Brian Perry, II, sophomore, PASSAGE USA
  • Karrie Lewis Pride, Early Childhood Studies
  • Britney Quach, senior, Early Childhood Studies

After a thorough selection process, the Impact Crew welcomes the following new members from across the College of Education and Professional Studies:

  • Bryanna Borders, freshman, Hospitality and Tourism Management
  • Mya Carroll, sophomore, Exercise Science
  • Claire Curths, sophomore, Exercise Science
  • Natalie DeBold, sophomore, Secondary Education
  • Laila Filipkowski, freshman, Elementary Education
  • Morgan Gaillard, transfer student, Hospitality and Tourism Management
  • Amailya Golden, sophomore, Exercise Science
  • Savannah Graham, junior, Exercise Science
  • McKinley Graves, sophomore, Exercise Science
  • Kennedy Latimer, freshman, UTeach Program - Civil Engineering
  • Cassie Mullinax, junior, Elementary Education
  • Diamond Murphy, sophomore, Elementary Education
  • Kendall Plunkett, sophomore, Recreational Therapy
  • Teresa Skripek, graduate, Secondary Education
  • Kennedi Smith, sophomore, Secondary Education
  • Sydney Smith, sophomore, Hospitality and Tourism Management
  • Morgan Taylor, junior, Secondary Education
  • Isabella Welden, sophomore, Exercise Science
  • Zoe Wilcox, transfer student, Hospitality and Tourism Management
  • Jackson Williams, sophomore, Exercise Science
  • Cameron Williamson, sophomore, Exercise Science
  • Trinity Wozny, sophomore, Physical Education

Are you ready to make an impact? Learn more about the EPIC Ambassador Program.


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