It’s always a privilege to offer an annual reflection as Thanksgiving Day approaches. It would be difficult to count all my blessings. This year, though, I want to give special recognition to three outstanding individuals at the University of South Florida. Their leadership and presence have not only had a positive impact on my professional career but have also enriched me as a person. They have steadfastly supported me during my employment, unfailingly advocated for the needs of our units, and have each played a key part in guiding USF to new and exciting heights. I’m grateful for this opportunity to acknowledge—and to thank—them for their positive influence on me and our institution.
First, I thank Dr. Cynthia DeLuca, the USF Vice President of Student Success. Dr. DeLuca was my previous manager. She mentored me during my first years and taught me many valuable things—especially how a university runs. Her leadership was instrumental in my progression as an employee of USF. She understood the distinct challenges of continuing education and why it needed to be run as a business. Her experience overseeing similar operations at NC State gave her firsthand insight. She recognized the effort behind our lifelong learning initiatives and the affinity model that opened doors for cooperation between offices. Dr. DeLuca showed faith in me at a time when I was at a professional crossroads—and for that I’m forever grateful.
Second, I thank my current manager, Dr. Eric Eisenberg, the USF Senior Vice President of University-Community Partnerships. Even before I worked directly under Dr. Eisenberg, I admired his keen intellect. I always look forward to conversations with him because I know I’m going to learn something. He combines academic brilliance with business acumen. And while he speaks with clarity, he’s also an attentive listener and empathetic toward the needs of our operations. He’s well-connected throughout Tampa Bay and has allowed me to grow my contacts as we make new relationships throughout the region. It’s easy to follow a leader like Dr. Eisenberg. People like him are why working at a university is fulfilling.
Finally, as an employee—and proud alum—of USF, I thank President Rhea Law. I have great respect for her leadership and for the culture she’s instilled across our three campuses. President Law projects a strong executive aura, and yet she’s welcoming and connects with everyone in the room. It felt like our teams toiled behind the scenes for a long time, and President Law has made us feel seen. She understands the business model that drives our philosophy and consistently backs us. President Law has attended our events, promoted our work, and demonstrated a sincere commitment to our success. Her accessibility—and validation—mean a great deal to me and our personnel.
Although Dr. DeLuca, Dr. Eisenberg, and President Law each bring their own characteristics to their positions, there are unmistakable common traits that make them excellent leaders—namely that all three provide tangible support that’s rooted in understanding. They see the challenge of the work and allow us to be innovative in our quest to serve the needs of our auxiliary departments and their students. Their willingness to champion our efforts has helped to reshape USF in meaningful ways. Our non-credit units continue to expand their presence in Tampa Bay—and in cyberspace—because of generous, bold, and action-oriented individuals such as Dr. DeLuca, Dr. Eisenberg, and President Law.
While thankful for many things including family, friends, USF team and colleagues, I wanted to remind everyone that—when it comes to working at a great place—leadership matters. And I have been particularly blessed to work for three exemplary leaders during my time at USF. If you have the same type of leaders, please take the time to recognize them this year, too.
Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family!