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Staci Zavattaro, Ph.D., shares insights from her “Death Café” initiative — an event that creates space for open conversations about death and dying within a public service context. Her interdisciplinary research explores how government and community partners engage in death care, revealing opportunities for collaboration across fields.This UCF Downtown project highlights the importance of dialogue around end-of-life issues and the role of public service in supporting communities through one of life’s most universal experiences.Follow UCF on social! Instagram: https://instagram.com/ucf.edu Facebook: https://facebook.com/UCF LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/school/university-of-central-florida/ X: https://twitter.com/UCF

Christina Bernhardt, Ph.D., MSW, shares lessons from her UCF Downtown research on addressing food insecurity through healthcare partnerships. She underscores the critical role of provider engagement in designing and refining training to ensure sustainable impact.Through this project, more than 1,000 households and 1,500 Central Florida residents received support, demonstrating how community-engaged research can impact health outcomes across the region.Follow UCF on social! Instagram: https://instagram.com/ucf.edu Facebook: https://facebook.com/UCF LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/school/university-of-central-florida/ X: https://twitter.com/UCF

Kelly Stevens, Ph.D., highlights her collaboration with the City of Orlando to develop a solar-powered, portable resilience hub. Designed to provide vital resources in times of disaster, the hub strengthens community preparedness and ensures support reaches neighborhoods most in need.This project demonstrates how UCF Downtown faculty are combining research and innovation to create practical solutions that keep communities safe and connected.Follow UCF on social! Instagram: https://instagram.com/ucf.edu Facebook: https://facebook.com/UCF LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/school/university-of-central-florida/ X: https://twitter.com/UCF

Xialing Lin, Ph.D., partners with UCF teams and local agencies to expand digital literacy for Orange County residents with limited access to technology. Through strategic campaigns, her work connects people with tech training, job applications, social networks and essential services.By bridging the gap between resources and those who need them most, this UCF Downtown project empowers residents with the tools and knowledge to thrive in an increasingly digital world.Follow UCF on social! Instagram: https://instagram.com/ucf.edu Facebook: https://facebook.com/UCF LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/school/university-of-central-florida/ X: https://twitter.com/UCF

John T. Murray, Ph.D., is expanding access to virtual and augmented reality through a high school enrichment program. With guidance from UCF student mentors, participants gain hands-on experience and discover career paths in emerging technologies.The program not only boosts awareness of VR/AR but also creates lasting mentor connections that keep students engaged and inspired to pursue opportunities in tech.Follow UCF on social! Instagram: https://instagram.com/ucf.edu Facebook: https://facebook.com/UCF LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/school/university-of-central-florida/ X: https://twitter.com/UCF