Source(s):
Jimmy Cheek jgc@gnv.ifas.ufl.edu, (352) 392-1961
Emily Sperling sperling@ufl.edu, (352) 392-2251, ext. 235
GAINESVILLE — Emily Sperling has been named director of student recruitment and retention for the University of Florida College of Agricultural and Life Sciences.Sperling will be responsible for all student recruitment activities at the college level. She will work with individual departments on their recruitment needs, with the faculty on student retention programs and will also develop minority recruitment and retention programs. Sperling comes to UF’s Institute of Food and Agriculture Sciences from the Cape Cod Cranberry Growers Association in Massachusetts where she was manager of communications and member services.
In announcing the appointment, Jimmy Cheek, dean of the college, said Sperling will play a critical role in the continued success of the college.
“The College of Agricultural and Life Sciences has an outstanding reputation for producing exceptional graduates,” Cheek said. “Emily’s role in recruiting quality students and helping them remain successful once they become part of our student body is vital. I am confident that she will develop a nationally recognized student recruitment and retention program.
“Her public relations experience, coupled with her knowledge of agriculture, natural resources and life sciences makes her a great asset to our academic programs team,” he said.
Sperling said she is looking forward to working with Florida’s high school and community college students.
“I am excited about the opportunity to help students find their way to our college,” Sperling said. “Our college team is more committed than ever to educate people about our college’s numerous opportunities and to enhance student learning experiences.
“Navigating a well-planned recruitment and retention program that benefits prospective and current students alike is my prime concern,” she said. “Through increased presence at Florida community colleges and high schools, we will be elevating recruiting efforts for the college, which boasts 20 majors, 50 specializations and 13 minors ranging from traditional agricultural fields and pre-professional paths to distance education opportunities.”
Sperling earned a bachelor of science in food and resource economics with a specialization in agribusiness management from UF in 1997 and is a member of the Public Relations Society of America.
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