The honor recognizes some of UCF’s brightest stars who reflect the best of the university’s research and impact efforts.
UCF honored seven faculty members as shining examples of excellence, dedication and inspiration during the 2025 Luminary Awards.
Established in 2017, the annual awards recognize faculty whose achievements reflect the university’s highest standards in advancing knowledge, inspiring others and elevating UCF’s impact across disciplines and communities.“
Thank you for the ideas you pursue, the people you inspire and the impact you create,” said UCF President Alexander N. Cartwright at Wednesday’s celebration at the Burnett House, home of UCF’s president and first lady. “You are advancing what is possible for our students, our state and our world — and proving every day that UCF’s brightest light comes from our people.”
Honorees were selected based on nominations by deans, department chairs and directors from across UCF. The event gathered family members and friends, fellow faculty, former awardees and community leaders to celebrate their achievements.
Joining in recognizing the honorees were UCF Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs John Buckwalter, Vice President for Research and Innovation Winston Schoenfeld, and Interim Vice Provost for Faculty Excellence Joel Cramer.
Among this year’s seven Luminary Awardees is Carmen Giurgescu of UCF’s College of Nursing.
Carmen Giurgescu
Chatlos Foundation Endowed Chair and Associate Dean for Research, College of Nursing
Giurgescu excels as a world-renowned maternal researcher and game changer for elevating her college’s excellence and national prominence.
As a women’s health nurse practitioner, she works to give mothers and babies the best possible start by reducing preterm births and improving health outcomes. Her impactful research portfolio involves multi-millions in grants — including from the National Institutes of Health — as both a principal and co-investigator.
Giurgescu has spearheaded innovative research initiatives, developed training programs and provided critical support to steadily grow her college’s research expenditures, placing it among the top 50 nursing schools nationwide.
“Her research is not only advancing scientific understanding but also transforming clinical practice,” former College of Nursing Dean Mary Lou Sole said in Giurgescu’s award nomination. “Across her college, Dr. Giurgescu has fostered a culture of discovery and collaboration.”
Article by Joe Adams
Photo by Antoine Hart
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