The University of North Florida Student Government (SG) hosted the Dyal-Summerall Toast to the Nest on Thursday, a cocktail-attire mocktail hour honoring graduating seniors.
The celebration marked the final day for Amelia Dyal and Vevvy Summerall in their roles as the 2025-2026 Student Body President and Vice President, before Hazel Joseph and Tommy Mazzella were sworn in on April 10.
Event Recap
Sitou Byll-Cataria (left) and Bryce S. McColskey (right) from the UNF Alumni Association gave remarks to the graduating seniors during the event.
After future graduates signed in and were seated, two UNF Alumni Association Board members, Bryce S. McColskey and Sitou Byll-Cataria, delivered short remarks to inspire the Class of 2026 as they transitioned to alumni status.
McColskey said graduation was not the end of the students’ connection to UNF, but a beginning of a new chapter as a part of the Osprey family.
He said that he welcomed them “with open arms” and looked forward to “swoopin’ together into your next endeavor.”
Dyal and Summerall reintroduced themselves to the guests and thanked them.
“I hope this is the start of an SG tradition to come over the next few years,” said Dyal.
The free event ran from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the John A. Delaney Student Union Osprey Plaza, offering light refreshments, appetizers, and a formal toast.
Graduate Reflections
Graduates reflected fondly on their journeys during the festivities.
Michael Bagan, an upcoming electrical engineering graduate from UNF, said the most valuable lesson he learned during his four years was time management.
“It’s not about being talented or smart. It’s about how much time you’re going to put in,” said Bagan.
Bagan also pointed to three professors whom he had come to admire from his time on campus.
Hemani Kaushal, an assistant professor of electrical engineering at UNF and who accompanied Bagan on a study abroad trip to India, was among his most influential mentors.
“I cannot stress enough how awesome Dr. Hemani Kaushal is,” he said. Bagan credited both Kaushal and Coggin College of Business instructor FNU Amrita for making the international experience exceptional.
Additionally, Bagan spoke highly of O. Patrick Kreidl, another UNF electrical engineering professor. “He’s a genius,” said Bagan.
Following graduation, Bagan said he has a job lined up for him in field engineering.
Communication senior Emily Roles, who is majoring in public relations with a minor in social media and leadership, said internships with Angela Spears Communication and Inside Swoop, a program within UNF’s School of Communication, prepared her for life after graduation.
“I’ve learned as a PR student that facts matter [and] that you always need to know your audience,” said Roles.
The UNF Spring 2026 graduation ceremony is scheduled for May 1, 2026.
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