Class News: August 2026

Welcome to the August 2026 edition of Class News, our snapshot of personal achievements and professional journeys in your alumni community. Each month, we’ll share a collection of the most recent submissions, so don’t forget to keep us up to date on your latest news.

Gatherings & Milestones

Sarah Sprinkel ’80MAT was named the 2026 Woman of Influence Lifetime Achievement Honoree by the Winter Park Chamber of Commerce.

Scott Howat ’91, chief communications officer and president of the Foundation for Orange County Public Schools, was recognized as a 50 Over 50 honoree by the News Service of Florida, celebrating influential leaders making an impact across the state.

Jeff Vahle ’94MBA retired as president of Walt Disney World Resort. During his tenure, he led the resort through the COVID-19 pandemic, its 50th anniversary celebration, and a period of investment and expansion. His retirement caps a 36-year career with Disney that began in 1990 when he joined the company as an engineer.

Lauren Silvestri ’14 wed Tom Foti in Bucks County, Pennsylvania. Jamie Pizzi ’14 and Kelly Johnson ’16 were bridesmaids, and Chelsea Cutchens ’13 also attended.

Making Moves

Karla Muniz ’08MHR has been named the chief people officer at Herself Health, where she looks forward to making a positive impact on women’s health.

Elizabeth Hall ’11 is training for a 5,100-mile rowing expedition around America’s Great Loop in spring 2027 as part of a team raising funds for Parkinson’s disease research. During the three-month journey, the crew aims to raise $5.1 million while rowing along the Gulf Coast, through the Great Lakes, down the Mississippi River, and beyond.

Sisters Sydney Cohen ’25 and Alexandria Cohen ’25 each earned a master's in biomedical sciences from the Medical University of the Americas after graduating from Rollins with bachelor's degrees in biology. They recently began the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine program at St. Matthew’s University School of Veterinary Medicine in the Cayman Islands, taking the next step toward their shared lifelong goal of becoming veterinarians.

Makenna Morrison Gary ’26 received a 2026–27 Fulbright Study/Research Award to pursue a master’s degree in biodiversity at National Taiwan University, where she also earned the university’s highest scholarship for international students.

Michelle Polo ’26 began a new role as a planner for the City of Lake Mary, Florida.