Class News: September 2023

Welcome to the September 2023 edition of Class News, our monthly snapshot of the personal and professional milestones and adventures of your fellow Tars.

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.

Rollins in a Box Across the Country

Earlier this month, Lauren Shrensky ’97 hosted a gathering at her home in Denver, Colorado, with local Rollins alumni. Tars enjoyed a tailgate-style party while cheering on the Denver Broncos during an afternoon game.

Yasmin Gutierrez ’08 recently hosted a unique Rollins in a Box get-together as a surprise for Pedro Pequeño, beloved professor emeritus of anthropology. Pequeño’s wife, together with several alumni, celebrated his birthday and expressed their gratitude for his Rollins legacy of inspiration and kindness. 

A group of alumni assembled in Washington, D.C., to cheer on Tocarra Mallard ’10 in her touring stand-up show at the DC Improv Comedy Club. Shannon Lynch Zazulia ’12 turned the evening into a Rollins alumni event open to all D.C.-area alumni.

Onward & Upward

Sol Bungalows, the creation of owner Drew Berger ’13, has been rated the No. 1 affordable overwater bungalow in Panama by Traveler’s Choice for 2023. Berger has enjoyed connecting with many Rollins alumni during this venture and credits Rollins with “opening my eyes to living abroad and to the numerous opportunities to be found in foreign countries. I was also able to foster my love and understanding for the environment while at Rollins, which has guided our business to be sustainably run both for the planet and our small local community.”

Honor Roll

Sandra Muvdi ’89 is planning the 20th-anniversary celebration for her nonprofit Jessica June Children’s Cancer Foundation (JJCCF). Founded in 2004 after the loss of her only child to cancer, Muvdi’s organization has provided emergency financial assistance to over 6,700 families with children battling cancer.

Jasmine Cohen-Young ’14, former Rollins basketball player, is currently a doctoral candidate at the University of Kentucky completing her doctorate of social work (DSW) with a clinical concentration. Her research highlights the urgency for mental-health screenings and services for college athletes.

Lauren Smiarowski ’19MPH graduated from Florida State University’s College of Medicine in May 2023. She will continue her education as a pediatric resident at Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children.