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Parent Department University of Florida

UF Innovation Academy academic advisor named ‘Professional Advisor of the Year’

By Josie Cioffero

GAINESVILLE — UF Innovation Academy academic advisor Lucy Searcy has been honored with the Professional Advisor of Year Award at the college level by the Office of the Provost, highlighting her dedication to student success and innovative yet effective advising.

Searcy has been with the Innovation Academy since 2017, helping 1,200 students each year navigate the innovation minor, career development and the unique status of an emerging professional. Under her guidance, students have landed internships with Lockheed Martin, Glamour magazine, Macy’s and other notable companies.

She is now nominated for the university-wide award.

“Winning the UF Professional Advisor of the Year award is an incredible honor and a meaningful reminder of the impact we have as advisors,” she said. “We have the privilege of walking alongside students through their successes and challenges, helping them find clarity, confidence and a sense of agency in their journey.”

2024 was an exciting year for Searcy: In the fall, she led the first Information Literacy Scholars Program in collaboration with UF George A. Smathers Libraries. Designed to teach IA students valuable research, critical thinking and decision-making skills, the program empowered them with information-first mindsets they can use in class or share with employers to stand out in the digital age. Details about the second cohort will be released this summer.

She was also honored in May with the Career Influencer Award from the UF Career Connections Center, once again emphasizing her impact on IA students’ career development through collaboration and mentorship.

If chosen for the university-wide award, she would be the first advisor under the Office of Undergraduate Affairs to receive the honor.

“This recognition isn’t just about me — it reflects the transformative power of compassionate guidance in shaping a student’s experience at UF,” she said. “Seeing students grow, discover their potential and navigate their unique paths makes this work so rewarding, and I’m genuinely grateful to be part of their journey every day.”