A total of 325 students earned degrees from the University of Florida College of Design, Construction and Planning following the Spring 2025 semester. The graduating class was celebrated publicly May 1-4 with various commencement ceremonies on the UF campus.
“These graduates represent the future of our built environment—visionaries, problem-solvers and leaders who are prepared to design more sustainable, resilient and comprehensive communities,” DCP Dean Chimay Anumba said. “Their achievements reflect not only their dedication and talent, but also the strength of our faculty and the power of interdisciplinary collaboration. We can’t wait to see the impact they will make in the world.”
Eight students had their Doctor of Philosophy degree conferred by UF Thursday morning. An additional 56 Gators obtained their master’s degree from the college, while a whopping 261 students received their bachelor’s degree in six different disciplines (construction management, fire and emergency services, architecture, interior design, landscape architecture and sustainability and the built environment).
Legendary two-time DCP graduate Mario Cartaya (BARCH ’74, MBC ’75) was honored at DCP’s Name Recognition Ceremony Sunday as the recipient of the Distinguished Alumnus Award. Cartaya had a remarkable career in Broward County as the founder of Cartaya and Associates Architects, where he shaped the architectural landscape of the country through an impressive portfolio of public and institutional projects. His firm’s work is prominently featured in major civic landmarks including the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, multiple municipal centers, public libraries, performing arts centers, police headquarters, and fire stations.
In addition to his contributions to civic infrastructure, Cartaya and Associates has led numerous additions and renovations for hospitals and healthcare facilities throughout the region, enhancing vital community services with innovative and functional design.
“We are honored to recognize Mario Cartaya with the Distinguished Alumnus Award,” Anumba said. “His inspiring story and lifelong dedication to shaping meaningful spaces have left an indelible mark on the built environment in South Florida. Beyond his professional success, Mario exemplifies the spirit of giving back—through mentorship, guest lectures and a steadfast commitment to the next generation of designers and architects. He continues to inspire our students and strengthen the legacy of our college in powerful ways.”
On the student side, graduating interior design student Olivia Grinage received the DCP Undergraduate Student Academic Achievement Award for distinguishing herself as an exceptional student regarding her perfect 4.0 GPA, internship experience over four years and time spent as a mentor to fellow students.
“Olivia Grinage exemplifies the type of professional and academic excellence that we would expect from the top of DCP’s graduating class,” Department of Interior Design Instructional Assistant Professor Genesis Okken said.
Graduating architecture student Rachel Moss was awarded the Undergraduate Student Leadership and Service Award for distinguishing herself as an exceptional leader in the DCP and UF community. Since her freshman year, Moss has been a leader in the DCP Ambassadors group, providing student-led tours and volunteering at numerous DCP events.
“In my 23 years at UF, Rachel ranks as one of the absolute most impressive students with whom I have had the pleasure of working with,” School of Architecture Associate Professor John Maze said. “I have rarely met a student with more deserving qualities, and I have the fullest expectations that Rachel will go on after graduation this year to make the Gator Nation very proud.”
To replay the live stream of the 2025 Spring DCP Name Recognition Ceremony, click here.
