Turning the page: New beginnings and continued impact
Dear colleagues and collaborators,
As we close out the year, it is with a mix of sadness and anticipation that I share with you I will be stepping down from my role as director of the Center for Coastal Solutions, a role I’ve had the privilege of holding since founding the center at the University of Florida in 2020. After much reflection and careful consideration, I’ve decided to pursue new opportunities and embark on an exciting new chapter in my professional journey.
It has been an absolute honor to work alongside such dedicated and passionate colleagues and to contribute to the important work we’ve done together. I am particularly proud of the network of partners we have built across campus and with over 50 organizations to advance coastal solutions as well as the culture our team has built that prioritizes translating new knowledge into real-world application, as quickly as possible. The center has become an essential engine of innovation to tackle an increasing array of complex, interconnected challenges that face our coastlines, including impacts of sea-level rise, flooding, red tide, erosion, and more frequent and severe storms.
Looking ahead, CCS is poised for an exciting year of growth. Our leadership team, with support from university leaders and our advisory board, is committed to continuing to expand our research pillars, delving deeper into nature-based solutions, hazard forecasting, optimizing water quality and applying decision support tools. Our commitment to pioneering solutions will be matched by our focus on equipping the next generation of leaders. As we innovate how we train students, we are creating new pathways for them to thrive as leaders in the workforce—prepared to tackle the pressing challenges our coasts face. With a collaborative, interdisciplinary approach and a highly dedicated team, CCS will remain at the forefront of advancing coastal solutions while nurturing a new wave of talent ready to drive change.
While I will truly miss working with all of you, I’m excited for the future and the continued success of the CCS. I have no doubt that the incredible team here will continue to accomplish great things!
Thank you for all of the adventures, the collaboration, the friendship and the support that have defined my time here. Leading CCS has been a privilege, and I am grateful for the fun and creative problem solving that enriched my daily life while in the director’s seat.
As the year draws to a close, I wish you all a peaceful and joyful holiday season. I look forward to staying in touch as I move on to this next phase.
Warmest regards,
Christine Angelini