A state division of ACPA – College Student Educators International
Leadership
A Word from Our President
Dear ACPA Florida Members,
Welcome to a new year with the ACPA Florida Chapter (FCPA)! It is a true honor to serve as your President, and I am grateful to be part of a community of dedicated student affairs professionals who are deeply committed to supporting students across our state.
As we begin this year, we do so within a dynamic and evolving higher education landscape in Florida. The role of student affairs professionals in Florida continues to evolve as we respond to changing expectations around student engagement, well-being, and holistic development. We are navigating significant policy changes that are reshaping our work—including shifts in legislation affecting curriculum, diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, faculty hiring practices, and student access. These developments present both opportunities and challenges for our profession. As professionals, we are uniquely positioned to support students through uncertainty, advocate for inclusive and supportive campus environments, and continue fostering spaces where all students can thrive. Our work is more important than ever as we respond to these changes with intention, care, and a continued commitment to student success.
The ACPA Florida Chapter remains grounded in connection, professional growth, and collective impact. This year, we will continue to create opportunities for learning, collaboration, and dialogue that reflect the many perspectives and lived experiences of our members and the students we serve. Whether you are new to the field, a graduate student, or an experienced leader, your voice is essential to shaping our shared future.
I encourage you to stay engaged—attend programs, participate in conversations, and seek out opportunities to connect across institutions. Together, we can continue to support one another, strengthen our profession, and make a meaningful difference in the lives of students throughout Florida.
Thank you for your continued commitment to ACPA Florida. I look forward to all that we will accomplish together this year.
With appreciation,
Deanna Kowaleski, M.A.
President, ACPA Florida Chapter
Meet the Team
Deanna Kowaleski (she/her) serves as the President of the Florida College Personnel Association. She is also the Assistant Director of the Center for Student Involvement at the University of South Florida, where she oversees the Campus Activities Board, a student-led programming board that creates engaging experiences for students and the broader campus community. She is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Educational Leadership at Eastern Michigan University.
Dr. Elcin Haskollar (she, her) currently serves as the Past President of the Florida College Personnel Association. She is the Associate Dean for Student Success at Ringling College of Art and Design. An experienced higher education leader with over 15 years of experience advancing student success through inclusive, equity-driven strategies. Her experience spans a wide range of institutions, from small colleges and universities to major research universities, and includes university-level strategic planning, retention management, and the development of innovative student success initiatives.
Darius Robinson (he, him) serves as the Director of Operations for the Florida College Personnel Association, overseeing financial, secretarial, and historical tasks for the organization. Darius is currently a doctoral candidate in the higher education program at Florida State University. His research focus is on liberatory pedagogies to empower students of color. His current focus is on how Black college men actionize critical hope. He has worked in several capacities within student affairs, focusing in residential life, advising, and student leadership. Darius’ work also extends to international involvement with various organizations, including being a regular presenter at ACPA annual conventions.
Francine Coker (she, her) is the Director of Membership for the Florida College Personnel Association. An active member of ACPA for the past two years, she values the strong community fostered by the 101-year-old organization. Concurrently, Francine serves as the Associate Director of Student Activities and Student Organizations at the University of Miami while pursuing her doctorate in Higher Education Leadership at Florida Atlantic University. Her doctoral research focuses on the attrition of Black women administrators in American higher education.
Jiayu Wang (he, him) serves as the Social Media Coordinator for the Florida College Personnel Association, managing the organization’s digital presence and engagement strategies. Jiayu is currently a doctoral student in the Higher Education Leadership program at the University of Miami. Jiayu has professional experience in student activities, international students development, and graduate student engagement. He is passionate about empowering student leaders and advocating for international students. Jiayu is also active in the field, regularly participating in annual conventions and engaging in conversations to enhance student involvement.
Anna Kovach (she, her) serves as the Coordinator for Webinars & Resources for the ACPA Florida Chapter. She supports the chapter’s professional development efforts by helping connect members with valuable learning opportunities and resources. Anna also serves as Student Programs Coordinator in the Center for Leadership and Civic Engagement at the University of South Florida. Her work focuses on student engagement, leadership development, and civic learning. Outside of work, Anna enjoys reading, hiking, and trying new recipes.
