As the heart and soul of the University of Florida’s Department of Environmental and Global Health, Victoria Houghton thrives on forming connections.
Houghton brings years of experience from the UF Student Financial Affairs office, which taught her valuable skills in handling academics, financial aid and student assistance.
“I have really enjoyed learning the academic side of higher education,” Houghton said. “I have made contacts all over campus that help me when I need assistance with a challenging student situation; Those connections are priceless.”
Now, she approaches six years with the EGH team as an academic program specialist at the UF College of Public Health and Health Professions.
Tasked with everything between class programming to one-on-one advising, Houghton is often revered as the go-to for student assistance.
Aside from offering students scheduling and programmatic help, Houghton is also their biggest cheerleader.
“I always get teary eyed when they [the students] present their capstone project or dissertation defense knowing I was a small part of their educational path,” she said with a smile. “They all make me feel proud to be doing what I do.”
Most recently, Houghton was awarded the UF 2022 Superior Accomplishment Award, which recognizes faculty and staff members who contribute “outstanding and meritorious service, efficiency and/or economy, or to the quality of life for students and employees.”
Outside of her day-to-day work, Houghton loves traveling the world, rooting for her children at sports games and taking up a game of pickleball.
As she reflects on her years with the EGH team, she said she cannot imagine herself in any other role.
“100%, without a doubt, my favorite part of my job is the chance to interact, support and help students succeed,” Houghton said. “It’s why I do what I do.”