Michelle Boyd is the events coordinator at the UF Health Cancer Center.
Q: What is your hometown?
A: Orlando, Florida.
Q: Describe your educational and professional background.
A: I have a bachelor’s degree in hospitality management from the University of Central Florida. My professional background is deeply rooted in athletics, having worked with organizations such as Orlando City Soccer, WNBA, and IMG Academy. I moved to Gainesville in 2022 and began working as an event coordinator for the UF College of Pharmacy. Transitioning to the UF Health Cancer Center in 2023 was a pivotal move for me, allowing me to contribute to the center’s mission and further its impact.
Q: How did you get into your current career path and how many years have you been in the role?
A: I’ve been in my current role for a year now! Event planning has been a key role in every job I have had throughout my career, so it felt like a no-brainer to pursue this in its entirety. I had the wonderful opportunity of collaborating with folks from the UF Health Cancer Center when working on the Cardio-Oncology Symposium in 2023, giving me a glimpse into the culture of this center. When the opportunity to join this fantastic team presented itself, I was thrilled to become part of it.
Q: What is a typical day like in your job?
A: I thrive on wearing many hats, ensuring each day brings something new and exciting. My job ranges everywhere from ordering coffee creamer and overseeing our swag inventory to orchestrating multi-institution conferences. My role spans a range of responsibilities where I coordinate and facilitate our biweekly seminars, Cheers to the New Year, External Advisory Board meeting, faculty recruitments, development events, and anything and everything in between. You’ll often find me navigating the controlled chaos with energy and enthusiasm!
Q: What is the most rewarding part of working for the UF Health Cancer Center?
A: My role at the UF Health Cancer Center stands apart from many others here as I’m neither a researcher nor a health care professional. Nevertheless, it’s incredibly fulfilling for me because I can make a distinct impact. Although I’m not directly involved in research or patient care, I contribute by organizing events and programs that support the professional and personal growth of our researchers and clinicians, thereby enhancing their work in the field. Additionally, collaborating with our office of Community Outreach and Engagement and witnessing the profound impact this center has in our community brings me immense joy.
“Although I’m not directly involved in research or patient care, I contribute by organizing events and programs that support the professional and personal growth of our researchers and clinicians, thereby enhancing their work in the field.”
Michelle Boyd
Q: How do you keep your skills current and continue to learn and grow?
A: I actively participate in webinars and networking within the local community, which keeps me informed about valuable resources and opportunities that can benefit our center.
Q: Describe how you would spend your ideal day off from work.
A: On my ideal day off, you’ll find me thrifting, enjoying a brewery with friends, near water, or skating with my roller derby league.
