Each year, the FSU Alumni Association names Thirty Under 30, a prestigious award that recognizes outstanding accomplishments of FSU’s young alumni. Recipients show exceptional achievement and significant contributions to their profession, community or university. Each recipient must exemplify outstanding professional and personal development either through traditional channels or innovative approaches.
Jill Chandler | Tallahassee, Florida
BA Communication, Digital Media Production ‘09
Jill works in Tallahassee for The Zimmerman Agency as a Senior Account Manager. The Gainesville native has risen in the ranks at Zimmerman since joining the team in 2012. Jill does work with local initiatives such as Tree House of Tallahassee, an emergency shelter for children ages 2-12 who have been removed from their homes.
Herneshia (Spurlock) Dukes | New Orleans, Louisiana
BS Communication ‘08
Herneshia works as the Principal of the KIIPP Leadership Academy, a middle school serving grades 5-8. The school encourages students to excel in leadership, academics and character with college graduation as the ultimate goal.
Lt. Christopher Gardner | Alexandra, Virginia
BS Information Technology ‘09
Christopher is a Lieutenant in the United States Coast Guard. Gardner lives in Alexandra, Virginia with wife, Holly and son, Jack.
Mark Neifeld | Arlington, Texas
BS Communication, Public Relations ‘09
Mark works at the Dallas Cowboys AT&T Stadium as an Events Manager. Mark is also the GM of Ingress Events, which specializes in live event consulting in the sports and entertainment industry. In the past, Neifeld has worked for the Georgia Dome and served as Event Manager for the NCAA Final Four.