As the summer semester comes to a close, the College of Communication, Architecture + The Arts (CARTA) celebrates the achievements of its Summer 2026 graduates, whose journeys reflect the creativity, dedication and determination that define the CARTA community.
Among this summer’s graduates is Jermaine Felix, who earned his Master’s degree in Mass Communication while continuing to serve as FIU’s Associate Head Coach for Distance and Cross Country. A proud Double Panther, Felix previously earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Management and Human Resource Management from FIU in 2011. His return to the classroom demonstrates that learning is a lifelong journey and reflects his continued commitment to personal and professional growth.
Twin sisters Alejandra and Gabriela Rojas also celebrated a shared milestone, graduating together with degrees in Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communications. During their time at FIU, the sisters gained valuable leadership and professional experience as Social Media Co-Chairs for FIU PRSSA, contributors to BOLD Agency and interns at the Doral Family Journal, among other opportunities. Alejandra was recognized on the Dean’s List and received the Department of Politics and International Relations Service Excellence Award, in addition to being nominated for Student Employee of the Year. Gabriela graduated summa cum laude, marking a particularly meaningful achievement as a first-generation college graduate. As Alejandra continues her education through a master’s degree in Digital Marketing and Gabriela begins her career in public relations, the sisters are poised to make their mark in the communications industry.
Nicolette Esper is another member of the Summer 2026 graduating class, earning her degree in Digital Broadcasting with a focus in Sports Journalism. As a first-generation college graduate, Esper turned her passion for storytelling into a strong foundation for a career in sports media. During her time at FIU, she earned six professional bylines, completed four internships and held two leadership roles with the Society of Professional Journalists. She will continue her journey in television journalism as a member of the news team at KTIV in Sioux City, Iowa.
From returning to the classroom to graduating alongside a twin and launching a career in sports journalism, these students represent just a few of the many unique paths taken by CARTA’s Summer 2026 graduates. Their accomplishments showcase the power of education, hands-on experience and perseverance to open doors and shape what comes next.
Congratulations to all of CARTA’s Summer 2026 graduates! We are proud to celebrate this milestone with you and look forward to seeing the ways you will use your creativity, knowledge and experiences to make an impact in your communities and beyond.
