Alumni Stories
From childhood talent to industry success
The Frost School of Music helped songwriter and producer Alexis Idarose Kesselman, B.M. ’19, turn her musical instincts into remarkable industry achievement.
From pro bowler to broadcaster
In a fireside chat at the University of Miami’s Cosford Cinema, former Miami Hurricanes linebacker and Super Bowl champion Jonathan Vilma, B.B.A. ’04, shared insights on his collegiate and NFL careers and what it took to become a successful color analyst.
Q&A: Alina Hudak on politics, leadership, and the 2026 FIFA World Cup
Alina Hudak, B.B.A. ’82, M.P.A. ’84, is a trailblazer in Miami-Dade government. Now, she is helping Miami prepare for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
An architecture alum’s journey to success
Wesley Kean, B.Arch. ’10, recounts his journey to founding KoDA, an award-winning firm blending environmental awareness and innovative design.
A Cane family invests in empowering future generations
With roots in Jamaica and careers nurtured in Miami, the Mullings family has made a gift to endow a scholarship at the Miami Herbert Business School.
These Canes found love at the U
Celebrate Valentine’s Day all month long with these alumni stories of fate, luck, and young love at the University of Miami.
Triple alumna aims to drive change
Rose Martin, executive director of the Miami-Dade County Commission for Women, earned her doctorate in education in December and said she is already applying lessons from the program to her advocacy work.
Dolphins star, former Hurricane gives back through music
A love for music and helping young people inspired Jaelan Phillips, B.G.S. ’24, to use his Jaelan Phillips Foundation to sponsor a scholarship for the Frost School’s MusicReach program.
Forging the connections that launch a career
Famed Miami-based producer Salaam Remi hired two Frost School music industry program graduates for key roles in his innovative music rights and publishing firm after working with them in sessions here.
Two lenses are better than one
Rick Galli, B.S.C. ’05, honed his talents as both writer and filmmaker while at the University—a combination that positioned him for unique success.
Alumnus recognizes Osher Lifelong Learning Institute with impressive bequest
Ed Cutié, B.A. ’70, says, “In your 20s, you pretty much think you know everything—by your 70s, you realize you didn’t know squat.” Now, he’s spending his retirement at the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute, learning all the things he wanted to when he was too busy working.
Illuminating downtown Miami with an orange and green glow
Daniel Kodsi, B.B.A. '91, redefines Miami’s skyline with a radiant display of University of Miami pride.
Frost School alumna crowned Miss Virginia, prepares for 2025 Miss America competition
Carlehr Swanson, M.M. ’21, leverages her education, vocal talent, and platform to create community and make her grandmother proud.
Distinguished alumni to deliver commencement keynotes
Michael Irvin and Alina T. Hudak will address the more than 1,000 fall graduates of the Class of 2024 during commencement ceremonies at the Watsco Center on Dec. 12.
Alumna's journey of reinvention
Gabrielle Argimon, J.D. '24, Bachelor of Music '19, writes about switching career paths during the pandemic and how Miami Law’s trial advocacy programs helped her find her voice and passion.
