From Mahoney to matrimony
Arielle Poteau, B.S.C. ’08
Steve Poteau, B.S.E.E. ’08, M.S.E.C.E ’08
Steve and Arielle lived in Mahoney Residential College during their early years at the U, and had their first notable interaction in the dorm’s shared kitchen space. Arielle and her roommate agreed to a collaborative meal (of sorts). They provided a can of sloppy joe mix, while a friend of Steve’s offered up a pound of ground beef. Much to Arielle’s surprise, when it was time to enjoy the meal Steve and several other guys showed up empty-handed to partake, resulting in some serious side-eyes.
Steve and Arielle’s friendship blossomed during their final year in 2008. Although they went separate ways after graduation—Steve staying in Miami to pursue electrical engineering and Arielle moving to Georgia as a news reporter—they remained in touch, dating on and off. After 10 years, they got engaged and moved to Tampa in 2019. And that first encounter in Mahoney became a much joked-about experience, leading the couple to use the hashtag #MahoneyToMatrimoney for their wedding day.
Loyal Miami fans, Steve and Arielle love visiting campus and attending events. Steve is now a senior systems engineer at Georgia Tech Research Institute, while Arielle is the deputy editor for 21Ninety, a digital magazine owned by Blavity.
Making first-day connections
Landon Coles, B.A. ’22
Tiyah Snell, B.S.C. ’22
Tiyah and Landon’s journey began on their first day at the University of Miami, but it wasn’t until spring 2019 that their friendship truly blossomed. Landon recommended Tiyah for a mentorship role that led to a position in the Office of Multicultural Student Affairs, where they both worked as student employees until graduation. Their bond deepened during senior year, and after a spontaneous lunch, Tiyah asked, “So, what are we doing tomorrow?” From study sessions to football games, they were inseparable.
Tiyah is now a senior copywriter at a social media agency, creating content for brands like eBay, Spotify, and DoorDash. Landon, after two years as an ESG coordinator at Estée Lauder, is currently a full-time student at Harvard Law School.
Reflecting on their time at the U, Tiyah shares, “I wouldn’t be who I am without the U. I’m forever grateful for the faculty, staff, mentors, and friends who helped shape me.” Landon adds, “The U created an environment where I was not only a student but a partner in creating a better community, and I will always strive to give back.”
They recently visited campus, and Landon summed it up perfectly: “We’re just two Canes who fell in love and stuck together. UM gave us so much individually, but it also gave us each other.”
Canes for a lifetime
Patricia Standifer, B.A. ’79
James Standifer, B.S.Ed. ’79
James and Patricia’s story began at the University of Miami in 1975, and they’ve been together ever since. Their first meeting was thanks to the persistent encouragement of James’s aunt. During their time at the U, one of their most cherished memories was relaxing by the lake, enjoying good music together.
James’s most impactful class was anatomy and physiology, while Patricia found psychology to be particularly transformative. The University of Miami played a significant role in shaping their careers, equipping them with the skills and knowledge to work with today’s youth. James, now a retired school administrator, and Patricia, a retired teacher, look back on their time at the U with gratitude for the foundation it provided.
Though retired, James and Patricia stay connected to the University, eagerly attending football games and alumni events. James, a former Miami Hurricanes football player, continues to support his alma mater, while both look forward to staying engaged with the U.
Crossing paths, finding each other
Sarah Potter, B.Arch. ’18
Jack Stohlquist, B.B.A. ’16
Sarah, a 2018 graduate in architecture, and Jack, a 2016 business administration graduate, crossed paths many times during their time at the University of Miami. Their connection deepened after running into each other in Key West while vacationing separately after graduation.
Both moved to Chicago in 2018, and Jack reached out to Sarah via Instagram about cheese curds she posted—leading to their first date at a Canes watch party bar. The rest is history.
They love returning to Miami for Homecoming, games, and memorable trips like the Final Four in Houston. This April, they’ll marry in Coral Gables, celebrating their U connection back home. They also cherish the Chicago Canes community for keeping them connected with fellow alumni and providing valuable networking and volunteer opportunities.
A Parisian proposal
Jordan Unger, B.S.H.S. ’12, M.S.Ed. ’15
Michael Unger, B.A. ’12
Michael and Jordan met during move-in week their freshman year at the University of Miami. After quickly becoming friends, they took psychology classes together, and by junior year, they became a couple. After graduating in 2012, they moved to Chicago but realized their hearts belonged to Miami and returned to settle down.
In 2016, Michael surprised Jordan with a Paris proposal under the Eiffel Tower. Four years later, they bought their first home in Coral Gables, where they welcomed their son, Wolfgang, in 2023. The family frequently visits their alma mater, and while Wolfgang might not know his ABCs yet, he certainly knows the U!
Michael is currently vice president of investments and planning at Coral Gables Trust, chairperson of the board for the Financial Planning Association of Miami, treasurer for the Estate Planning Council of Greater Miami, and director of the CFA Society of Miami. When not cheering on the Canes, he’s actively involved with the University’s Citizens Board, planned giving, and the Miami Canes Community.
Keeping it in the Cane family
Michele Harris
Andrew Harris, B.A. ’91
Michele and Andrew were introduced as children by their parents. While Michele is a few years older and they didn’t attend classes together at the University of Miami, they’ve shared many experiences over the years, including attending games and alumni events. A memorable moment was traveling to Chicago for the Miami Hurricanes vs. Notre Dame game at Soldier Field.
Andrew’s connection to the U is lifelong, having attended West Laboratory School, Ponce de Leon Junior High, and Coral Gables Senior High. He also spent his youth at University summer camps and cheering on the Canes at various events.
Michele’s time at the U included unforgettable moments like meeting Jim Kelly at the student union and watching Greg Louganis practice diving. She also recalls a conversation about leadership that, at 18, she didn’t understand but now realizes was spot-on.
Michele and Andrew worked together at Harris Travel Service, Inc., founded by Andrew’s mother, Harriet L. Harris, B.A. ’58. Celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2025, the company reflects their shared love of travel, which also led to their marriage on December 31, 2017, at The Biltmore Hotel in Coral Gables. They now split their time between South Florida and the Treasure Coast.
From debate partners to life partners
Renee Reneau Fuentes, B.S.C. ’16
Michael Fuentes, B.B.A. ’16
Renee and Michael’s story began at the University of Miami in 2013, when Michael’s best friend, Tomás, introduced them as they walked across the intramural fields on the way to St. Augustine Catholic Church. At the time, Renee was the only girl on the debate team, and Michael asked if he could be her debate partner. Three years of friendship followed, filled with debates, tournaments across the Western Hemisphere, and Sundays at St. Augustine’s.
In their senior year, Michael asked Renee to be his girlfriend during a debate tournament in Toronto. After graduation, Renee moved to Washington, D.C., and Michael followed soon after. They married in Jacksonville on December 12, 2020, with many University friends, including her former boss Megan Ondrizek, celebrating with them.
Now, Renee supports strategic growth for Banyan Global, and Michael manages sales development at Axios Pro. They took this photo on the IM fields, nearly 12 years after their first meeting.
