Alumnus Christina Heard (’18) Leads the Workforce
April 20, 2023
If you had told Christina (Caudill ‘18) Heard when she walked across the stage in Conn Gymnasium to receive her anticipated diploma that she would work with the United States’ Department of Homeland Security, she might not have believed you. Now leading the workforce as a program manager, she cannot imagine life playing out any differently.
Graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in Communication and a minor in business administration, Christina believes her time at Florida College has contributed to her success. Her coursework equipped her with fundamental knowledge and tools for success, and her professors emphasized the importance of strong integrity and ethics in the workplace. While at FC, she also completed an internship in the marketing department, where she gained “real-world experience.” All of these experiences laid a foundation for her leadership and career success.
Christina works for DEFENSEWERX, a non-profit organization that partners with government entities across the United States to increase collaboration, agility, and innovation for our Nation. Her team is partnered specifically with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Science and Technology (S&T) Directorate, and they serve as a platform to enable innovative solutions for the safety and security of the homeland. As a program manager, Christina contributes to the overall mission of the company through carrying out responsibilities like budgeting, scheduling, and managing performance of government programs. However, no two days look exactly alike for her as she meets differing needs and challenges of individuals who serve this country, which she considers to be “an honor and privilege.” In addition to these roles, she meets with innovators across the globe to learn and discuss state-of-the-art capabilities and technologies that can further protect the United States.
Reflecting on her college experience and career success thus far, Christina feels Florida College’s impact goes beyond her career, that it is far more than an education. It is a family.
“Florida College taught me that I am never alone. In my workplace, personal life, and spiritual walk, there are professors, administrators, and fellow students who remain in my life and support me every day. I praise God for the family He has given me through FC,” said Christina.