Alumni Spotlight
As we have graduated 9 classes of students, We wanted to reach out to them and see where they are now.
Holly Pliska, Class of 2017
Pioneering Paths in Animal Science
Holly Pliska, a proud member of Q.I.’s first graduating class in 2017, attended the University of Florida, where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Animal Science in 2021. She began her studies on a pre-pharmacy track, but discovered a true passion for animal and meat science—and now works in the field at a meat processing company.
Her biggest win?
“Q.I. taught me very early on how to balance a heavy school workload with activities and clubs outside of school. This was invaluable when preparing for college and life. Being part of Q.I.’s first graduating class came with challenges, but I wouldn’t trade the experience for the world.”
She credits Q.I.’s rigorous academics for making the transition to college seamless:
“It was easy to adjust to the classes because of the amount of work we were used to doing.”
Thank you, Holly, for sharing your journey. Once a Knight, always a Knight.
#WhereAreTheyNow #WeAreQI
Riley Fisher-Smith, Class of 2020
Serving with Honor, Soaring in Aeronautics
Riley Fisher-Smith graduated with the Q.I. Class of 2020 and went on to attend Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, earning a degree in Aeronautics in 2024. He also proudly served our country as a U.S. Marine.
Today, Riley continues to make an impact as an aircraft dispatcher for air ambulances.
His biggest win from Q.I.?
“The professional communication and adult expectations instilled at Q.I. made it easier to transition to college and adulthood.”
Thank you, Riley, for sharing your journey. Once a Knight, always a Knight.
#WhereAreTheyNow #WeAreQ
Destiny Wood, Class of 2020
Now Teaching the Next Generation
Destiny Wood, now Destiny Blondin, graduated from Q.I. Roberts in 2020 and went on to earn her B.A. in Sociology from the University of North Florida. Today, she’s shaping young minds of Putnam County as a 4th grade teacher.
Her biggest win in college? “Well-organized note taking—thanks, Mr. Fortner!”
Thank you, Destiny, for sharing your journey. Once a Knight, always a Knight.
#WhereAreTheyNow #WeAreQI #ProductofPutnam
Ashleigh Byrd, Class of 2021
From Q.I. to Italy and Beyond
Ashleigh Byrd, Class of 2021, began her college journey at St. Johns River State College, where she earned her A.A. before transferring to the University of North Florida. She’s now majoring in English with a minor in Anthropology—and even studied abroad in Italy!
Her biggest win? Finishing her A.A. in just one semester.
“I felt like Q.I. Roberts really prepared me for college. There wasn’t anything I questioned or worried about because of that preparedness.”
Thank you, Ashleigh, for sharing your story. Once a Knight, always a Knight.
#WhereAreTheyNow #WeAreQI
Austin Robinson, Class of 2022
Leading with Purpose in Finance
Austin Robinson, Class of 2022, graduated from the University of West Florida in 2025 with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a focus in Finance. He now works as a financial administrator at Rodeheaver Boys Ranch, combining his passion for numbers with a heart for service.
His biggest win?
“My biggest win in college was being part of the Argo Investments program at UWF. At Q.I., I learned the importance of striving for excellence in everything I do, and that mindset carried over into college. It pushed me to hold myself to a higher standard, which helped me stand out in a competitive program, step into leadership roles, and really take advantage of the opportunities that came my way.”
Thank you, Austin, for sharing your journey. Once a Knight, always a Knight.
#WhereAreTheyNow #WeAreQI
Ayanna Williams, Class of 2017
Teaching with Heart, Empowered by Q.I.
Ayanna Williams, Class of 2017, graduated from the University of Florida with a Bachelor of Science in Family, Youth, and Community Sciences in 2023. She is now making a difference as an elementary special education teacher!
Her biggest win?
“I was prepared academically for the rigorous coursework. It was a lot easier for me to adjust to college life—especially the amount of homework and the curriculum—because of the courses I was able to pursue at Q.I.”
Thank you, Ayanna, for sharing your story. Once a Knight, always a Knight.
#WhereAreTheyNow #WeAreQI
Carol Green, Class of 2022
Advocating for Children, Building a Brighter Future
Carol Green, Class of 2022, recently graduated from the University of North Florida with a B.A. in Child Psychology and a minor in Child Welfare.
Her biggest win?
“Going into college with a full-ride scholarship thanks to my AICE diploma—and starting with a year of college credits already under my belt.”
Carol is now serving as a case manager, acting as the legal guardian for 25 children. Her career path was shaped by a meaningful internship experience:
“I knew I wanted to become a case manager after interning at Daniel Kids during my senior year of college. Internships provide valuable insight and experience into what you want to do in life.”
She credits Q.I. for setting the foundation:
“I am forever thankful for the education I received at Q.I. Roberts. Without Q.I., I wouldn’t have been able to seek higher education right after graduation.”
Thank you, Carol, for sharing your story and for the impact you’re making. Once a Knight, always a Knight.
#WhereAreTheyNow #WeAreQI
Cheigh Locascio, Class of 2019
Embracing Change, Excelling Forward
Cheigh Locascio, Class of 2019, began her college journey at the University of Florida, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in Health Education. After working in the field, she discovered a new passion and is now pursuing her MBA in Project Management at Florida Institute of Technology.
Her biggest win?
“Coming in with so many credits!!”
Cheigh credits Q.I. for helping her meet college-level expectations from day one:
“I believe my teachers at Q.I. prepared me for the academic challenges I faced in college. Shout out to Mrs. Boze for making sure I could write an amazing paper on any subject!”
Thank you, Cheigh, for sharing your story. Once a Knight, always a Knight.
#WhereAreTheyNow #WeAreQI
Garrett Lee, Class of 2017
From Q.I. to the Courtroom
Garrett Lee, Class of 2017, attended the University of Florida, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in History. He continued his education at UF’s Levin College of Law, earning his Juris Doctor in 2024. He is now a practicing attorney.
His biggest win?
“My experiences at Q.I. really made me a better writer and a more critical reader and thinker. As a history major in undergrad, and then in law school, my strength as a writer is what truly helped me succeed. The Cambridge courses at Q.I. elevated my writing and prepared me for everything that came after high school.”
Thank you, Garrett, for sharing your journey. Once a Knight, always a Knight.
#WhereAreTheyNow #WeAreQI.
Gracie Jordan, Class of 2024
Finding Her Calling in the Classroom
Gracie Jordan, Class of 2024, is attending the University of North Florida, majoring in Elementary Education and set to graduate in 2027—a full year early. She credits Mr. Belcher with inspiring her since her junior year.
Her biggest win?
“When I changed my major to Elementary Education, I already had most of my credits done thanks to my AICE exams and my SAT score. Because of that, I only have to take one certification exam instead of four, and I get to graduate a year early! (Study for your exams, y’all!)”
Reflecting on her journey, Gracie shared:
“Senior year at Q.I., my class would say, ‘We are Q.I.!’ Back then, I was living at home and planning to be a nurse. Now, I’ve changed my major to Elementary Education K–6, I’m engaged to be married, graduating a year early, and I have the most incredible internship as a co-teacher at an elementary school. Q.I. Roberts will set you up for success! WE ARE Q.I.!”
Thank you, Gracie, for sharing your journey. Once a Knight, always a Knight.
#WhereAreTheyNow #WeAreQI
Morgan Goeckel, Class of 2019
Empowering Student Voices in Higher Ed
Morgan Goeckel, Class of 2019, attended Mercer University where she earned her Bachelor’s in Secondary English Education and her Master’s in Higher Education Administration. She now serves as the Student Engagement Coordinator at Oglethorpe University.
Her biggest win?
“Being able to balance a rigorous course load! My English teachers also prepared me for the many courses I took to complete my degree. Shout out to Mrs. Boze!!”
Morgan says her involvement at Q.I. helped shape her career path:
“Getting involved in high school helped me find my interests and led me to a career in education!”
Thank you, Morgan, for sharing your journey. Once a Knight, always a Knight.
#WhereAreTheyNow #WeAreQI
Madeline Rotenberry, Class of 2023
Madeline Rotenberry, Class of 2023, is currently attending the University of Florida, pursuing a Bachelor’s in Animal Science with a specialization in Food Animal Studies. She’s on track to graduate in 2027!
Her biggest win?
“I feel more confident in my ability to network and build relationships that will support me both academically and professionally. I’ve also used so many skills I developed at Q.I.—like essay writing, problem-solving, mind-mapping, citation research, study strategies, and more.”
Madeline encourages others not to give up:
“College is one of the best decisions I’ve made. While it can be hard at times and may feel overwhelming, it’s incredibly rewarding to see your hard work pay off. Go Gators!”
Thank you, Madeline, for sharing your journey. Once a Knight, always a Knight.
#WhereAreTheyNow #WeAreQI
Kaleb Akins, Class of 2025
Raising the Bar at UF
Kaleb Akins, Class of 2025, has already found his groove at the University of Florida. He is pursuing a degree in Microbiology and Cell Science in the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences.
His biggest win?
“I feel that Q.I. absolutely raised my threshold for the volume of work and material I’m able to learn in a given time—beyond what I’ve had to handle so far in my classes. Additionally, the humanities and history courses at Q.I. gave me a broader context for the world, helping me make meaningful connections across timelines and subjects.”
One thing he wishes he knew before college?
How to cook! Saving money by preparing home-cooked meals is a skill he’s learning now.
Thank you, Kaleb, for sharing your journey. Once a Knight, always a Knight.
#WhereAreTheyNow #WeAreQI
Chaise Champion Lucas, Class of 2018
From Business to Global Impact
Chaise Campion Lucas, Class of 2018, graduated from the University of Central Florida in 2021 with a bachelor’s degree in Business Management. She is currently pursuing her Master’s in International Business at the University of Florida.
Today, she works with UF IFAS Facilities, overseeing payroll and personnel operations—making an impact behind the scenes of a major university system.
Her biggest win?
“Q.I. played a huge role in shaping some of my biggest wins in college. It strengthened my writing, pushed me to think more critically, and introduced me to a community where getting involved felt natural. Because Q.I. encouraged that level of engagement, I carried it with me to UCF and joined several clubs—most importantly, the SCUBA club. That one decision completely changed my life because it led me to discovering one of my greatest passions.”
Her advice to future students:
“I wish I had understood the importance of slowing down and actually enjoying college. I was so focused on heavy course loads, working two jobs, and graduating early that I didn’t give myself time to fully experience it. Once I finally got more involved and allowed myself to breathe, I realized how much I loved it. If I could go back, I’d tell myself: don’t rush it. Join the clubs you’re excited about, make friends, try new things, and truly live the experience—not just power through it.”
Thank you, Chaise, for sharing your journey. Once a Knight, always a Knight—in more ways than one.
#WhereAreTheyNow #WeAreQI
Emerald Wood, Class of 2021
Leading the Classroom with Confidence
Emerald Wood, Class of 2021, graduated from the University of North Florida in 2024 with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science. She originally began as a History major before switching to Political Science to complete her degree and begin her career sooner.
Today, she’s making an impact as a middle school Social Studies teacher at Bradford Middle School.
Her biggest win?
“I knew exactly how my professors wanted my writing to look. In my freshman history class, I knew all the answers—even in a room full of juniors and seniors.”
Her shoutout:
“I wouldn’t be where I am today without the help of Q.I. and the guidance from the amazing staff there. Thank you all for everything you do.”
Thank you, Emerald, for sharing your journey. Once a Knight, always a Knight.
#WhereAreTheyNow #WeAreQI#WhereAreTheyNow #WeAreQI
William Clevenger, Class of 2017
From the First Class to Creative Lead
William Clevenger, a proud member of Q.I.’s first graduating class in 2017, earned his Associate of Arts degree from St. Johns River State College before completing his Bachelor’s in Digital Media with a focus in Game Design at the University of Central Florida.
Today, he serves as the Creative Lead for a video game development company. You can also find him working at Magic Kingdom and Epic Universe—bringing creativity to life in more ways than one.
His biggest win?
“Honestly, the workload at Q.I. made all of my college classes feel like a cakewalk. None of the classes I had for either of my degrees compared to the coursework I was given at Q.I.—it almost over-prepared me! Being able to complete most of my Associate’s degree while still at Q.I. also saved me money and allowed me to start my bachelor’s program at UCF sooner since my general education credits were already done.”
Thank you, William, for sharing your journey. Once a Knight, always a Knight.
#WhereAreTheyNow #WeAreQI
Andrea McDaniel, Class of 2018
Advancing Toward a Doctorate in Physical Therapy
Andrea McDaniel, Class of 2018, graduated from the University of Florida in 2022 with her bachelor’s degree in Pre-Professional Biology. She is currently pursuing her Doctorate in Physical Therapy at the University of St. Augustine and is on track to graduate in 2026.
Her biggest win?
“My bachelor’s degree was completely paid for thanks to Q.I. and the Cambridge program! I also knew how to study because of Q.I.’s rigorous coursework.”
Something she wants others to know:
“Some of my college classes had around 200 students in them—very different from the small class sizes at Q.I. Q.I. does a wonderful job preparing you for higher education. Learning your study style will be essential to your success in college.
Thank you, Andrea, for sharing your journey. Once a Knight, always a Knight.
#WhereAreTheyNow #WeAreQI
Abbey Minotti Gaskin, Class of 2018
Perseverance in the NICU
Abbey Minotti Gaskin, Class of 2018, attended Rasmussen College of Nursing and is now serving as a Registered Nurse in a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, caring for some of the smallest and most vulnerable patients.
Her biggest win?
“I learned perseverance. The Cambridge program was difficult. I wasn’t a strong test taker, and I had to fail at times in order to learn how to push harder and become better. That mindset helped me tremendously in nursing school, which required dedication and persistence every single day.”
Her advice to current students:
“You’re going to fail sometimes—and that’s okay. You often learn more from failure and how you move forward than if you had succeeded the first time.”
Thank you, Abbey, for sharing your journey and for the compassion you bring to your profession. Once a Knight, always a Knight.
#WhereAreTheyNow #WeAreQI
Hunter Duerr, Class of 2017
Engineering Solutions, Expanding Access
Hunter Duerr, Class of 2017, graduated from Western Governors University and is currently working as a Systems Engineer for a technology company.
In addition to his work in tech, Hunter is also the founder of Florida Visually Impaired and Blind Services, a growing organization with 10 employees serving visually impaired students in Marion and Alachua counties. He also provides statewide services in partnership with the VA and the Florida Department of Education’s Division of Blind Services. Through collaboration with Florida Vision Technology, his company supports sales and services across 18 counties in North Central Florida and into the panhandle.
His biggest win?
“The ability to communicate effectively — both in writing and with people — along with strong problem-solving skills.”
Something he wants others to know:
“Don’t get too focused on one path. It’s okay to change your mind.”
Thank you, Hunter, for sharing your journey and for the meaningful impact you’re making across our state. Once a Knight, always a Knight.
#WhereAreTheyNow #WeAreQI
Amberley Carlton, Class of 2022
From Q.I. to Economics and Beyond
Amberley Carlton, Class of 2022, earned her bachelor’s degree in Economics from the University of Florida and is currently pursuing her MBA at Stetson University.
Her biggest win?
“Q.I. set me up for success. My teachers and the AICE curriculum helped me develop strong study habits, become a better writer, and strengthen my critical thinking skills. I will always credit Q.I. for my accomplishments in high school and my acceptance into college. Q.I. paved the way for my higher education.”
She gives special recognition to a mentor who made a lasting impact:
“I will always be most thankful for Mr. Belcher. He pushed me to pursue a major at UF that I was originally scared of. I’m grateful for a mentor who believed in me so much. He was right — I loved economics.”
Something she wants others to know:
“Time goes by so fast. Enjoy every moment. Go to prom even if you don’t want to. Participate in senior activities, even if you’re tired. Then do the same in college. Succeed academically, but enjoy yourself. It goes by faster than you think.”
Her shoutout:
“I am so proud of how far Q.I. has come since my 7th grade year. The faculty, teachers, and principals are truly amazing. I am proud to be an alumna.
Thank you, Amberley, for sharing your journey. Once a Knight, always a Knight.
#WhereAreTheyNow #WeAreQI
Xannairria Ware, Class of 2017
Serving with Strength and Leadership
Xannairria Ware, Class of 2017 and a proud member of Q.I.’s first graduating class, is currently pursuing her degree in Business Management while serving as a Certified State Correctional Officer for the Florida Department of Corrections.
Her biggest win?
“Q.I. prepared me for rigorous workloads, time management, and balance. Working in Corrections requires those same skills. We worked hard, but we had fun too. As part of the first graduating class, we paved the way. It was an honor to create history and be part of a legacy.”
She also gives a special shoutout:
“Shout out to Ms. Hudson and Lit class — because of you, I can write detailed and flawless disciplinary reports. That’s one of my strong suits as an officer!”
Thank you, Xannairria, for sharing your journey and for your service. Once a Knight, always a Knight.
#WhereAreTheyNow #WeAreQI
Taylor Rutkiewicz, Class of 2019
Redefining the Path to Success
Taylor Rutkiewicz, Class of 2019, began her college journey at Stetson University studying Music Education. During the pandemic, she reevaluated her path and chose to pursue trade school instead. Today, she serves as a Lead Manufacturing Technician for AESC, one of the largest electric vehicle battery manufacturers in the world.
What she’s been up to:
Along with earning a promotion to Lead Technician, Taylor had the opportunity to travel to Shiyan, China for six weeks to train under AESC’s international counterparts. She was then entrusted with bringing that knowledge back to support operations in U.S. plants — a testament to her leadership and expertise.
Something she wishes she knew:
“I didn’t need to have my entire life planned out by graduation. Life throws curveballs — and sometimes those curveballs lead you somewhere even better.”
Thank you, Taylor, for sharing your journey and for showing that success doesn’t always follow a straight line. Once a Knight, always a Knight.
#WhereAreTheyNow #WeAreQI