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For Tania Fleming working at UF is more than just her job but a second home.  Originally from Nicaragua, Fleming grew up in a bilingual household, moving to the United States when she was only six years old. Soon after immigrating her parents fell in love with the small town charm of Newberry. 

After attending Santa Fe College, Fleming was overjoyed when a position opened at UF. Having grown up in the Gainesville area, she said she always felt like a Gator in her heart. 

Now, 23 years later, Fleming serves as the office manager in the Department of Spanish and Portuguese Studies. A three-time winner of the UF Superior Accomplishment  Award, she says she is grateful for every day in her role. “I couldn’t be happier with my career,” she said. 

Not only does working in the department give Fleming a way to connect with her native language but she said she enjoys supporting students and helping them navigate the diverse issues that can arise. 

“I love working with so many multicultural people,” Fleming said. “I feel like they have some of the values that I have because we have a strong sense of family and community and I love to speak Spanish with the students.”  

As advice to students she said she always says to keep in touch. “It’s just so nice to see them out in the real world thriving,” she said.

She said she hopes the department continues to thrive and offer languages to all the future generations. It’s so important to learn more than just your own language, she said. 

As the sole full-time staffer in the department, UF feels incredibly lucky to have her, said Department Chair Luis Álvarez-Castro.

“There are two things that strike me the most about Tania: one, her hard-working ethos; and secondly, her unwavering positive attitude,” he said.  “I think I can speak on behalf of our entire department when I say that Tania is universally appreciated by our faculty, teaching assistants, and students.” 

Outside the office, Fleming has shared her Gator spirit with her two children, who both now attend UF. She brought them to the UF parades as they were growing up and her connection deepened.  

But Fleming’s journey with UF came full circle in an even more profound way. Four years ago she received a kidney transplant through UF Health. 

“I dedicate my work life here, which I love. I enjoy coming to work, but not only have I given that to UF but UF has also given me things,” she said. “They gave me more life.” 

Following her transplant and recovery, Fleming has embraced the opportunity to travel and spend more time with her family. She credits her department for their steadfast support at that time, reinforcing the sense of family she has found here at UF.

“I get up and I enjoy coming to work,” she said. “There’s not a greater feeling than that.”

Staff contributions are crucial to the success and continued growth of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.  We would like to highlight individuals throughout the year as examples of the breadth, creativity and talent of our team. If you know someone you would like to suggest for a profile, please email commsupport@clas.ufl.edu.