Margot Winick is a seasoned communications professional with extensive experience in journalism and higher education. As part of the Central Communications & Marketing team at UCF, she shares her passion for storytelling and emphasizes the importance of connections and mentorship for aspiring professionals in the field.
Getting to Know Margot Winick: A Journey in Storytelling and Higher Education
At the University of Central Florida, we are fortunate to have dedicated and passionate professionals like Margot Winick, who brings decades of experience and an inspiring journey to our Central Communications & Marketing team. Today, we dive into her story, discovering what drives her and what she hopes to achieve at UCF.
A Love for Stories: From Early Beginnings to a Pulitzer-Winning Team
Margot’s passion for storytelling started early. "I always loved reading and writing and was a good grammar student," she shares, recalling how a recommendation from her honors English teacher led her to join her middle school newspaper. This was the start of a journey that would eventually take her to multimedia storytelling and broadcasting at the University of Miami.
One pivotal moment in her career came after she graduated from UM. She joined The Miami Herald just after Hurricane Andrew devastated the area. “Even though I was in a junior position there, I was part of the staff that was later recognized with the Pulitzer Prize for public service,” Margot recalls. This recognition solidified her belief in the power of journalism and communications to serve the public good.
After her time at The Miami Herald, she shifted into higher education communications, working at her alma mater, the University of Miami, and then moving on to leadership roles there, then at the University of Florida, and now UCF. “I have always loved getting people to tell me their stories, and interviewing is still one of my favorite things to do: getting people to talk,” she says.
Joining the Knight Family: A Lifelong Learner at UCF
Margot’s move into higher education was a natural fit. She reflects on her time as a student at UM, where she felt a need for better communication on campus. This realization propelled her into a career in university communications, where she has now been for over two decades.
“I’m a lifelong learner (just earned my second master’s degree) and love being part of a college campus and community. Every day is a contribution to the history of our university, and I love feeling like I am witness to that,” Margot shares.
Her journey to UCF was influenced by her love for Orlando and the opportunity to continue her work in higher education communications. “I thrive in a collaborative, diverse environment and love working with the talented team at Central Communications & Marketing,” she says. Margot is excited to be part of UCF's story and looks forward to sharing the university's impact in teaching, research, and service.
Advice for Aspiring Communicators: “Network, Network, Network!”
When asked what advice she would give to students or anyone looking to change their career, Margot emphasizes the importance of building connections. “My advice to students: network, network, network! The field of communications and marketing is so dynamic,” she explains.
For those who may not be ready for a full internship, Margot suggests shadowing professionals in the field to get a better sense of what the work entails. “Reach out and ask if you can shadow for a day to see if it’s right for you,” she advises.
Looking to the Future: Continuing the Journey at UCF
As Margot continues her career at UCF, her vision is to help share the incredible work happening across campus and build connections within the community. With her husband, Larry Clark, joining UCF's Nicholson School of Communication and Media as a public relations professor, Margot is excited about the future. “We are proud to call ourselves Knights!” she says.
Margot Winick’s journey is a testament to the power of storytelling, lifelong learning, and the importance of community. We are thrilled to have her on our team, helping to shape the narrative of UCF.
