Bryce Catarelli, a clinical assistant professor at the University of Florida College of Nursing, considers herself a Gator Nurse through and through. The double Gator — who earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing and Doctor of Nursing Practice degrees from UF — was honored to be selected as one of this year’s 40 Gators Under 40.

“I kind of joke that I bleed orange and blue, but I am a Gator Nurse and always will be,” said Catarelli, who earned her master’s degree from the University of Central Florida before returning to UF.

“I always said I was coming home, right back to the program that made me,” she said.

The 40 Gators Under 40 campaign is a UF Alumni Association effort recognizing Gator graduates for their professional success, commitment to service and deep connection to UF.

At the College of Nursing, Catarelli works with undergraduate and graduate students in clinical, simulation and didactic settings. Her innovative teaching strategies have earned her multiple accolades, including the Florida Nurses Association Nurse Educator Icon Award, as well as recognition through international podcasts and publications.

She also maintains a clinical practice at the UF Student Health Care Center and plays a key role in intercollegiate collaboration to improve access to care for international students.

Her current scholarship focuses on creating a healthy work environment for nurses by building resilience and reducing burnout through evidence-based strategies. She is also dedicated to increasing student engagement in evidence-based practice and nursing research. Her work has strengthened academic-practice partnerships and led to grant-funded initiatives aimed at improving resilience among nurses, reducing burnout and enhancing the experiences of new graduate nurses and nursing leaders.

Catarelli’s contributions have resulted in multiple publications, television and radio interviews and awards, including being named a 2024 UF Champion for Change.

“I’ve had incredible mentorship and guidance along the way and have been really fortunate to have the opportunities and resources to explore so many of the things that were recognized by the 40 Gators Under 40,” she said. “I’m honored to represent the college in this way.”