The University of Florida named alumni Helen Roldan one of its 40 Gators Under 40 awardees for 2025.
“I’m honored,” Roldan said on March 14. “UF shaped a lot of my world view and things I’m passionate about. It’s special to go back to the university and be recognized. I hope I can do them proud.”
Honorees are chosen for their impact upon their industry, civic and professional accomplishments in the state and other factors, the school said.
Roldan, 32, is well known to Miami Lakers.
She is a former deputy town clerk and was named among the Miami Lakes Women of Distinction, Class of 2024, in the volunteer category.
The nomination form described her activities dating to Barbara Goleman Senior High School. She was president of the junior class and belonged to the Key Club. She donated 100s of hours to community cleanups and raised funds for groups like United Way, it said.
She has served on the Miami Lakes Youth Activities Committee, chaired the Sports Hall of Fame Committee and volunteered with the Neighborhood Improvement Committee, and is still a member of that group.
Roldan pushed the council to remove “Miami Lakes Residents Only” signs in public parks. While working for the town, she launched its electronic public records request system for the clerk’s office.
Roldan lives in town with her family. She is director of public affairs at Ballyhoo Media and works with governments in Florida on initiatives for the environment and affordable housing.
She previously was director of communications for North Bay Village and director of communications and special events at Florida International University.
Roldan earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science and Latin American Studies from UF. Florida International University awarded her a Master of Public Administration degree.
Roldan is vice president of alumni sponsorships for the Gator Club of Miami.
She will return to the UF campus this month to attend receptions and mentorship activities.