Our Team

Dr. Sejal Barden is Professor and Chair, Counselor Education and School Psychology at the University of Central Florida, the Executive Director of the Marriage and Family Research Institute, and Principal Investigator for Project Harmony. Dr. Barden earned her doctoral degree in Counselor Education from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro and completed her master’s and education specialist degrees in Marriage and Family Therapy from the University of Florida. Dr. Barden’s primary research interests include supporting healthy relationships for individuals and couples from underserved populations and improving quality of life for chronically ill persons. Her favorite part of her job is mentoring students and working with our team to make data driven decisions to most effectively provide services grounded in strengthening relationships for participants in Project Harmony. She loves that every day allows us the ability to think outside the box and learn from one another. She loves to be outside, often spending free time with her family at the beach, in the pool or at the park. She is a lifelong learner and loves trying new foods, reading books from a variety of genres and traveling to new places.

Dr. Nadiya Boyce is the Co-Investigator for Project Harmony. Dr. Boyce is an Assistant Professor of Counselor Education at the University of Central Florida and an Approved Clinical Supervisor through NBCC. She has published and presented nationally and internationally on Social Determinants of Health, microaffirmations, and Community Cultural Wealth, and is trained in Gottman Level 1, Positive Discipline, and EMDR. Her work in clinical and school counseling settings focuses on advancing resilience and well-being in the Central Florida community. Her favorite aspect of her role is collaborating with the Project Harmony team and community partners to create opportunities that strengthen relationships across Central Florida. She finds bridging research with community engagement deeply rewarding and looks forward to continuing this meaningful work. She has many interests, but if she had to narrow them down to the essentials, they would include spending time with her family, playing tennis, creating art, gardening, and traveling.

Kathleen Hawkins is Co-Investigator for Project Harmony. Kathleen earned her Master’s degree in Marriage, Couples, and Family Therapy from the University of Central Florida and is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. Since 2015, Kathleen has worked closely with couples and families, combining her clinical experience with her growing passion for research and program implementation. She is particularly inspired by the meaningful change and long-term impact that relationship education brings to the individuals and families MFRI serves. Outside of her work, Kathleen enjoys spending time outdoors and exploring nature with her family.

Nataly Larenas is the Project Director for Project Harmony, bringing nearly two decades of experience in program operations, leadership, and community engagement. A proud graduate of UCF’s Rosen College of Hospitality Management with a bachelor’s degree in Event Management, Nataly has proudly served the University of Central Florida for 20 years, with the past 14 years dedicated to the Marriage and Family Research Institute. Nataly thrives in dynamic environments where she can coordinate many moving parts to create meaningful and supportive experiences for program participants and their families. She is passionate about building strong relationships, fostering connections, and ensuring every participant feels welcomed and valued. Nataly is especially committed to the long-term, generational impact of relationship education—believing that strengthening couples and families today creates healthier, more resilient communities for years to come. Outside of work, Nataly enjoys spending quality time with her family, traveling, and exploring new cultures. She is particularly drawn to creative projects and educational activities that inspire curiosity and growth.

Angela Medina Garcia serves as the Assistant Director of Operations at Project Harmony. She previously held roles as Recruitment Lead, Data & Social Media Manager, and Relationship Educator, bringing strong experience in operational strategy, team leadership, and strategic planning. Angela earned her B.A. in Education from the Libertador Experimental Pedagogical University in Venezuela and holds both a Master of Arts in Teaching and a Doctorate in Education. With over 10 years of experience in higher education, she excels in strategic planning, data analysis, and process optimization, while also maintaining a creative edge through video production and social media content development. Angela is passionate about collaborating with colleagues and sharing innovative ideas. Outside of work, she enjoys photography, exploring new music, continuous learning, and spending quality time with her family.

Priscila Ramirez is the Recruitment Lead for Project Harmony, where she leads the team responsible for recruiting participants and supports community engagement, partnership development, and event coordination across Central Florida. She holds a Master of Arts in Counseling and brings experience in mentorship and leadership, along with a strong commitment to relationship wellness. Priscila is skilled in facilitating workshops, guiding group discussions, and presenting relationship and wellness topics in ways that are clear, engaging, and accessible. She enjoys building connections through community events, collaborative outreach, and meaningful partnerships. She is passionate about helping couples and families strengthen communication and grow closer. In her free time, Priscila enjoys baking treats to share with her family and loved ones.

Benoit “Ben” Aubin is a Graduate Research Assistant & Relationship Educator at Project Harmony. He is a doctoral student in the Counselor Education & Supervision program at the University of Central Florida. Ben brings over 15 years of experience as a Navy hospital corpsman and firefighter-paramedic, along with being a mental health counselor intern. His work focuses on first responder mental health, relationships, and trauma. Ben enjoys contributing to research that directly strengthens couples and families and values being part of a team committed to meaningful, community-impactful work. He especially appreciates helping translate research into actionable tools that support real people. Outside of work, Ben enjoys drawing, sculpting, and creating art inspired by comics and storytelling.