Leslie Pendleton, Ph.D
Executive Director University Initiatives – University of Florida Advancement
Dr. Leslie Pendleton is the Founding Director of the Machen Florida Opportunity Scholars Program at the University of Florida and a national advocate for first-generation student success. She currently serves as Executive Director of University Initiatives at UF Advancement, leading fundraising for key priorities including the Machen Scholars, Parent and Family Philanthropy, Veterans’ Success, and scholarships.
Since joining UF in 2006, she has also led the Disability Resource Center and New Student and Family Programs. She serves on the Advocacy Group for the Center for First-Generation Student Success, a NASPA and Suder Foundation initiative.
Originally from Indiana, Leslie holds degrees from the College of Wooster, Miami University, and a PhD in Higher Education Administration from UF. A former collegiate swimmer, she now swims with a masters team in Gainesville and is a proud parent of two daughters.