UNVEILING INSIGHTS, INSPIRING ACTION
At UCF’s Center for the Study of Human Trafficking and Modern Slavery, we are dedicated to addressing the urgent, global issues of human trafficking and modern slavery. Through comprehensive research, active community partnerships, and targeted education initiatives, we create impactful strategies to protect vulnerable populations. Our commitment extends beyond awareness, as we engage in interdisciplinary projects, publish significant findings, and host educational events that empower leaders and advocates. With a growing network of partners and numerous initiatives underway, we strive to make a tangible difference in combating exploitation and supporting survivors.
6,000+
Students Educated
14+
Global Initiatives
30+
Presentations Delivered
2
Research Publications
8
Events Hosted
5
Partners
ABOUT US
OUR VISION
We aspire to be the foremost platform for collating and distributing knowledge, research, and fostering community partnerships to effectively counteract human trafficking and modern slavery on a global scale. Our vision extends beyond academic research; it seeks to influence policy, inspire action, and ignite change.
OUR GUIDING PRINCIPLES
- Tackling all forms of human trafficking with a holistic approach.
- Prioritizing the dignity and rights of every individual.
- Collaborating with survivors as key partners.
- Working together with various sectors for a unified response.
- Focusing on tangible outcomes and real-world impact.
- Utilizing research and data to guide our actions.
HOW IT STARTED
In 2019, the Rosen Professional Internships Team organized a Human Trafficking workshop at the Rosen College of Hospitality Management, facilitated by United Abolitionists, Inc. The workshop was attended by 200 students, and afterward, 30 of them reported having witnessed human trafficking in their workplace. In response, Rosen College introduced human trafficking training to educate future leaders in the hospitality and tourism industry.
Since then, we have expanded our efforts in combating human trafficking by forming strong partnerships with organizations such as United Abolitionists, Inc. and It’s a Penalty. Additionally, we have hosted numerous workshops, including the student-led Human Trafficking Leadership Workshop in October 2023.
The Center for the Study of Human Trafficking and Modern Slavery, also known for “HTMS” at the University of Central Florida, was established in 2018. The Center was previously supported by UCF Global Perspectives and International Initiatives (GPII). As of the Fall 2023 semester, the Center has been transitioned to the Rosen College of Hospitality Management and is led by the Executive Director, Dr. Jessica Wickey Byrd. Leading the research arm of the HTMS Center is Dr. Arthur Huang.
Our People
Meet the dedicated leadership team and advisory board members of the HTMS Center. Our professionals bring together expertise from diverse sectors to advance our mission in fighting human trafficking. Learn more about the leaders guiding our impactful work.
Global Initiatives
The HTMS Center’s Global Initiatives tackle human trafficking and modern slavery through international partnerships and outreach projects. From educational efforts to research-driven solutions, our initiatives work toward a safer, exploitation-free world.
Research
Our research addresses critical areas such as victim support, trafficking prevention, and policy development. Through publications, presentations, and collaborative studies, we contribute essential insights that inform and shape real-world anti-trafficking strategies.
Annual Reports
Gain insights into the HTMS Center’s annual progress and achievements in the fight against human trafficking. Our reports offer an overview of initiatives, outcomes, and ongoing goals to support vulnerable populations and advance our mission.
Student Organization
Join the Knights of the RELM, our student organization dedicated to combating human trafficking and modern slavery. Through education, events, and community involvement, members advocate for change and empower others to make a difference.
Gallery
Explore moments from our events, initiatives, and community outreach in our gallery. See our team in action, making an impact on a local and global scale in the fight against human trafficking.
Our Upcoming Events
September 16, 2024; 5PM – 6PM EDT
Guest Service Anti-Trafficking Workshop
FREE WORKSHOP for Guest Services Team Members, Supervisors, Managers, and Directors to identify and report trafficking in the lodging industry. Experts presenters will include an educator, an advocate, and a survivor of human trafficking. The workshop will train team members to be able to identify possible trafficking during the check-in and check-out process in the lodging industry. Resources will be provided for attendees to be able to identify and report trafficking.
Location: Rosen College of Hospitality Management
OUR PARTNERS
Please consider supporting the UCF HTMS Center by purchasing a copy of the comprehensive human trafficking textbook “Human Trafficking: A Systemwide Public Safety and Community Approach”. All proceeds go to support the HTMS Center and its anti-trafficking efforts. Save 15% with code HESTUDENT at checkout. To find the book, click here.
For more information, you can contact us at HTMSCenter@ucf.edu.