Presenting

Vanessa HOUSTON Having taken a circuitous path through the publishing, marketing and nonprofit realms during the course of her career, Vanessa has enthusiastically returned to her true love for writing, editing and all things creative. Her keen eye and subtle sass help fuel FUSE's mission of producing informative, thought-provoking and entertaining publications. While her roots are firmly planted in Charm City, and her heart longs for the din of Manhattan, she has grown to truly appreciate the magic of that Sarasota sunshine. Melissa LEDUC Since graduating from Ringling School of Art and Design in 2004, Melissa has amassed 10 years of graphic design experience working for national and local publications including Women's Running and New Beauty. She has also been the Art Director for photo shoots with a wide range of themes—notably food, fitness, lifestyle and celebrity covers. When she's not exercising her creative muscle, she keeps active as an avid soccer player and runner. But she always makes time for her true love: animal activism, and, of course, cuddling with her rescue kitties (and her hubby). Kristen REIDY Kristen is an avid reader and aspiring writer. Her interests include gender and women's studies, as well as modern and contemporary literature with a focus in poetry. Originally from Ft. Lauderdale, she moved to Tampa four years ago and graduates this summer from USF with a bachelor's degree in biomedical sciences and English literary studies. Haley VICENTE Haley is about to graduate from Florida State University in August with a bachelor's degree in retail merchandising and product development. Born and raised in Tampa, Haley has an appreciation for different cultures through food, art and music. ough her heart is in fashion styling, she also has a passion for customer/client relationships and writing. In her downtime she enjoys watching reality TV with her sister and her Pomeranian, Javier, after they go to their favorite Mexican restaurant. C ontributors Chelsea BELLROSE Talented artist and illustrator Chelsea mixes hand-drawn and digital elements to create an aesthetic that is clean but fun and full of character. Her mediums of choice include watercolor, pen and ink, lithography and screen printing, allowing her superb drafting skills to translate into a variety of styles and outcomes. Her flair and unique sense of humor perfectly complement the FUSE vibe. Ruth NUÑO Ruth is currently a senior at the University of South Florida and is pursuing a bachelor's degree in English. Originally from Nebraska, she moved to the sunny state of Florida in 2011 and resides in Lakeland. In her downtime from school and work, she enjoys playing tennis, traveling and spending time at the beach. Kate RITZ Kate is currently in her last semester at USFSM pursuing her bachelor's degree in professional and technical communication. Born and raised in Sarasota, she plans on staying local and hopefully working in the public relations sector. Subscribe at GravitasMag.com | 9

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