Tobacco Cessation program

Georgia Nichols, BS, TTS serves as the Health Educator for the UF Area Health Education Center. She received her Bachelor’s degree in Public Health from Florida State University. Growing up in a rural area, she has seen firsthand the importance of helping underserved populations. As a facilitator, she wants her clients to feel empowered as they make the important decision to take control of their health. She knows that, most often, the hardest things to accomplish in life are the things most worth doing. When working days are over, she enjoys spending time on her family’s farm with her four siblings and nephews. She also finds joy in gardening with her eleven-year-old Yorkie named Ruby Lee. A couple of her favorite flowers to plant are Zinnias and Pansies.

Lauren Cox, MPH, CPH, CHES®, CTTS enjoys her role as Health Educator for the opportunities it has given her to interact with tobacco cessation clients from the enrollment process through follow-up. She relishes the opportunity to assist clients with creating their tobacco Quit Plan. She graduated from the University of Florida magna cum laude with a Bachelor’s in Psychology and minors in Health Disparities in Society and Disabilities in Society. She graduated in 2024 with a Master of Public Health from the University of Florida. She is an avid reader and has two beloved cats named Luna and Phoebe. 

Gillian Eagle, RN, TTS was born in Yorkshire, UK. She received her Registered Nurse training at Sheffield University. She then went on to become a certified midwife at Nottingham University. She has many years of nursing experience in both Little Rock, Arkansas, and Florida. Gillian has been a Tobacco Treatment Specialist for several years. Gillian is also a devoted soccer fan! 

Vicki Piazza, BBA, TTS serves as the Area Health Education Centers’ (AHEC) Assistant Director of Education and Training Programs. She received her Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Georgia State University. Vicki is enthusiastic about helping tobacco users create a Tobacco Quit Plan while learning how to cope with nicotine withdrawal symptoms and managing triggers. Vicki is passionate about helping others with their health and wellness goals. She enjoys spending time outdoors with her family and friends.

Alice Maffei, MS, CTTS, CHES is a dedicated professional with over two years of experience as a Certified Tobacco Treatment Specialist. She has a passion for helping individuals overcome tobacco addiction. Alice graduated from the University of Florida with a Master’s in Health Education and Behavior. Her academic journey reflects her commitment to advancing her expertise in critical areas such as tobacco and substance abuse, health behavior, and women’s health. Beyond her professional pursuits, Alice enjoys camping and practicing acro-yoga.