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 Mission
At the Center for the Study of Human Trafficking and Modern Slavery, we are committed to deepening the understanding of the escalating global challenge of human trafficking and modern slavery. Our approach encompasses comprehensive community engagement, rigorous research, focused education, specialized training, as well as offering student fellowships and survivor scholarships. Our goal is not just to study this complex issue but to actively seek and implement solutions.
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.
Advancing anti-trafficking efforts through education, research, and community engagement is essential; especially in hospitality, where every trained professional can be a powerful force for prevention and change.”
Polaris Star Awards
The Polaris Star Award Gala is an annual event that brings together individuals, organizations, businesses, and activists who are dedicated to combating human trafficking. This prestigious award ceremony, hosted by United Abolitionists, Inc., and UCF’s Center for the Study of Human Trafficking and Modern Slavery, honors and recognizes the outstanding efforts and initiatives made in the fight against modern-day slavery and exploitation.
19th Annual Human Trafficking Awareness Conference
Join survivors, advocates, technologists, and policymakers as they explore how technology can combat human trafficking and empower systemic change.
Date: January 21, 2027
Location: Darden Auditorium, Orlando, Florida
Time: 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Be part of the movement to rewrite the algorithm for safety, justice, and freedom.
UCF HTMS NEWS
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An Unseen IssueWith support from the National Institute of Justice and the state of Florida, UCF is educating students and using AI to combat human trafficking. -
18 Anti-human Trafficking Champions Honored by UCF Rosen College, United Abolitionists Inc.The Polaris Star Award winners include anti-trafficking advocates and educators as well as survivors who have become leaders in combating human trafficking.
Upcoming Events
Up Next
Join survivors, advocates, technologists, and policymakers for the 19th Annual Human Trafficking Awareness Conference, a full-day event focused on how innovation and technology can strengthen anti-trafficking efforts and support systemic change.
Date: January 21, 2027
Time: 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Location: Darden Auditorium, Orlando, Florida.
Additional details, including the full agenda and registration information, will be shared soon. In the meantime, we invite individuals interested in participating or receiving updates to complete the interest form here.
Rosen College: Darden Auditorium, Room 101
OUR PARTNERS
Give Today
Your support has the power to change lives.
By donating to the UCF Center for the Study of Human Trafficking and Modern Slavery, you help educate future leaders, support survivor empowerment, fuel groundbreaking research, strengthen community engagement, and drive real-world solutions. Every gift moves us closer to a world free from exploitation.
Lived-Experience Expert Speaker Interest Form
We invite survivors and lived-experience experts to participate as speakers in upcoming events and educational programs. Your voice and expertise are essential in shaping meaningful, trauma-informed conversations.
Please fill out this interest form, and our team will contact you when speaking opportunities become available.