But beyond the magic, the world of Harry Potter offers lessons that extend past the classroom. From Gryffindor’s courage to Ravenclaw’s curiosity, each of the four Hogwarts houses represents qualities that can help students make the most of their college experience.
So, where would Flagler’s faculty and staff land if the Sorting Hat came to St. Augustine? We asked members of the Flagler community to reveal their Hogwarts houses and share a little wisdom students can take with them, no magic wand required.
Gryffindor: The Brave and the Bold
Known for their courage, bravery, and determination, Gryffindors aren't afraid to stand up for what they believe in or take a chance when an opportunity arises.
In college, Gryffindor bravery can mean tackling a challenging course, asking questions when you don't understand something, or taking on an assignment that pushes you beyond what you already know. Having the courage to embrace academic challenges can help students build confidence in their abilities and grow as learners.
Notable Gryffindors at Hogwarts: Harry Potter (Boy Wizard and Series Protagonist), Albus Dumbledore (Hogwarts Headmaster), Sirius Black (The Prisoner of Azkaban and only Black family member not sorted to Slytherin)
Notable Gryffindors at Flagler: Dr. Justin Forbes (Assistant Professor of Religion), Dr. Jonathan Growick (Director of the Frank D. Upchurch Sr. Law Program), Lewis the Lion (Flagler’s Beloved Lion Mascot), Diana Lodi (Graphic Design Program Coordinator)
Slytherin: Ambition and Resourcefulness
Known for their ambition, determination, and resourcefulness, Slytherins are natural leaders who know how to identify opportunities and work toward their goals.
In college, these qualities can translate into taking initiative and making strategic decisions about your future. Whether pursuing an internship, leading a student organization, or planning your next career move, a little Slytherin ambition can help you turn your goals into reality.
Slytherin can have a somewhat negative reputation as it produced many dark wizards, most notably the infamous Tom Riddle who later became Lord Voldemort.
Notable Slytherins at Hogwarts: Severus Snape (The Half Blood Prince and Professor of Potions/Defense against the Dark Arts), Draco Malfoy (Harry Potter’s main rival), and Bellatrix Lestrange (Dark Witch, cousin and murderer of Sirius Black)
Notable Slytherins at Flagler: David Rivera (Director of Hospitality and Tourism Management Program), Beth Sweeny (Director of External & Government Relations and Mayor of St. Augustine Beach), Sam Palmer (Director of Brand Experience), Mary Tinlin (Dean of Health & Wellness), Jennifer Rinnert (Director of Admissions)
Hufflepuff: Hard Work and Community
Known for their loyalty, patience, honesty, and dedication, Hufflepuffs believe in treating others with kindness and giving everyone a fair chance.
Their inclusive nature and strong sense of community make these qualities especially valuable in college, where building relationships and supporting others can shape the student experience. Whether lending a hand to a classmate, getting involved in a student organization, or making someone feel welcome, Hufflepuffs remind us that a strong college community starts with how we treat one another.
Notable Hufflepuffs at Hogwarts: Cedric Diggory (Quiddich Team Captain and Triwizard Tournament Co-Champion played by Robert Pattinson in the films), Newt and Theseus Scamander (From the Fantastic Beasts series), Pomona Sprout (Head Herbology Professor at Hogwarts)
Notable Hufflepuffs at Flagler: Laurel Plexico (Athletics Communications Coordinator), Philadelphia Zimmermann (Director of Admissions Experience), Lauren DeFalco (Employer Partnership Strategist), Becky Short (Director of Donor Stewardship and Campaign Communications)
Ravenclaw: Curiosity and Creativity
Known for their wit, wisdom, and creativity, Ravenclaws value learning and aren't afraid to think outside the box.
In college, these qualities extend beyond academic achievement to exploring new perspectives, questioning assumptions, and finding innovative solutions to problems. Whether conducting research, developing a creative project, or exploring an unfamiliar subject, Ravenclaws remind us that some of the best discoveries begin with a curious mind.
Notable Ravenclaws at Hogwarts: Luna Lovegood (Beloved character who was a close friend of Harry in the movies and later became a Magizoologist), Garrick Olivander (The best wandmaker in the world and proprietor of Olivanders in Diagon Alley), Myrtle Warren (Well-known after her death as Moaning Myrtle the ghost who was killed by Tom Riddle, also known as Lord Voldemort)
Notable Ravenclaws at Flagler: John Delaney (President), Logan Gullage (Assistant Director of Student Engagement), Annlynn Harvey (Director of Residence Life), Melissa Hyman (Chief Information Officer), Jessica Howell (Assistant Dean for Global Education and International Partnerships), Carrie Grant (Chair of Department of Mathematics and Technology), Andrea McCook (Theatre Arts Professor)
Bonus: Our Very Own Professor Moody
Not everyone is willing to let the Sorting Hat decide their fate. CORE Professor Dr. David Moody, much like his Harry Potter namesake, has opted to keep his Hogwarts house a mystery.
In the Harry Potter series, Alastor “Mad-Eye” Moody’s house is never explicitly revealed, leaving fans to speculate about where the legendary Auror (wizarding law enforcement) might have landed. One popular fan theory suggests that Moody deliberately kept his house a secret to protect his fellow housemates from the many enemies he made during his career as a dark wizard catcher.
Could our very own Professor Moody have similar reasons for keeping his house under wraps? Is he protecting his fellow Saints from a yet-to-be-discovered wizarding rivalry? Or is he simply determined to defy the Sorting Hat? We may never know. For now, his house remains classified information.
