Inspire
Spring/Summer Edition 2013
A publication for alumni and friends
of MJC, MCC, and SCF
state
state college
college of
of florida
florida
Foundation
INSIDE
5 Meet the Mission Dat Vu’09
6 From the Foundation
7 35 Years and Growing!
8 Meet SCF’s Sixth President Dr. Carol Probstfeld
10 Academic Profiles: Emerging Technologies
Remembering Dean “Bill” Tinsley
16 Student Profiles Brian and Mickie Abel
18 Alumni Profiles
Dr. Greg James ‘80
Linda Larsen ‘ 83
Bill Galvano ‘86
Lindsey Lewis ‘10
Nick Goody ‘11
Sean Russell ‘11
30 Inspiring Philanthropy – A Million Dollar Legacy
34 Inspiring Opportunity: Remembering Rita Bullock
36 Photo Gallery: The Many Faces of SCF
38 In Memoriam | On the Bookshelf | Special Thanks
INSPIRING COMMUNITY—WHO WE ARE
In 1978, a dedicated group of concerned community leaders united around a common
goal: To make certain that the first public college of the Manatee and Sarasota region
could meet the daunting challenges of higher education emerging in the 21st century.
Founded as a charitable foundation, our focus is exclusive to raising private funds to
help advance the mission of the region’s largest institution of higher education.
WHAT WE BRING TO THE TABLE
Opportunity—we shape the present and touch the future. Our Foundation has an unmatched history of working with those who share a common passion to help make their
community prosper by enabling others to advance their lives through higher education.
We help impart knowledge and share in discovery by raising funds for new buildings,
laboratories, classroom equipment, endowed faculty chairs and student scholarships.
Annually the Foundation awards more than $1 million in faculty, program and equipment support and more than $1 million in scholarship support to students.
JOIN US
There are many ways to impact the life of this community through higher education. We invite you to consider joining us as we inspire a sense of community spirit
and pride. For more information, contact the Foundation at 941-752-5390 or
941-408-1418 or visit us online at scffoundation.net.
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A publication for alumni and friends of the State College of Florida Foundation, Inc.
state college of florida
Foundation
PUBLISHER State College of Florida Foundation, Inc.
EDITOR Sondra Guffey
CREATIVE DIRECTOR Mary Francis McGavic
PHOTOGRAPHER Janos Balla ‘10
State College of Florida Foundation, Inc.
P.O. Box 1849, Bradenton, FL 34206
941-752-5390 or 941-408-1418
scffoundation.net
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
OFFICERS
Charles Robbins ’67
Mac Nicoll
President
Treasurer
Vernon DeSear
Vice President
Peg Lowery
Secretary
DIRECTORS
Hank Abbott
Charles Hines, Esq.
Gina Adonis
Dorothy Korszen, Esq.
Jodi Allen
Cathy Kuhlman
Ron Allen
Ann Moore
Dr. Nancy Blackstone
Hon. Edward Nicholas
Lisa Bristow ’79
Christina Pfahler
Kelly Caldwell
Dr. Carol Probstfeld
Louise Kennedy Converse
Tana Sandefur
David Dettmann
Jennifer Saslaw
Raul Elizalde
Nelda Thompson
Lillian Elliott
Peter Wozniak
Curtis Hamlin, Esq.
STAFF
Mary Lou Bale
Director of Development
balem@scf.edu
Ron McDonough
Accountant
mcdonor@scf.edu
Brenda Boynton
Executive Assistant II
boyntob@scf.edu
Karen Marra
Manager, Constituent Database
marrak@scf.edu
Peg Lowery
Executive Director
loweryp@scf.edu
Allison Nash
Scholarship Coordinator
nasha@scf.edu
INSPIRING COMMUNITY
“My daddy
never thought
he’d see his
little girl in a
country club,
at a podium
as a featured
speaker...”
MICHELLE AGUILAR ‘13
2012-13 recipient of the Francis E.
and Gaile A. McCracken Scholarship
“I
am the proud daughter of two hard
working migrant workers. I have three
brothers and a sister. Each year my family
of seven migrates from Texas to Florida to
follow the crop season. When we migrated
from South Texas to Central Florida all we
had were the clothes on our back and the
memories left behind.
My parents have spent their lives harvesting shrimp and tomatoes,
but working in the field of education is a lifelong dream of mine,
planting seeds in the minds of young children and helping them
harvest a bright future. This accomplishment will be my venue
for assisting, encouraging, and giving back to my community. I
know that my own path will be determined by my dedication,
leadership skills and hard work.”
See page 28 for a related story.
scffoundation.net
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Thank You!
The Foundation wishes to recognize
and thank the generous sponsors
who helped underwrite the
25th anniversary celebration of
Evening Under The Stars
Title Sponsor
Venice Regional Medical Center
Symphony Sponsor
The Edmund & Elizabeth Campbell Foundation
Silver Platter Sponsor
Jim & Nelda Thompson Family Foundation
Silver Goblet Sponsor
Gulf Coast Community Foundation
Turbine Weld
Venice Gondolier
The Crow’s Nest
Bank of America
Caldwell Trust Company
Jim & Wendy Cox
Crest Cadillac
Bob Deak
Farr Law Firm
Citrix
George & Bev Halloran
Charles & Susan Hines
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Silver Spoon Sponsor
Florida Shores Bank
Silver Dollar Sponsor
Florida Power & Light
Key Agency
Morgan Stanley
Pinkerton Wealth Management
Robinson, Hanks, Young & Roberts,
CPAs
Silver Sand Sponsor
Insignia Bank
Kimley — Horn
Klingbeil & Roberts
Mauldin & Jenkins
A publication for alumni and friends of the State College of Florida Foundation, Inc.
Scene Magazine
Sharky’s on the Pier
Thomas Ranch
John & Barb Robinson
Jennifer & Larry Saslaw
Tropicana
Village on the Isle
Northern Trust
Publix Supermarkets
Charles Robbins
Save The Date: We hope to see you next year — April 12, 2014!
MEET THE MISSION
MEET THE MISSION:
DAT VU ‘09
D
at Vu came to the United States from Vietnam when he was
16. He and his family moved to Bradenton to be near his
Aunt and Uncle, who were their sponsors. With limited English, he
plunged into school work at Southeast High School and prepared
for college. He even dual-enrolled at SCF (which was then MCC)
and began taking courses.
It didn’t take long for Dat to make his mark. Shortly after arriving
on campus, Dat saw the need for an international student group. He
helped re-activate the International Student Organization. “We sponsored the MCC’s Got Talent Show and held the production in the
courtyard. We even sold international food,” he explained. The club,
which is now the Multi-Cultural Club continues to make an impact
on campus.
Dat also jumped into the business club, Phi Beta Lambda (PBL),
which is a division of future business leaders. He earned first place
in the state competition in computer applications and third place in
word processing. From there he went to the national competition.
This formerly shy student found his voice and moved into leadership.
“I have been interested in business since high school,” said Dat. “My
mother worked as a bookkeeper at a hotel in Vietnam, and she used
to talk with me a lot about her job.”
While all was positive with his college experience, the real estate
downturn took its toll and his parents were about to lose the house
they had purchased. His story of hard work and dedication reached
the SCF Foundation which awarded him a scholarship. “I truly appreciate everything that the Foundation has done for me and other
students. Their support and encouragement helped me and other
students attain higher education, which is a ticket to brighter futures.”
finance. He also continued to be involved
in campus life as a senator in student
government and student ambassador.
That wasn’t enough, however. He spearheaded the introduction of the PBL club
at USF. This required finding a faculty
advisor and recruiting student members. “That was my greatest achievement
at USF. It is the first and only academic
competitive club on campus.”
PBL’s first event attracted three students,
by the time Dat graduated, 13 students
and advisors attended the competition.
“It’s good, real-life experience with budgets and deadlines. It’s hard, but I like it,”
he added. “It gave me experience to be
a leader and to be responsible. It taught
me great people skills. It brings our
school’s name out on a national basis.”
In May, 2013, Dat was again named
Outstanding Graduate, this time at USF.
Armed with Bachelor degrees in both
accounting and finance, experience,
confidence and the support that began
at the State College of Florida, he’s ready
for his next challenge: finding a job in
his field.
Dat completed SCF in 2009 as one of the Outstanding Graduates.
With his AA degree in hand, he was ready for the University of South
Florida-Sarasota Manatee, where he studied business, accounting and
scffoundation.net
5
FROM THE FOUNDATION
FROM THE FOUNDATION
T
he year 2013 represents a milestone for the Foundation as we celebrate
our 35th anniversary. Launched twenty-one years after the College’s
founding, the Foundation was created with a simple mission: to raise and
manage private funds to help the College achieve its mission. Over the past
thirty-five years, thanks to the dedication and commitment of many community volunteers coupled with the generosity of numerous alumni and
friends, the Foundation has steadfastly worked to provide the College with
the private funding the College needed to equip new or renovated classrooms and laboratories, expand and/or add new programs, hire faculty and
assist students with needed scholarship support.
This edition of INSPIRE! features some of the College’s emerging technologies—new programs funded in part through the Foundation’s fund raising
efforts. These programs offer our students new opportunities for learning
and for future careers. They offer the community just one more example of
how the College works to prepare a skilled workforce.
President Charles Robbins, ‘67
On the previous page we are proud to share with you the story of Dat
Vu whom we first met in 2009 during a Meet the Mission segment of a
Foundation board meeting where Dat, a student at the College, shared his
“story” of challenge and triumph with members of the Board. Four years later
he has yet another story to share.
On behalf of all present and past members of the Foundation Board,
we’re proud to say that for thirty-five years the Foundation has worked in
partnership with the College and the community to ensure our students
receive the best education possible. Looking forward, we are eager to keep
the momentum going and hope you will join us on this exciting journey of
inspiring opportunity and legacy!
Editor’s note: As this issue of
INSPIRE! goes to press, Peg Lowery,
the Foundation’s Executive Director,
bids farewell to SCF following 12 1/2
years at the helm. During her tenure
the Foundation increased its endowment 333% going from $11 million to
$51 million.
Executive Director Peg Lowery
6
A publication for alumni and friends of the State College of Florida Foundation, Inc.
MILESTONES
1978 - 2013
35 Years and Growing…
YEAR #1: 1978
In 1978 the Foundation was established with the mission
to raise and manage private funds to help advance the
mission of the College.
Year One Total Assets = $474
MILLION DOLLAR MILESTONES
$3.4 MILLION* GIFT from Bon Secours Venice
Hospital Foundation to establish the Venice
Hospital Endowment Fund Endowed Chair
in Nursing and Endowed Faculty/Staff Chair
in Health Professions
$2.5 MILLION* GIFT from the estate of Granger and
Genevieve Husted to establish the Genevieve
and Granger Husted Scholarship Fund
$1.6 MILLION* GIFT from the estate of Raymond
D. and Janet L. Cheydleur establishing
the Raymond D. and Janet L. Cheydleur
Scholarship Endowment Fund
$1.5 MILLION RAISED to equip Medical Technology
and Simulation Center
YEAR #10: 1988 MILESTONES
Endowment = $507,273
Value Added:
» $184,864 allocated for instructional equipment for labs,
Neel Auditorium lighting, campus beautification,
Venice campus greenhouse
» $39,801 awarded for 123 student scholarships
First annual fund raising campaign initiated
$1.1 MILLION RAISED for the Summer Bridge
Program, a first generation in College
“get-ready for college program”
$1MILLION* RAISED to launch SCF’s baccalaureate
degree programs
$1 MILLION* GIFT from the estate of Francis and
Gaile McCracken to add to the Francis E. and
Gaile A. McCracken Scholarship
* before state matching dollars
YEAR #20: 1998 MILESTONES
Endowment = $8,871,073
Value Added:
» $217,649 allocated for classroom and lab equipment
» $206,894 for student scholarships
YEAR #30: 2008 MILESTONES
Endowment = $38,506,080
Value Added:
» $1,845,694 allocated for classroom and lab equipment
» $1,736,432 for student scholarships
YEAR #35: 2013 MILESTONES
Endowment = $51,376,466
Value Added:
» $1,655,402 allocated for classroom and lab equipment,
endowed faculty chairs and program support
» $1,321,137 awarded for student scholarships
35 YEARS OF COMMUNITY
LEADERSHIP AND PARTNERSHIP
Foundation Board Presidents
2012-present: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Charles Robbins ‘67
2008-2012:. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . John Schaub ‘68
2006-2008:. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Clint Monts de Oca
2004-2006:. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Steve Prouty
2001-2004: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Steve Harner
1999-2001 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dale Hoffner
1997-1999 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tommy Taylor
1996-1997 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Thomas Seguin
1995-1996 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Charles Hackney ‘74
1994-1995 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Redenta Picazio
1993-1994 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Betty Rogers
1991-1993 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Letitia Mercier
1990-1991 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Carl Walls
1988-1990 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Gregory Porges
1982-1988 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hal Chasey
scffoundation.net
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INSPIRING OPPORTUNITY
MEET SCF’S SIXTH PRESIDENT
I
n January, 2013, Dr. Carol Probstfeld
became the sixth president of the State
College of Florida. She previously served as
SCF’s vice president of business and administrative services, overseeing the College’s
$50 million annual operating budget where
she was responsible for a division of the
College that included: human resources,
technology, facilities, finance, business services and student financial aid operations.
An ardent supporter of SCF’s mission
and role, President Probstfeld tells us,
our alumni and our donors and we want to earn that every day. We will
be good stewards of their time, treasures and resources.”
True to the mission, the focus is always on the students. “People come here
for different reasons. In fact, almost 20 percent of the students are Bright
Futures. At SCF you can get a college degree without a heavy debt burden.”
Her vision is to create a seamless opportunity for students to stay in
the Manatee/Sarasota area after graduation. SCF has already signed
articulation agreements with the University of South Florida and
Ringling College so that SCF students can transition directly to those
institutions. Dr. Probstfeld recently signed the Artists-to-Teacher
program. This provides an opportunity for SCF students who complete an Associate in Arts degree with an
emphasis in fine arts to seamlessly transition to the USF Sarasota- Manatee College
of Education and pursue a bachelor’s degree
in elementary education to become a certified public school teacher in Manatee and
Sarasota counties.
“I have never worked
anywhere else where the
people are so committed
to the mission.”
“I have never worked anywhere else
where the people are so committed
to the mission,” she remarked. “I am
amazed at the number of people on our
campus who serve in the community.”
Friends and alumni of State College of
Florida can be proud. “We have two out
of the 50 Coca Cola scholars nationwide.
Our Model UN Team won first place in the
southeast region for their position paper.”
Three out of the 30 students in Florida
chosen for the All Academic Team are from
SCF. The awards and accolades continue.
“We have incredible traditions that
we want to honor and perpetuate,” Dr.
Probstfeld remarked. “We have the trust of
8
First and foremost, SCF maintains its commitment to education. “Our students are
successful because our professors teach,”
stated Dr. Probstfeld. They are here because
they want to teach, and I want to make sure
those opportunities continue.” She also
wants the biggest challenge students face to be in the classroom, not
getting to class, registering, buying books, etc. She is committed to all
that makes it possible for students to excel.
The College is an institution that offers a place to explore. “We provide the place to see what the opportunities are and to explore. We
even allow a few mis-steps along the way.” SCF has become the college for traditional and non-traditional students alike. All who want
to stretch, explore and grow.
“The exciting thing is 60 years ago people said, ‘we need a college
here in the middle of nowhere.’ Then 30 years ago they saw the need
in Venice and 12 years ago, they went to a vacant field in Lakewood
Ranch and said, ‘let’s go out here.’ We look at where the opportunities are going next.”
The opportunities for State College of Florida promise great futures
for students, for faculty and for the community.
A publication for alumni and friends of the State College of Florida Foundation, Inc.
INSPIRING OPPORTUNITY
scffoundation.net
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ACADEMIC PROFILE
Engineering Technology students with Professor Gould-Choquette balancing and preparing a drive motor in one of the emerging technologies
labs on the SCF Venice campus.
EMERGING TECHNOLOGIES
O
ne of the mandates of the State
College of Florida is to create
degree programs that meet the needs
of the community. Biotechnology,
Construction Management Technology,
Energy Technology Management and
Engineering Technology are four of the
newest emerging technology degree programs being offered by the College. All
are two-year degree programs with the
10
exception of Energy Technology Management which is a Bachelor of
Applied Science degree.
Under the leadership of Adrienne Gould-Choquette, the Construction
Management Technology, Energy Technology Management and
Engineering Technology programs are opening doors for students in
the desirable technology fields. Advisory committees composed of local
employers have already stepped forward, demonstrating an interest in
internships and the future workforce. These kinds of strategic relationships
pay off now and in the future for the students and for our community.
A publication for alumni and friends of the State College of Florida Foundation, Inc.
ACADEMIC PROFILE
“I think it’s exciting and cutting edge. I believe in the program and
the students in the program,” said Gould-Choquette who began her
academic career at SCF (it was then Manatee Community College). “I
support their passion. They inspire me. We can really stand out for this.
If employers see that we are building a work force with this talent, hopefully we will be a hub for this technology.”
After college, Gould-Choquette worked as an engineer at both Lucent
Technologies and Bell Laboratories, where she was awarded two patents.
She returned to SCF in 2009 as a member of the faculty and serves as
Program Director in the Engineering Technology and Construction
Management Technology programs. She was later named Program
Director of the Bachelor of Applied Science Energy Technology
Management program.
On the SCF campus, courses include energy, sustainability, fundamentals
of electronics, programmable logic controllers and cutting edge
Computer-Assisted Design (CAD) software.
“We want to grow this program and develop
it as an incubator for the area,” noted
Gould-Choquette. There are also plans to
incorporate elements on campus as a sort
of living classroom. This includes the chiller
plant on the Lakewood Ranch campus and
the solar panels on the Venice campus.
The future is promising for students
who complete the program. “Many are
interested in being entrepreneurs. I think
that’s great. In this economy, they are
going to be the job-creators,” said GouldChoquette. “Not only is it a career path,
it’s something to practice at home. It’s a
life-long skill.”
scffoundation.net
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Andrew Sink’12 pictured with Professor Adrienne
Gould-Choquette at the SCF Venice solar field.
BIOTECHNOLOGY
Andrew Sink ‘12
One of the stand-out students in Engineering Technology is Andrew
Sink, who graduated from Sarasota High School. He, like many students,
decided on his major and career path after a bit of exploring. He even
took a couple of years off from school to work as a musician. From there,
he found his love of electronics.
“I decided to go to SCF for their Engineering Technology degree
where I met Adrienne Gould-Choquette. She is an outstanding program
director. She is personally involved with all of the students, and does an
excellent job developing the curriculum,” stated Sink. He credits her for
guiding him through the program.
In May 2012, Sink was one of only eight students enrolled in the
associate degree program in engineering technology in the Florida
College System to be selected to study alternative and renewable energy
and participate in project based learning in San Sebastian, Spain. GouldChoquette also traveled to Spain and served as a faculty mentor for the
program and was instrumental in developing the curriculum with a team
of educators and professionals from Florida and Spain.
Sink participated in hands-on training in solar photovoltaic, solar thermal, biomass and geothermal, hydraulic energy and automation at the
partner school, which produces electricity through alternative and renewable energy sources including a photovoltaic array and wind turbines.
He will be graduating with an A.A.S. in Engineering Technology and has
already received three certificates from SCF, in Electronics, Alternative
Energy, and one for Engineering Technology Support Specialist.
Sink attributes his success to his education at SCF and GouldChoquette who assisted him in finding a job as a test laboratory technician for a local precision manufacturer.
“She was instrumental in guiding me through this program, helping
me find a job and opening the door for an opportunity to spend the most
exciting summer of my life in Spain. Her dedication to her students and
State College of Florida is second-to-none, and it shows in every aspect
of her programs,” Sink said.
Sink is continuing toward SCF’s Bachelor of Applied Science in
Energy Technology Management.
12
A publication for alumni and friends of the State College of Florida Foundation, Inc.
U
nder the leadership of Jane
Pfeilsticker, Chair of the Natural
Sciences department, biotechnology
has also emerged as a technology that
comes under the Emerging Technologies
umbrella. Several years ago the state
reported that six out of seven biotech
jobs go out-of-state. “That shocked
me, and I decided that our students
need to get these jobs,” said Pfeilsticker.
“It’s a great program and really fits the
rising demands of companies moving
to this area.”
Much of the course work takes place in
the labs, where the students write their
own lab procedures, which have to
be at industry standards. “We strive
to get the students confident in their
abilities, especially their ability to follow directions,” said biology professor
Dr. Matthew Thomas, who is a former
lab director at a local biotech company.
“Our students are gaining access to
some materials and techniques that I
didn’t see until grad school.”
“When I was hired, I bought equipment that the students will encounter
in industry,” explained Thomas. “This
opportunity would not exist without
the SCF Foundation by the way. They
gave us the funds to buy the equipment
to get this program off the ground.”
“We have a good relationship with our
corporate partners. They gave us feedback about skills they do not see in the
workplace. One area of weakness was
the writing of procedures, that’s why
ACADEMIC PROFILE
SCF Biotech student Adrienne Steele examining a
cell sample using a fluorescent microscope donated
by Urology Medical Practice.
we require they write the procedures,” added Pfeilsticker. “I feel
confident sending our students out there. Many Ph.D.s don’t have
this experience.”
With the number of companies moving into southwest Florida, the
demand is high. SCF’s biotechnology program now has ten corporate
partners, and they are begging for interns. “We sent two interns out
and they got full-time job offers. One took the job. She will finish
the course, but at a slower pace. She’s a single mom, so this is a real
benefit for her.”
Many of the program’s graduates will continue to study health sciences or begin careers in the lab. With starting salaries as high as
$50,000 per year, biotech laboratory jobs are very attractive.
scffoundation.net
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ACADEMIC PROFILE
EMERGING TECHNOLOGIES A LA 1959
W
hen Burnett R. “Bill” Tinsley, Jr. came to Manatee Junior College
(now SCF) there was no technology department. In 1959 Tinsley
was instrumental in establishing what was then called the Occupational
and Technical Education Programs. Under his guidance these programs
grew to include 34 Associate of Science Degree programs. “I look at him
as a real pioneer and a program builder,” said Dr. Mike Mears, Provost
SCF Bradenton Campus and Vice President of Baccalaureate Programs.
“He built programs that evolved with the times and the demands of the
local workplace.”
Dean Burnette R. Tinsley, Jr.
Beyond being a visionary in academics, he was a leader for the faculty.
“He was dedicated to our programs. He really stood up for the professors
and fought for us,” said retired Professor Bob Donavan. At that time, the
department offered several classes related to construction and the needs
of the community. “As a department chair, he took care of classes. He was
the champion of occupational education. He fought hard for our programs
and the funding. He would come to our meetings and start spouting the
numbers and figures. He had an uncanny ability to do that.”
Dean Tinsley often went to Tallahassee to secure funding and grants for
the programs. He would also go to the local businesses to help get students placed in jobs. When Siemens announced it would open a plant
in Bradenton, he travelled to Germany to the home center to learn their
processes so that he could create training programs to meet their needs. He
“I look at Dean Tinsley as a real
pioneer and a program builder. He
built programs that evolved with the
times and the demands of the local
workplace.”
—Dr. Mike Mears
14
A publication for alumni and friends of the State College of Florida Foundation, Inc.
ACADEMIC PROFILE
was responsible for obtaining hundreds of
thousands of dollars in State and Federal
vocational grant funds for the College.
(Top) Circa 1968 pictured from left are Professor Tinsley with father and
son electronics students Steve and Lt (Ret.) Orin Windoffer. (Bottom) Dean
Tinsley, center
Tinsley, who served as an Air Force Flying
Tiger in WWII, interrupted his own
advanced education when he was called
back to train fighter pilots in Korea. He
was dedicated to teaching and helping the
students advance through their own education. At that time, many of the students
worked full-time and went to school parttime, and he was aware many needed extra
academic help to get through. He wanted to
help each student succeed and even helped
with job placement.
“My father truly valued education and
felt that many people could be adequately
trained with an Associate’s Degree,” reflected
his daughter Tamara Tinsley Fassinger,
who is now the chief recruitment officer
for Vanderbilt’s Owen Graduate School
of Management. “He believed that education opens doors, but the individual needs
wisdom and experience to
be successful.”
He was also one who brought laughter
to everyone around him. “There was an
on-going contest between Bill Tinsley and
Professor Arley Links to see who could tell
the worst joke and get the most groans,”
recalls Donavan.
“Dad liked to open his classes with a corny
joke,” remembered his daughter Jeanette
Marcus. “My father was people-smart. He
knew how to get the right people in the
right positions. He also taught the human
relations class that was required for all
engineering students. He believed in always
treating people right.”
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15
STUDENT PROFILE
T
he Phi Beta Lambda (PBL) Business Club is one of the many
clubs available for State College of Florida students. PBL is
designed for students who want hands-on business experience,
academic challenges and real-life opportunities. Last summer SCF
students attended and competed in the national leadership conference in San Antonio with impressive results: two students came
home with top awards. Brian Abel placed first in macroeconomics and Michael Mol placed third in Management Analysis and
Decision Making.
HUSBAND AND WIFE STUDENT TEAM EXCEL
THROUGH BUSINESS HONOR SOCIETY
“There were over 1800 students competing at the conference, and
they represented schools such as University of Miami, Brown,
Georgia Tech, USF, West Point, Temple University and many others,”
explained Brian Abel. “This shows that SCF provides the education
and the support that allows any really motivated student to compete
directly with some very big universities and win.”
Accounting professor Dr. Louis Okonkwo is the Advisor for PBL
SCF-Venice. “The students take pride in this. They work very hard,”
he said. “It helps students acquire leadership abilities that they won’t
get in the classroom. They learn to run and manage a campaign and
a business. They participate in job interviews, and they learn how to
speak in public.”
Brian’s wife, Mickie Abel, is active at the state level where she has
previously served as District IV Vice President and now as PBL
State Secretary . “I joined seven years ago when I was a part-time
student working my way through SCF. Dr. Okonkwo invited me¸
saying that PBL would help me.” She joined and almost immediately after became president. “The club helped me believe in
myself. I learned team building. The SCF Foundation helps us, and
we’re glad to be involved helping them with events such as Evening
Under the Stars.”
Mickie credits the workshops she attends with helping prepare her
for the job she recently secured. “I was able to talk confidently with
them in the interview.”
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STUDENT PROFILE
Brian joined PBL when Mickie was the club president, and he joined
in order to help boost the club’s membership numbers. “After volunteering for a few community projects and participating in my
first competition, I was hooked. It also felt good to do things to help
the community,” said Brian. “Something all students should learn is
that help isn’t always about money. Students can give their time, and
that’s something of value.”
In order to compete at the national level, students must place in the
top three in the state. Brian earned third place in Florida. “I was
not happy about being number three in the state, so I studied hard,
borrowed advanced textbooks from my professors, asked them a
lot of questions, and they helped get me up to speed.” It paid off
with his first place finish nationwide. “It was almost unreal standing there on stage listening to all the others around me getting
their awards, and then there was no one left on stage but me. What
an amazing feeling!”
“The PBL club helps put SCF on the map,” noted Okonkwo. The
judges at the state competition are also impressive. He remembers
the Chairman of the Tampa Tribune, former governor Bob Martinez,
the chair of a bank and other people of influence. “It’s very rewarding to see a student who is naturally shy get up and do impromptu
speaking.” It also benefits the students because they get to interact
with potential employers.
“One thing I gained from the experience is confidence. I learned that
leadership isn’t just about standing out in front, nor is it standing up
on a stage… it is about challenging others to follow,” said Brian.
Editor’s Note: As this issue of Inspire! was going to press, Brian and
Mickie were prepping for this year’s national competition which s being
held in Anaheim, California.
“One thing I gained from the experience
is confidence. I learned that leadership
isn’t just about standing out in front, nor
is it standing up on a stage… it is about
challenging others to follow,” said Brian.
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ALUMNI PROFILE
DR. GREG JAMES ‘80
F
ollowing his graduation from what was then Manatee Junior
College (MJC) in 1980, Dr. James went on to USF in Tampa
and then Nova Southeastern University/College of Osteopathic
Medicine where he not only earned his Doctor of Osteopathic
Medicine but also his Masters in Public Health.
“My experience at MJC was a great transition time from high school
student to college student. It was a challenging time,” he said. “I have
seen where people have gone from the College and think it is a great
starting point.”
After completing his residency in St. Petersburg, he set up a private
practice in family medicine that led to a specialty in nursing home
medicine. “I was looking for the underserved; I felt like this was a
needed area.” He quickly became busy and went on to close his private practice to focus on the needs of those in nursing homes. “I was
like an old fashioned doctor making house calls.”
Recently, he became Medical Director of the Evercare/Optum
Division of United Health Group in Florida, with oversight of those
in long term care.
This year, Gregory James, DO, MPH was elected President of the
Florida Osteopathic Medical Association. His medical skills, organizational abilities and even his theatre background are coming
together as he takes leadership of the prestigious group that represents Florida’s hundreds of Osteopathic Physicians.
“I was looking for the underserved; I
felt like this was a needed area… I was
like an old fashioned doctor making
house calls.”
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ALUMNI PROFILE
Student Greg James
performing on stage
“We’re the voice that speaks for them as far as their practice
rights, and legislative issues. We watch out for the Osteopathic
Physicians,” said Dr. James.
His father, John James (see Faculty Hall of Fame) retired as
the head of the Theatre Department and Dr. James had parts
in some of the College productions. “I stayed an extra year to
work and do some shows. I still love theatre. My wife and I try to
see shows whenever we can. I have great appreciation for shows,
because I know how hard they are to produce.”
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ALUMNI PROFILE
LINDA LARSEN ’83
L
ife-changing moments usually come at the unplanned and
unexpected times. For Linda Larsen ’83 it happened when she
was 21 years old and held as a hostage at gunpoint by an escaped
convict. “I was at a fragile point in my own life, contemplating
suicide, then, when faced with life or death at his hands, I realized
I wanted to live.” She calls that a giant “wake up call” for her life.
From there, she began a journey to create a new and impactful life.
It’s a journey, however. For Linda, it began five years later when she
enrolled in Manatee Junior College (now SCF) and attended her first
class—The Fundamentals of Speech! Because of work and family
responsibilities, she could take just one class at a time. And eight
years later, she’d earned her AA.
“The College offered a level or excellence in education that was
available locally at my own schedule,” she commented. “I remember theatre with John James. He was amazing and one of the best
mentors and teachers I’ve ever had in my life. He really gave me the
confidence to go for it and become a professional actor.”
“It all goes back to
The Fundamentals of
Speech class and the
path I embarked on at MJC...
I think part of the reason I am where I
am is that I had great training.”
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ALUMNI PROFILE
Linda Larsen brings theatrics to her speaking sessions.
(www.LindaLarsen.com)
From there, she attended USF and her last year there dual enrolled
in the Florida State University Master’s program with the Asolo
Conservatory. She graduated in 1988. “I quickly saw that in order
to make it as a professional actor, it would require some sacrifices I
wasn’t willing to make at that time.” She found a way to parlay the
acting into a new career. “With the help of a few people, I developed
a one-day course for trial lawyers.” It was approved by the Florida
Bar for continuing education. She even taught for about a week a
semester at Stetson University College of Law.
That opened doors to speaking to larger groups and an opportunity
with an international training company. “It’s about bringing your
authentic self to the game. Plant your feet and tell the truth,” Larsen
said. She taught in 120 cities around the world. “I think because of
my training in the Asolo and MJC theatre, I understand the entertainment value of speaking.”
Larsen, who has lived in Sarasota since 1961, has also published a
book and an audio series. Today, she leads staff development and
training sessions and recently earned the distinguished Certified
Speaking Professional (CSP) designation. This indicates someone
who has extensive experience as an income-earning professional
speaker. “It all goes back to The Fundamentals of Speech class and
the path I embarked on at MJC... I think part of the reason I am
where I am is that I had great training.”
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ALUMNI PROFILE
BILL GALVANO ‘86
F
lorida State Senator Bill Galvano credits his experience at
SCF (then MCC) with helping to launch his legal and political careers. While he was attending MCC, he worked at the
Grimes Goebel law firm in downtown Bradenton as an errand
boy and janitor. Today, his name is also on the door at that
firm, as partner.
“I’d go to MCC until noon, come here and work and then do
homework, then came back to clean at night.” He was focused
on his goal. “By attending MCC, I was able to build a career
while I was getting an education. I left knowing I would come
back here.”
Sen. Galvano chaired Youth for Reagan while he was an MCC
student. He organized marketing campaigns around campus. In
2002 he won his bid for the Florida House, where he remained
until term limited in 2010. In 2012, he was elected to the
Florida Senate. “I have a tradition that on my election days, I go
to SCF and eat lunch in the cafeteria. It takes me out of the fray
and frenzy.”
The senator has great memories of his MCC experience. “I appreciate MCC and the smaller classrooms as well as the one-on-ones
“Beyond a learning institution, it’s a
community college with a reason and
a mission. I am equally, if not more
proud of, my degree from there as
I am from the University of Florida
and the University of Miami.”
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and great relationships with my professors,” he said. “The atmosphere was
more like a graduate school. The students are there because they want to be
there.” He tells prospective students, “ If your goal is to become educated,
you need to do so in the most efficient manner. I’ve been to two major universities; I didn’t find that MCC lacked any opportunities.”
Prior to being elected to the Florida
Senate in 2012, Senator Galvano served
in the Florida House of Representatives
(2002-2010) where he chaired the Rules
and Calendar Council.
Professor Herb Frith’s philosophy classes, Professors Donnasue Farrell’s
English Lit and Carl Keeler’s Biology classes rank among some of his
favorite faculty and classes. He graduated in 1986 with an Associate of Arts
degree and then headed to the University of Florida. “I was prepared to be
there and was able to get right into my college.” Following his UF graduation, he went to the University of Miami for law school. He then became
an intern in the State Attorney’s Office in Miami and as a clerk in a Miami
Beach criminal defense firm.
True to his roots, he did return to Bradenton and to Grimes Goebel, which
is today Grimes Goebel Grimes Hawkins Gladfelter & Galvano, P.L. He
concentrates his practice in civil trial, commercial litigation, government
relations and eminent domain.
In the Florida Legislature, Sen. Galvano chairs the Appropriations
Subcommittee on Education.” A lot of what I’ll do is examine how we’re
spending education dollars. Much of my experience at SCF will be valuable
to me there.”
He’s certainly true to his SCF roots. “Beyond a learning institution, it’s a
community college with a reason and a mission. I am equally, if not more
proud of, my degree from there as I am from the University of Florida and
the University of Miami.”
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ALUMNI PROFILE
LINDSAY LEWIS ‘10
L
indsay Lewis says she loves to argue a point. So it’s almost
a natural that she’s choosing a career in politics. She says
that since her first government class at SCF, she knew she was
hooked on political science.
“I didn’t feel like I was really prepared for a university, and SCF
was the perfect stepping stone for me,” Lewis tells us. This May
she graduated from the University of South Florida in Tampa.
“If I had gone straight to a university, I would have floundered.
I am doing much better because of my SCF experience.”
While at SCF she played French horn and trumpet in the
orchestra and jazz band.
She enjoyed music classes with Professor Robyn Wilkes and
learned a great deal. She also got her first taste of politics when
she represented the music department on student government.
After graduating with an AA degree from SCF, she went to USF
in Tampa where she was an Advisor on Governmental Affairs
for the USF Student Government. “People were surprised that
I hadn’t been there for the full four years. They asked how I got
the job in student government when I hadn’t been there very
long. The key is, I dove in and started volunteering and took the
lowest job and worked my way up.”
“NBC’s Brian Williams showed up
the day of the debate. I picked him up
at his hotel. He was nice, asked about
me, my family and where I was from.”
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ALUMNI PROFILE
One of her responsibilities was to organize political events and
town hall style meetings. She also worked with CNN and NBC
during political events. The highest profile event was hosting one
of the first Republican Presidential debates in January 2012 on the
USF campus. She was on the University planning team. They organized a Debate Watch party for 1,000 people in a tent outside the
theatre. She had to oversee the tent event after she helped get the
theatre set up for the fortunate few who had reservations.
Lindsay Lewis revisits the halls of the
music building where she spent many an
hour as an SCF student. Here she poses in
front of a Joseph Loccisano drawing where
she is featured on the French Horn.
Lewis also volunteered with NBC and was assigned a plumb position—accompanying Anchor Brian Williams. “NBC’s Brian Williams
showed up the day of the debate. I picked him up at his hotel. He was
nice, asked about me, my family and where I was from.” Williams
was so impressed he wanted to work with her during the Republican
Convention, but her class schedule didn’t allow it.
She feels her activities and academic work at SCF well prepared her
for university life. “Take advantage of the State College experience
and save some money while you’re there. As a university senior I
had no college loans!”
Not a lot of people can leave college saying they’ve worked for
NBC and CNN and met so many politicians and planned events.
Lindsay, like so many SCF graduates, is already ahead of the crowd.
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ALUMNI PROFILE
NICK GOODY ‘11
N
ick Goody chose the State College of Florida after he
graduated from high school in Orlando. “I like how at
SCF the professors work with you and know you by name.
They get to know you,” he reflected. “I really enjoyed going
to class, and school wasn’t a burden.” He appreciated the
support of the academic advisors and the professors who
took personal interest in him. The size of the campus made
it even more attractive.
But it was baseball that attracted Goody to SCF. “Our coaches
were really good people. They looked out for us,” he said. “I
really respect them. They showed a lot of faith in me.” Coach
Tim Hill saw his potential and helped him find his dream.
“That was a huge positive.”
“I like how
at SCF the
professors work
with you and
know you by
name. They get
to know you.”
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While he was at SCF, the team won the state tournament
and went on to the National Junior College World Series in
Grand Junction, Colorado. He was the Suncoast Conference
Pitcher of the Year in 2011. “It was an awesome experience,
and I loved traveling with them.” His college life was full with
friendships and activities beyond baseball. He enjoyed his
apartment life and the time he’d go fishing with friends.
After graduating with his AA degree from SCF in 2011,
Goody went on to LSU where he played baseball and graduated with a degree in Sports Administration. In June, 2012
Goody was a sixth round draft pick for the New York Yankees.
He’s a pitcher with the Tampa Yankees.
“Nick stays in touch with us and is helping us recruit by telling everyone he can how SCF was one of the best decisions
he made,” said Coach Hill II. “He has told us he would have
played baseball all four years at SCF if he could!”
A publication for alumni and friends of the State College of Florida Foundation, Inc.
Mark Lomoglio/Yankees Photographer
ALUMNI PROFILE
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ALUMNI
PROFILE
INSPIRING
OPPORTUNITY
SEAN RUSSELL ’11
C
aring about the environment is a ‘natural’ for Sean Russell.
It started with 4H projects in elementary school and
continued through environmental projects while he was home
schooled. In high school Sean got involved in the marine science programs at Mote Marine. There, he participated in the
ocean conservation programs which led to his working with
the world’s longest running dolphin study.
“It was easy
for people
of all ages to
be involved
and make a
difference.”
“One of the scientists in the program had seen an increased
number of deaths and injuries of dolphins because of interactions with humans.” The culprits in so many cases were the
fishing lines. “I was familiar with the issue, but through the
program I got to see first- hand the impact.” It’s an issue that
affects the marine environment including the birds.
The state of Florida now gives anglers places to dispose of
fishing line. Volunteers pick them up and take them to plastic
recycling. “The only problem with the program is that people
aren’t always fishing where they can access those recycling
bins,” explained Sean. “One of the research scientists I was
working with was aware of the problem, and she also played
tennis a lot. She noticed that a lot of people didn’t recycle their
tennis ball containers. They were the right size.” It was a great
opportunity to re-purpose an item. Thus, the Stow It—Don’t
Throw It Project was born.
They turned tennis ball containers into fishing line recycling
bins. “We also have stickers to go on them and informational
flyers to hand out. It was easy for people of all ages to be
involved and make a difference.”
Sean helped SCF and Mote Marine Laboratory present the
Youth Ocean Summit. “It ties together my work with young
people and my work in conservation programs. I could work
with youth and educate the public.”
Sean is now a student at UF, who credits his experience at SCF
with preparing him to study biology at the university level.
For more information, visit www.stowitdontthrowitproject.org
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ALUMNI
PROFILE
INSPIRING
OPPORTUNITY
An excerpt from The Inside
Track: College Departments
by Jessica Klipa
For SCF Associate Professor Dr. Matthew Keirle,
his reward for teaching is his students’ accomplishments. Last fall, he participated in SCF Alum Sean
Russell’s successful Youth Ocean Conservation
Summit hosted by Mote Marine Laboratory.
About 160 middle and high school students
attended the summit for the opportunity to learn
more from marine scientists and conservationists
about the current threats facing marine ecosystems. Guests from local conservation organizations
gave presentations on their efforts to conserve the
environment, helped students identify issues in their
hometowns and assisted them in developing an
action plan with solutions and a timeline to complete
their goals.
As organizer of the event, Russell inspired students to lead community beach cleanups, start school
recycling programs, work with conversation groups
on restoration projects and participate in community
advocacy in their hometowns.
He is project director of the Stow It—Don’t Throw
It Project, which was founded in September 2008 to
inspire youth to become involved in ocean conservation
by making and distributing personal-sized fishing line
recycling bins to anglers and boaters and educating the
public about sustainable fishing practices.
View the video of the summit http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_detailpage&v=-vUZuSlLeO4
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INSPIRING PHILANTHROPY
FRANCIS E. AND GAILE A. MCCRACKEN
LEAVE A MILLION DOLLAR GIFT!
F
rancis “Mac” and Gaile McCracken were life-long educators
who were committed to their community and to the future
of education. Having grown up in the Depression era, they never
lost their frugal lifestyle and believed in living within their means
and saving for the future. Retired CPA James Hammer was a
neighbor, friend and ultimately the trustee of their Trust.
“When Gaile became gravely ill in 2005, she told Mac she
wanted me to take care of their financials. I thought to myself,
‘what money?’ They were still wearing clothes from the 50s and
60s and never turned on their AC,” Jim remembers.
As it turned out the McCrackens had inherited some funds
that they invested, added to and re-invested. They never had
children of their own, but they did have a deep concern for the
future of the country—especially the future of education.
Following his service in WWII, Mac earned a Bachelor of
Science in Agriculture and a Master of Science in Education
from Purdue University. Gaile graduated from Ball State
Teachers College and Syracuse University.
Following Gaile’s death, Mr. Hammer organized the financials.
He told Mac, “Rather than waiting until you pass away, you have
an opportunity to see where that money is going while you’re
alive.” So Mac established the Francis E. and Gaile A. McCracken
Scholarship at the State College of Florida Foundation, an
endowed scholarship designed for education majors living in
Manatee County. “I showed him that the income alone from the
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INSPIRING PHILANTHROPY
“The future for Florida
teachers is better today
because of the planning,
saving and generosity of
one dedicated couple.”
investments exceeded by two times what he may need for a nursing
home. Still, even with that money, Mac was reluctant to spend.
“Many times I’d go to Mac and say, ‘why don’t we get you a better
car than that old junker you’re driving?’ He’d say, ‘Oh no, we have
to save that money for the scholarships.’ He wasn’t interested in
anything for himself. In fact, when I was going over to his house, I
had to call ahead and make him turn on the air conditioning!”
Mac had the joy of seeing the scholarships go to work for education
majors at SCF. “When the thank you letters would come from the
students who received the scholarships, he felt good about that.”
While the McCrackens didn’t have a personal connection to
SCF, they did recognize the value of the College and its impact.
When Mac died in 2012, the McCracken estate left a $1 million
bequest which was added to the existing scholarship. Mac was also
one of the benefactors helping SCF launch the Early Childhood
Education bachelor’s degree. The future for Florida teachers is
better today because of the planning, saving and generosity of one
dedicated couple.
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INSPIRING PHILANTHROPY
Benefactor Tana Sandefur went back to the classroom witnessing firsthand the
impact of her gift where she learned the latest in classroom technology. Students
in SCF’s Summer Bridge Program pose with Mrs. Sandefur holding the iPads she
generously made available for the program.
Joe Vona shares some words of wisdom from the podium following the ribbon cutting ceremony unveiling
the Joseph P. Vona Rotunda in the Korcheck Student
Services Center at SCF Bradenton.
Scholarship recipients of the John Captain Scholarship meeting with benefactors
Jim and Michele Captain at the Longboat Key Club.
Eager to share their Austin Film Festival experience, SCF
film students invited Charlie Huisking (whose Huisking
Fund made their trip possible) to campus. Pictured
here from left are: SCF film student Kaylea Schule,
SCF Film Professor Del Jacobs, Charlie Huisking and
Amanda Dimase, president of the SCF Film Club.
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Project Get $MART, a financial literacy grant funded through the Florida College
System Foundation featured Tracking the Credit Crisis: A Timeline from the Museum
of American Finance. Pictured at the exhibit are Dr. Amy Santos, department chair,
Business and Technology; Phi Beta Lambda Business Honor Society President Mickie
Abel, and Clinton Day, a faculty member with the Entrepreneurship Program.
A publication for alumni and friends of the State College of Florida Foundation, Inc.
INSPIRING PHILANTHROPY
The 2012-13 Employee Campaign exceeded
all past campaigns raising $85,000 for priority
needs of the College. Pictured left to right are
the campaign’s chairs including: Paul and Mary
Cultrera (Retiree co-chairs); Danny Fuerstman
(Bradenton Campus chair); Stephanie Cook
(Venice Campus chair) and Keri Hockett
(Lakewood Ranch Campus chair).
SCF music and theatre students were treated to a
masterclass with renowned actor, dancer and singer
Ben Vereen. This opportunity was made possible
through the Dr. Sarah H. Pappas Commitment to
Excellence Fund. Pictured from left are: Faculty
members Rex Willis, Melodie Dickerson from the music
department; Mr. Vereen; Ken Erickson and Craig Smith
of the theatre department, and Kelly Burnette, dance.
Benefactors Annette and Tom Dignam recently surprised a class by stopping in
one of the rooms they helped equip, The Dignam Family of Englewood Classroom
on the SCF Venice classroom. In honor of his wife, Tom Dignam has made a gift
naming the first named room in the faculty building, The Annette Dignam Faculty
Conference Room. Look for the ribbon cutting ceremony later this summer.
Rae Dowling, Area Manager, External Affairs for Florida Power and Light
presented a check to SCF President Dr. Carol Probstfeld and SCF Foundation President Charles Robbins ’67 supporting the College’s Bachelor of
Applied Science degree in Energy Technology and Management.
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INSPIRING OPPORTUNITY
REMEMBERING ONE OF OUR OWN:
RITA H. BULLOCK, PROFESSOR EMERITA
JUNE 21, 1916 TO AUGUST 22, 2012
R
ita Bullock loved music and loved teaching music. Her students remember how she used her enthusiasm and dedication
to inspire them for a lifetime. “She was outgoing and highly intelligent and well-read. She was a committed educator,” remembers
Chad Ellett, Ph.D, a 1965 Manatee Junior College graduate. He
also appreciates her “engaging sense of humor.”
Professor Bullock was known as a leader on campus who stood
for what she thought was best for the students and faculty. “She
was one who would really support and pursue, like a tigress. She
wouldn’t take ‘no’ for an answer,” adds Ellett. She was instrumental in developing Neel Auditorium and raising the funds for the
magnificent pipe organ. “Rita was well respected by her colleagues
and was known as a leader who didn’t run away from challenges,”
he notes. Among many other accomplishments, she was one of the
first women members of the Downtown Bradenton Rotary Club.
Rita took music seriously and expected the best from her students.
“She loved to teach, but insisted music had to be done right,” said Dot
Garland who had been her student in the 1960s. She was fearless and
dedicated. “When you have teachers like that, how can you not learn?”
After graduating from MJC, Garland was able to test out of many music
classes at Florida State. FSU later waived the tests for MJC graduates
because they were so well prepared and advanced. “That was because of
Rita,” says Garland. “She was like a mom to me. We all loved Rita.”
“She was a fabulous choral instructor, but she herself couldn’t sing,”
reflects Mary Alice Swope a former student who also became a
music teacher. Nothing got in her way. “She knew what was right
and what it took to get there. She saw what we could be and trusted
us. I remember as her student assistant she let me write a speech
for her,” said Swope. “I also answered letters on her behalf.”
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INSPIRING PHILANTHROPY
In addition to being an inspiring professor, Rita was a loyal friend
to so many. “She had a party at her house so that I could meet a
man named Bill Garland. I was already dating someone and wasn’t
at all interested. But Rita had her way,” Dot Garland shared. They
were married within a few years.
Rita Bullock was a past member of the
State College of Florida Foundation
Board of Directors.
After retiring from MJC, Rita engaged in a successful twenty year
career in local real estate. For the past six years she spent her time
in Oregon enjoying time with family. At the age of 96, our friend,
teacher and inspiration left this world leaving behind an admirable
legacy in teaching, music, and community service.
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THE MANY FACES OF SCF
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THE MANY FACES OF SCF
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IN MEMORIAM | ON THE BOOKSHELF | SPECIAL THANKS
IN MEMORIAM
ON THE BOOKSHELF
Alumni
Ken Erickson ’72 and Erin Erickson Saladino ‘00
Stephanie A. Greenlaw ’75 . . . . . . . . . . . .April 17, 2012
Jacqueline M. Gill Fezatte ’77 . . . . . . . . March 15, 2012
Donna L. Chen ’80 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . February 28, 2012
Vincent J. Hamilton ’84 . . . . . . . . . . . December 8, 2011
Randy R. Fredrickson ’85. . . . . . . . . . . . January 5, 2012
Kathleen E. Walsh ’87 . . . . . . . . . . . . December 7, 2011
O
nce upon a time, a long, long
time ago…. So begins The Story
of Juanito Citruseed, a heartwarming
children’s adventure about discovering
some of the extraordinary contributions
that make up Florida. SCF alumni father
and daughter, Ken Erickson and Erin
Erickson Saladino, team up as author and
illustrator, respectively, for this delightful
journey through the beauty, wonder and
history of the Sunshine State.
Faculty
Felix F. Rizk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . December 3, 2011
Staff
Linda S. Blend . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . February 21, 2012
Andrew W. Bogol . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . July 10, 2012
Retired Faculty and Staff
V. Ward Bennett . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . December 25, 2011
Ronald W. Breitfelder . . . . . . . . . . . December 17, 2012
Marius A. Brouwer . . . . . . . . . . . . . .November 27, 2011
Rita H. Bullock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .August 29, 2012
Louis H. Fisler . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . March 1, 2013
Dorothy M. Grotenfent . . . . . . . . . . . December 1, 2012
William S. Hekking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 25, 2012
Yvette Robison . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . September 23, 2012
Friends
Mable Bowen. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . October 6, 2012
Grace Cooper . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2012
Robert Glassman . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2012
Robert S. Gomola. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2012
Beth Hook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 22, 2012
Beth Hook, past member of
the State College of Florida
Foundation Board of Directors
Andrew M. Jackson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . December 9, 2011
Margaret E. Mason . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .June 12, 2012
Sen. Edgar H. Price . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . December 1, 2012
Charles T. Riall . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2012
Phyllis Turner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . January 8, 2013
John E. Woodward . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . January 7, 2013
Jack Zuckner. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2012
38
Apparently it’s all in the family, at least creatively speaking. The Story
of Juanito Citruseed is based on the original stage play of the same
name by Ken Erickson and his daughter Page Erickson ’03. The screen
play was written for the Very Special Arts Festival of Manatee County,
Florida in 1989.
Author Ken Erickson is Program Manager and Assistant Professor
of SCF’s Theatre department. The book’s illustrator, Erin Erickson
Saladino is an elementary school art teacher in Plant City, FL.
The book is available at violynenterprises.com
SPECIAL THANKS
S
pecial thanks for the many years of service to SCF and the
Foundation. The following directors “retired” this past year
from the Board of Directors of the State College of Florida
Foundation, Inc.:
Annette Dignam
A publication for alumni and friends of the State College of Florida Foundation, Inc.
Jim Eicken
Charlie Hackney ’74
John Schaub ’68
INSPIRE OPPORTUNITY…INSPIRE LEGACY
We invite YOU to join hundreds of other alumni and friends who have included the State College of Florida Foundation
in their estate plans. It’s the ultimate expression of support; the most personal gift you will ever make. It costs nothing now
to make, yet the future impact you make will enrich our College, our students, our faculty and YOU.
Impact the future with a legacy gift by naming the Foundation as one of your beneficiaries through your:
Will
Retirement Plan
Life Insurance
Trust
Some of the College’s most meaningful support has come
from alumni, staff, and local friends who have had the
foresight to name the Foundation as a beneficiary in their
estate plans. These loyal supporters have provided support
where it is most needed including endowed faculty positions or equipment and program support.
For more information on giving to the State College of Florida Foundation, contact the
Foundation at 941-742-5390 or 941-408-1418 or visit us online at scffoundation.net.
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State College of Florida Foundation, Inc.
P.O. Box 1849
Bradenton, FL 34206
A publication for alumni and friends of MJC, MCC and SCF
FACULTY HALL OF FAME JOHN JAMES,
PROFESSOR EMERITUS
J
ohn James came to the State College
of Florida (at that time it was MJC)
in 1967 as an instructor in the theatre
department. A 1959 graduate of Cal State
in Los Angeles he had originally thought
of acting, “But an agent told me my voice
was too nasal and I wasn’t very photogenic.” So he turned to scenic design and
went on to teach at Western Illinois.
A promotion to the rank of professor in
1982 expanded his teaching assignment to
include speech and theater. His experience
and passion for theatre were the perfect
ingredients for leading the expansion of
the department. Broadening his base he
also went to Southern California to attend
graduate school in film. “Steven Spielberg
was there. He was just a scruffy looking
kid then.” Upon his return to the College,
he created Florida’s first film program in a
community college. “That program subsequently really took off under Del Jacobs.”
Named Chair of the theatre department
in 1983, Professor James remained in that
position until retiring in 1998. He directed
highly acclaimed productions that often
included faculty actors. One show stands
out for him: Man of La Mancha, in which
Professor Herb Frith had the lead. “It was
the best amateur musical performed in
this area,” reflected James. The show also
had a full orchestra. “Herb came into the
first rehearsal with all his songs and lines
down. That really put the pressure on the
students to do well.”
Among his many accomplishments,
Professor James developed the sophomore
trip to New York City. Students who had
participated in eight productions at the College received scholarship funds
to assist with the trip’s expenses. There, they attended theatre productions,
had back stage tours and listened to lectures. It was a highlight for many.
A father of four, Professor James encouraged all of his children to
attend the College. “It worked well for them.” Keeping it “all in the
family” his wife, Joyce, is a graduate, too. The couple married shortly
after high school and started a family, so college didn’t fit into her
plans at that time. Joyce went back to school later and was there at
the same time as their son Jeff. “Both were honors graduates and sat
next to each other in Honors Ceremony.” Today, their daughter is a
high school administrator, one son is a minister, one is an engineer,
one a physician (see story on Dr. Greg James).
Professor James sees great value in a State College of Florida education. “It’s the access and the smaller classes and the long-term,
talented faculty. When I got here I noticed immediately that so many
of the students had gone to universities and didn’t do well. This was
their recovery. Here, the professors take an interest in them.”
Since retiring, he has come back to direct two plays. Today, he enjoys playing golf, gardening and traveling the world with Joyce. Without a doubt,
John James has left a legacy on the theatre department and the College.
Who knows, the next Spielberg may be in the seats of SCF today.