Inspire
Fall / Winter Edition 2010
A publication for alumni and friends of the State College of Florida Foundation, Inc.
From the College President
Each semester I have the opportunity to interact
with the college family in a variety of settings. At
Pizza with the President meetings I talk with, and
listen to, students. I hold “listening” sessions with
individual academic departments to be engaged
with faculty at the departmental level. At State of
the College events everyone college-wide is invited.
These sessions are direct ways for me not only to
tell about what we are doing as a college but also
to have candid conversations, exchange ideas, and
discuss where we’re headed. While these internal
discussions are fundamental, it is also essential that
I take opportunities to engage our community in
similar ways. And I am very appreciative of the role
our Foundation plays in helping keep the lines of
communication open.
SCF continues to be a dynamic institution, despite
very challenging economic times. This semester
we celebrated the grand opening of the Medical
Dr. Lars Hafner
Technology and Simulation Center at our Lakewood Ranch
campus. This Center provides state-of-the-art education for
the health care industry. As part of this facility we built our
first sustainable energy chiller plant that will reap operational
savings while also serving as a learning laboratory for students
in our Energy Technology Management bachelor’s program.
Planning is underway for a new “library of the future” on the
Bradenton Campus, a multi-use learning commons facility
that will include a Teachers’ Institute for Digital Learning,
and many other student-centered educational spaces. And on
our Venice campus we are planning for a Fit-Trail along the
lake as part of our education and wellness initiatives. We are
expanding our eCampus capability for our students with an
eye beyond regional access to global connections. One of the
most exciting and innovative changes was the opening of our
SCF Collegiate School on the Bradenton Campus with 132
sixth and seventh graders, 62% of whom are first generation.
Upon graduation from 12th grade each student will also have
completed the Associate in Arts degree – all at no cost to
the family. A partnership agreement with Florida Gulf Coast
University will provide these same students with a scholarship
to FGCU taking them through their baccalaureate degree.
Within this growth, SCF continues to be the quality
“community” college it has been for 52 years. Our new five
year strategic plan focuses on continued student success, on
community partnerships and responsiveness, and articulates a
vision to be globally recognized for our innovative and dynamic
academic and career pathways. Indeed, with the addition of the
collegiate school we have created a new educational model that
serves students from middle school to the baccalaureate degree.
But our mission to provide access and opportunity to all students
for a quality education and our responsiveness to meet our
region’s educational and workforce needs has not and will not
change. This commitment to our students and our community is
who we are, and the support of our community is essential for us
to continue our legacy of excellence and our future of innovation.
It is exciting times at SCF! We listen and we follow through. I
invite you to visit and see what your dynamic institution is doing.
Lars A. Hafner, Ph.D.
President, State College of Florida
2
A publication for alumni and friends of the State College of Florida Foundation, Inc.
state college of florida
Foundation
EDITOR Sondra Guffey
Table of Contents
Page 2
From the College President
Page 4
Meeting the Mission
Page 5
Meet Our Boards
Pages 6-11
Alumni Profiles
Pages 12-15
Campus Currents
Pages 16-18
Inspiring Philanthropy
Page 19
Philanthropy: The Next Generation
Page 20
Annual Scholarship Luncheon
Page 21
Save the Date
Pages 22-26
Classnotes
Inspiring Community
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.
What We Do
The State College of Florida Foundation creates life-changing
opportunities for our students and our community through the private
funds we raise to equip and build classrooms, endow faculty chairs,
energize faculty development, and provide student scholarships.
Thanks to the support and generosity of individuals, organizations,
corporations and foundations, the Foundation's assets today have
grown to more than $43 million, annually awarding $1.5 million in
scholarship support to students and $1.7 million in faculty, program
and equipment support.
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.
CREATIVE DIRECTOR Sarah Schweiger
PHOTOGRAPHERS Janos Balla '10
& Lori Sax
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
John W. Schaub III '68
President
Vernon DeSear
Peg Lowery
Vice President
Secretary
Mac Nicoll
Clint Monts de Oca
Treasurer
Past President
DIRECTORS
Hank Abbott
Regina Adonis
Jodi Allen
Lisa Bristow '79
Kelly Caldwell
Pamela Carroll
Mary Ann Conroy
Max Corzilius
Annette Dignam
Jim Eicken
Charlie Hackney '74
Dr. Lars Hafner
Cathy Kuhlman
John Neal
Hon. Edward Nicholas
Dr. Jeffrey Orenstein
Christina Pfahler
Steve Prouty
Wes Roberts
Charles Robbins '67
Bill Robey
Tana Sandefur
Nelda Thompson
STAFF
Peg Lowery
Executive Director
loweryp@scf.edu
Roland Emerton
Director of Development
SCF Bradenton
emertor@scf.edu
Ann Roggero
Director of Development
SCF Venice
roggera@scf.edu
Lori Dann
Staff Assistant
dannl@scf.edu
Tina Jones
Accounting Specialist
jonest@scf.edu
Debbie Kelly
Scholarship
Coordinator
kellyd@scf.edu
Ron McDonough
Accountant
mcdonor@scf.edu
Karen Marra
Manager, Constituent Database
marrak@scf.edu
scffoundation.net
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Tears of Sorrow and Joy............................................. Meeting the Mission
Each meeting of the Foundation starts with an update
related to the Foundation’s mission which, very simply
put, is to raise and manage private funds to advance the
College. At a recent meeting the Board met a student
success story. A student, who later confided that she had
never made a public presentation to such a large group
before, nervously approached the podium, looked at the
Board and began to read from a prepared presentation.
John Schaub
Chairman
SCF Foundation
Peg Lowery
Executive Director
SCF Foundation
4
As this student told her story, the Board literally wept.
She talked about living in a car with her mother, about
her mother’s tragic death when she was just 16 years old,
her move to live with a biological father she had never
before met, to at age 18, being ushered into adulthood
the day she graduated from high school as her father told
her she was on her own.
What transpired in the next few years is inspirational.
She met a young man at a restaurant and together for
the next two years they waited tables until one day
her friend decided there was more to life, and college
was the solution. Together they gradually immersed
themselves assuming leadership roles in student
organizations and realizing they weren’t failures. The
day our student speaker received a letter from the
Foundation advising her she had been selected to
receive a scholarship marked a milestone in her road
to self-confidence. She carried that letter with her for a
month showing it to anyone who would listen. She said
it was the first time she had ever been recognized for
anything. This young woman graduated from SCF this
past year with honors and is now enrolled at a private
university with a goal of becoming an attorney.
The story reveals what makes SCF such a community
asset. An educational culture that nurtures its students
combined with private financial support truly does save
and change lives.
A publication for alumni and friends of the State College of Florida Foundation, Inc.
Meet Our Boards
“As an employer, I like to offer
our employees opportunities to
further their education. We've
had a number of employees who
have taken advantage of what SCF
offers,” Mr. Allen explained.
A
Ron Allen
Board of Trustees
s President of NDC
Construction, Ron Allen,
knows bricks and mortar.
But this noted leader is quick to point
out that it's the many contributions
of our College that make our
community strong and vital.
His grasp of issues and dedication to
the community caught the attention
of both Governors Bush and Crist,
who, between them, appointed
him three times to the District
Board of Trustees of State College
of Florida Manatee-Sarasota.
Mr. Allen, who came to Manatee
County in 1984 to work with NDC,
has been involved as a volunteer and
leader in the community ever since.
In fall 2010 he took the lead as
SCF's Chairman of the Board.
His vision for the College is to
continue developing both the two
and four-year degrees that are so
important to the community and
our workforce. A current priority
includes education for those
seeking degrees in health care.
His goals for the board include
continuing to ensure that SCF
is viewed as a regional College.
“We need to develop a collegiate
atmosphere here.” He believes that
athletics, the arts and superior
academics all contribute to creating
a cohesive college community.
“SCF has the ability to offer services
and training to our constituents—
the members of our community.
We excel at helping train them
for new jobs and reacting to the
needs of the community,” the
Chairman of the Board added.
“I think for every dollar given
to the SCF Foundation, it
returns about tenfold to the
community,” reflected Mr. Allen.
state college of florida
J
Foundation
udge Edward Nicholas is not only
a Manatee County native, he is
also one of the few people who
essentially grew up on the campus of
State College of Florida. His stepfather was Dr. Samuel Neel, founding
president of the College. Dr. Neel's
house was on the campus, between
the current baseball and softball fields.
He remembers that his mother and
step-father honeymooned in Grand
Junction, Colorado so that they
could attend the National Junior
College Baseball Championships.
“My step-father was an avid fan
of the College baseball team!”
Judge Edward Nicholas
Foundation Board
So it's natural that Judge Nicholas is
involved with the College. He now
serves on the SCF Foundation Board
of Directors. “I have a strong history
with the college, and have seen what
a vital role it plays in our community.
I wanted to do what I could to see
that it continues to flourish and serve
area residents,” said Judge Nicholas.
As a board member, he focuses his
leadership on guiding and advising
in areas such as public records,
Sunshine law and maintaining
fiscal responsibility. He also works
to keep the board focused on
opportunities such as the Collegiate
School and the new Medical
Technology and Simulation Center.
According to Judge Nicholas, “I
think in these challenging economic
times, the College can provide less
costly educational opportunities
for area residents and students. In
turn, we provide a well-educated
employee in employment
areas that are in demand.”
scffoundation.net
5
Alumni Profile
The southwest Florida coast
is known for sun, sand and surf,
not so much for ice skating. But
that's changing thanks to some top
performers who hail from our region.
Amanda Evora '06 and her partner,
Mark Ladwig, represented the United
States at the 2010 Winter Olympics.
Amanda graduated from State College of Florida
in 2006 with an A.A. in Business Administration.
6
A publication for alumni and friends of the State College of Florida Foundation, Inc.
Skating since age six, she moved to Manatee County in
2000 to join the skating program in Ellenton to advance
her career. She's now been pairs skating for eight years.
“What was great about the College was that it was flexible
for my schedule. I could take classes at night or day,”
she remembered. “It was nice to be at a small campus;
I enjoyed a better one-on-one with the instructors.”
She also enjoyed getting to know people outside the
rink. That was possible
in the intimacy of the
smaller campus.
“It was nice to be at a small campus; I enjoyed
a better one-on-one with the instructors.”
When it comes to her
skating career, she and
Mark take one year at
a time. They are competing internationally in China
and Russia. There, they will probably be up against a
few of the same pairs from the Olympics. They may
go to the World Figure Skating Championships in
2011 in Nagano, Japan. This is the same caliber of
competition as the Olympics, but held annually.
“Since we've had so many wonderful opportunities,
we like to give back,” explained Amanda. They are
involved in children's charities and fundraisers
and like to participate in community events.
“I am a full-time skater. But I have a few part-time jobs,” said the active SCF graduate. She works in
the accounting department of the ice rink and also teaches and coaches skaters. “I plan to graduate
with a Bachelor's and hope to find a unique way to combine my skating and business degree. I
would like to run a skating school.” Or, if she is not involved in skating she may consider being a
judge in the sport. The options are many and the outlook promising for this student athlete.
“I have encouraged a lot people to go to SCF. I visited the campus twice this year, and even took some friends
there to show them.” In any capacity, Amanda Evora is a proud graduate and friend of State College of Florida.
scffoundation.net
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Alumni Profile
It was the right dose of
education and encouragement
that launched Dr. Matthew
Johnson's successful
career in health care.
He started at the College in
the fall of 1995 while he was
finishing his duties in the
Army, was married and had a
baby boy on the way. He took
a few night classes. “Since I
was a kid, my mom pushed me
toward the field of medicine. But I
pushed back and went into the Army!
Looking back, I know my mom knew
best,” he remembered. Still, when
he started at the College,
he wasn't enrolled in health
care courses. Rather, it was
philosophy that caught his
attention. And the personal
and accessible attitudes of College
faculty put him on the right path.
“I met one of the most influential
people in my life who was a
philosophy professor. When I had a
philosophy class with Dr. Nesieski,
suddenly I knew I was home,” said
Dr. Johnson. “He was a phenomenal
teacher. He played a pivotal role
not only in my academic career, but
also teaching me to think critically
and problem solve. He helped
me learn to think for myself.”
What prepared him best for the next
phase of life? He doesn't hesitate to
say it was the thorough instruction
from professors who were dedicated
8
Two words come up repeatedly
when talking with Matthew
Johnson '98, D.O.M. about
his College experience:
“personal” and “accessible.”
to teaching. “The teachers
I dealt with were very
talented teachers who cared.
The formula for success is
the quality of the classroom,
coupled with the tight knit
environment of the College
community and the
accessibility of the faculty
and staff,” he emphasized.
“The college gave me confidence.”
“I got a job on campus at the
library. Earl Mihali was on staff
there, and he was like a big brother
and mentor. He had a way to be a
grounding force. It was a family.”
Dr. Johnson also has great memories
of Dr. Wade Collier who was so
personable and encouraged him to
come by and talk. “I teach Anatomy
& Physiology medically, it's not
typical academic instruction,” he
warned.” This is your education
and I'm going to teach you!”
“You really learned from this
professor. I ended up taking it
twice,” Dr. Johnson remembered.
Dr. Johnson has fond memories of
A publication for alumni and friends of the State College of Florida Foundation, Inc.
his experience on campus with the
Student Government Association
where he served as chief justice.
He also got involved with the
Spring Fling and really immersed
himself in student life. “The college
gave me confidence,” he said.
Since finishing at SCF, he spent
eight years in other colleges and
universities. “It was a lot of school,
but I wasn't afraid of any of it.
By the time I left SCF, I had a
confidence that I had the ability
to succeed in my education,
and I knew I could do it.”
Dr. Johnson went on to earn his
baccalaureate in philosophy and
religion from Florida State University,
followed by a Bachelor's in Nursing
degree from FSU. Following some
graduate studies in religion and
positions in various hospitals, he
enrolled in the Florida College of
Integrative Medicine in Orlando. He
completed the four-year program in
three years. He is now Matthew
Johnson, D.O.M., and Acupuncture
Physician and is practicing
at Whole Family Healthcare
in Winter Park, Florida.
“I really do credit SCF for giving me
the first step,” stated Dr. Johnson.
Dallas Roberts '90 was a little late for the opening of his last
performance at the State College of Florida.
He was rushing over the Sunshine Skyway Bridge from the Tampa
airport, but really, he had a good excuse. His plane was late coming
back from his audition
for The Juilliard School.
So the performance of
“The Night Thoreau
Spent in Jail” was a bit
delayed. They were
waiting for Thoreau,
so to speak. Dallas was
accepted at Juilliard,
and his acting career
was on its way. Yet he's
quick to point out that
his theatre education
began at the State
ABOVE: 2009 Sundance Film Festival: 'Shrink' Premiere (L-R)
College of Florida.
Actor Dallas Roberts, actress Saffron Burrows, screenwriter
“The College was the
Thomas Moffett, actor Kevin
Spacey, director Jonas Pate,
first time that anyone
actresses Keke Palmer and Pell
suggested to me that
James with actors Mark Webber
“The training and the
you can do more than and Jack Huston attend the
experience I got in those two
ABOVE: Actor Dallas Roberts
"Shrink" premiere during the
attends a special screening of the
memorize the lines
2009 Sundance Film Festival at
short years was phenomenal.”
film "3:10 To Yuma" in New York City.
the Eccles Theater on January
and get up there. It's
21, 2009 in Park City, Utah
a craft, and you can
and pulling the lever. You don't expect
BELOW: Actor Dallas Roberts performing at State College of Florida.
choose what you do
it to pay off, so when it doesn't, I'm not
with it.”
disappointed,” he explained.
While at SCF he
Since his stage experience, he has
performed in about
branched into film and television.
eight plays. “But
Look for Dallas Roberts on The
Professor Bernice
Good Wife on CBS and Rubicon on
Pepke didn't cast
AMC. He's also had numerous roles
me in the last play
in movies including "Walk the Line,"
because she said
a New York actor, I'd have to stay in
"Winter Passing," "The Notorious
everyone needed to work back stage,”
New York. From there, I started in
Bettie Page," "Sisters," "Flicka,"
he remembered.“The training and the
off-Broadway
productions.
”
Acting
"3:10 to Yuma," "Lightbulb,"
experience I got in those two short
is an intense experience, and all
"Tell-Tale" and "The River Why."
years was phenomenal.”
professionals have to learn to handle
disappointment and rejection. “The
“I am doing what I wanted to
After his graduation from Juilliard,
way I deal with it, is I look at it like
do since I was seven. So that in
Dallas performed in regional theatre.
putting
a
quarter
in
the
slot
machine
itself is a level of success.”
“Then I decided if I was going to be
scffoundation.net
9
Alumni Profile
Captain Aya Konstantinou '76 says that her mother planted the
right seed in her mind when she used to tell her, “Go for the sky.”
It's an unexpected comment considering
her mother is Mote Marine founding
director, Dr. Eugenie Clark. Now,
Konstantinou is a jumbo jet captain.
“Mom navigates coral reefs, and
I navigate clouds.”
While Capt. Konstantinou was attending
the College, she said she wasn't sure
exactly what she wanted to do, so
she sampled a variety of classes and
opportunities. “I tried a couple of flying
classes, and knew at that point, that was
it,” she remembered. And she's been
flying ever since.
A memorable class was Professor
Pilsner's History of Aviation class. “He
took us up to MacDill Air Force Base
to watch maneuvers. That was very
impressive. We had a first-hand look
at F-4 fighters doing strafing runs.”
This SCF alumna also
played tennis
while at the
College. She
even earned
a state rating.
“I considered
a career in
tennis, but I knew
this would be a
smarter route.” She
still loves the sport.
And her son, SCF
sophomore, Eli Weiss,
is also an excellent
tennis player. “But
he prefers BMX; he's
nationally ranked.”
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A publication for alumni and friends of the State College of Florida Foundation, Inc.
When she left SCF, she went to the
American Airlines Flight Academy
in Dallas. There, she earned her flight
engineer's rating to fly Boeing 727s. “I
like the mechanics and the technical
aspects of flying. As a flight engineer,
you're a pilot, but you sit sidesaddle
and operate all the plane's systems.”
Now they use a two-pilot system.
Her father, noted Sarasota orthopedic
surgeon Ilias Papakonstantinou, saw
her flying skills and encouraged her
“Mom navigates coral reefs, and I navigate clouds.”
to be an astronaut. He even got her a
NASA application. While her flights
never took her that far into space, Capt.
Konstantinou's career path did include
considerable career achievements and
success. About 15 years ago, she earned
the ranking of Captain, and seven years
ago trained on the Boeing 757 and
767—the jumbo jet. This makes her
one of about five or six women out
of the 5,000 pilots with Continental.
But considering her mother's
a pioneer in her field and her
father was a renowned physician,
overachieving seems to be genetic.
Her home is in the country in east
Sarasota county. She loves horses
and dressage and hopes to one day
own a Lippizaner, similar to the
ones of the Herrmann Lippizaners
in Myakka.
Currently she is flying out of Newark
to Europe. “When I'm lucky, I get the
Athens route. My father was born and raised there.”
A life well-grounded that is continually reaching for the sky, airline Captain
Aya Konstantinou is a tribute to the exceptional experiences that begin at State
College of Florida.
scffoundation.net
11
Campus Currents
A Chill in the Air
The classrooms, simulated hospital rooms and life-like mannequins are not
the only impressive feats of technology in the new Medical Technology and
Simulation Center on the Lakewood Ranch campus. The center, which is
LEED certified, features an impressive 1,600 square foot chiller plant that
uses thermal energy storage using ice and cold water for cooling.
The MTSC's energy systems perform double duties. In addition to cooling
all campus buildings, the chiller plant will be a hands-on learning lab to
provide a simulated work experience for students in the future Energy
Technology Management Program.
It kicks in during the day—which are peak energy usage hours—creating
energy and financial savings. “This energy-efficient chiller shows a
cutting edge way in which we as an institution are saving dollars: 28%
percent energy costs are being saved by the way we're using this chiller,”
commented SCF President Dr. Lars Hafner. “What we are doing is
blending two areas that are important to this community—healthcare
and sustainability.”
“Essentially, all we're doing
is melting that ice and
using cool water to cool the
air,” explained Traci Steen,
Associate Vice President
of Facilities Planning and
Maintenance. Florida Power
and Light encourages this
kind of innovation. “They
are giving us more than
$150,000 in a thermal
energy storage rebate. It
encourages us not to use the energy during the day during the peak hours.
The less power we use means they don't need to build more plants.”
The College also found a use for an existing, less-efficient air-cooled chiller.
“We decided to think sustainable, and put it in the new plant to make the
ice. It becomes economically efficient and is resource efficient and we're
using a piece of equipment we already had. That's sustainable!”
Additionally, the plant is designed to be a teaching tool. “The most
important element from my perspective is that we're taking workers who
have been technicians and we're providing them with a four-year degree
and experience to give them qualifications to be at a professional level just
under an engineer,” said Traci. It's just so good for the community to help
individuals and families move forward.”
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A publication for alumni and friends of the State College of Florida Foundation, Inc.
Partner
of the Year
State College of Florida won the John
J. Cox Community
Partner of the Year
Award from the
Sarasota Economic
Development
Council at the 2010
Hall of Fame Awards luncheon.
The award recognized SCF as an
outstanding nonprofit that supports
economic development, improves the
area's quality of life and helps make
Sarasota County an attractive place to
live and work.
President's
Awards of
Distinction
Teri Hansen
Teri Hansen, president and CEO
of Gulf Coast
Community
Foundation of Venice,
presented an inspiring
and heart-felt speech
at the 2010 Spring commencement
exercises at SCF Bradenton.
During the commencement
ceremony she was presented
with the President's Award of
Distinction in recognition of her
support of and commitment to
education, innovative approach to
economic development and her
role as a valuable partner of SCF.
Under her leadership, the Foundation
was the first community foundation
in the state to surpass $100 million in
community grants and scholarships,
including funding allocations to
SCF. The College received funding
for academic scholarships, the
Bachelor of Science in Nursing,
and a grant to create an online
platform for recent military veterans
to access higher education.
Rose Carlson '67 and
John W. Schaub III '68
The President's Award of Distinction
was presented to Rose Carlson and
John Schaub at the Winter 2009
commencement. Both are alumni
of State College of Florida.
Carlson, a
graduate of the
University of
Texas, is vice
president and
general manager
of Bright House Networks, Manatee
Region. She has a long history of
service to the community with
leadership positions including a
gubernatorial appointment to the
SCF College District Board of
Trustees and a term on the SCF
Foundation Board of Directors.
She partnered with the College
in expanding its outreach through
high-speed network technologies.
Schaub, a graduate
of the University
of Florida,
is president
of Florida
Coast Realty
of Sarasota, a
real estate investment company.
He is the past president of Habitat
for Humanity Sarasota and has
served on Habitat's International
Board of Directors. He is a native
of Florida who now serves as the
president of the SCF Foundation.
SCF Collegiate School Graduates, A Step Ahead
State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota welcomed the inaugural classes
of SCF Collegiate School (SCFCS) in the fall of 2010. SCFCS students
graduate with both a high school diploma and an Associate in Arts degree.
SCF is the first college in the nation to operate a charter school with middle
school grades on a college campus.
The school, which focuses on recruiting first-generation students, is a
tuition-free public charter school. In its first year, SCFCS has sixth and
seventh grades; in subsequent years SCFCS will include sixth through
12th grades. The School features a curriculum and design adapted from an
internationally proven Swedish model. The curriculum is anchored by a
strong two-way partnership with Apple that provides SCFCS students with
cutting-edge equipment, including an iPad for each student.
This year SCF and Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU) announced
a groundbreaking partnership that provides a scholarship program for
SCFCS students to continue to FGCU for a baccalaureate degree after they
graduate. Graduates of 2014 will be the first class to take advantage of the
FGCU scholarship offer.
FGCU President Wilson G. Bradshaw said, “We are proud to partner with
the College in extending this opportunity to families and are especially
impressed that SCFCS exceeded its recruitment goal by enrolling 62
percent first-generation students in the first classes.”
The equivalent value of the full four-year package for each graduate is about
$22,000 in 2010 costs, which covers two years at a state college and two
years at a university.
Record Broken: One Bottle at a Time
In honor of the 40th anniversary of Earth Day,
SCF set a Guinness® World Record for collecting
the most plastic bottles in an eight hour stretch.
EarthFest, a student-led event, invited people to
turn in their plastic bottles. Volunteers collected
46,357 bottles that weighed 4,980 pounds,
beating the previous world record of 657 pounds.
Also at the event, Recycled Plastic Factory, based
in Englewood, presented SCF President Dr. Lars Hafner and SCF student
Shane Henry, EarthFest founder, with a bench and picnic table made from
14,200 recycled milk jugs. Valued at about $2,000, the table and bench
together weigh 1,200 pounds.
scffoundation.net
13
Campus Currents
Brown Named in Biography
Fredi Brown, co-founder of
the Family Heritage House
Museum at the SCF Bradenton
campus, was named in the
African American National
Biography. She is in prestigious
company that includes President
Barack Obama, actor Denzel
Washington and blues performer
Bessie Smith. The biography was
edited by literary critic Henry
Louis Gates, Jr. and educator
Evelyn Brooks Higginbotham.
In 1974, Ms. Brown became SCF's
equal access/equal opportunity
officer. In that capacity she helped
establish scholarships for minority
students, connected local professionals with students to be mentored and
created community-based study centers. The Bradenton native was also
instrumental in bringing black artists to the community.
Ms. Brown received the 2001 Distinguished Alumni Award from the
University of South Florida, Sarasota-Manatee; Service to Youth and
Community Education Award from Links Inc.; and Passing the Torch
Award from the Delta Sigma Theta Society.
SCF Takes Heart
The SCF team won the number one spot in the team category for the 2010
Heart Walk at Payne Park in Sarasota. College President Dr. Lars Hafner led
the team of 183 walkers sporting their SCF shirts. Contributions topped
$6,440. Dr. Hafner served as the volunteer chair of the event.
Walkers included the softball and
baseball teams and student-athletes
and coaches from basketball,
volleyball, and tennis teams,
representatives from Student
Government Association and various campus clubs as well as faculty
and staff.
SCF's Corporate and Community Development Division staffed a booth
halfway around the park and handed out bottled SCF water they donated to
the other walkers.
14
A publication for alumni and friends of the State College of Florida Foundation, Inc.
We are the
Champions
The SCF Manatees softball and
baseball teams won Suncoast
Conference Championships. In April,
SCF softball took the title in the first
game of a doubleheader. From there,
the team finished second in the state
championship tournament.
The baseball team secured the
conference championship and
state-record 15th consecutive berth
in the state tournament. The team
then claimed the FCCAA State
Championship. From there, the team
went on to the JUCO World Series
2010 in Grand Junction, Colorado.
SCF Volleyball won 24 consecutive
matches this fall and claimed the
Suncoast Conference title. SCF
(35-7) is ranked No. 12 in the nation.
Going to the Majors
Baseball pitchers Alex Burgos and
Josh Lucas have signed
Major League Baseball
contracts. Burgos
has signed with the
Detroit Tigers. Burgos
finished the season
with a record of 13-2
with a 1.42 earned
run average. Lucas
signed with the St.
Louis Cardinals. His
record this season was
5-5 with a 4.26 earned run average.
Collegiate Beach
Volleyball Champs
State College of Florida, ManateeSarasota
(SCF)
volleyball
players
Aurora
Newgard
and Emily Strack were winners of
the Siesta Key Collegiate Beach
Volleyball Challenge in the spring.
The team won the gold bracket and
overall championship to finish the day
undefeated after upending University
of Miami 15-11. SCF Manatees Kim
Moldonado and Natalie Gaudreau
reached the silver bracket and
Lacey Blackman and Abby Gaiotti
reached the bronze bracket.
To reach the title match against
University of Miami, SCF defeated
other prestigious universities during
the tournament including Notre
Dame, Florida Atlantic University,
University of North Florida and
University of Central Florida.
Energized Degree
In the summer of 2010, the Florida State Board of Education (SBE)
approved a proposal by State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota
(SCF) to offer three new Bachelor of Applied Science degrees and
one new Bachelor of Science in Energy Technology Management.
The new program is scheduled to start in 2011.
Designed to meet the needs of a critical emerging field, SCF is the
first institution of higher education in its service area to offer a
bachelor's degree in energy technology management. SBE members
recognized SCF for its foresight in planning a program designed to
produce qualified individuals for growth industry positions in energy
applications, conservation, consulting and testing, among others.
The energy technology management program joins several other
bachelor degree programs underway and approved at SCF. The
baccalaureate programs at SCF were developed in response to requests
from community and business leaders and professionals in the fields.
SCF Budget Balances Value with Excellence
The College's 2010-11 budget of $50.76 million reflects the ongoing
commitment to an excellent higher education value built on its mission
of student success and meeting community needs. This is an increase
from $44.7 million the previous year.
Dr. Carol Probstfeld, SCF's vice president of
business and administrative services, noted that
last year the College was the second fastest-growing
college in Florida. However, the state's overall
allocation to SCF's operating funds continued a
downward trend, with the state contributing just
43 percent of revenue for the 2010-2011 budget.
“It's no longer accurate to refer to SCF as a state-funded institution,”
Probstfeld said. “SCF now is a state-subsidized college.” This means that
more than 50 percent of funding comes from sources other than direct
state funds.
While most universities are increasing tuition by the maximum allowed
rate of 15 percent, SCF rose tuition by just eight percent. This takes SCF's
two-year associate-level Florida resident tuition and fees to $94.90 per
hour from $87.88. Based on tuition hike estimates, an in-state student
taking 30 load hours a year at SCF would pay only $2,847, a savings of 46
percent over some of the Florida public universities.
scffoundation.net
15
Inspiring Philanthropy
Medical Technology an
Simulation Center Beco
T
he Medical Technology and
Simulation Center, located
on the SCF Lakewood
Ranch campus, opened its
doors to its first class of students
in August, 2010. The Center
is vital to the education and
training of health professionals in
this region and is the only one of
its kind in this region.
Dr. Bonnie Hesselberg, Provost
of the Lakewood Ranch Campus,
explained, “I would like this
to become a regional center
for simulation-based health
education. Certainly our students
will come out well prepared for
the real world, so that they can be safe, competent, caring professionals.”
Emphasizing the importance of health care in the Manatee-Sarasota
area, Vernon DeSear of the Manatee Memorial Hospital Foundation
emphasized that the Medical Technology and Simulation Center will
16
A publication for alumni and friends of the State College of Florida Foundation, Inc.
nd
omes Reality
be a key component in the education of
EMTs, paramedics, nurses, physicians,
CNAs and RNs, especially those in
the SCF BSN program. “The access to
education has to be our priority…We
started by creating the
BSN degree, and now
we're adding others. That's
what's so exciting; we're
working on healthcare,
but look at all the other
degree programs that
this vision is going to
add to this community,”
he stated. The Hospital
Foundation funded both
the Manatee Memorial
Hospital Foundation
Trauma ICU and the
Manatee Memorial
Hospital Foundation
Nursing Wing.
Medical simulation
allows students to work
in what are life-like
realistic environments
including a hospital
setting and physician's
office. The “nurses'
station” in the center
of the unit is complete
with call buttons and
monitors, similar to those
in most hospitals today.
The rooms, which
are named for the
benefactors, are set up
like hospital ICU rooms,
including a neonatal
room and birthing
center. The “patients”
are sophisticated
life-sized mannequins
that are electronically
connected to respond
and react as humans
would. They are fully
programmable and allow
students to experience
patient care first-hand.
scffoundation.net
17
Inspiring Philanthropy
The SCF Foundation welcomed the benefactors who significantly
impacted the creation of the Medical Technology and Simulation
Center with a donor recognition celebration prior to the opening.
The benefactors are Schroeder-Manatee Ranch (donating five acres of
land for the building), Manatee Memorial Hospital Foundation, Dr.
Roy L. and Lela M. Abbott, David and Myrna Band, Ann and Alfred
Goldstein, Edward and Alyce Kalin, Stanley and Janet Kane, Rita B.
Lamere Memorial Foundation, John and Valerie Schaub and the Tarr
Family Foundation.
“I can't think of an institution that really gives the local populace and
local economy as much lift as this institution does. You look at the
number of people it touches, the number of people whose lives are
better for that touch, and the ripple and multiplier effect of that lift
on the economy and the community in general, and it's really hard to
overstate,” said Schroeder-Manatee Ranch CEO Rex Jensen.
Alfred Goldstein, who along with his wife, funded the Ann and Alfred
Goldstein Neuro ICU was pragmatic with his remarks. “I look at this
as something that is rather selfish, because someday I'm likely to get
old and I'm going to need the services that will be given here, and
hopefully they will have learned a good lesson from what they are
learning here.”
The Center, designed by Fawley Bryant and built by Tandem
Construction, is a beautiful, two-story, 42,000 square foot facility.
It is the first building in the SCF system to be constructed to LEED
certification standards and includes an exceptional number of green
features throughout, including plugs in the parking lot for electric cars,
showers in restrooms for those who bike in and recycling containers in
abundance. Its state-of-the-art chiller unit will be used and studied by
the energy technology students.
Medical Technology & Simulation
Center Fast Facts
• Five acres of land donated by Schroeder-Manatee Ranch
• $1.5 million in private funds raised
• Two-story, 42,000 sq. ft. facility
• Adjacent 1,600 sq. ft. chiller plant
• 75% of construction materials were recycled, reused
or repurposed
• Irrigation system and drought-resistant landscaping
reduces water consumption by 80%
18
A publication for alumni and friends of the State College of Florida Foundation, Inc.
Philanthropy: The Next Generation
Wes Schuefler, far left with Annie Schuefler '03 center surrounded by
their Scheidel Scholars.
Annie '03 and Wes Schuefler are dedicated to a lifestyle
of giving and working to improve their community. With
this in mind, the couple, long-time Sarasota residents,
established a scholarship with the SCF Foundation last
year. “The Foundation was great to work with,” said Annie.
“They found what was spot on for what we were looking
for. They read us well and the type of people we wanted to
reach out to.”
The scholarship is designated for SCF students who meet
one of the following criteria: live or have lived in a Habitat
for Humanity house; participated in Manatee SOLVE
or involved with music. They chose the causes they are
passionate about. Annie had served an internship in
SOLVE, the family has long supported Habitat, and Wes
is a music fanatic.
“We believe your personal philanthropy should be about
your community,” said Annie. “We feel that education is
the key to so much and creates a stronger community.”
“An education is something no one can ever take away
from a person. You are opening a door for them for their
future. You are making an impact so that they can better
themselves and succeed,” added Wes.
The scholarship is funded by the Scheidel Foundation,
which was formed by Wes' father, Herb Scheidel in
Jacksonville, FL. Mr. Scheidel was passionate about his
community, especially education and Habitat for Humanity.
“Dad was a 'hand up rather than hand out kind a of person
who saw the vision of Habitat. He would say, 'Let's not just
build a house, let's build a community,'” remembered Wes.
The Scheidel Foundation is managed by Mr. Scheidel's
children, who are scattered throughout the world. “Having
this keeps the siblings together,” according to Wes.
“It's more than giving them a scholarship,” commented
Annie. “It's someone coming along and encouraging you.
My father-in-law set the model to get on the more personal
level with the students. He went out of his way to get to
know them. So we too want the scholars to know that we
believe in them.”
Since setting up the scholarship fund two years ago, they
have awarded four scholarships. “We are so touched by how
appreciative the recipients are,” said Annie. “It means a lot to
them that someone trusts them. They often tell us, 'I would
never have done this without you.'”
scffoundation.net
19
Annual Scholarship Luncheon
Pictured Right: Tom & Annette
Dignam, Mimi Crowder,
recipient of the Therese Sauer
Scholarship, Dr. Lars Hafner,
Sonya Larson, recipient of
the Suncoast Schools Federal
Credit Union's Suncoast For
Kids Foundation Scholarship,
Lori Mirandella and Gale Cook,
Suncoast Schools Federal Credit
Union Scholarship and 2010
luncheon sponsors.
Pictured Left: Rashay Graham,
2010 recipient of the Stanley
“Boss” Washington Education
Scholarship with benefactor
Karyn Washington '96.
Special congratulations to
the Washington family on
reaching endowment status
for this scholarship!
Pictured right: Debbie and
Steve Tapp, TAPP Scholarship
benefactors, Erica Ellerson,
TAPP Family Scholarship
recipient, Clint Monts de
Oca, Sam Iancono, Beverly
Safron benefactor of
the William P. Safron
Scholarship, Jeannean
O'Connell , Safron
Scholarship recipient
and Marcia Carrillo,
TAPP Family recipient.
20
A publication for alumni and friends of the State College of Florida Foundation, Inc.
Save The Date • Save The Date • Save The Date • Save The Date • Save The Date • Save The Date • Save The Date • Save The Date • Save The Date
December 12, 2010......................................... Roger Williams in concert
Neel Performing Arts Center, 941-752-5252
January 21, 2011............................................. Athletic
Hall of Fame
Induction Ceremony
SCF Bradenton campus • Contact Meredith
Headings at 941-752-5576 for more information
January 22, 2011............................................. Women's
Alumni
Softball Game – 10:00 A.M.
Men's Alumni
Baseball Game – 1:00 P.M.
SCF Bradenton campus • Contact Wanda Zimmerman
at 941-752-5261 for more information
January 16, 2011............................................. The Four Freshmen in concert
Neel Performing Arts Center, 941-752-5252
January 30, 2011............................................. The
Harry James Orchestra
directed by Fred Radke
Neel Performing Arts Center, 941-752-5252
February 13, 2011........................................... The Kingston Trio in concert
Neel Performing Arts Center, 941-752-5252
February 27, 2011........................................... Fernando Varela in concert
Neel Performing Arts Center, 941-752-5252
March 20, 2011............................................... The Tokens in concert
Neel Performing Arts Center, 941-752-5252
April 16, 2011
Evening Under the Stars
with the Venice Symphony
SCF Venice, 941- 408-1418
May 6-8, 2011..................................................... Nursing Alumni Reunion
Contact Terri Hanlon at 941-363-7268 or
hanlont@scf.edu
Save The Date • Save The Date • Save The Date • Save The Date • Save The Date • Save The Date • Save The Date • Save The Date • Save The Date
• Save The Date • Save The Date • Save The Date • Save The Date • Save The Date • Save The Date • Save The Date •
scffoundation.net
21
Classnotes
Ruth Ellen Linneman Stone '52
retired two years ago from the Yuma
Alumni Authors
Michael Purinton, Ph. D. '68
said he was always the class clown and was getting
in trouble. “As I got older I realized I better channel
that for something productive,” said Dr. Purinton.
He found that better channel in business and higher
education. Dr. Purinton started his college career at
what was then Manatee Junior College in 1965.
school system
in Yuma,
Colorado
where she
currently
lives. She graduated from Asbury
College in Wilmore, Kentucky
and taught for 37 ½ years
prior to retiring. Currently she
volunteers for the Yuma system.
“The best advice my mother gave me when I graduated from high school, and
I didn't know what to do, was she told me to go to the community college to
take classes. It was a life-saver. I got a great start, earned my A. A. degree and
also ran on the track team.” After graduation, the Bradenton native went to the
University of South Carolina where he earned his B.A. and M.A. While there,
he also ran on the track team and became an All-American. Following that he
went to Florida State University to earn a Ph.D. in education.
Dr. Purinton has taught at six
different universities and three
colleges and most recently served
as Vice President for Workforce
Development at St. John's River
Community College. “For someone
who at first didn't know if I wanted
to go to college, I certainly ended up
spending a lot of time there!”
Linda Bricker Hayes ' 70
currently lives in Fayetteville,
Arkansas. SPECIAL THANKS
to Linda for donating two Shield
Yearbooks to the Foundation!
Along the way he discovered that
much of the workplace lacked
humor. “Some of the people I
worked with took life too seriously,”
the author and educator said.
John “Chuck” Fowke '72 has
been building custom homes in the
Tampa Bay area since 1978. He was
voted TBBA “Builder of the Year"
in 2006 and 2009. He is currently
serving as the President of the
Florida Home Builders Association,
represents Florida on the National
Association of Home Builders where
he is a trustee on the PAC and is
co-chair of the audit committee.
On a friend's recommendation, he
started collecting humorous stories,
cartoons, jokes and funny sayings.
That collection led to writing
Purely Fun: The Humor Book and
22
Lorraine Kay
Halka Ahearne '77 is
currently living in Swartz
Creek, Michigan.
A publication for alumni and friends of the State College of Florida Foundation, Inc.
Purely Fun: The Joke
Book, which he selfpublished. “They're
based on my own
experience raising my
kids and teaching, and
some are borrowed
from others.”
On a more serious note, he wrote
Winning With Kids—the Self-Esteem
Book, to help those who deal with
kids—parents, teachers and coaches.
Dr. Purinton now conducts workshops
and training programs throughout the
country, while always looking for the
humorous side of life everywhere he
goes. The books are available at
purelyfun.com
Cynthia Barczak Lane '79 is an
award winning newspaper reporter
with the Anna Maria Island Sun. This
past June she earned three Florida
John W. Schaub III '68
founder of Florida Coast Realty, is
a nationally acclaimed real estate
authority with a passion for giving
back. His series of real estate books
began in 2005 with his best-seller
Building Wealth One House at a Time.
This was followed in 2007 with
Building Wealth in a Changing Real
Estate Market and more recently
Building Wealth Buying Foreclosures.
John earned his A.A. degree from
what was then Manatee Junior
College in 1968. “The College
prepared me to finish my education
at the University of Florida,” reflected
Schaub. “I would not have been able
to do that without this College. I
had taken accounting courses that
set me on that path.” He earned his
B.A. from the University of Florida
College of Business Administration.
John Schaub ’68 presents three
of his books to Tracy Elliott, SCF
Director of Libraries.
than cheaper houses and other
management-intensive properties.
“Better houses are more profitable and
far less trouble.” He advocates paying
off debt, owning properties free and
clear, and renting only to long-term,
high-quality tenants.
long-term investment. Our method of
investing is to buy and hold until it's
paid for, we are non-speculators.”
The SCF alumnus recommends his
readers and seminar attendees buy
better, well-located houses rather
“It is possible to be financially
independent through investing in real
estate. Real estate has always been a
John, who is also committed to
philanthropy, has served on the
international and local boards of
Habitat for Humanity for 25
years. He now serves as the
President of the Board of
Directors of the State College
of Florida Foundation, Inc. “I
have always been an advocate of
public education. Investing in
the future of students who want
to improve themselves gives
you a better return than any other
investment I know. The local students
get degrees and improve skills and
then obtain better jobs, advancing our
community on so many levels.”
Press Association Better Weekly
Newspaper Contest Awards for indepth reporting, community history
reporting and investigative reporting.
Virginia Simmons-Edwards
Mathis '80 retired from a banking
career in 2008 and is living in
Gainesville, FL.
Dr. John Haley '84 obtained his
Bachelor's and Master's degrees from
Florida State University, Panama
City and his Doctorate degree from
His career in Real Estate
began while at the University.
“I managed an apartment
building in Gainesville, then I
sold that apartment building.
That was my first deal.”
Gainesville was also where
he earned his pilot's license,
and he's been flying ever since as well.
johnschaub.com
scffoundation.net
23
Classnotes
Alumni Authors
continued
Keith Campbell '03 author of DENIED! An Immigration
Story of Faith and Hope. It tells of his family's ten-year battle to
stay together as they fought for his wife's legal immigration status
from Japan. It is the story of how they were
let down three times by the US government
in their quest to obtain her Green Card.
Eric Thrailkill '78,
studied accounting and core
classes at the College (then
MJC), played tennis and
served on the Committee of
20. He then enrolled at the
University of Florida where he
earned his Bachelor's degree
in accounting. Following
graduation he spent 11 years
with the Deloitte Accounting
Firm. From there, he has served
with various service providers
in the Nashville, TN area.
While employed at American
Service Group, a leading provider
of services for prisons and jails,
he developed an innovative
electronic records management
system that tracks health records
for inmates. The company
secured a patent on his work.
Currently, Mr. Thrailkill is
Vice President and Chief
Information Officer of AmSurg,
which operates more than 200
outpatient surgery centers
throughout the United States.
24
As is the case with so many of the successful SCF
alumni, Keith Campbell was balancing school, a job
and a family. He had already completed a successful
career in technology and was back to school to reinvent himself. In order to earn while he learned, he
started a lawn maintenance company. His first employee was a fellow
student he'd met in the physics lab!
It was while he'd been employed with the tech company and working
overseas where he met his wife, Akiko. This is where his story begins
and his book is born. He and Akiko embarked on the process of legal
immigration that grew into a major battle. “While I was in College, I had
two children, and then the immigration fight turned into full time activity.
It was always the gremlin sitting on my shoulder.”
In 2008 he self-published
DENIED! to tell the family's
story. “I want people to be aware
of the issues and the people who
are involved in legal immigration.
Families that are torn apart,” he
reflected. “I also want to give
people who are involved in this
a sense of hope. I want to give
those people a road map so they
can do it themselves. The way we did it may not work for everyone else.”
DeniedImmigrationHope.com
Dr. John Haley '84 (Continued) the University of West Florida. He
was principal of Arnold High School in Panama City Beach, Florida where
he helped the school raise its academic status to “A” status. He is now the
Executive Director of Operations and Support Services for Bay District
A publication for alumni and friends of the State College of Florida Foundation, Inc.
Tennis
Reunion
Schools. Dr. Haley is married and has
two daughters.
Luanna Poole '86 is completing
a B.S. degree in communications
via Ashford University. She writes
that she's grateful to Dr. Herb
Frith and Mr. Bob Eberly for
their enlightenment. She
currently lives in Sebring, FL.
Paul Dezzi '90 has been
named fire chief of the Longboat
Key Fire Rescue department.
He joined the department as
deputy chief in July 2009.
Patricia Holmes '91 retired as a
speech language clinician. Currently
she lives in Bradenton, FL.
Jess Lott '01 is client services
manager with the Orlando Magic.
Morgan McHoul '07 is an
Emergency Department Nurse.
She was selected as a winner of the
first Humanitarian Award at Blake
Medical Center in Bradenton, FL.
The award recognizes individuals
who demonstrate a lifestyle of
service to their community in
addition to remarkably performing
their duties. She speaks fluent
Creole and volunteered in Haiti
following the earthquake.
James L. Constanzer '08 is
currently working for Tidewell
Hospice as an RN case manager
caring for terminally ill patients.
He writes that he and his wife
Kari recently purchased a new
home in Sarasota, FL.
L-R: Jim Dempsey, Herb Waters, John Lopez, Phil Herschel, Dan Gjeldum,
Fernando Edelstein, Brian Sheesley, Todd Chapin, Dr. David Thompson,
Wes George, Walter Jones, Danny Bilyeu, Ernie Thomas, Dale Benner
Alumni
In Memoriam
Laverne A. Thorin, '83
Elizabeth N. VanLoan, '78
Faculty
Curtis T. Burkett
David Friedenbach
Faculty Emeriti
Bernice Pepke
Dorothy Turner
Friends
Gen. Raymond Mason
Jack Meyerhoff
Margie Meyerhoff
Catherine L. Prachthauser
Mark Ricci
Edward K. Roberts
John Sandefur
Virginia B. Toulmin
May 11, 2010
February 9, 2010
October 23, 2009
February 12, 2010
February 21, 2010
August 15, 2010
August 18, 2010
September 14, 2009
April 11, 2010
November 11, 2009
September 28, 2010
October 12, 2009
September 17, 2009
June 12, 2010
scffoundation.net
25
Classnotes
ALUMNI & RETIRED FACULTY/STAFF - We Want to Hear From You!
What's New With You?
Please let us know what you're doing. Tell us about job changes, promotions, awards, honors, new degrees earned,
marriage, addition to the family, retirement happenings in your life. Simply complete the form below and return to:
SCF Foundation, P.O. Box 1849, Bradenton, FL 34206 or fax to 941-753-0853 or go to scffoundation.net
Name:
Previous Name, (if applicable):


Alumna/Alumnus
Class Year:
Retired Faculty/Staff
Spouse's Name:

Alumna/Alumnus
Class Year:

Class Year:
Retired Faculty/Staff
Address:
Home Phone:
E-mail Address:
Occupation:
Employer:
Who Was Your Favorite Faculty Member?
What's New?
26
Submitting Photos? All photos must be at least 300 dpi. No copyrighted photos may be
published without the written permission of the photographer. To submit a photo for the next
edition send electronically to loweryp@scf.edu.
A publication for alumni and friends of the State College of Florida Foundation, Inc.
Inspire Opportunity…Inspire Legacy
In the spirit of this special season, we invite you to consider the gift that
costs nothing now to make. 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.
state college of florida
Foundation
For more information on making a legacy gift, contact the Foundation at
941-752-5390 or 941-408-1408 or visit us online at scffoundation.net.
State College of Florida Foundation Inc.
P.O. Box 1849
Bradenton, FL 34206
NON-PROFIT
ORGANIZATION
U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
PERMIT #1
MANASOTA FL
8 pt.
Faculty Hall of Fame
Dr. Marion H. Baker & James E. Jones
Occasionally, Marion Baker runs into
her former students. “It's wonderful to
see them, especially those who are in
science,” exclaimed this retired science
professor. She has run into a dentist, a
biologist and a pharmacist—and that's
just in the airport! In fact, in a recent
fundraising campaign video, a former
student mentioned Dr. Baker as one
of the faculty members he remembers
fondly for the positive impact she had
on him as an undergraduate.
Dr. Baker started her academic life at
Swarthmore College where she earned
her BS in chemistry. She went on to
earn a Master's at the University of
Michigan. From there, she taught at
a high school and then a community
college on the east coast of Florida.
While in Florida, she earned
her doctorate at Florida Atlantic
University. From there, she took
a teaching and administrative
position at a community college in
North Carolina. She taught at State
College of Florida (then known as
Manatee Community College) from
1993 to 2002.
“I always respected my students a
lot and treated them as adults with
fairness and the desire to help them,”
explained Dr. Baker. “I tried to take
into account the other parts of their
lives that they were struggling with
at the same time. They were mostly
young married people with families
that had jobs and were participating
in society. They were trying to better
themselves and get a college degree.”
She admires the dedication and
perseverance students have to
balance life, school and work.
And she maintained commendable
compassion for their struggles in the
midst of all of life's demands--many of
whom can't attend college full-time.
She took all of that into account when
she and her husband established the
Marion H. Baker and James E.
Jones Charitable Remainder Trust
naming State College of Florida as
the beneficiary of their trust.
Dr. Baker appreciates the diversity of
SCF students who represent all walks
of life. “When I had the opportunity to
set up this trust, I wanted to help those
students. Both full-time and part- time
students,” she said. Dr. Baker hopes
others will follow and consider how
they can impact the life of the College.
"I am hoping our fund will help
make it a little easier financially for
students in the future. They are so hard
working. They inspire me.”