Sessions Stadium Celebrates JU Baseball’s Top Fan JU dedicated John Sessions Stadium at Alexander Brest Field on May 4, in honor of John Sessions, BS ’59, to celebrate his continued generosity and support. “John is a great supporter of the University and his desire to see us reach higher levels is infectious,” said President Kerry Romesburg.
“His years of commitment to JU are a great example of what our alumni mean to the University.” “John’s passion to see the University build on all the positive things that are going on has been a great inspiration to me,” said Alan Verlander, director of athletics. “We feel that there isn’t a better way to
recognize his devotion to JU than by naming the stadium after him.” A member of JU’s inaugural class of four-year students, Sessions earned a degree in business administration. A staple at JU baseball games for more than 20 years, Sessions threw out the ceremonial first pitch with more than 100 family and friends in attendance.
Baseball Alumni Challenge A baseball alumnus has issued a challenge. Former player Tim Cost, BA ‘81, will match, dollar for dollar, gifts JU receives from former baseball players and friends, up to $20,000. This provides your alma mater with an opportunity to take JU Baseball to a new level of excellence. To make a gift to this program, please contact Kelli Skodinski in the JU athletics department at 904-256-7680. Romesburg presents Sessions, the founder of Bug Out Service, and his wife Elizabeth, with a No. 1 jersey to solidify his standing as top fan of Dolphin baseball.
Alum Takes Skin Cancer Foundation to National Level Sherrill Cooke, BA ’89, is out to save your skin. When she lost her father in 2003 after a 20-year battle with skin cancer, she founded the Bob Cooke Memorial Skin Foundation, Inc. in his memory. The foundation’s mission is to educate people about the risks of skin cancer and strategies for prevention, early diagnosis and treatment. Now in its fourth year, the foundation celebrated its National Kickoff in Jacksonville Beach this past March with The Bob Cooke
Memorial Run/Walk Against Skin Cancer. More than 400 runners participated in the 5K event which raised thousands of dollars. “It was a huge success,” said Cooke. “Florida has the highest incidence of skin cancer in the country so it was especially important that we help educate and inform the citizens of Jacksonville.” In addition to six major events each year, Cooke visits schools and organizations throughout Florida
and Connecticut, speaking about sun safety and the dangers of tanning beds. She has received numerous awards for her efforts, including the Daily Points of Light Award from President George H.W. Bush in 2007. Mike Freed, BA ’90, served as chairman for the Jacksonville event, and several JU alums are active in the foundation. For information, check out www.RNCwalk.com.
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