CHAPTERS

DAYTONA STATE COLLEGE

The Daytona State College AFC chapter hosted a co-worker appreciation award event. The chapter received 99 nominations and the winner for each category (Multitasker, Inspire, Behind the Scenes etc.) received a $25 Amazon e-card. The reciprocation of appreciation from nominated college employees was amazing. The message sent with each certificate read: HelloCongratulations, a colleague has nominated you for an AFC Appreciation Award. Thank you for making DSC a better place! Happy Thanksgiving, Max Swanton AFC DSC Chapter President

Spotlight Award – by day, a mild-mannered colleague, but here’s some great things you don't know The “One More Thing” Award -- for the person most likely to extend the meeting. Amazing Dedication Award – this is the person who never stops giving to the organization. Inspire Award – the person you want to be when you grow up—your mentor. MacGyver Award – the best person to fix things, or the techie in your work life. Behind the Scenes Award – the person who avoids the spotlight but makes the event/task/dept. go forward. Rookie of the Year Award – the Newbie who is killing it. Marvelous Multitasker Award -- for that person who never seems to sleep. Wow Award – for outstanding work, either in a one-time event, or every day. Mute/Unmute Award – Whoops! there’s always that one person in the meeting.

FLORIDA GATEWAY COLLEGE

Florida Gateway College had four attendees for the first Virtual AFC Annual Conference. Our attendees included Holly Sutton VP for Regions and Commissions, Andrea Gabriel Chapter President, Jeanne Anderson Secretary, and Heather Shingleton. I was excited to see so many attendees this year, especially since the year has been so difficult for so many. The conference sessions were very informative in addressing concerns due to COVID, virtual learning and working, and stress management. Our attendees received tons of great information on student engagement, risk taking and personal growth, and thriving in difficult times. The legislative preview was especially informative, considering the challenges our state and college system will be facing in the coming year. The conference had a focus on mental health and wellness this year, which is particularly beneficial to those facing obstacles at home and work with the “new normal.” Mental health and wellness is critical for not only employees, but students as well, and to hear so many strategies and tips on managing our own mental health and wellness as well as assisting our students in this area was enlightening and valuable. This year’s best practices were also excellent, and we applaud our colleagues on their hard work and dedication to our students. Thank you to our AFC leadership, staff, and volunteers who made this conference great!

FLORIDA STATE COLLEGE AT JACKSONVILLE

The FSCJ Chapter would like to extend a hearty thank you to all involved in hosting and coordinating the recent 2020 AFC Annual Meeting and Conference. While somewhat disappointing we were not able to assemble in person, we did not let that get in our way. As was announced, every one of the Great 28 was represented! And the FSCJ Chapter had the most delegates ever!

From the pre-conference meetings to adjournment, this conference was

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packed with activities and ways for members to connect. The keynote speaker and concurrent sessions offered this year were engaging and relevant. Each offered the audience a realistic view of the topic and presented valuable information.

For FSCJ, the virtual platform was a great opportunity for our new chapter members to see the value of the AFC, as well as allowing long-standing members to re-engage. A chapter goal is to grow our membership by creating more intentional, substantial experiences for our participants. We believe that by providing a forum that delivers meaningful information, we will motivate current members to attend and inspire more employees to join. We have no doubt that the 21 FSCJ Chapter members that attended the 2020 Annual Conference will share the value of their experience with their colleagues and hopefully bolster participation from both new and current members!

We would like to acknowledge and applaud each of our outgoing officers and extend a warm welcome and congratulations to those newly elected. We look forward to a great 2021!

PASCO-HERNANDO STATE COLLEGE

PHSC Chapter of AFC hosted two professional development sessions during its monthly meeting. Ms. Charlene Latimer, Chair of The AFC Certified College Professional (CCP) Program Committee, presented a broad overview about the CCP Program on September 4, and Mildred Diaz Santiago, Porter Campus Representative and CCP program participant, presented How to Lead When You Are Not in Charge on October 4 to complete her requirements for the Florida Colleges Professional Certificate. The PHSC Chapter of AFC had three CCP graduates this year.

SEMINOLE STATE COLLEGE OF FLORIDA

The AFC chapter at Seminole State College is thrilled to celebrate several highlights throughout this unprecedented year. Despite the many challenges we faced as a community, we continued to serve in the spirit and mission of AFC thanks to our amazing members. Earning Platinum chapter award recognition for 2019/2020 year and a Distinguished Service Award presented to Charity Lo-Guidice, Past SSC Chapter President, we are humbled to know our tireless efforts did not go unnoticed.

At the Annual Conference we enjoyed the valuable resources, fellowshipping with members across the statewide network, and celebrating so many worthy individuals for their impactful contributions to the Florida College System. Hearing stories and spending time with fellow AFC members reminded me how valuable and essential AFC is to the community and constituents we serve, and how vital it is to continue the great work we do.

Thanks to SSC members, we delivered 50 thankful grams to staff across the campus, prepared and distributed over 100 meals in the Thanksgiving project with United Way, we preserved a chapter tradition since 2005, in dressing 112 adorable bears, and super stuffed 54 stockings that will be delivered to the Salvation Army! We also gifted two single parent students with $50 Walmart cards who are facing hardship but striving to complete their academic goals.

TALLAHASSEE COMMUNITY COLLEGE

TCC AFC Chapter members were so excited to attend the AFC Annual Conference this year! While not ideal, the virtual format allowed for more members to attend and take advantage of the great topics, inspiring messages and fantastic networking opportunities afforded them as AFC members. Here are just a few words from our members on what they thought:

• There were so many great sessions during this year’s AFC Annual Meeting and Conference, but I really enjoyed Dr. Angela Long, Risk-Taking and Leadership presentation. It was very encouraging, very inspiring, and uplifting. I’m glad for the opportunity given to attend. I plan to use some of her advice to challenge myself in the near future. ~ Sheri Thomas

• I really enjoyed the entire conference. I especially enjoyed the session on How to Overcome the Overwhelming and Get More Peace Back in Your Life. I have been practicing some of the tips to stay calm and have a more peaceful environment at work. ~ Gloria Mitchell

• It was an informative, impressive and glorious conference. Awesome job AFC! ~ Rita Dickey

• This year’s Annual Conference was the first that I’ve attended. It was a wonderful experience that showcased the comradery, and excellence throughout the great 28 that I have come to expect from AFC. I learned a lot by attending the sessions. In particular, the Gen Z to CTE and Legislative updates were my favorites. Attending the conference has given me additional reason to stay involved with the organization. The professional, yet personable atmosphere of the conference made it quite easy to enjoy. I was able to envision myself being involved in both leadership roles and opportunities to present and I liked that. I can’t wait for next year’s conference where I’ll be among the CCP graduates, a finalist for Commission of the Year, and hopefully a presenter as well. ~ Tonya Hardaway

AFC LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE JANUARY 28-29, 2021

Leadership Conference provides an overview of issues and concerns facing Florida's college system and the AFC. Sessions are designed to assist newly elected chapter, region, commission and committee officers in understanding the roles and responsibilities of their position. It also is an opportunity for AFC leaders to develop their leadership skills and assist in establishing goals for AFC.