Alumnivoice summer_2014

l a a n B cin A g Ac t Olympic Figure Skater and Battle of the Blades Champion Amanda Evora, `12, Pg 14

INSIDE THIS ISSUE: Presenting the USF Fast 56 Top 10 Winners, Pg 17 Meet Biltmore Construction’s Third Generation, Travis Parker, `00, Pg 7 Devin Walker, MSCE `12, Earns a Spot on Forbes “30 Under 30” list, Pg 16

CONTENTS FEATURES

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7 Biltmore Construction’s Third Generation Travis Parker, `00, is the third generation of his family to run Biltmore Construction, which has built hospitals, laboratories and classrooms all over Florida, including some of the first buildings at USF Tampa in the mid-60s as well as the expansion of the recreation center and dining facilities completed in 2011.

12 Giving Back to USF Jeffrey,`92, and Brandy, `96, Fishman share a lifelong love of the University of South Florida. But it was a harrowing experience with pediatric cancer that ultimately led them to giving back to their alma mater.

14 An Olympic Balancing Act Figure skater Amanda Evora, `12, had two dreams: compete in the Olympics and complete her education. USF SarasotaManatee gave her the flexibility she needed to do both. Now the “Battle of the Blades” winner has her sights set on the future.

Alumni Voice is printed with bio-renewable ink at Interprint, a TEC-certified Green printing facility.

16 Turning Trash into Treasure Devin Walker, MSCE `12, and his business Trash2Cash-Energy

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earned a spot on Forbes “30 Under 30” list in the Energy and Industry category as someone to watch. The company turns landfill byproducts into diesel fuel.

DEPARTMENTS

Your Home away from Home

2 Five Minutes with Mike 3 USFAA Board of Directors 3 Calendar 4 Order of the Golden Brahman 5 News Roundup 8 Where’s Rocky?

11 In the Bull’s-Eye: Judge Raymond Gross

17 2014 USF Fast 56 24 Blast from the Past 25 Love USF 27 Chapters & Societies 31 Employ-A-Bull 32 Class Notes 38 Athletics 40 Travel 41 Meet Flat Rocky

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Minutes with Mike Mike Griffin, `03 Chair, USF Alumni Association Board of Directors

Fellow Bulls,

It’s an honor to serve you as the chair of the USF Alumni Association Board of Directors at an institution I care so deeply for, but to do so during such an exciting time in our history is beyond a thrill. The growth and triumphs of USF have never been bigger, and the revolutionary research and overall student success being performed daily are the backbone for these achievements.

No one can question the quality of the education and research that’s coming from all of our campuses; but as alumni, we all could do more by trumpeting our alma mater’s accomplishments. We need to make our voices heard across the region and around the world as we tout our university’s successes. Unlike some other, more historical universities, we don’t have the megaphone that’s an inherited birthright – gifted by centuries not necessarily of value, but of existence. And that’s why we need your help.

We need our alumni standing tall and proud, engaged in the successes of their alma mater. We need stakeholders from across the region and beyond to become part of our family, realizing that the groundbreaking medical center they seek or the technology hub they need is right here at USF. Overcoming flawed and false perceptions about academic hierarchy is a major step in our growth.

Alumni Voice® USF Alumni Association Gibbons Alumni Center University of South Florida 4202 East Fowler Avenue, ALC100 Tampa, Florida 33620 alumni@usf.edu USFalumni.org Alumni Voice Editorial: Karla Jackson, jacksonk@usf.edu or Rita Kroeber, rkroeber@usf.edu Advertising: Rita Kroeber, rkroeber@usf.edu or 813-974-6312 Design: State of Mind Design, LLC

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USF needs you to share with others the successes you’ll read about in these pages and in the news. They are accomplishments to be spoken of proudly, and each one increases the value of your diploma. Share them with delight, and know that your school is prepared to give no quarter to any school in the competitive world of academia.

The most recent session of the Florida Legislature saw USF accomplish so many of its goals, including funding for a new Florida Center for Cybersecurity, the USF Health Heart Institute, a new College of Business building at USF St. Petersburg and increased STEM funding for USF Sarasota-Manatee. Overall, the total new revenue to the USF System is approximately $80,000,000. It’s a sign that our state leaders believe that our school is worthy of continued investment, and portends our recent rapid growth will not ebb anytime soon. If you happen to see a member of the legislature or Gov. Scott, please thank them for their continued support of our alma mater.

USF was also one of the largest winners in the “performance funding” pool established by the state legislature and Board of Governors this year, based on criteria such as salary upon graduation, cost per undergraduate to the institution, and percentage of graduates employed or pursuing post-graduate studies one year after graduation.

Continuing to emphasize the importance of an undergraduate education and giving great value to our newest students remain a top priority.

Additionally, on page 4 you’ll find an important announcement from President Genshaft about a new organization that I believe will become very important to our alma mater, the Order of the Golden Brahman. With these select students and alumni, we are planting the seeds of influence for the future.

Finally, I’d like to thank you for your continued membership in our USF Alumni Association, and I ask for your continued involvement in our successes. Our trajectory is skyward, and there has never been a better time to be a part of the USF family. Please join me in sharing your love and passion of USF with everyone!

As Always, Go Bulls!

Mike Griffin, `03, Chair, Board of Directors USF Alumni Association Life Member #973

Contributors in this Issue: Aimee Blodgett Jessica Blaise Christina Cameron, `04, M.A. `13 Ryke Cordisco Elizabeth Engasser Drema Howard, Ph.D. Karla Jackson, `88, MSM `13 Laura Kneski Christine Makar, `10 Bill McCausland, MBA `96 Jay Wilson

General Alumni e-mail: alumni@usf.edu Giving/Scholarships: Bill McCausland, MBA `96, mccausland@usf.edu USF Bulls License Plate: www.BullsPlate.org USF Alumni Association website: USFalumni.org Letters to the editor are encouraged. Please write to Karla Jackson at jacksonk@usf. edu or mail to the address on the right.

Views expressed in USF Alumni Voice do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the USF Alumni Association, the University of South Florida or the editorial staff.

Alumni Association Contact Information Executive Director: Bill McCausland, MBA `96 Membership: (813) 974-2100 or (800) 299-BULL Alumni & Student Programs: (813) 974-2100

USF ALUMNI VOICE (USPS# 025203) Number 29 USF Alumni Voice is published quarterly in the Winter, Spring, Summer and Fall as a benefit of

ALUMNIVOICE | SUMMER 2014

membership in the University of South Florida Alumni Association, 4202 E. Fowler Ave., ALC100, Tampa, FL 33620-5455.

Periodical Postage Paid at Tampa, FL. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: University of South Florida Alumni Association, Communications Department, 4202 E. Fowler Ave., ALC100, Tampa, FL 33620-5455.

New Address? Moving?

Update your official USF alumni record at myUSFbio.org or email your information to alumni@usf.edu. You also may remove the magazine label and send it with your correct address to USF Alumni Voice, USF Alumni Association, 4202 E. Fowler Ave. ALC100, Tampa, FL 33620. © 2014 All rights reserved.

Meet your 2014-15 USF Alumni Association Board of Directors

Betty Otter-Nickerson, `76, Chair-Elect

Mike Griffin, `03, Chair

Monty Weigel, `76, Past Chair

OFFICERS

Directors Vickie Ahrens, `73 & M.A. `75 Katrina Anderson, `09 & M.A. `11 Franklin Biggins, `69 Brian Campbell, `93 Andy Coe, `95 & MBA `00 Andrew Cohen, `11 Kathy Dorf, `08 Richard Hartman, `88 & Ph.D `02 Mary Harper, `97, M.Ed `01 & Ph.D `07 Jim Harvey, `88 Jessica Leigh, `01 Merritt Martin, `04 & MPA `06 Ruben Matos, MPH `92 April Monteith, `01 & MBA `03 Sandy Pettit, `94 & MCHE `10 Amy Walsh, `85 Student Representatives Jordan See, President, USF Ambassadors Rhondel Whyte, Vice President, Student Government

Randy Norris, `79, Treasurer

Lisa Provenzano-Heugel, `93, `96 & MSCS `07, Secretary

Ex-Officio Directors Judy Genshaft, USF System President Joel Momberg, CEO, USF Foundation and Senior Vice President of Advancement and Alumni Affairs Bill McCausland, MBA `96, Executive Director, USF Alumni Association

Calendar your membership in action

July 19 USF Alumni Association Board of Directors meeting, 9 a.m. - noon, Gibbons Alumni Center, USF Tampa.

August 2 USF Night with the Rays, Angels vs. Rays, Tropicana Field, St. Petersburg. Gates open at 5:10 p.m., first pitch at 7:10 p.m. Get a free Rays/Bulls ball cap and Joe Maddon potato head while supplies last.

Visit www.USFalumni.org/rays2014 for ticket info.

5 Tampa Bay Hometown Roundup for incoming freshmen, IKEA Tampa restaurant, 2nd level, 1103 North 22nd Street., 6 p.m. Food, beverages, IKEA gift, prize drawings, a D.J. and more.

Register at www.USFalumni.org/tampabayroundup.

15 USF Night with the Houston Dynamo, BBVA Compass Stadium, Houston. Mix & mingle, 6 p.m., game 8 p.m.

Visit www.USFalumni.org/houstondynamo for ticket info.

30 Western Carolina vs. USF, Raymond James Stadium, 7 p.m. Visit www.GoUSFBulls.com for details.

September

6 Maryland vs. USF, Raymond James Stadium, 3:30 p.m. Visit www.GoUSFBulls.com for details.

13 N.C. State vs. USF, Raymond James Stadium, 3:30 p.m. Visit www.GoUSFBulls.com for details.

Do you know a new Bull who is coming to USF in the fall from out of town? Your USF Alumni Association is hosting Hometown Roundups across the country so incoming freshmen and their parents can meet other new Bulls from their hometown.

Visit www.USFalumni.org/events for a list of cities and dates.

SAVE THE DATE: 2014 USF Homecoming Week: Oct. 6-11, East Carolina vs USF, Oct. 11, Raymond James Stadium. Time TBA SUMMER 2014 | ALUMNIVOICE

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Dear Alumni and Friends of USF,

I Order of the Golden Brahman Bernardino Agosto III Amanda Alvarez, `14 Natalie Anastasia Greg Berkowitz, `13 Mathew Bernstein Frank Cirillo Jean Cocco Alex J. Cole Matt Diaz, `12 Matt Floyd `14 Alee Frappier, `13 David Gardow, `13 Brian Goff, `13 Elizabeth Gornstein, Jenelle Hendley Phoebe Joseph Michael Kalmowicz Nicole Lafita Taylor Lockwood `14 George Papadeas, `13 Krishna Patel, `13 Sidney Resmondo, `14 Andy Rodriguez Carlos Romero Jordan See Lauren Shumate, `10, `14 Dazaun Soleyn `14

am excited to introduce to you a group of students and alumni whom I believe will make an important impact on USF for many years to come: the Order of the Golden Brahman.

The members of this new group have been carefully selected over the past year from among the top student leaders at USF. These are young people who have shown a steadfast commitment to our university and – with their induction into the Order of the Golden Brahman – they are now making a lifelong pledge to advance and protect the interests of the University of South Florida.

As members of the Order graduate and build their careers, you can expect them to move into positions of influence in our communities, whether it’s in government, business, or any one of the many emerging industries of the future for which USF now prepares its students. And, as their personal and professional reputations grow, they have pledged to use that influence to speak up on behalf of our university. Whenever USF alumni are called upon to rally in support of their alma mater – as many of you have done so faithfully in years past – you will find the Order of the Golden Brahman on the front lines, working to ensure that your voices are heard. They will serve as a testament to the philosophies of leadership and service that are instilled in all USF alumni.

Together, we are as powerful as any university, anywhere.

Though we are a comparably young institution, USF has evolved into a national leader in academics and research, producing numerous graduates who are making a mark on the world.

The time is now right to create and nurture a league of young professionals whose loyalties lie with USF. However, in order to be successful, these young people will benefit from the insight of those many outstanding alumni who have stood by USF throughout its history. Serving as initial mentors for the Order of the Golden Brahman are three such valued alumni: USF Distinguished Alumnus recipient Judge Raymond O. Gross, USF Alumni Association Chair Mike Griffin and USFAA Executive Director Bill McCausland. I trust the Order is in good hands.

Each semester, new candidates will be considered for induction into the Order of the Golden Brahman. It’s my belief that USF’s influence will continue to grow with each commencement. As you read the names of the members, please make a point to keep an eye out for them in the future. I’m confident that we will be proud to call them fellow USF Bulls.

President, University of South Florida System

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news roundup

USF Ranks 12th Among Universities Worldwide for U.S. Patents The University of South Florida ranks 12th in the world among universities granted U.S. utility patents in 2013, according to a new report released by the National Academy of Inventors (NAI) and the Intellectual Property Owners Association (IPO). The report, based on data obtained from the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, recognizes the important role patents play in university research.

With 95 patents in 2013, USF ranked in the top 15 for the fourth year in a row among universities worldwide in generating new inventions. The NAI and IPO compile the list each year by calculating the number of utility patents granted by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office that list a university as the first assignee on the printed patent.

The list includes both public and private universities worldwide. In addition to USF and the University of Florida, two other state universities are included in the ranking: University of Central Florida (UCF), ranked 38th with 51 patents, and Florida State University (FSU), ranked 43rd with 47 patents. When compared with U.S. public universities only, the four Florida universities on the Top 100 list all rank within the top 25 public universities, as follows: USF 7th, UF 8th, UCF 18th and FSU 21st.

New Dean Named for Honors College Charles Adams, currently senior director for International Education and professor of English at the University of Arkansas, has been named as the new dean of the USF Honors College, replacing Stuart Silverman, who retired this summer.

A former Fulbright professor of American Studies in Germany, and recipient of awards from the University of Arkansas for distinguished teaching, outstanding student mentoring and distinguished service to international education, Adams is the author of two books, with a third forthcoming, plus numerous peer-reviewed articles on American literature, world fiction, travel narrative and transatlantic studies. Adams’ commitment to global engagement has enabled innovative opportunities like the Tanzania Program, which allows Arkansas students to travel overseas and interact meaningfully with the history and culture of East Africa. He begins work at USF on August 4.

Newest Tillman Scholars Announced Three USF students are among 59 U.S. service veterans and military spouses who were named 2014 Tillman Military Scholars. Trillitye Finlayson, LaChiana A. Hamilton and David Welker now join the other nine Tillman Scholars on campus.

This is the sixth cohort of students in the organization’s 10-year history and the students will receive more than $1.4 million in scholarships to pursue their higher education and continue their service in the fields of medicine, law, business, government, education, technology and the arts.

A former U.S. Army sergeant and veteran of Operation Iraqi Freedom, Finlayson is now working on her Ph.D. in molecular biology in the College of Arts and Sciences. Her three-year award totals $39,000.

Hamilton, a U.S. Army veteran of 10 years achieved the rank of major but resigned her commission to care for her son who needed open heart surgery. Working on her Master’s degree in nursing, she looks forward to working at military hospitals so that she can help improve primary care for pediatric patients like her son. With her husband currently deployed and caring for two children, Hamilton has her hands full. Her two-year award starts with $13,000 and is renewable for a total of $26,000.

Welker’s scholarship covers one-and-a-half years at $15,000 and is renewable for a total of $22,500.

Like Hamilton, he is working on his Master’s degree in nursing. His goal is to provide care to underserved communities as a nurse anesthetist. He was driven to enlist as a para-rescue man in the U.S. Air Force following the tragic events of 9/11.

USFSP Names New Regional Vice Chancellor of Academic Affairs USF St. Petersburg (USFSP) Regional Chancellor Sophia Wisniewska has appointed Han Reichgelt, Ph.D., as regional vice chancellor of Academic Affairs. Reichgelt will lead the Division of Academic Affairs, which comprises the activities of faculty and staff central to the university’s mission of teaching, research and service – including three academic colleges (Arts and Sciences, Business, and Education), the Nelson Poynter Library, Academic Advising, the Academic Success Center, Registration and Records, Campus Computing and Student Affairs.

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news roundup

Reichgelt will serve on the institution’s senior leadership team.

Most recently, Reichgelt was with Southern Polytechnic State University in Marietta, GA, where he served as dean of the School of Computing and Software Engineering since 2007. Prior to that, he held appointments at Georgia Southern University in Statesboro; the University of the West Indies, Mona, Kingston, Jamaica; the University of Nottingham, England and the University of Edinburgh, Scotland. Reichgelt offers research expertise in the areas of Computing Education, IT Service Delivery Quality and Health Information Technology.

Global Engagement Office Opens at USF Sarasota-Manatee

USF Sarasota-Manatee announced the creation of a Global Engagement Office (GEO), a liaison to USF World, which will develop the international reach of the institution and advance student achievement through enriched global academic experiences. Dean Cihan Cobanoglu of the College of Hospitality & Technology

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Leadership was named director of Global Engagement.

The USFSM Global Engagement Office will support all study abroad programs, special initiatives and collaborative agreements with foreign countries, advocating for increased international academic exchanges. “We are already supporting learning experiences that allow USFSM students to integrate successfully into international communities and work environments abroad,” said Cobanoglu, who has a passion for cultural diversity experiences and was once an international student from Istanbul himself.

Cobanoglu brought nine Taiwanese students to USFSM for a Hospitality certificate program last fall and is currently working out partnerships with universities in China, Taiwan, Turkey, France, Germany and South America. The Office of Global Engagement will collaborate with deans, recruiting officers and administrators in support of effective recruitment and retention programs for international students and be a resource for the entire USFSM community.

Sources: University Communications and Marketing, USF St. Petersburg, USF Sarasota-Manatee

USF St. Petersburg Profile Travis Parker

3rd Generation Builder: Travis Parker, `00

By Jessica Blais, USF St. Petersburg

T

ravis Parker loves his job. As vice president of Tampa Bay’s Biltmore Construction, Parker says he has the best of all worlds.

Parker studied Urban Geography at USF St. Petersburg (USFSP) and at one time, thought he might go on to architecture school.

“But Dad recruited me,” Parker said with a laugh. “I got my undergraduate degree and I’ve been working with him ever since.

Dad is Ed Parker, Jr., the son of Biltmore’s founder, Edward Allen Parker, Sr. The Belleairbased company was established in 1946 and incorporated in 1954. Biltmore is now managed largely by the third generation: Parker and his brother, Jeff, along with brother-in-law Vito Diruggiero, all of whom are USF or USFSP grads.

Biltmore builds all types of projects, from hospitals, to laboratories and classrooms, to museums.

“You name it, we build it,” says Parker. “We’ve got projects throughout the state, from Key West to Pensacola.”

Among those projects are several at USF’s Tampa campus. Biltmore’s earliest work at USF includes the Physics and Astronomy building constructed in 1964. More recently, the company won accolades for the 73,000 square-foot recreation center expansion and dining project completed in 2011.

“I’ve found that I really love construction management,” says Parker. “I enjoy the people, working with everyone from a college president to a carpenter on the job site, and I still have a hand in design.”

During a recent visit to USFSP, Parker reflected on his college days.

Q: Why USF St. Petersburg?

A: Location, location, location! We lived in St. Pete at the time and to be able to go to school at a waterfront campus, close to downtown, was

ideal. Plus, I was drawn to the smaller classes and a chance to work closely with faculty.

Q: Do you have a favorite USFSP memory?

A: Oh, there were many. I really used to enjoy the environmental field trips. I was the herpetologist in the group, so I was the guy who would pick up snakes from the ground. That was fun.

Q: If you could have chosen any other career, what might USF Tampa Recreation Center you have done?

A: Wow, that’s a loaded question! I told my son that I would have liked to have been a marine biologist – or a rock star. I was actually part of a band before I went back to school fulltime. We played pure rock and roll at venues like the State Theatre and Jannus Landing. It’s hard to explain, but when you’re part of a band and it all clicks, it’s truly an amazing experience. That said, it’s nice to have checked that off the bucket list.

Q: What advice would you have for young people entering college today?

A: Do what you enjoy. Study what you enjoy.

Take as much from the university experience as you can. Don’t just go to party. The rest will fall into place.

Parker lives in St. Petersburg with his wife, Charlene. They have three children: Meghan, Tessa and Leighton. As a LEED AP, Parker has extensive knowledge of green building and sustainability. He is a member of the Advisory Council for Tampa Bay Watch, a group dedicated to the protection and restoration of Tampa Bay waters.

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where’s

Rocky?

Take Rocky on your next trip and send your photos to: Karla Jackson at jacksonk@usf.edu or to her attention at the USF Alumni Association, 4202 E. Fowler Ave. ALC100, Tampa, FL 33620-5455.

p U.S. Army Finance Officer Scott Deutsch, `94, lets Rocky lead the way on his walking stick at the Combined Joint Special Operations task force in Afghanistan. Deutsch recently completed a year deployment in Afghanistan.

u Dr. Marc G. Kaprow, `92, and his daughter Abby bumped into Rocky and USF System President Judy Genshaft in Tallahassee during Osteopathic Medicine Week in April.

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t Rocky cruised the Rhine River in April with Gene and Becky Dressler, both Class of `69.

u Dr. Phil Amuso, `73, M.A. `75 & Ph.D. `00, and his wife Jean, took Rocky along on their European vacation.

He’s pictured here in Amsterdam.

t Candy Wright Current, `71, and Carla Wright Moore, `74, took Rocky hiking on a lava flow in the Galapagos Islands in February. They traveled aboard the National Geographic Endeavor, seen in the background.

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Where’s Rocky?

p Students in the Bulls Business Community and Business Honors Program Director Joni Jones took this photo with Rocky during their study abroad trip in Florence, Italy.

u Alumni Association Life Member Sue Porter, `89, took Rocky along on the USFSP Society Sunset Sail of Bayboro Harbor in April.

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In the Bull’s-Eye

Pinellas Pasco Circuit Court Judge Raymond O. Gross, Political Science `69 Judge Gross is a former USF Alumni Association board president, a twotime USF alumni award recipient, a charter member of USF’s Order of the Golden Brahman, and he founded and taught USF’s Law & Legal course for aspiring attorneys.

He attended law school at Florida State University and has served on the bench since 1995. He plans to retire on Dec. 31.

A. I have spent most of my time in the adult felony criminal, dependency and juvenile delinquency divisions of the court.You constantly walk out of court and say,“You can’t make this stuff up.”

The range of issues from capital murder cases to termination of parental rights and adoption keep you on a rollercoaster.

It’s been a great responsibility, but also a great joy.

Q. What do you recall about your days as a USF student?

A. USF was new and fresh.There were no traditions – and fewer trees, but there was air conditioning and endless sidewalks.

The entire faculty was energized to be part of the start of a bold new university and the students knew we were starting a legacy for the future.

Q. What were the issues facing the USF Alumni Association when you served as president of its board of directors?

A. Ensuring that the Alumni Association had a seat at the table with the university on all issues that affected alumni. We had alumni representation on the search committee that brought President Genshaft to USF. Alumni are one of the constants in the life of a university and they need to have that seat at the table.

Q. What have been some of your most memorable experiences as a judge?

Q. You are one of only a few people who have been honored as both a Donald A. Gifford Service Award

recipient and as a Distinguished USF Alumnus. How did you balance a demanding judicial career with your service to USF? A. Receiving those two awards were the highlight of my career. I am in the company of some great people. Don Gifford was a friend of mine and I led the move to name the service award after him, which made it especially poignant.

Serving on the board allowed me to meet new people who all shared the same passion for USF and wanted to give back.

This university has always been very welcoming, making it an easy place to devote time and energy.

Q. Why do you love USF? A. USF was a bold new experiment and it prepared me for life.The lessons I learned at USF helped shape me into the person I am today. I met my wife (a fellow USF alum) there and my daughter was married there. I hope to continue to pay back USF for all that it has given to me.

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Giving Back: Jeffrey & Brandy Fishman

A Love for USF is a Family Affair for the Fishmans

By Jay Wilson, USF Foundation

J

effrey,`92, and Brandy, `96, Fishman share a lifelong love of the University of South Florida.

But it was a harrowing experience with pediatric cancer that ultimately led them to giving back to their alma mater.

Jeffrey earned his degree in real estate and finance from the USF College of Business, and then joined his father Samuel in the family business – the Fishman Mortgage Corporation.

He met Brandy, herself a business administration graduate from USF, at a Millennial New Year’s Eve party. The quintessential 21st century couple, the Fishmans worked together to create another business, Investor’s Title, in 2003.

The proud parents of three, 11-year-old Jacob and 9-year-old twins Noah and Abbi, the Fishmans count their children as their proudest accomplishments. Ever the sports enthusiast, Jeffrey recounts the impact of the birth of his twins.

“When we had Jacob, we were able to play man-on-man defense,” laughed Jeffrey. “Now, with three children, we’re forced to play zone.”

Sadly, at only 13 months old, Noah became inconsolable from the kind of pain no child

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should have to endure. He was diagnosed with neuroblastoma, a solid tumor in his spine and abdomen. The resulting nerve pain alerted his parents to the cancer at the earliest stage.

“Because Noah’s tumor pressed against his spinal cord, the resulting pain alerted us very quickly that something was very wrong,” said Brandy. “We were lucky in how it grew, because it would have been much harder for a 13-month old to express discomfort. It was easier for him to express excruciating pain.”

Because the cancer was caught early, before it moved into his bones, Noah had a good prognosis.

But it still took the combined resources of three Tampa Bay hospitals – St. Joseph’s, All Children’s and Tampa General, to treat their toddler son.

One of the attending surgeons that made Noah’s recovery possible was USF physician Charles Paidas, professor of surgery and pediatrics.

Throughout their son’s treatment, and in the time of his ultimate recovery, the Fishmans’ perspective on life grew and changed. While still focused on their family and their business, they began to look for ways to become involved in the greater Tampa Bay community, and in particular, with other families dealing with pediatric cancer.

“It’s the fraternity that no one wants to belong to,” said Jeffrey. “We met so many good people going through such horrible times. It changes you.”

And so it was with that, the Fishmans, with now three generations of cancer survivors – Jeffrey and his father included – came to attend a prominent Tampa fundraiser for the American Cancer Society. At the event, the Fishmans bid on and won a trip to Reno to see USF football team take on the University of Nevada, a game that turned out to be a thrilling USF victory in 2012.

Football season ticket holders since the Bulls inaugural campaign, a love of USF Athletics unites the family.

“All of our children love the Bulls,” said Brandy. “We attend football games of course, but also basketball, volleyball, baseball – you name it, we’ve been to see it. Our children are Bulls through and through, and our love for USF has helped all of us bond and heal as a family in the years since Noah’s recovery.”

During the trip to Nevada, the Fishmans learned about the Iron Bulls and quickly became members. Last fall, their family’s foundation made a significant gift to Athletics as part of the ongoing USF: Unstoppable Campaign.

“USF Athletics has meant so much to us, enriched our lives in amazing ways,” said Jeffrey.

“Tampa is our town, and USF is our university.

USF Athletics means so much to everyone in the region, we are proud to support the university and its athletics programs.”

“We hope other alumni will do the same.

USF is woven into the fabric of our lives, and the lives of so many people we know and love.

Contributing to its continuing success is the right thing to do.” ®

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USF Sarasota-Manate Profile Amanda Evora

f

USFSM Helps Make Olympic Champ’s Academic Goal a Reality

By Christine Makar, `10 Photos from USF Sarasota-Manatee

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A

manda Evora is nothing if not goaloriented. When she first laced up a pair of figure skates and glided onto the ice, her dream was to compete at the Olympics. It was a goal she achieved in 2010. After retiring from competitive figure skating two years later, Evora had another goal: finishing her education.

“It was a very scary move for me because I had been an athlete, which is like a full-time job, for 19 years of my life, so the transition took a long time. I was very lucky in having the opportunity [to finish college],” Evora said.

The University of South Florida SarasotaManatee (USFSM) helped her achieve that goal.

She studied Business Administration around her training schedule, earning her Bachelor’s degree in 2012. Between training for the Olympics and her job as an office administrator for Specialty Products Holding Corporation in Sarasota, it took Evora seven tough years to earn her degree. She

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said it would never have been possible without the encouragement and accommodation from her USFSM professors, which helped to make her unconventional college experience less stressful.

Faculty in the College of Business were very generous with their time and willing to make modifications because they understood that this was important to her and that getting to the Olympics was incredibly difficult, said Dr. Arthur Guilford, retiring regional chancellor of USFSM. “I never had a teacher give me problems when I’d say, ‘Hey, I’m a Team USA athlete, and I’m going to be gone this week. I’m sorry I won’t be in class.’ They really, truly worked with my schedule and trusted that I was doing the work in the time that I needed to do it,” Evora said. “That really helped me be able to graduate.”

It is the same dedication and discipline Evora displayed as a student that allowed her to reach the elite level as an athlete. Although she trained for 10 years from age six as a singles skater, her coach and parents recommended she try pairs skating. It was a great fit. Evora moved from Texas to Florida to pursue it, first with partner Michael

Evora teamed up with retired NHL forward Scott Thornton to win “Battle of the Blades.”

Adler at the junior level and then with partner Mark Ladwig as a senior.

“That’s when my career really rocketed off,” she said.

“Battle of the Blades,” in which professional figure Evora and Ladwig competed from 2002 skaters and NHL players team up to compete until 2012, winning back-to-back silver medals at as pairs skating partners. Evora was partnered the U.S. Figure Skating Championships in 2010 with Canadian forward Scott Thornton, and it and 2011 and earning a spot on the 2010 U.S. was yet another goal attempted and achieved.

Olympic Team, the climax of their career together.

She and Thornton won, earning $100,000 for They were the top American pair team that year, the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation. It was a finishing 10th in the Olympics, which were held in great partnership, Evora says, because they were Vancouver that year. similar athletes – both retired and wanting to exert “The Olympics was one of the biggest themselves – and Thornton was a very good highlights in my career, and it’s a listener, so he was receptive to coaching. competition that is viewed to be the top Evora began coaching after her of every sport and only happens every retirement and quickly fell in love with four years, so you have to be ready for it. She is part of the coaching team that opportunity,” Evora said. that helped the U.S. pairs team Felicia At USFSM, Evora made a definite Zhang and Nathan Bartholomay get to impact, and it was glorious to see her the Winter Olympics back in February, reach that level in the Olympics, said where they finished in 12th place. Zhang Dr. Guilford. “She’s such a lovely young is a USF St. Petersburg student who, like woman, too. We invited her to talk with our her coach Evora, is completing her degree freshman class during our final orientation, Felicia Zhang while pursuing her figure skating goal. and she was just terrific. Looking at the Working in the business field and students, you could see that they admired her.” coaching in the rink provides Evora the best of Evora hopes to launch a career as a motivational both worlds. Evora still loves performing and speaker. has a goal to skate professionally in shows.

Another opportunity to flex her competitive Considering her record of achieving what she sets muscles came her way after her retirement in out to do, you can count on seeing her on the ice the form of the Canadian competition TV show once again.

Evora with pairs partner Mark Ladwig in 2009.

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Feature Devin Walker

landfill byproduct into diesel fuel. If it all works out, the millions will come.

After graduating from University of Florida with a Bachelor’s in Biochemistry, Walker began his career as a scientist researching and designing advanced alternative fuels in the private sector.

“During those three years. I gained experience in the advanced biofuels industry,” he said. “I discovered if advanced biofuel was going to work, it needed to be derived from very cheap resources to be cost competitive.”

He chose USF for graduate school because of the biofuels research being done here by Chemical Engineering Professor John Wolan. He began his studies in 2010 under Wolan, who died unexpectedly in 2011. Fortunately, Walker was able to join another research group headed by professors Babu Joseph and John Kuhn. Along with other Chemical Engineering students, Ali Gardezi, MSCH `10 & Ph.D. `13, and Tim Roberge, MSCH `12, T2C-E won the $100,000 grand prize in the MegaWatt Challenge – and Trash2Cash was on its way to generating diesel fuel from landfill gas.

The MegaWatt Challenge is an annual clean energy business competition sponsored by the U.S. Department of Energy in which college students and technology entrepreneurs can launch and grow innovative energy technology companies.

An average-sized landfill could produce

By Janet Gillis, `98 & MSM `00 7,000 gallons of diesel fuel a day using T2C-E technologies. With 2,400 landfills in the United he 2014 FORBES 30 Under 30 list States, the market is a large one. Initially, the recognizes 450 superstars in 15 categories company plans to focus on Florida landfills. The and one of those superstars is a University group is already producing smaller quantities of of South Florida alumnus. Devin Walker, a 2012 diesel fuel in their lab scale unit, but before they graduate with a Master’s degree in Chemical can begin to produce the fuel on a commercial Engineering and COO of Trash2Cash-Energy, scale they must construct a pilot plant unit at a has landed on this year’s list in the Energy and cost of $750,000. They hope to start construction Industry category as someone to watch. in late 2014.

While competing last year in the Cleantech “Our goal is to close the loop from feedstock Open, a clean technology competition for startup to finished product by fueling the landfill trucking companies, Walker caught the attention of fleet at the same place they unload trash,” Walker FORBES writer/editor Aaron said. “The average landfill Tilley who was looking for goes through $8,000 of young entrepreneurs in the An average-sized landfill diesel fuel a day.” field of energy. A month With 2014 as a could produce 7,000 gallons later, he was notified that pinnacle year for T2C-E FORBES had selected him. of diesel fuel a day using starting with the pilot unit, Started in 2012, the group expects the first T2C-E technologies. the list features young commercial plant to be entrepreneurs who are finished by 2016 with three “re-inventing the world now.” This dynamic and more in operation by 2018. ambitious group of inventors are generating “Ten years from now I envision the T2C-E millions and, in some cases, billions of dollars technology to be implemented globally, becoming in revenues. For Devin and his colleagues at the gold standard in waste to energy technology,” Trash2Cash-Energy (T2C-E), it’s about turning a he added.

Engineering Alum is Featured on FORBES 30 Under 30 List

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Meet the Top 10

Illustration by Laura Kneski

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e are pleased to introduce you to the businesses that ranked in the Top 10 of the 2014 USF Fast 56, the 56 fastest-growing USF alumni owned or led businesses in the world. For a complete list of companies inducted into the 2014 USF Fast 56, please see page 22.

President Judy Genshaft and USFAA Past Chair Monty Weigel (right) congratulate T.J. Nutter.

No. 1 NUTTER CUSTOM CONSTRUCTION

Sarasota, FL www.nuttercustomconstruction.com Bull Leader: T.J. Nutter, `98, President Nutter Custom Construction of Sarasota offers a unique residential construction experience by providing a one of a kind, concierge level of service. From site selection through design, build and décor, Nutter Custom Construction does it all. Nutter is known for never-ending attention to detail, timely construction and personalized service.

“Our success is attributed to work ethic,” Nutter said. “Our team is carefully constructed of like-minded individuals who have unique strengths. One of the things we all pride ourselves on is hard work and the willingness to do what it takes to get the job done.”

Earning the No. 1 rank as the fastest growing USF alumni owned or led business in the 2014 USF Fast 56 was “truly an honor,” he added. “One of the best feelings a business professional can experience. Makes me appreciate being a Bull!”

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Top 10 USF Fast 56 No. 2

venues,” Heruska said. “The difference is in our people and our service. We help parents inspire their kids to be active and to take a break from their phones and video games.”

The staff at AirHeads is proud to be in the Top 3 fastest growing USF alumni owned or led businesses in the 2014 USF Fast 56. “It was an honor to attend this signature event with my wife, alumni friends and the Airheads leadership team,” Heruska said. “I was full of Bull Pride to see 56 companies who are leaders in their industries be recognized.

These businesses are a great example of how a USF education can lead to success.”

No. 3

has extensive experience in providing innovative and comprehensive solutions for a wide array of projects, ranging from transportation to new land development and construction.

“Our company’s success has been based on everyone’s total commitment and focused effort,” said McRory. “When we started the company, we truly believed in our ideas, our goals and ourselves; and even though we were a small company, our goals were big.”

“When one goal was achieved, it just created the energy to achieve the next,” added Florence.

They described the company’s second induction into the USF Fast 56 Top 10 as unforgettable. “It was a wonderful feeling and one of the most memorable experiences to have been recognized for our hard work. We felt very humbled, proud of our school and each member of our company.”

No. 4 AIRHEADS TRAMPOLINE ARENA Tampa, FL www.airheadsusa.com Bull Leaders: Co-Founders Richard Heruska, `99, (top) and Steve Johnston, `95 AirHeads Trampoline Arena is a growing chain of family entertainment centers with a mission of providing a fun and fit experience to their guests. The main attraction is a gigantic trampoline arena where guests can play dodge ball or basketball, take fitness classes, or jump and bounce around to their heart’s content. With locations in Tampa, St. Petersburg, Clearwater and the Orlando area, it’s a great place for birthday parties and group outings, or to bring the kids to burn off some energy on a rainy afternoon.

“We know that guests can choose from a wide variety of family entertainment 20

AREHNA ENGINEERING, INC.

Tampa, FL www.arehna.com Bull Leaders: Jessica McRory, `03 & M.S. `04, (right) President and Sonia Florence, `07, (left) Vice President A two-time Top 10 USF Fast 56 recipient, Arehna Engineering was founded on the principles of providing the highest quality of geotechnical, structural, forensic engineering and construction materials testing services throughout Florida. Their team of professional engineers

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NOWAIT Pittsburgh, PA nowaitapp.com Bull Leader: Robb Myer, `00, President and Founder NoWait is an anti-reservation wait-listing app that allows guests to connect with their favorite casual-dining restaurants in real-time, get estimated wait times and get in line remotely – right from their phone – instead of queuing up in person. With thousands of restaurants in

all 50 states, NoWait gives consumers back the gift of time by eliminating waiting at their favorite restaurants.

No. 5

at USF that I began to develop the idea of starting my own law firm. To have achieved our successes and then be recognized by my college that helped create the initial goal was very rewarding.”

No. 6

BULLUCK LAW GROUP Temple Terrace, FL www.bullucklawgroup.com Bull Leader: David Bulluck, `03, President Housed in one of the seven original homes in the City of Temple Terrace, Bulluck Law Group is a firm of personal injury attorneys who are focused on civil trial law in the areas of personal injury and wrongful death. The firm is committed to achieving the best results and has been named to Florida Super Lawyers and the Million Dollar Advocates Forum. They were also selected as the 2013 Small Business of the Year by the Temple Terrace Chamber of Commerce.

“We believe our success has come largely from two basic principles,” Bulluck said. “First, treating our clients the way we would want to be treated if we were the client. Second, employing the best professionals that continually strive for perfection in their work.”

It was a special moment for Bulluck to be inducted into the 2014 USF Fast 56 Top 5.

“To be recognized was incredibly fulfilling,” he said. “It was

SYNOPTOS, INC. Reston, VA synoptos.com Bull Leader: Richard Hartman, `88 & Ph.D. `02, Director Synoptos empowers the people influencing and making decisions. The company synthesizes complex information and uncovers emerging trends, clarifying them into actionable insights. Synoptos leverages human-centric technologies to inform and counsel each client by using original, breakthrough research technologies coupled with the findings of teams of seasoned subject matter experts, proven media strategists and experienced data engineers. Synoptos clients are in the know.

“Our experience in turning an idea that was developed on a napkin into a successful company in four years has taught us five key methods for overcoming commercialization barriers,” Hartman explained. “No. 1: Work closely with our partners to develop the product to the point where they are willing to buy it; No. 2: do not wait until the

product is fully developed to get feedback – get feedback often throughout the process; No. 3: Ensure the solution helps to make or save money quickly, lest it have no value proposition; No. 4: Develop something that has uses in many markets in case the target market is slow to adopt it or becomes inundated with competing or distracting products; and No. 5: Find and work with channel partners to quickly penetrate the market as fast as possible.”

As a two-time Top 10 USF Fast 56 recipient, Hartman values his connection to USF. “Being geographically separated from the Tampa Bay area and receiving recognition in the USF Fast 56 for the second year has been humbling for me and the Synoptos team,” he said. “To have an Alumni Association that appreciates and showcases their alumni no matter where they reside, it makes me feel even more part of the USF family.”

No. 7

family medicine and wellness services. The physicians use a “whole person approach,” which means looking for underlying causes and making interventions and lifestyle adjustments to optimize patient health. The practice has offices in Tampa, Trinity and Zephyrhills.

“I believe we have achieved success in our company due to our ability to adapt to changes in professional, legal and cultural landscapes,” said Dr. Leonard. “We employ compassionate physicians who always have the patient interest and wellness in their heart. I like to think we are a customer service company that happens to offer wellness oriented medical services.”

The practice’s induction into the 2014 USF Fast 56 was a validation of their team’s hard work, he added.

“Receiving the Fast 56 award was a very humbling experience for me and my staff.

We work very hard, and it is a pleasure to see our efforts recognized. It was an honor to be considered amongst such esteemed colleagues.”

No. 8

FLORIDA WELLNESS & REHAB Tampa, FL floridawell.com Bull Leader: Edward Leonard, D.C., `02 Florida Wellness & Rehab is a group of medical, chiropractic, acupuncture and physical therapy centers that offers traditional and holistic

BRIDGEVIEW IT Denver, CO www.bridgeviewit.com Bull Leader: Tim Glennie, `95, President BridgeView IT is a technology placement firm that

assists a national network of clients in identifying and hiring the highest-caliber IT professionals. BridgeView’s management and senior recruiting specialists have successfully supported the IT marketplace for over a decade, growing into a world-class organization, with operations in major U.S. markets. This is the second year BridgeView has ranked in the Top 10 of the USF Fast 56.

Glennie attributes his company’s success to “hard work, determination and an unwavering focus. Our industry has changed dramatically in the last several years. LinkedIn was a game changer for anyone in recruiting, or any sales profession, for that matter.

We have had to reinvent ourselves more than once, and we continue to work on innovative approaches and creative solutions to support client needs. We can’t rely on past successes for a future roadmap. Constant adjustment to disruption in the market is key.”

“It is exceptional to be recognized by the USF Alumni Association,” Glennie said.

“I moved to Colorado right after graduation in `95. But, I joined the Alumni Association several years later to stay in touch with the university.

Being in the Top 10 of the Fast 56 for two years in a row is something we are very humbled by and we are honored by the recognition.”

No. 9

preparation I got from the College of Engineering and then the College of Business prepared me foundationally for my career. But the overall experience at USF, including student organizations and college life, gave me leadership experience that I call on even to this day.”

No. 10

DYNAMIC COMMUNITIES, INC. Bull Leader: Andrew Hafer, `88 & MBA `90, CEO Dynamic Communities (DCI) fosters the development and growth of user groups that maximize value to individuals and companies using the products they are founded around. DCI assists individuals and companies to engage in value-added networking and knowledge sharing.

CEO Andrew Hafer credits the company’s incredible team for its success. “We’ve paid very close attention to the hiring process and over the years have been able to hire people with diverse backgrounds and skill sets, but who share our core values,” he said. “That diversity guarantees that we look at business scenarios and design approaches from different points of view. Having everyone with deep rooted values that are synchronous with the company’s assures a high level of passion for what we do. Our customers and constituents know that my teammates have their best interests in mind.”

Hafer is grateful to USF for laying the foundation for his career. “It was great to be recognized by USF and to be among many entrepreneurial classmates who have had success with their businesses. The academic

MACHINE TOOL RECYCLERS Sugar Grove, IL machinetoolrecyclers.com Bull Leader: Jonathan Leeb, `10, Vice President Machine Tool Recyclers is a broker of new and scrap tungsten carbide tooling that offers top prices and prompt payment for used, old, or obsolete parts, such as drills, bits, drawing and stamping dies, nozzles, as well as soft carbide scrap or grinding sludge. The company motto is: Save the planet and make money. Machine Tool Recyclers is a two-time Top 10 USF Fast 56 recipient.

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The 2014 USF Fast 56 AirHeads Trampoline Arena Ali Specialties American Youth Academy Arehna Engineering, Inc. Atlas Professional Services, Inc. Bayshore Solutions Bessolo Design Group, Inc. BlueGrace Logistics Boomtrux, Inc. Bracken Engineering Brandt Consolidated BridgeView IT

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Bulluck Law Group Cardinal Roofing ClearTrust, LLC ConnectWise IT Core Performance Concepts, Inc. Dynamic Communities, Inc. Everett Financial Services, Inc. Flatwoods Consulting Group, Inc. Florida Educator Insurance, LLC - A Horace Mann Insurance Company Florida Wellness & Rehab Fredrick James: Accounting, Tax & Consulting Gissen & Zawyer Process Services, Inc. GlobalVise, Inc. Group 1 Automotive H2FLOW Equipment, Inc. Hamilton Partnership, LTD Infinity Computer Solutions JUNTO Design Studio L.R.E. Ground Services, Inc. La Segunda Central Bakery Laser Spine Institute Lightning Bay Companies Machine Tool Recyclers Matcon Construction Services Max Zaslavsky, D.M.D., P.A. Medical Collection Group, LLC Meldam Realty Miva Merchant, Inc. NoWait Nutter Custom Construction Ogle International Tax Advisors, P.A. Peak 10 Private Physicians, PLC Refurbished Office Furniture Sammy’s Seafood Scar Heal, Inc. Sea Level Solutions SecurTest, Inc. - The iReviewNow Company Simpson Air Southstar Engineering Strong College Students Moving, Inc. Synoptos, Inc. Vertical Integration, Inc. VirTex Enterprises, LP

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Blast from the Past

1973 M atthew Grisham, Ph.D., `75, sent us this 41-year-old photo of USF’s FOCUS leaders taken in the summer of 1973. FOCUS leaders were a select group of older students who were chosen to mentor incoming freshmen during orientation. Dr. Grisham, who is now a professor and department chair at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, is pictured in the center of the photo, with the long hair and light shirt. Leaning in his lap is Karen Swerdlow Allison, `77, and next to them, smiling in the striped shirt and sandals, is Rafael Risco, `74, who passed away in 1992. Let us know if you see yourself or anyone else you know in this photo by emailing jacksonk@usf.edu.

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Our Members Love USF!

Your USF Alumni Association asked our members why they love USF and here’s what they said:

Ellen Shanks Rosenblum, far right, and other members of the Kappa Delta Sorority 1967-69 pledge classes, at a recent reunion. Pictured front row from left: Sandy Geist Foxworth, Marilyn Palmer Hefferan, Cindy Griffin Abbott, Sara Albregts, Candy Denmark Britts, Rose Tennyson Taylor, Suzanne Bogart Richman, Carolyn Warren Ramage and Ellen Shanks Rosenblum. Back row, left to right are: Debbie Tamargo, Debbie Sellers Fugate, Candy Wright Current, Linell Wooten Ela, Lucretia Farina and Barbara Rogers Prosser.

I love USF because of the many friends I made during those years. Some of us have reconnected, and we stay in touch. We try to have reunions at least once a year. I also love visiting the campus, and seeing all the wonderful changes that have taken place over the past 40 years. A very impressive sight to see!

Ellen Shanks Rosenblum, `72 Life Member The University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee campus afforded me a state university education at what seemed like a private institution, with small class sizes, dedicated professors and engaged students. I return regularly and am amazed at the continued progress with a new campus and expanded programs. While I love cheering for my USF Bulls on the football field, I also love watching our USF Sarasota-Manatee rowing team from the grandstands!

Christi Womack Villalobos, `82 Life Member I love USF because of the tremendous education I received and the many friends I made. Seeing the growth of USF since my graduation makes me so proud to be a Bull. Go Bulls!

Richard Hedley, `95 Life Member I love USF because it has helped me to become more determined and successful. I have made so many connections just through people who have worked or graduated from USF that I have been able to achieve things I never dreamed of.

Kathleen Simone, `11 Annual Member

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Best Wishes to Our Friend and Colleague, Ron Sherman, `74

I

n the course of our careers, we sometimes meet people who are truly a pleasure to work with – people who have that special combination of experience, professionalism and personality that make coming to work enjoyable, even on the most stressful of days. These people become more than colleagues; they become friends.

If you’re really lucky, as those of us at USF have been, you will have the opportunity to work with someone who embodies all of those traits and more. For us, that person is Ron Sherman.

Ron has made supporting USF his life’s work. He has stood with our alma mater as it evolved from a small liberal arts college into a Top 50 research university. He has raised millions of dollars for our university, created a thriving network of engaged alumni and friends, and connected countless students with

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mentors, scholarships and career opportunities. USF is better today because of Ron’s efforts.

Ron left USF in June to enjoy an active and well-deserved retirement with his wife, Alix.

In appreciation for his 35 years of dedicated service to USF, Ron’s friends and colleagues have established the Ronald A. Sherman Scholarship to be awarded annually to a student who has successfully promoted USF and made a positive impact on the university. This scholarship is endowed for perpetuity – a fitting legacy for a man who has done so much for the University of South Florida.

Ron, your USF family wishes you much happiness in this exciting new chapter of your life. Go Bulls!

To make a gift to the Ronald A. Sherman Scholarship, please contact Gigi Laird Hawn at gklaird@usf.edu or (813) 974-7124.

chapters&societies t Albert and Roseanne Castro, members of USF’s graduating Class of 1964, celebrate their induction into the Golden Guard Society at the Class of 1964 50th reunion held in April at the Gibbons Alumni Center at USF. USF alumni are inducted into the Golden Guard upon the 50th anniversary of their graduation from USF.

u About two dozen Proud Bulls who live in and around Austin, Texas, met up on June 7 for an Austin USF Alumni Chapter get together at Top Golf and enjoyed an afternoon of virtual golf, games and fun.

p USF’s Entrepreneurship Society held its 3rd Annual Entrepreneurship Gala on May 16 at the Westin Tampa on Harbour Island. Dave and Susan Ward, owners and founders Buddy Brew Coffee, were honored as Entrepreneurs of the Year and the Tampa Heights Junior Civic Association was recognized as Social Entrepreneurs of the Year during the event. Guests at the Infusion Brands table included, from left: Mary and Don Mather, Ashley and Allen Clary, Stephanie Renfrow, Adam Slack and Trish and Fred Brown.

p Retiring USF Sarasota-Manatee Regional Chancellor Dr. Arthur Guilford was fitted for his own iconic green jacket by the USFSM Ambassadors at a luncheon held in his honor in May. The Ambassadors thanked Dr. Guilford for his support of the Ambassadors program. Pictured with him are Ambassador alumnus Maria Vazquez, left, and Hannah Veitkus, president of the USFSM Ambassadors.

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chapters&societies

p The 2013-2014 College of Engineering Alumni Corporate Ambassadors, pictured above, held its year-end meeting in May at the Gibbons Alumni Center at USF. At right, Connie Johnson-Gearhart, `00 & MCE `12, with Central Florida Testing Laboratories, received the Corporate Ambassador of the Year Award, which recognizes the ambassador who has been most active during the past academic year. She is pictured with Gita T. Iranipour, Corporate Ambassador program coordinator, MSCH `02 & Ph.D. `04, and Jose Zayas-Castro, Ph.D., Fellow of the Institution of Incorporated Engineers associate dean of research.

t More than 20 Bulls gathered for good food, drinks and socializing at Madison Social in Tallahassee. Pictured from left to right are: Perry Fulkerson, `70, Margie Fulkerson, Miguel Collazo, `00, Greg Sisk, `76, Morgan Applegate, `10, Israel Juarbe, Jr., `03, Richard Dunn, `84, Elisa Walker, `13, Tallahassee Alumni Chapter Co-Chair Phil Canto, `96, Scott Gaedtke, `04, and Co-Chair and USF Alumni Association Board Member Jessica Leigh, `01.

u The USF Alumni Association LGBT Scholarship benefits students who, regardless of their sexual orientation, are interested in issues affecting the LGBT community and who are likely to make a positive contribution to the LGBT community after graduation. The 2014 recipients are, from left: Amanda Marino, Luke Blakenship, Alecia Belnavis, Amaia Brown, and Hiram Ross.

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Alumni Association Life Member and USFAA Board Member April Monteith, `10 & MBA `03, was in the state capital with her Leadership Pinellas class when she happened to meet students wearing USF pins who turned out to be part of USF’s Tallahassee Internship Program. Pictured on the House floor, from left, are: Bill Sedey, MHA `04, Chris Sprowls, `06, student intern Phoebe Joseph, Monteith, student intern Frank Cirillo and Maureen Ahern, `90.

Around the Horns

USF’s head coaches and Athletics Director Mark Harlan met Bulls fans from all over the southeast this summer in the Around the Horns coaches tour. USF Athletics leadership made stops in Atlanta, Pinellas, Orlando/Polk, Sarasota/Manatee and Miami to talk about the Bulls new era.

p Orlando USF Alumni Chapter Chair Heather Kozlowski, right, and USFAA Board Member Kathy Dorf, `08, met with USF Head Football Coach Willie Taggart at the Orlando Around the Horns event on June 3 at the Citrus Club.

p Atlanta USF Alumni Chapter member John Dittig, `94, second from right, throws the horns with, from left, USF Alumni Association Past Board Chair Monty Weigel, `76, Bulls Head Football Coach Willie Taggart, and USF Athletics Director Mark Harlan. t Future Bull Emma Hubbard, daughter of Life Members Jason and Alison Hubbard, met three of USF’s head coaches at the Pinellas Around the Horns event, held June 6 before the Tampa Bay Rays game. From left are: Bulls Football Head Coach Willie Taggart, Emma, USF Men’s Head Basketball Coach Orlando Antigua and USF Women’s Head Basketball Coach Jose Fernandez.

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chapters&societies No matter where you live, you’ll always be a Bull!

The USF Alumni Association has alumni chapters all over the country. We also have college and special-interest societies for likeminded alumni. It’s easy to get involved. Just email the contact person of the group you’d like to visit.

Societies Anthropology Alumni Brian McEwen bmcewen@cachillsborough. com

Music Society Keith Sanz usfmusicalumni@gmail.com Nursing Alumni Edwin Hernandez ehernan5@health.usf.edu

Architecture Alumni David Hunter david.hunter@morganstanley. com

Pharmacy Alumni Patti Shirley pshirley@health.usf.edu

Black Alumni Shomari Sanford shomari1906@yahoo.com

Public Administration Alumni Mike Rimoldi mike@rimoldiconstruction.com

Clinical Psychology Alumni Demy Kamboukos usfclinpsychalumni@gmail.com College of Business Alumni Maegan Fader maegan@usfcobalumni.org Engineering Alumni Robert Andrew usf.engineer@yahoo.com Entrepreneurship Alumni Jennifer Sineway jennagator@aol.com Geology Alumni Bruce Nocita bnocita@smeinc.com Honors Alumni Dan Ravicher ravicher@gmail.com Kosove Alumni Justin Geisler justingeisler@hotmail.com Library and Information Science Society William (Bill) Harris wharris3@mail.usf.edu Medicine Alumni Catherine Warner cwarner1@health.usf.edu

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Public Health Alumni Natalie Preston-Washington npreston@health.usf.edu Social Work Alumni April Steen steenmsw@yahoo.com Student Government Alumni Cordell Chavis cordell.chavis@gmail.com Theater Alumni Kimberli Cummings kbdiva901@aol.com USF St. Petersburg Casey Bovee usfspalumnisociety@gmail.com Women’s and Gender Studies Zoe Fine usfwgssociety@gmail.com

Florida Chapters Brevard Todd Bonanza bonanza298@aol.com John Carpenter j-carpenter2@ti.com

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Barbara Lyn barbara@barbaralyn.com Broward Ruth Rogge r_rogge@yahoo.com Alan Steinberg usfbrowardalumni@hotmail. com Hernando Robert Neuhausen usfhcac@gmail.com Jacksonville/St. Augustine Ellen Rosenblum rosenblum.ellen@gmail.com Manatee/Sarasota Jay Riley jayriley@sar.usf.edu Miami-Dade Carlos Rodriguez usfmiamialumni@gmail.com Orlando Heather Kozlowski usfbullsorlando@gmail.com Palm Beach Scott Teich scott.teich@raymondjames. com Pinellas Julia Pattacoda usfpinellas@gmail.com Polk Randy Dotson randy.dotson@gmail.com Tallahassee Phil Canto pcantompa@gmail.com Greater Tampa John Lore USFTampaAlumni@gmail.com

National Chapters Atlanta Louis Struikman usfalumniatlanta@gmail.com Austin Brad Heath gobulls@austin.rr.com Boston usfbostonbulls@gmail.com Charlotte Marisa Varian usfcharlottebulls@gmail.com Chattanooga/Cleveland, TN Erin and Bryan Bull chattanoogabullsalumni@ yahoo.com Chicago Blake Rus windycitybulls56@gmail.com Columbus, OH Jason Griffin columbususfalumni@gmail.com D.C. Regional Alex Guecia usfbullsdc@gmail.com Dallas Ashlea Coulter ashleacoulter@gmail.com Denver Josh Flynn jflynn@mail.usf.edu Houston Angela Beeson Jennifer Cook usfbullshouston1@gmail.com Los Angeles Janet Foster usfbullsnla@yahoo.com

Nashville Melinda Dale nashvilleusfbulls@live.com New Orleans Heather Tank heath014@yahoo.com New York Nate Collins usfalumniny@gmail.com Philadelphia Adam Feinberg usf.tri.state.alumni@gmail.com Phoenix Jillian Papa jillianpapa@gmail.com Raleigh, NC Bob Cohn bob.cohn@mssb.com St. Louis, MO Mark Greenspahn usfstlbulls@gmail.com San Diego Josh Vizcay Josuevizcay@gmail.com San Francisco Jenna Broughton usfbullssf@gmail.com

Corporate Affinity Group Lockheed Martin – Oldsmar Brent Lewis brent.a.lewis@lmco.com

Employ -A-Bull

Drema Howard, Ph.D., is the director of The Career Center at USF. For more details about career services available to alumni, please visit www. career.usf.edu.

Don’t Make These Common Resume Blunders Y

ou may be the perfect candidate for the job, but if the resume you submit isn’t professional in content and format it will be screened out. Too many job seekers invest a great deal of time developing their resume only to make one of the following common mistakes. Be sure you’re not one of them.

Contact information is missing: Make sure to always include your name, address, phone number and e-mail. It’s amazing how many candidates submit a resume without this information. Even if you’re the perfect candidate the employer will never be able to find you.

Using your current employer’s address and phone number: This is a big faux pas and suggests you’re doing your job search on your employer’s “dime.” This will not be perceived well by a future employer. Always use your personal address, phone number and e-mail.

Misspellings and grammatical errors. After rewriting and refining your resume so many times, it is hard to catch your own errors. To be on the safe side, ask others to review the final draft of your resume. In addition to using spellcheck, another effective way to check for spelling errors or typos is to read a sentence backwards and check each word to ensure it is correct.

Using the same resume for all employers.

Although the core of your resume will be the same for all employers it’s important to customize your resume for the job you seek. Highlight your experiences and accomplishments that fit a given job vs. providing general statements for all jobs.

Keywords mentioned in the job advertisement are not incorporated in the resume. A resume should always reflect the specific language used in the job posting.

This is even more critical when it’s likely the resume may be screened using keyword search software.

Excessive information. Be concise, clear and targeted.

Eliminate information that doesn’t add value. One to two pages is typically sufficient for a resume. If your resume is more than two pages be sure to include the most important information on the first page. If you have extensive experience, you may want to consider only focusing on the past 10 to 12 years.

Poor Job Objective. Employers do read your job objective and notice if it doesn’t match the resume content or if it has no substance, such as ‘seeking challenging opportunity with a growing company.” If you choose to use an objective, be sure it reflects the job you are applying for.

Format is too distracting. Stay away from using too many different fonts or reducing the amount of white space that can effectively frame your resume content. Unusual colored paper or creative formatting won’t get you the kind of attention you want, unless you’re submitting it in a career field where a quirky resume is acceptable.

Lack of accomplishment statements. While you want to provide a summary of skills you used in each of your jobs, you don’t want to let this be the only focus.

Provide statements about your accomplishments. Give them some punch by adding quantitative data, such as “increased sales 35 percent by implementing a new tracking system” or “grew volunteer membership from 200 to 445 in one year through targeted marketing campaign.”

If you are an active job seeker, please take a few minutes right now to review your resume for these common blunders. Don’t wait until you need to submit a resume – be ready when opportunity presents itself.

And remember, the USF Career Center has resources for alumni – and fees are waived for the first 3 months after graduation. For details, please visit www.usf.edu/career-services/alumni.

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classnotes Don’t be shy Alumni! We’d like to include your news and photos in Class Notes. Send in your information to: jacksonk@usf.edu or you can mail your information & photo to: Karla Jackson USF Alumni Association Gibbons Alumni Center University of South Florida 4202 E. Fowler Ave., ALC100 Tampa, FL 33620-5455

60s

William J. Spratt, Jr., Political Science `68, joined Akerman, LLP as a partner in the firm’s health care practice group in Miami. He joins Akerman from K&L Gates, bringing 25 years of experience. He is board certified in health law by The Florida Bar, and previously served as chair of The Florida Bar Health Law Certification committee.

70s

Jerry Brooks, Political Science `74, joined CBC Saunders Real Estate Forestry Group and Natural Resource Planning of Lakeland as a licensed real estate associate of forestry and timber.

Bill Brown, Mathematics `75, was the keynote

speaker at a missions conference at Woodland Park Baptist Church in Chattanooga, TN, in February. He was president of Cedarville University in Cedarville, Ohio for 10 years following a 10-year presidency at Bryan College in Dayton, TN. He now serves as chancellor at Cedarville University.

Anne Davis, Marketing `78, M.A.

Guidance and Counseling Education `80, received the 2013 Tennis Educational Merit Award from The International Tennis Hall of Fame in March. Davis has been active in community tennis and currently serves as United States Tennis Association manager of Play Days. She was also the coach of the Florida State Women’s Tennis team from 1979-1986 earning three Conference Coach of the Year honors. She lives in Tallahassee.

Peter Holland, M.D. `77, is the psychiatry clerkship director at the Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine at Florida Atlantic University in Boca Raton. He is a principal investigator of pharmaceutical trials and has completed more than 60 trials.

David Knight, History `71, was appointed to the board of the American College of Trial Lawyers.

Knight will serve in the position of Florida state chair.

Denise L. Kurt, Political Science `78, regional

services attorney for the Texas Health and Human Services Commission, has received her Certified Advertising Specialist designation. Only a small number of professionals in the promotional products industry who undertake rigorous educational requirements and pass a comprehensive exam achieve this designation.

Janet Marshall, Humanities `76, was inducted into the Woodland Hall of Fame in April. The honor was presented by the Woodland Education Foundation. Marshall has practiced in the field of orthotics and prosthetics for many years, having worked at Shriners Hospital for Children in Tampa since 1989, and is nationally recognized in her field.

Stephen Peacock, Zoology `72, joined CBC

Saunders Real Estate Forestry Group and Natural Resource Planning of Lakeland as a licensed real estate associate of forestry and timber.

Roberto Hugh Potter, Ph.D., Psychology and

Sociology `75, is now serving as the interim chair and research director for the Department of Criminal Justice at the University of Central Florida. In February, he received the 2014 Lejins Award for corrections research from the American Correctional Association. The award is given to an individual who has produced significant research for the correctional community and has demonstrated personal commitment and contribution to improve the profession of corrections.

Julie Folden, Speech Language Pathology `78,

was hired as a real estate advisor at Coastal Properties Group International in Clearwater.

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was selected for the 2014 Corporate International Magazine Global Award for Litigation Attorney of the Year in Florida.

Trupp is a shareholder in the litigation department of Greenspoon Marder Law’s Tampa and West Palm Beach offices.

80s

Walid Abukhaled, Industrial Engineering `89,

was appointed chief executive of Northrop Grumman Corporation in Saudi Arabia. Abukhaled is responsible for leading the company’s operations in Saudi Arabia, helping the company grow and working to form private-public partnerships.

Elizabeth Arnold, Engineering Technology `86,

was hired as an employment consultant at The Diversity Initiative, Inc., a nonprofit government contractor providing employment services for the State of Florida.

James Benenati, M.D. `84, delivered the opening talk at the largest national meeting of interventional radiologists at the Society of Interventional Radiology’s 39th Annual Scientific Meeting in San Diego in March. Dr. Benenati is an interventional radiologist and the medical director of both the Peripheral Vascular Laboratory at Baptist Cardiac & Vascular Institute and Interventional Radiology for Baptist Health South Florida.

Bradley Boyer, Management `85, was appointed vice president of sales and marketing at Cody Consulting in Tampa. Cody Consulting is a health care consulting firm.

Colleen Chappell, Mass Communications `88, is president and CEO at ChappellRoberts, the 10th largest advertising/marketing agency in Tampa. She also serves on the executive boards of Tampa Bay Partnership and the Tampa Hillsborough Economic Development Corp. In January, she was highlighted in the Tampa Bay Business Journal’s “Executive Files” feature.

Marina Choundas, Accounting `89 & M.A. `91,

was appointed to the board of Seniors in Service of Tampa Bay, Inc.

Sylvia Diehl, M.S. Speech Language Pathology

`77, Ed.S. Interdisciplinary Education `88 & Ph.D. Special Education `91, spoke at New Mexico State University’s Tri-Unity conference on autism and reading disabilities. A nationally known speaker on autism spectrum disorders, Diehl is a faculty member at USF in the Communication Sciences and Disorders department.

Robin Trupp, Natural Sciences `72,

Susan D. Dillinger, M.A. Library and

Nearly 500 USF Alumni Association Life Members turned out for the Life Member Appreciation baseball game on April 25 to watch the Bulls beat the Memphis Tigers. Thank you for your support of USF!

Information Sciences `81, has been the library director at New Port Richey Library since 1990 and interim city manager for the City of New Port Richey since October 2012. Dillinger worked previously at the USF Library and Media Center at the Tampa and St. Petersburg campuses from 1975-1990.

Roby Helm, Mass Communications `84, was awarded the Bob Cross Memorial Lifetime Achievement Award in January during the NeSmith Racing Annual Awards Banquet at the Georgia Racing Hall of Fame and Thunder Road Museum. Helm is an auto racing publicist and announcer and has worked in the field for the past 32 years.

Eric Hoyer, MBA `86, joined CBC Saunders Real

Estate Forestry Group and Natural Resource Planning of Lakeland as a licensed real estate associate of forestry and timber.

Mike LaPan, Management `81, was

recognized as the 2013 Bernie Little Sports Executive of the Year for Polk County. LaPan serves as executive director of The Lakeland Center, Polk County’s largest entertainment and convention complex.

Previously, LaPan has served as executive director and president of the Sun Dome, president of the USF Athletic Association Green Jackets Club and served on the USF Alumni Association Board of Directors.

LaPan also received the Bernie Little award in 2012.

LaPan and his wife Pam are Life Members of the USF Alumni Association and reside in Lakeland.

Ann Liguori, Mass Communications

`82, won first place in the International Network of Golf Media Award’s competition in the Radio Broadcast category for a wrap-up show on the U.S. Women’s Open at Sebonack Golf Club. Liguori is the 1993 USF Distinguished Alumnus and a Life Member of the USF Alumni Association.

Andrea Milrad, Accounting `89, re-

ceived the President’s Club sales award from HelmsBriscoe, a meeting procurement and site selection agency. Associates must reach a goal of $1 million in sales during a 12-month period to attain this level of recognition. This is the seventh consecutive year Milrad has reached this level.

Gray Mullins, Civil Engineering `88, MSCE `90,

Ph.D. `96, and two colleagues received the 2013 NOVA award from the Construction Innovation Forum during a conference held in November. The engineers were honored for their work on the Thermal Intergrity Profiler. Mullins is a professor in the department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at USF.

Natalie Potochney, Marketing `87, was ap-

pointed as the new director of operations at After Hours Pediatrics Urgent Care in Tampa.

Kimberly Vadas, Criminology `88, was published in the Journal of the Society of Laparoendoscopic Surgeons for her article “A Reproducible Ex Vivo Model for Transanal Minimally Invasive Surgery.”

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classnotes patties. The company was named the South Florida Manufacturer’s Association’s 2014 Manufacturer of the Year.

Karen Fox, Ph.D., M.S. Sociology `95, authored the book Build Your Psychic Skills: The 90-Day Plan, a book that offers ideas for improving and developing one’s psychic abilities.

Tim Jackson, English `96, has published a series

Dr. Jay Garcia, `68, a former USF Baseball catcher, and his wife Lorraine, enjoyed dinner with three of the five recipients of the Garcia Family Scholarship from left: Laura Conover, Jelena Runjaic and, at right, Sana Azam. The students receive a $1,000 renewable scholarship for the 2014-15 academic year.

Mitch Weinstein, Psychology `88, was promoted

to liability claims manager for Broward County’s Risk Management division.

Tobias Winright, Political Science `87, was

named the Hubert Mäder Endowed Chair of Health Care Ethics in the Albert Gnaegi Center for Health Care Ethics at Saint Louis University, where he is also associate professor of Theological Ethics in the department of Theological Studies. Winright is co-editor of the Journal of the Society of Christian Ethics and book review editor for the international journal Political Theology.

David Wisner, Philosophy `82, published a series of essays titled Still at Aulis: Essays on Crisis and Revolution in Greece and the Eurozone. The book is available as a Kindle e-book on Amazon.com.

90s

Reba Cardillo, Accounting `91, is celebrating 17 years of business as the owner and president of Southern Pension Services (SPS). SPS provides thirdparty plan administration and consulting for companies offering 401(k) and other retirement plans to their employees.

Kimberly Choto, Communication `92, M.A. Educa-

tion `02, was appointed to the board of the Children’s Home Society of Florida. Choto is associate executive director of the USF Alumni Association and a Life Member.

Paul Chung, Computer Science `94, is the owner and operator of Hotpie, Inc., a manufacturing company of Jamaican-style meat and vegetable

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of Caribbean short stories, Tales from Blacktip Island. Set in the same tropical locale as his debut novel, Mangrove Underground, a USA Book News Best Book Award finalist for literary fiction in 2011, the stories in Tales from Blacktip Island are part of a larger collection of stories to be released in the future. The stories are now available as single stories in all e-reader formats.

Elizabeth Jennings, Nursing `95, was promoted to recovery room charge nurse at Oak Hill Hospital in Brooksville.

Nancy Lewis, Education `93, was

named Teacher of the Year at Wakulla and Sopchoppy Pre-Kindergarten in Crawfordville for the 2013-14 school year.

Steven Marcus, Criminology `90

& M.A. Education `95, has joined the McGlinchey Stafford law firm’s Fort Lauderdale office. He has more than 14 years of experience in many diverse areas of commercial litigation. He is also active in supporting the Fort Lauderdale community, and in 2013, was awarded The Florida Bar President’s Pro Bono Service Award for the 17th Judicial Circuit for assisting Holocaust survivors in obtaining monthly pension payments from the German government.

Christopher Marsh, Biology `98, was honored in

April as one of New Jersey’s top oral and maxillofacial surgeons in a poll administered by the polling institute at Monmouth University. After attending USF, Marsh graduated from the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine in Philadelphia and completed a residency at Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at Woodhull Medical and Mental Health Center in Brooklyn. He is board certified by the National Dental Board of Anesthesiology and is a fellow of the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery.

Lt. Col. Ruben A. Matos, United States Air Force, MPH `92, has been assigned to the Office of the Command Surgeon, H.Q. Special Operations Command South, Homestead Air Force Base, in Florida, as the Deputy Command Surgeon. Lt. Col. Matos is a Life Member and board member of the USF Alumni Association.

Anthony (Tony) Minerva, English

`96, M.A. Library and Information Sciences `98, was named the head of research and library systems at the law firm of Williams & Connolly, LLP in Washington, D.C., where he has been the systems librarian since 1999. He lives in downtown Washington, D.C. with his wife Julie, and hound dog Bica.

Marilyn Moran, Criminology `94,

spoke at the Orange County Bar Association Bench Bar Conference in April on “Common Ethical Issues for Employment Lawyers” She represents large and mid-size companies with respect to employment law issues in a counseling and litigation role, and works in Baker & Hostetler’s Employment Litigation and Employment Counseling practices. Moran also spoke at Barry University School of Law in March in a panel titled “Great Expectations for Female Lawyers: Conversations About Women in the Law.”

Brent Nixon, Ph.D. Civil Engineering `95, was named the new president and CEO of CTL Group, an expert consulting engineering and materials science firm in Skokie, IL..

Laura Rodriguez, Visual Communications `92, was named as the new executive director for Lakeland Vision, a private-public partnership that works to develop a community consensus on the future of Lakeland.

David Roos, Political Science `91, was elected chair of the law firm of Henderson, Franklin, Starnes & Holt, P.A.’s workers compensation practice. Roos represents insurance carriers, thirdparty administrators and employers in the defense of workers compensation claims.

Mark Serbu, Mechanical Engineering `90, has spent the past 17 years building Serbu Firearms, a successful gun making business in Tampa. His business was recently featured in a Sunday edition of the Tampa Bay Times.

Matthew Taylor, Business Economics `94, was hired as an attorney at Lewis Longman & Walker, P.A. Robert Wachob, Business `98 & MBA `01, was

promoted to vice president of accounting for ETCO, a leading manufacturer of stamped metal electrical components. He was formerly the director of accounting for both ETCO’s Florida & Rhode Island facilities.

Brian Williams, Finance `97 & MBA `99, was

selected as Employee of the Year at Vertical Edge, a full-service Oracle EPM/BI consulting firm with headquarters in Tampa. Williams is practice director/EPM architect at the firm.

00s

Lenis Archer, MPH `05, joined The Health Law Firm as an attorney at its Altamonte Springs office. Her practice will focus on the representation of health professionals and licensed health facilities in litigation, licensing and disciplinary issues, contracts, appeals, administrative hearings, regulatory matters and Medicare and Medicaid defense.

Catherine Astl, English `09, has published her debut novel, Three Gates: Lessons in Humility, Virtue and Honor. The novel is available for purchase online through Amazon and Barnes and Noble.

David Bulluck, History `03, and his wife Kristi, M.A. `06 and Communication `00, won 2014 Temple Terrace Small Business of the Year Award for their firm, Bulluck Law Group, a personal injury and estate planning law firm. David was also inducted into the Million Dollar Advocates Forum, and Kristi is a doctorate student at USF. Bulluck Law Group was also ranked No. 5 in the 2014 USF Fast 56, the fastest-growing USF alumni owned or led businesses in the world.

Mark Coffie, Finance `06, was appointed vice president of commercial lending at Bay Cities Bank.

Susan Cooper, Nursing `06, was appointed director of neuro/tele unit and clinical decision unit at Oak Hill Hospital in Spring Hill.

Scott Ehlers, Industrial Arts-Technology Education `04, was appointed the City of Clearwater’s division chief for emergency management. Ehlers, a former Tampa Fire Rescue assistant chief, was with Tampa Fire Rescue before retiring last January. He has also worked as a firefighter at MacDill Air Force Base and as a flight paramedic for Tampa General Hospital.

Capt. Daniel Galle, United States Air Force,

Biomedical Sciences `07, graduated from officer training at Maxwell Air Force Base in Georgia in December. He previously earned a doctorate in optometry from the University of Indiana. He is stationed at Lackland Air Force Base in Texas as a doctor in optometry and resides in San Antonio with his wife, Ashley, and sons Levi and Micaiah.

Todd A. Gettings, English `01, authored the picture-book, The Legend of Lawrence Leopard, for readers ages 7-9 years old. It can be ordered at www.toddagettings.tateauthor.com or purchased at your local bookstore.

Jennifer Giumarra, Political Science `06, was promoted to personal relationship manager at The Bank of Tampa.

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classnotes Karin Grant, R.N., Nursing `08, passed the Certi-

fied Rehabilitation Registered Nurse exam in December 2012, and was chosen as the 2013 Nurse of the Year for the Acute Rehabilitation Unit at Scripps Memorial Hospital in Encinitas, CA.

Stephanie Hayes, Mass Communications `06, is the new performing arts critic at the Tampa Bay Times. Hayes has been at the Tampa Bay Times for 11 years, covering many beats such as politics, crime and higher education.

Stephanie Hiday, Psychology `00, was appointed to the position of administrator coordinator at Wilder Architecture.

Jeffrey Jackson, Management Information Sys-

tems `09, was hired as a quality assurance engineer at MenuPad. He is responsible for manual testing for MenuPad across multiple web browsers. He is married with two sons.

Dan Jenkins, MBA `01, spoke to the Edison Investors Club about marketing principles and the early years of Steve Jobs at the Thomas Edison Museum in March. Jenkins currently runs his own industrial marketing and research business, Grapple Hook.

Omar Khan, Political Science `04, will serve as

Democratic gubernatorial candidate Charlie Crist’s campaign manager for the 2014 elections. Khan was deputy political director in Florida for President Barack Obama’s 2008 campaign and served as national associate political director on Obama’s re-election bid.

Erica Larson, Mathematics Education `06, was

appointed junior broker at Nye Commercial Advisors.

Crystel Lewis, English `06, was

named director of student life at Miami Dade College, InterAmerican Campus.

David Luikart, III, Political Science `01, was elected as a shareholder of Hill Ward Henderson, a law firm in the Tampa Bay area. Luikart is part of the firm’s litigation group, and has assisted in the defense and prosecution of a wide range of complex and general commercial tort and contract claims.

Laura Mark, Elementary Education `06 & M.A.

Reading Education `10, joined Coastline West Realty of Florida’s Bradenton office as a sales associate/ realtor.

Amy Martz, Communication `04, is an awardwinning photographer and marketing creative professional in the Tampa Bay area. Her work has appeared in numerous publications including the Tampa Bay Times, The Knot, Tampa Bay Wellness 36

ALUMNIVOICE | SUMMER 2014

and numerous other publications. Martz’s clients have included The New York Yankees, the Steinbrenner family, Le Meridien Hotel, The Straz Center for the Performing Arts and many other local and national entities. Additionally, she is a graphic and web design artist, and serves on the Board of Trustees for Tampa Preservation, Inc., and also with Philanthropic Young Tampa Bay.

Patrick James McKelvey, Communication `09, was promoted to assistant account executive at FKQ Advertising + Marketing.

Cheryl Moses, Chemistry `01, completed her emergency medical residency at Palmetto Richland Memorial Hospital in Columbus, SC. She also completed a multidisciplinary critical care fellowship at Indiana University Health Methodist Hospital in Indianapolis.

Pat Mullins, M.A. `03, died tragically in January

2013 from a shotgun blast while launching a boat near East Manatee. Mullins was a media specialist at Palmetto High School. The Manatee County Sheriff’s Office is investigating and there is $20,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible for his death. Anyone who knows anything about the Mullins’ case is asked to alert the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office at (941) 747-3011, ext. 2210, or Manatee County Crime Stoppers at (866) 634-TIPS or email the PatMullinsMemorialFund@gmail.com.

Robert Norman, MPH `01, has authored The Blue Man and Other Stories of the Skin (University of California Press). The book offers an introduction into the life of our largest organ, the skin, while also recounting Dr. Norman’s experiences as a dermatologist treating patients with mysterious skin conditions. The book is available for purchase on Amazon.com. Dr. Norman also has authored Discover Magazine’s Vital Signs: True Tales of Medical Mysteries, Obscure Diseases, and Life-Saving Diagnoses.

Gerry Northrup, MBA `02, was named director of

sales and marketing for University of Florida Pathology Laboratory.

Justin Phelps, Mass Communications `02, was appointed president of Engage Behavioral Health of Tampa.

Chris Pflueger, MBA `00, was promoted to regional vice president of franchise sales at RE/MAX. He joined RE/MAX in 2007. He lives in Highlands Ranch, CO with his wife Marnie, and two children.

Brian Richter, `07 Finance, was appointed director of golf/assistant general manager at The Eagles Golf Club in Odessa.

Proud Bulls and their families filled Traditions Hall in the Gibbons Alumni Center for the spring USF Class Ring ceremony. The next ring ceremony will be held in the fall. For details about USF’s official class ring, visit www.USFalumni.org/classring.

Michael Sink, Finance `01, was promoted to

partner at the law firm of Perkins Coie, as part of the 2014 partner class. He is a member of the firm’s appellate, privacy and & security and investigations & white collar defense practices. He also is a recipient of the firm’s prestigious Pro Bono Leadership Award.

Christopher Szydlowski, Communication `06,

was appointed as a project manager at Tri-City Electrical Contractors Inc.

Kristy Thompson, English `03, and Jeff Thomp-

son, M.A. History `08, have written a travel/history book, Simply Go: An Amazing U.K. Adventure. It was published by The Peppertree Press, and is available at Amazon.com, BarnesandNoble.com and Indiebound.org.

Richard Tutwiler, Management `05, was one of only two individuals named as a Windstorm Insurance Network associate in the Windstorm Network Fellows program. He received his license in 2005, and is licensed to practice in several states.

Windstorm Insurance Network, Inc. is the first educational member association devoted solely to dealing with windstorm insurance claims issues.

Shelly White, Business `00, was

promoted to senior account executive at ThermoFisher Scientific. White has been with the company for 14 years, and is also a USF Alumni Association Life Member.

10s

Mugdha Kadam, Management Infor-

Mariana Abuaita, Business `12, was hired as a

tax intern at CBIZ MHM of Tampa Bay, LLC.

Justin Agius, Business `13, was hired as a tax intern at CBIZ MHM of Tampa Bay, LLC.

Mariela Benitez, Psychology `12, was hired as

an employment specialist at The Diversity Initiative, Inc., a nonprofit government contractor providing employment services for the State of Florida.

Jessica Bohan, MPH `11, was honored by the

Board of Certified Safety Professionals (BCSP) by having a national scholarship named for her. The 2014 BCSP Jessica Bohan Technician, Technologist and Supervisory Scholarship was awarded in April 2014 to a college student majoring in occupational safety, health and environment.

Meghan Campbell, Business `10, was hired as a designer at Baker Barrios Architects in Tampa.

Renee Campbell, Business `12, was hired as a tax intern at CBIZ MHM of Tampa Bay, LLC. Elisabeth Fontugne, M.A. Library and Information Sciences `12, was honored with two awards for excellence in writing. She won the Mollie and Paul Hill Student Writing Competition in Medical-Legal Interprofessional Collaboration, which recognizes outstanding original papers submitted by law or medical students. She took second place in the American College of Legal Medicine Student Writing Competition in Law, Medicine and Bioethics.

Fontugne is a third-year student in Stetson University College of Law’s part-time program.

Paola Gonzalez, Anthropology and

Health Sciences `12, was awarded a Fulbright research grant to travel to Brazil to conduct research on water recycling at the University of Brasilia that will later be used toward a Master’s degree in Applied Anthropology.

Kevin Gordon, Ed.D. `11, was fea-

tured in the February/March edition of

Power Broker Magazine. Dr. Gordon is

the provost at St. Petersburg College, where he is working to strengthen relations between the college and the community. He is also chairman of the Urban League’s Education Advisory Council and a key leader in the city’s 2020 Plan Taskforce.

Lindsey Howe, Mass Communications `10, was

hired as marketing coordinator at Marketing in Color, a full-service marketing and branding firm in Tampa.

mation Systems `13, beat out more than 5,600 competitors in the 2013 IBM Master the Mainframe Contest, earning a spot in the contest’s world championship.

Heisy Kamsler, Business `13, was hired as a tax

intern at CBIZ MHM of Tampa Bay, LLC.

Taylor Katcher, Mass Communications `13, was appointed communications coordinator at David Connor + Associates, a planning, architecture and design firm in Tampa

Stephanie Kolar, Ph.D. `13, was

chosen to participate in the Presidential Management Fellows (PMF) program’s rigorous two-year paid fellowship.

Kolar is one of 609 individuals selected as a 2014 PMF finalist, and is currently conducting research on tobacco cessation and weight management as a postdoctoral fellow at the University of Miami.

Matthew Miller, Environmental Science & Policy `13, was hired as an environmental scientist at Dewberry, in the firm’s Orlando office. Miller is responsible for wetland and threatened/ endangered species surveying and permitting, water resource coordination and permitting and other public projects.

Cheri Mitchell, MPH `11, is project director for

FindMyClass. The app helps students locate their classes on campus. It’s currently available in 10 schools throughout Florida and the team plans to expand it to more campuses in the future.

Bryant Smith, MPH `12, is a research assistant at the Brown University School of Public Health in Providence. He is assigned to the Systematic Review Data Repository team in the Center for Evidence-based Medicine.

Second Lt. Devan Smith, History `13, graduated from U.S. Army Officer Candidate School in October 2013, at Fort Benning, GA. He began Army Artillery Officer School in January at Fort Sill, OK. Keiland Smith, Biomedical Sciences `13, was

accepted into the Parker University Doctor of Chiropractic program.

Wayne Stewart, Psychology `11, was appointed

as senior project manager at Tri-City Electrical Contractors, Inc. in Tampa.

Amber Stickel, Mass Communications `13, was hired as a front-end developer at Social Forces, a digital advertising agency in Tampa.

Lauren Tice, Communication `11, was promoted to director at The Regent, an event venue in Tampa.

Michael Trimm, Information Studies `13, was

accepted to the Master of Science program in Computer Information Systems at Boston University for the fall 2014 semester.

the Small Communities Transformation Grant. She is charged with promoting healthy living in the community, including tobacco-free living, healthy eating and reducing the occurrence of chronic disease in the county.

Second Lt. Robert Wright, Political Science `13,

Lisa (Noury) Murphy, Mass Communications `12,

Rachel Young, M.A. Criminal Justice Administra-

has joined Moffitt Cancer Center in Tampa as an internal communications specialist.

Modupe Osinubi, MPH `13, has been

chosen to participate in the Presidential Management Fellows (PMF) program’s rigorous two-year paid fellowship.

Osinubi is one of 609 individuals selected as a 2014 PMF finalist and is presently an Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education/Oak Ridge Associated Universities fellow with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta.

Andrea Reyes, Finance `12, was promoted to the position of private risk management relationship manager at Baldwin Krystyn Sherman Partners in Tampa.

Michael Schmidt, Mechanical Engineering `11, and his brother Ryan, a current USF student in the College of Engineering, created an app called

graduated from Officer Candidate School in December at Fort Benning, GA. tion `13, was hired as an enhanced drug court case manager for Sarasota County. Young received her degree from the USF Sarasota-Manatee campus, and completed extensive research on adult and juvenile drug courts during her time there.

In Memoriam Lisa Parker Bryson, `84 & M.A. `96, April 29, 2014 Ronald E. Cotterill, `73, March 9, 2014 Patricia Jane Emnett Crumbley, `74 & M.A. `76, May 29, 2014 Laurence Spencer Hall, `08, April 29, 2014 Marta Saavedra Licata, M.A. `82, May 3, 2014 Andrew Massari, `71, April 11, 2014 Richard W. Miles, `98, May 20, 2014 Craig Speziale, `84, April 19, 2014 Dr. Ray Wunderlich Jr., `91, M.A. `97 & Ph.D. `02, May 1, 2014 SUMMER 2014 | ALUMNIVOICE

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athletics

Q&A with the New A.D. USF Director of Athletics Mark Harlan talks with USF Alumni Association Executive Director Bill McCausland

Bill McCausland: Welcome to the University of South Florida. What has been your most pleasant surprise since joining USF? Mark Harlan: What’s been particularly gratifying for me are the people who I’ve met. Starting with all the folks in the Athletics Department, the studentathletes, coaches, the staff, they’ve all been so welcoming. President Genshaft and her leadership and her enthusiasm – it’s infectious to be around. The support for intercollegiate athletics and the programs here and how everyone wants to win and everybody wants to pull together is very gratifying and it makes me feel very excited about the future.

The Bulls faithful are very excited about your first hire, Head Basketball Coach Orlando Antiqua. What made you think he is the right guy?

You know, there are just some people who walk in a room and are just right. He owned it.

There were a lot of people interested in the job but he nailed it and he has been absolutely terrific. His staff is now completed. He’s building up the roster.

He’s really bringing in a sense of accountability to the program. He comes from a winning pedigree – honestly, straight from the final four to Tampa and I think that brings with it a lot of credibility.

USF Athletics’ brand is an important part of this institution. How do you build the brand?

I think the brand of the university as a whole is very important for all units and departments, whether in the business school, Alumni Association or Athletics. We’re all pushing this incredible university forward. Of course Athletics, in many ways, is the front porch of this university. Winning is a big part of it, and we will never shy from that, but so is the character of the students who are representing us. In meeting with our young people and our leadership so far, there is a lot of richness to this Athletics Department that we should be proud of.

So what does USF Athletics look like in 10 years?

We’re going to have a bigger trophy room, I can promise you that! I joke, but all the ingredients are here. We have proven we can recruit tremendous student-athletes and when you combine that with a coaching staff that believes in winning and in doing things the right way, that will lead to championships.

I know that in 10 years we will have a lot of celebrating to do.

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I look forward to that. Can you expand a little bit about your thoughts on the American Athletic Conference?

I think this conference had a tremendous first year. The American Athletic Conference is obviously changing with new members joining us which will add to the overall value. Our conference partner in Connecticut winning two national championships – that is a real signal of tremendous strength. We also saw a school in our conference win a BCS game this year. As a whole, it was one of the most successful conference performances in the country this year so one has to take pause and look at that. My whole feeling on this is that this is the conference we are in and we are going to go about winning every time we take the field/courts, etc. If there is some type of realignment in the future, we need to be on the forefront for what is best for this university. That said, I believe the American Athletic Conference has incredible opportunities ahead and I look forward to being a part of it.

What can alumni, students, season ticket holders, or anyone who attends a USF football game in the fall expect to see on the field?

There are two things I would like to address when we talk about this coming fall. One is the product itself and the young people who are, as we sit and do this interview, out on the fields running, working out, getting stronger. I think you’re going to see a football team that is much improved over year one. Coach Taggart has got a real vision. He and I have had an opportunity to sit down on multiple occasions and talk about his vision and about the things he needs. When a new coach comes in, you begin to see in year two the fruits of that labor; that’s his team now and they know his expectations. Accountability has entered the program in a big way and the guys are responding. Sixty-eight guys have made personal bests in the weight room. That’s off the charts. I think people are really going to be excited.

The second thing is that I and the external team are really focused on working with university Chief Marketing Officer Tom Hoof and his staff on the game day experience at Raymond James Stadium.

I’ve heard from some of our fans that we have a lot of work to do there. We have to make it more fun and want to give our team a true home field advantage. We want to turn it into a snake pit out there and make it so that when the other team has the ball on third down, we’re so loud, they jump. We need to get people involved and we need to do that now.

Mark Harlan , left, Bill McCausland right We are examining every piece of the football game day experience and look forward to coming out in the fall and showing people some different things that will surprise them.

Besides football and basketball, what other USF sport teams deserve the fans attention?

Well, I’d say all of them, right? We have teams – like tennis and golf – that are not only winning in this conference but moving on in national tournaments. Obviously our men’s soccer team winning the American this fall and advancing to the NCAA tournament, it shows that for our teams, post season is what we do. The DNA is there. My job along with many others is to make sure the rest of the teams get there, continuously. It cannot be acceptable for the Bulls not to be in the post season. Look how far this university has come. Mediocrity is not accepted here.

I’ll do some word association. I’m going to say a word or two and you tell me what immediately pops in your mind:

and son Austin. My kids are both in elementary school and whether it’s going to gymnastics with my daughter or shooting baskets with my son, that’s my passion. What’s great about working in a collegiate environment is that a campus is such a great place to share with your family. When I’m not doing the work, that’s what I’m doing.

Mark Harlan Stats

Is Austin named after the city?

Just sounded like awesome names to us. Carolyn and I hadn’t been to either city at the time. We promised them both we will get them there at some point!

Previous Roles: Senior Associate Athletic Director for External Relations, UCLA

Well, Savannah and Austin are great names, and great cities. What book is on your nightstand; what are you reading?

Just actually finished Seth Davis’ book on Coach Wooden. Coming from UCLA, obviously Coach Wooden and his influences were profound on that department and on me personally. Seth is a great writer. It was a fabulous book; just finished it. Now I’m shopping for the next.

Coach Taggart: Passionate, visionary.

American Athletic Conference: Up and coming, champions.

Judy Genshaft: Leadership, partnership.

Rocky D. Bull: Celebrity.

USF Alumni Association: Partner, critical.

What do you like to do when you’re not working with USF Athletics?

Be with my family. If there is an extra minute in my day, it’s spent with my family. I’ve got a wonderful family, my wife Carolyn, daughter Savannah

Age: 45 Alma Mater: University of Arizona, B.A. 1992 & M.Ed 1994

Senior Vice President for Central Development, University of Arizona Foundation Associate Athletic Director, San Jose State and Northern Colorado

I have not read the book. I’m familiar with Coach Wooden and what an amazing man he was and the impact he had on students.

He did have an amazing influence on that university, and frankly on the world. What’s amazing to me is that I find there’s a real familiarity to the values and the integrity of Lee Roy Selmon on this department here at USF. I walk by his portrait every day coming to work and there’s a similar value system here that he instilled. I had a chance to go to breakfast with his family recently and they are such awesome people. I told them I will do all I can to lead this program with his type of integrity, class and wisdom. ®

SUMMER 2014 | ALUMNIVOICE

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Pro Tip: For best results, set your camera or phone to its largest photo setting. When you email your photo, change your email settings so that it doesn’t reduce the size of your photo.

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All prices listed are per person based on double occupancy. Single occupancy is available on a limited basis for an additional fee, which varies by trip.

R

ocky loves to travel – just like you – but sometimes there’s just not enough room in your suitcase to bring along your plush Rocky doll. That’s where Flat Rocky comes in. Cut him out and take him along. He takes up hardly any room and he’s easy to carry with you, whether you’re strolling the Champs Elysées, hiking the Appalachian Trail or taking in a show on Broadway.

The “Where’s Rocky?” section of Alumni Voice devoted to tracking our member’s adventures is one of this magazine’s most popular features. (See pages 8-10.) Throughout the year, a steady stream of “Where’s Rocky?” photos are emailed and mailed to us from your fellow USF alumni who are exploring the world. Our favorite photos show alumni exploring exotic locales, reuniting with fellow Bulls during special occasions or conquering an exciting new challenge – Skydiving, anyone?

– all with Rocky in tow. With the introduction of Flat Rocky, now it’s easier than ever to submit your photos for publication. Of course, you can still bring along your plush Rocky doll, if you prefer. The USF Bookstore now has plush Rocky dolls available online at www.sftampa.bncollege.com under the Gifts & Accessories > School Spirit Accessories tabs.

What’s even more fun than traveling with Rocky is traveling with your fellow alumni in the Bull Explorers travel program. Your USF Alumni Association brings together alumni and friends for once-in-a-lifetime adventures stateside and abroad. Each group tour is designed to enrich the educational, cultural and intellectual experiences of our travelers. We make travel easy, with carefully planned trips that offer first-class accommodations at an exceptional value. Please look over the schedule of upcoming trips and visit our website at www.

USFalumni.org/BullExplorers for more information.

So get out there and see the world with Rocky! Then send your photos to Karla Jackson at jacksonk@usf. edu or via U.S. Mail c/o USF Alumni Association, 4202 E. Fowler Ave., ALC100, Tampa, FL. 33620-5455.

Keep in mind, your photos can’t be returned. Bon Voyage!

2015 Bull Explorers Travel Schedule

Take Flat Rocky on Your Next Adventure

Emperors and Empires Cruise March 9-26, 2015 China, Japan, South Korea From $5,999, airfare included Explore ancient sites and intriguing cities in East Asia on this captivating voyage.

Antebellum South Mississippi River Cruise April 10-18, 2015 New Orleans to Memphis From $3,999, airfare additional Sail the Mississippi aboard the American Queen, the largest riverboat cruising America’s waters.

Pathway through Panama Cruise April 23-May 9, 2015 Key West, Columbia, Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Guatemala, Mexico From $2,999, airfare included Discover the pristine natural wonders of Central America and traverse the Panama Canal.

Classic Europe for New Graduates (USF Senior Trip) May 8-19, 2015 (extension returns May 25) London, Paris, Nice, Rome, with optional extension to S. Italy and Greece From $2,725, airfare additional A wonderful trip for new USF graduates to celebrate their achievement.

Flavors of Northern Italy May 2-10, 2015 Verona, Borghetto, Valpolicella, Lago di Garda, Sirmione, Italy and more From $3,995, airfare additional Relax in a family-owned oil- and wine-producing estate and visit vibrant farmer’s markets and picturesque vineyards.

Celtic Lands Cruise May 12-21, 2015 Scotland, Wales, Ireland, France From $5,695, airfare additional Featuring lecturer Dwight D. Eisenhower II, this five-star cruise visits cities, villages and islands that abound with living Celtic heritage.

Great Journey through Europe Cruise and Rail Tour June 12-24, 2015 The Netherlands, Germany, France, Switzerland From $3,995, airfare additional Cruise the beautiful Rhine River and spend two nights each in Lucerne and Zermatt, where you’ll ride aboard three legendary railways known for their breathtaking views.

Baltic Marvels Cruise August 13-21, 2015 Denmark, Germany, Lithuania, Latvia, Finland, Russia, Estonia, Sweden From $2,999, airfare included Experience Northern Europe’s eternal elegance and striking fusion of medieval and modern on this Baltic voyage.

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Make Your Flat Rocky To take Flat Rocky along when you travel, cut along the dotted lines (Be careful. Rocky’s ticklish!) You can laminate Flat Rocky to make him more durable and attach a craft or Popsicle stick so he’s easier to handle in your photos.

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Nate Collins, `10, took Flat Rocky to work with him at Yankees Stadium.

Nate is chair of the New York USF Alumni Chapter.

PERIODICALS

USF Alumni Association Gibbons Alumni Center University of South Florida 4202 E. Fowler Ave. ALC100 Tampa, FL. 33620-5455 Membership Renewal Date: