Connection Fall 2012

Connection Alu m ni & Friends Maga zi ne

FALL 2012

Lifechanging Business

The College of Business shapes destiny through alumni success find your classmates

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Return to campus

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$2.75 million legacy

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Connection Inside UWF President Dr. judith bense Vice President for University Advancement Dr. kyle marrero

3 PRESIDENT’S Q&A LETTER FROM THE VICE PRESIDENT

Assistant Vice President of Advancement Martha Lee Blodgett Executive Director, Development & Alumni Engagement Gretchen VanValkenburg Director, Alumni Relations missy grace Executive Director, Marketing and Creative Services sabrina mclaughlin Creative Director pola young Senior Graphic Designer jennifer morgan Writer sarah mccartan

Editorial Contributing Writers Martha Lee Blodgett, Kenda Hembrough, Sabrina McLaughlin, Megan Prawdzik & Gretchen VanValkenburg

Alumni Board of Directors Luke Van Blaricom, President (BS, ’00; MS, ’03) Orlando, Dave Langston, Vice President (BS, ’80) Milton, Ildi Hosman, Secretary (BS, ’99; MA, ’02) Pensacola, John Gormley, Treasurer (BSBA, ’98) Pensacola, Amy Bueno, Student Representative, Dr. Heidi Lannon, (MPA, ’86) Gainesville, Robert Lee, (BA, ’88) Powder Springs, GA, Brittany Miller, (BA, ’07) Pensacola, Tim Moore, (BA ’05) Pensacola, Paul Pratofiorito, (BA, ’81) Pensacola, Kismet Rideau, (BA, ’96; MEd, ’01; EdS, ’09) Pensacola, Becca Tieder, (BA, ’04) Tampa, Dr. Stacie Brown Whinnery, (MA, ’89; EdD, ’99) Milton, Jay Windham, (BS, ’01) Pensacola, Harriett Wyer, (BS, ’92) Tampa, Caroline Hartnett, (BSBA, ’93) Pensacola

Contact Us Web alumni.uwf.edu Email alumni@uwf.edu Phone 800.226.1893 Mail UWF Alumni Association, 11000 University Pkwy., Building 12, Pensacola, FL 32514

To Give Online uwf.edu/give Direct Kenda Hembrough at 850.857.6112 or khembrough@uwf.edu The UWF Connection is published semi-annually by the Alumni Relations department with the assistance of Marketing & Creative Services. The purpose of Connection is to communicate and engage with UWF alumni, donors, friends and others interested in the activities of UWF.

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Fall 2012 UNIVERSIT Y of WE ST FLOR IDA

ENGAGEMENT

4 NEWS AND NOTES 6 COMMUNITY 7 ATHLETICS

AFFINITY

13 CLASS NOTES 1 6 CALENDAR 18 SNAPSHOTS 20 LEGACIES

GENEROSITY

21 SCHOLARSHIPS 22 WAYS TO GIVE

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COVER STORY Step inside the

new College of Business Education Center for a look at where success begins and has taken our alumni.

On The Cover

College of Business Dean Ed Ranelli stands proudly in the new Education Center atrium.

President’s Q&A The University of West Florida is widely recognized for providing a quality education, offering small classes instructed by a world-class faculty. As a university, we have experienced phenomenal growth in recent years. A driving force behind this growth is the amazing student life experience our campus offers and will continue to expand. One of our goals is to create conversations and opportunities for our alumni to remain engaged and participate in this exciting time.

We sat down with UWF President Judy Bense to discuss the university’s growth and the impact of our alumni on the future of our institution.

What is UWF doing to build traditions and enhance student life experiences? Whether it was volunteering for a community service activity, working on a class project, attending a campus activity or athletic event, these are the types of memories alumni often share with me. The traditions and relationships you established as a student with your fellow classmates, faculty members and staff are the ones I am sure you still cherish the most as alumni.

Our desire is to offer you more and more reasons to return home to your alma mater. We are building new state-of-the-art facilities, such as the premier College of Business Education Center and new residence halls. We hope that events, such as Homecoming, will encourage you to come back to campus and experience our growth and plans for the future.

How is UWF’s active role in the local community increasingly benefitting our alumni? One of the key components of the university’s mission, as outlined in our strategic plan, is to advance the economic and quality of life in the region through partnerships with the citizens, businesses, organizations and the communities we serve.

As alumni, you are among our most valued partners. You have the potential to provide learning opportunities for our next generation of leaders by offering internships, co-ops and capstone experiences to our current students. In addition, by continuing to provide feedback on our academic programs you afford us the ability to keep our curriculum relevant and attractive to potential students you may want to hire one day.

Letter from the Vice President Dear Friends, First and foremost, thank you to all the alumni who completed our comprehensive survey. The information garnered on how you, our alumni, are doing, your perceptions of UWF and how you would like to be engaged is of vital importance to us.

So, how is your university doing? This fall we will welcome the largest freshman class in the history of the University of West Florida. Your university is growing, expanding in numbers, quality, reputation and new facilities. We are now on the Forbes list of Top Colleges, Princeton Review Best Colleges in the Southeast and U.S. News and World Reports Top Online Education Programs.

As we approach our 50th anniversary in 2017, it is critical that you, our alumni, engage with us. We want you to visit the campus and attend alumni and athletic events in support of your alma mater. UWF is growing and we have a clear picture of who we want to be in 2017. We need you to become our Argonaut army—telling our story, being our advocates and supporting our initiatives.

It’s time for you to help us reach our full potential!

Sincerely,

As UWF graduates more and more alumni, how would you like to see the nature and level of their involvement with the university continue to increase and evolve? As UWF plans to celebrate its 50th anniversary in 2017, your involvement is more important than ever.

If you have not done so, I invite you to reconnect with UWF by reaching out to the Alumni Association. You can also refer a prospective student, hire a recent graduate, serve on one of our many campus advisory boards, attend an alumni or athletic event or make your annual gift. Above all, please know that your participation matters. You have a voice at UWF and we are listening!

Dr. Kyle Marrero Vice President University Advancement

U NI V E R S I TY o f W E ST F LO RIDA Fall 2012

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NE WS & NOTES

UWF Makes a Mark at Home and Around the World

BISTRO BLUE (left) UWF’s

first-ever restaurant-onwheels, opened this spring and is situated between Buildings 12 and 18.

Bill Evans (below) the Director of the School of Education, was awarded a Fulbright Scholarship for International Study in New Zealand.

By Sarah McCartan It’s no secret that our campus boasts a backdrop of natural beauty where our students, faculty and staff work, explore, study and play daily. Next time you step on campus, take note of the contributions Administrative Services has made to help us further enjoy our habitat and ensure it remains a beautiful one—one we are proud to call home.

On top of a wide array of landscape beautification efforts, Bistro Blue, our new and first-ever restauranton-wheels, opened this spring and is situated between Buildings 12 and 18. The accompanying deck structure not only accommodates patrons, it offers a permanent place to sit back and relax outdoors when the food truck is traveling. More nearby outdoor seating will be coming soon thanks to the addition of a Greek style gazebo to be located between Bistro Blue and Building 12, with a walkway connecting to the sidewalk. A winding walk will also be installed between the service roads connecting the College of Business (COB) to the walk at Science and Engineering. Along this walk will be two Greek style trellises.

Not only does UWF strive to preserve and enhance our natural beauty, we also strive to increase our green ecofriendly initiatives. This year marked the second consecutive year UWF has been recognized as a Green College by the Princeton Review.

Community Impact

Throughout the community all three colleges are making an impact—from providing engaging learning activities for students at an early age, to seeking partnerships that further our current students’ employability upon graduation.

College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) Professor Dr. William Bennett is currently involved in a recurring summer biology camp for kids. This is an outstanding community outreach activity and opportunity to peak local interest in studying marine science.

College of Professional Studies (COPS) Dean Pamela Northrup served as team leader for curriculum development at the National Flight Academy (NFA), which hosted its grand opening in May. The NFA provides middle- and high-school students an opportunity to board the replica ship “Ambition” and participate in a multi-day adventure designed to teach STEM skills in a fun way.

COB Dean Ed Ranelli is pleased to be launching an Executive Mentoring Program this fall that will match students with area professionals, furthering both community involvement and economic development in the region.

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International Influence

UWF understands that obtaining global perspective is inherently valuable to success. On top of partnering with institutions around the world to offer numerous exchange opportunities for students, our professors take full advantage of leading students on immersion trips abroad.

CAS history professor Patrick Moore took one of his history travel classes on the road this summer, retracing the footsteps of Lewis and Clark through 19 states and nearly 6,620 miles. Also this summer, theater students spent time in Germany working on both acting and technical capacities. Meanwhile back on campus, UWF welcomed criminal justice students from Scotland as they learned about the United States’ criminal justice system, culture and politics.

UWF faculty members also take hold of opportunities to explore and expand their own knowledge abroad and bring this knowledge back to share with their students. Bill Evans, Director of the School of Education, was awarded a Fulbright Scholarship for International Study in New Zealand during the spring semester. This summer, COPS faculty members Dr. Charlotte Boling, Dr. Wanda Wade, and Drs. Keith and Stacie Whinnery traveled to Italy and Switzerland, participating in a Designing Study Abroad course to create a framework for new, immersive learning experiences for COPS students.

For university-wide news, visit news.uwf.edu. To receive more information on your college’s latest happenings, visit us online!

► College of Arts & Sciences uwf.edu/cas ► College of Professional Studies uwf.edu/cops ► College of Business uwf.edu/cob

Where in the world are our alumni?

More than 60,000 UWF alumni represent all 50 states and 55 countries.

AK 80 WA 421 MT 41

NH 81 VT 19

ND 15

MN 149

OR 174

WI 115

SD 37

ID 73 WY 33

CO 499

IN OH 424 180 WV 69 VA 1,488 MO 268 KY 196 NC 1,100 TN 790 SC 465 AR 164 GA MS AL 2,396 402 2,606

KS 107

HI 107

OK 159

AZ 353

NM 212 TX 1987

Australia

Austria

Cyprus

Bahamas

Czech Republic

Belize

Egypt

Botswana

England

Brazil

France

China

Canada

Germany

Greece

Columbia

Guam

Costa Rica

Guatemala

Curacao

Iceland

India

Iran

Ireland

New Zealand

Israel

Norway

Italy

Pakistan

Japan

PA 361

IL 378

UT 88 CA 1,402

NY 390

MI 232

IA 74

NE 67

NV 152

ME 61

Panama

Korea

Peru

Malaysia

Philippines

Mexico

Portugal

RI 49 CT 120 NJ 242 DE 34 MD 570 DC 79

FL 39,943

LA 539

Kenya

MA 195

Netherlands

Puerto Rico

Netherlands Antilles

Qatar

Singapore

Saudi Arabia

Serbia

South Africa

Taiwan

Spain

Thailand

Sri Lanka

United Arab Emirates

Trinidad & Tobago

Turkey

Our Alumni are Talking. We are Listening.

Stay Connected.

This spring more than 1,100 alumni took the time to share valuable feedback on participation in alumni events, campus activities, interest in future programs and even their experiences as UWF students. The alumni association is using these results to inform the university on how to best meet the needs of alumni and shape new alumni programs that will offer creative engagement opportunities, build affinity among alumni and share the impact that alumni generosity makes on students’ lives.

UWF CONNECT, our new online

What You Told Us

Participation is rewarded!

Congratulations to Bryan Quattrone (MEd ’97) of San Diego, Calif., winner of an Apple iPAD for being one of the new registrants in the UWF CONNECT online community.

73% of UWF alumni are very satisfied with their experience at UWF. 93% of alumni reported are glad they chose to attend UWF and 80% reported that they would attend the college again if given the opportunity.

75% of UWF alumni recommend the college to family or friends.

65% of alumni feel that they could not have obtained their current

Venezuela

Zimbabwe

community, offers you an easy way to update and share your news, find your classmates and select the types of emails you wish to receive. If you haven’t already completed a profile, visit connect.uwf.edu today!

job without their UWF degree.

73% of alumni read UWF Connection. 95% find it useful.

45.3% of alumni use Facebook as their primary social media site.

UWFAlumni

U NI V E R S I TY o f W E ST F LO RIDA Fall 2012

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COMMUNITY

Af·fin·i·ty for Students

By Gretchen VanValkenburg

PEN AIR Federal Credit Union provides annual support to

the alumni association and UWF athletic programs. As the recipient of the 2012 Friend of the University Alumni Award, Pen Air remains a valuable partner in achieving the mission of the university and the alumni association.

Student ambassadors with Mark Gangloff, Gold medalist

Olympic swimmer, CASE ASAP Conference in Auburn University, Auburn, AL February 16-19, 2012.

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he word “affinity” is defined as a natural liking for or identification alumni associations, including UWF, were dropped and the revenue with somebody or something. For more than 13 years, the alumni stream for this important program was jeopardized. board of directors has been showing its affinity for students, awardBut alumni board members valued the opportunity to connect with ing more than $130,000 in grants. Hundreds of recipients have taken current students and established a new partnership with Pen Air Federal international trips related to their degree, implemented special projects, Credit Union to offer alumni, faculty, students and UWF supporters a attended professional conferences and participated in activities that benefit VISA credit card. communities in need, such as Alternative Spring Break.

“This program provides both students and Kelsey Haupt, a member of the Student Amfaculty with educational experiences outside of “It has been rewarding bassador program, was among a group of students the classroom and positively impacts their UWF to be a part of the awarded funds to travel to the Spring 2012 Assoexperience. As a board, it was important for us to ciation of Student Alumni Professionals (ASAP) program over the years have a program that connected us to the needs of regional conference hosted by Auburn University. students and faculty. It has been rewarding to be and see the impact it has Conference topics included recruiting and social a part of the program over the years and see the events, as well as how to make major contributions had on the university” impact it has had on the university,” said Luke to the university and establish a strong Ambassador — Luke van Blaricom, Alumni van Blaricom, current association president and program. Students returned to campus with new Association President a long-standing member of the grant committee. ideas and plenty of excitement.

The card features the same low rates and “Going to the conference gives you fuel for the competitive benefits as existing Pen Air credit cards with an additionfire. When you return you have so many new ideas and newfound passion al perk—each time the cardholder makes a purchase a percentage of for the program you are a part of. It makes you want to work as hard as you transaction income earned is donated to the University of West Florida can to be the best you can be,” said Haupt.

Initial funding for this program was provided through a Bank of AmerAlumni Association and alumni grant programs. For more information, ica credit card program. Due to banking industry challenges, numerous visit uwf.edu/alumni/Benefits/PenAir.cfm.

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ATH LETICS

Star Athletes Champion Argos shine both on and off the court

Anna Stoecklein

By Sarah McCartan

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rgonaut Athletics prides itself on building champions for life. While this is evident through an impressive and increasing number of wins, the true success of the program is attributed to the dedication of the coaches and showcased through powerful performances of scholar student-athletes, both on and off the court. This year, two graduating seniors were recognized across all sports in the Gulf South Conference (GSC) as part of the Top Ten list for their outstanding athletic, academic and extracurricular achievements.

Anna Stoecklein

Anna Stoecklein graduated from the University of West Florida as one of the top players in Argonaut history, making a lasting mark on her volleyball family as well as the athletic program. She led the Argos to two straight GSC championships, as well as a pair of NCAA South Regional Tournaments.

On top of captaining the team’s defense and receiving numerous honors during her senior season for her efforts on the court, Stoecklein graduated from the rigorous nursing program with a 3.47 GPA, found time for volunteering, served as a teaching assistant for microbiology and worked as the recording secretary for the UWF Chapter of Gamma Phi Beta.

“Anna gave everything she had to our volleyball program on the court, but I am most proud of everything Anna gave off the court and what she will give to the medical field,” shared head volleyball coach Melissa Wolter.

“I can’t imagine a better person to go into the field of nursing.”

Sean Gunnels

Throughout his four years of contributing to the growth of the nationally successful UWF men’s tennis team, Sean Gunnels not only made a valuable impact on his teammates but also on the entire campus community.

Along with chairing the GSC advisory com-

Sean Gunnels

mittee, he served on various committees across campus, earning him the Kenneth L. Curtis Award for his leadership and service contributions to campus life. Gunnels graduated with a 3.59 GPA, earning a degree in pre-professional biology. He will be attending the University of South Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) Dental School from 2012-2016.

“Sean has been instrumental in our team’s success,” said head tennis coach Derrick Racine. “He was able to come in and be an impact player from his freshman to senior year.”

Season Recap

The Argos swept the 2011-2012 GSC men’s and women’s all-sports trophies this year, adding to their lengthy list of accomplishments.

UWF took home both trophies for the second time in six years.

West Florida claimed its GSC-record seventh consecutive women’s all-sports trophy, continuing the longest consecutive streak by any school in men’s or women’s all-sports trophy history. The Argos also celebrated their 10th overall trophy, thanks to conference championships in cross country, volleyball, golf and tennis.

The sweep was locked in by the first men’s all-sports trophy since 2006-07 and fourth overall honor. UWF claimed the men’s tennis championship title and came in second in cross-country, soccer and golf.

For a complete look at the Argo’s run of success, along with upcoming Fall events, check out Goargos.com.

“The nursing program was excellent and definitely prepared me for my current RN position. I made memories that I will never forget and met people I will be friends with for the rest of my life. I am proud to say I am an alumni of UWF!” — Anna Stocklein, Nursing ’12

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life-changing business The college of business shapes destiny through alumni success

By Sarah mccartan

U NI V E R S I TY o f W E ST F LO R IDA Fall 2012

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Among the new College of Business

Education Center’s features you will find the Merrill Lynch stock market ticker tape.

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tep through the doors of the College of Business’ new home and prepare to find yourself instantly inspired by the sleek lines of this modern, three story, state-of-the-art facility. The iconic atrium, innovative high-tech classrooms and corporate meeting areas are visual representations of the reputation the college continues to build upon. Yet beyond the architecture, bricks and mortar of this impressive structure lies the foundation of the college and the heart of its success—its alumni.

“The building is beautiful and it’s a great venue. But it’s not about the building. The real message and story here is about the affirmations and accomplishments of our graduates,” explained College of Business Dean Ed Ranelli.

“We’ve got 14,000 alumni, around 50 percent of whom live in Northwest Florida. These graduates are advancing their careers, growing businesses, raising families and volunteering.

Through them we are shaping the destiny of the communities they serve.”

True, the Education Center certainly provides an enhanced outlet to further support the college’s mission—preparing students for successful careers and lives while instilling an increased sense of pride in education. It also en10

Fall 2012 UNIVERSIT Y of WE ST FLOR IDA

ables the college to fully carry out the vision of the legendary founding chair of the Accounting and Finance department, Dr. Tom Committe.

“In 1967, Tom Committe wanted this to be a premier program,” said UWF President Judy Bense. “Now we are putting our money where our mouths are.”

In a recent interview Committe shared his firm belief that the most important business the college could possibly be in is the “business of changing lives.” This attitude that Committe adopted soon after the college’s formation quickly set the bar high, and continues to act as a driving force on the success of today’s alumni.

Ranelli likens building a university and a college to building a cathedral, as it takes the work

of many craftsmen and artisans and is a labor of love for decades. Above all, Ranelli attributes the success of the program to the background, experience and commitment of dedicated faculty members who actively promote engaging learning opportunities.

“How do our students score in the top 20 percent of all colleges of business at 300 colleges nationally? The answer to that is the small class sizes,” Ranelli explained. “We can do things here that you can’t do at the mega universities. It is also what makes UWF special—that engagement, that interaction between students, faculty and staff.”

Not only does this make the university special, it is highly conducive to promoting successful futures and shaping destiny.

College of Business alumni are not only shaping the destiny of Northwest Florida but of communities worldwide. Graduates have landed successful careers as CEOs, CFOs, managing partners and executives from Florida to California to New York, Paris and beyond.

Across the many success stories, there is one resounding constant—alumni attributing who they are, what they do and what they are accomplishing to the education they received at UWF.

Remembering Dr. Thomas Committe Founding chair of the Accounting and Finance department, Dr. Thomas Committe passed away on July 16, 2012, at the age of 89. The University of West Florida community wishes to express our sincere condolences to the family of Dr. Committe. His legacy has impacted our institution, our faculty and our alumni in such profound ways, and for that we are eternally grateful.

SUCCESS STORIES Alumni John and James Hosman are successful business and community leaders in Pensacola as well as the state of Florida, while keeping close relationships with the university, college and fellow alumni.

John Hosman (B.S.B.A. Marketing, ’00; MBA ’02) is COO of FS Advisors Inc. and James Hosman (B.S.B.A. Marketing ’99; MBA ’01) is Vice President and Business Development Officer at Florida First Capital Finance Corporation.

This brotherly team’s early accomplishments as young alumni include founding Pensacola Young Professionals and creating Collegefrog.com, a website that matches students with prospective employers. The two credit the impact they have had on the local community and their success as businessmen to the early opportunities they had at UWF. On top of stressing academics, they appreciate the college’s push for students to get out and get involved, both on campus and in the community—a push that changed not only their career paths, but also their lives.

“From a student perspective, the College of Business allowed me to get more active in the community earlier than had I been somewhere else. Post graduation it has allowed me to meet other College of Business alumni and network,” said James Hosman. “It’s a strong network, and we all look out for each other.”

The Hosmans recognize and readily affirm that being involved at a smaller school is, quite frankly, easier than at a larger institution, a fact the college prides itself on. Early in their collegiate careers, this enabled the brothers to forge invaluable connections with alumni and community mentors, including local business leader Mort O’Sullivan (B.A. Accounting ’73), Managing Partner at Warren Averett O’Sullivan Creel. Not only has O’Sullivan made a substantial impact on the college and the community, he

continues to inspire young alumni to follow suit.

“If I was talking to young Mort O’Sullivan coming out of the program I would tell him to be true to yourself. Speak your mind. Make sure you share your thoughts. Always seek honesty in everything you do. But above all, understand that progress in this career takes hard work.”

Harriett Wyer (B.S. Marketing, ’92), Specialty Sales Representative at Leo Pharmaceuticals, Tampa, Fla., has served on the UWF Alumni Board of Directors since 2008. Although she now resides in the Tampa area she firmly believes that the college and its graduates will continue to impact Northwest Florida.

“With all of the excitement surrounding the Pensacola community and ongoing job growth, UWF will continue to be an asset for businesses in the region.”

Much like the Hosmans, Wyer attributes her own success to UWF’s College of Business.

“When I began my education at UWF, I was not sure which route to take. The professors within the College of Business were hands-on and interactive, which led me to majoring in marketing.”

For local alumna Caroline Hartnett (B.S.B.A. Finance ’93), Senior Credit Officer and Senior Vice President of Beach Community Bank, the most outstanding quality surrounding UWF and the College of Business is the interactive environment fostered across campus and specifically within the college that, above all, allowed her to position herself for success.

“I found my voice to express myself within the smaller class sizes. I learned to ask for help when needed from my professors, who maintained an easy accessibility. While other university graduates were trying to catch up, I began well ahead of the pack, prepared with all the tools and skills required to succeed.”

Harnett returns to campus yearly to share her real life experiences with current students.

“With all of the excitement surrounding the Pensacola community and ongoing job growth, UWF will continue to be an asset for businesses in the region.” — Harriett Wyer, B.S. Marketing, ’92

COB Professor Dr. Bob

The Future of Success And the success continues. Ranelli seeks to cultivate further success among young alumni as well as current students. An Executive Mentoring Program rolling out this fall will recruit mentors from the business community to work directly with top students, offering working knowledge and workplace experience. This model program aims to better prepare students to write their own exciting stories of success, while supporting a major thrust of the College of Business—bridging the gap between academia and the real work world.

“It’s not enough for us to say getting jobs is going to be tough,” said Ranelli, who is the first to admit that a degree plus $25,000 in debt and no job does not compute. “We have to do

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something about it. We need to give the next generation a leg up on their careers.”

Conversations have also begun on crafting courses based on what CEOs are looking for to ensure that UWF students are fully prepared for jobs directly upon graduation.

Still, the opportunities do not stop there.

Last year the college identified 150 students with 3.0 GPAs and above who had financial needs—and provided them with around $150,000 in scholarships.

Ultimately, the continued success of our current alumni and the future success of generations to come support a single resonating truth: Our education defines not only our future—it defines who we are.

“If it hasn’t for you yet, one day it will,” said Ranelli.

Kimball brings real world experience to his classes.

“It’s not enough for us to say getting jobs is going to be tough. We have to do something about it.”

— Dean Ed Ranelli

Moving On Up Class Notes Fall 2012

► ’69, ’94 & ’97 Tim Sutton, BS Cell & Molecular Biology, Master Educational Leadership & Specialist in EducationCurriculum & Instruction; ’69 Karen Sutton, BS Physical Education. Since retiring in 2011, the Suttons have been traveling the world. One of their recent adventures was to the Canadian Rockies, where they showed Sutton their Argo pride.

CLASS NOTES to lead the Greensboro North Carolina Corps of the Salvation Army. Celebrating their 30th year of service as Salvation Army officers, they oversee the operations of the Greensboro Corps and the many programs offered to the community.

of Farragut Primary School in Tennessee.

Byrd, who has been assistant principal at Farragut since 2009, started with Knox County Schools in 2002 as a kindergarten teacher. She will take over her new role for the 2012-2013 school year.

► ’81 Dr. Kevin J. Callahan, BA Special Education, was named the executive director of the University of North Texas Autism Center. The center is known for its excellence in autism research, training and direct services.

► ’91 & ’03 Lida Munz, MBA & EDd Curriculum Instruction, is featured in “Military Fly Moms,” a collection of 71 stories Munz by women who were or are military aviators and also mothers. Munz was a UH-1N Huey pilot. She commanded the 404th Air Expeditionary Group in the United States Africa Command, and her husband, Larry, is vice commander of the 27th Special Operations Wing. Currently assigned to the Air Force Special Operations Command, the Munzes live in Fort Walton Beach with their four children.

► ’81 Veronique “Vikki” A. Spruill, MA Communication Arts, has been named the new president and CEO of The Council on Foundations. Spruill has been the president and CEO of Ocean Conservancy since 2006. She helped create FoundationWorks, an independent organization devoted to helping foundations enhance their philanthropic effectiveness. ►

► ’69 Laurence “Larry” D. Richards, MS

’82 Michael DeMaria, BA Philosophy and Psychology, received two Grammy nominations. A nomination for Best New Age Album was for his album “Gaia.” He also contributed a track to the album “All about Bullies… Big and Small,” which was nominated for Best Children’s Album.

► ’73 William “Bill” McGinnis, MPA, has been appointed by Gov. Jerry Brown to the California Educational Facilities Authority Board. McGinnis is on the ballot in November for his sixth four-year term as a trustee for the Butte-Glenn Community College District. He served as president of the board this year. McGinnis was also appointed to the board of directors of the Campaign for College Opportunity, a nonprofit focused on improving student access to higher education.

► ’84, ’85 D. R. Crisp, BS Systems Science & MS in Systems Analysis, has been named Bay Credit Union president and chief executive officer. Crisp is a veteran of 27 years in the financial industry. He has served on the Bay Credit Union board of directors for eight years, including several years as chairman.

Aeronautical Systems, has been appointed interim chancellor of Indiana University East. He has served as president of the American Society for Engineering Management and the American Society for Cybernetics.

► ’73 & ’76 Kenneth S. Forbes III, BS Management & MBA, has been appointed chief technology officer for Left Brain DGA. Forbes’ background in developing business analytics platforms will be instrumental in the company’s release of its proprietary dashboard-reporting tool. ► ’75 Thomas J. Wilkes Jr., MPA, has been included in the Florida Super Lawyers and Rising Stars list for 2012.

Wilkes is an attorney with the firm of GrayRobinson, P.A. ► ’76 Juliette Moore, MS Health, Leisure and Sports, was honored with the 2012 National Intramural-Recreational Sports Association Honor Award, the group’s most prestigious honor. NIRSA recognizes and celebrates one member for outstanding achievements in the field of collegiate recreation and exemplary service to the association. ► ’80 Donald L. Vick, BA Criminal Justice, and his wife, Daphne, have been appointed

► ’86 & ’88 Bob Doyle, BA Accounting & MA Accounting, accepted an appointment as a member of the Treasury Investment Committee for the Florida Division of Treasury. Doyle will provide guidance to the State Treasury and Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater on investment policies and strategies and performance of the Treasury Investment Pool. ► ’87 Ellen M. Peel, BA Political Science, has been appointed by President Barack Obama to a key Administration post.

Peel is the United States Commissioner, International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas. She is currently the president of The Billfish Foundation, a nonprofit sports-fishing conservation corporation. Peel has developed and implemented many marine conservation strategies. ► ’87 Angela Sheffield, BA Accounting, has been named vice president, general auditor and chief regulatory compliance officer for Georgia Transmission Corporation. ► ’89 Gina E. Byrd, BA Elementary Education, has been appointed principal

► ’91 & ’93 Mike Jeffcoat, BS Sports Science & MA Physical Education, was named the Florida Diamond Club Coach of the Year for leading the Argonauts to the NCAA Division II Title. The Florida Diamond Club, founded in 1972, consists of professional baseball scouts. The award goes to a coach chosen from a Florida high school or college. Jeffcoat was also honored with the Pensacola Sports Association’s most prestigious award, Sportsman of the Year. ► ’93 Jarl “J.T.” Young, MBA, director of strategic planning for Gulf Power Company, was elected chairman of the board of directors for Lakeview Center, Inc. Young serves on the Judicial Nominating Commission for Florida’s First Judicial Circuit and is a graduate of Leadership Pensacola and Leadership Florida. ► ’95 Ronald C. Bramhall, BA Criminal Justice, delivered the dedication speech at the grand opening of the Ennis Veterans Memorial in Ennis, Texas. Bramhall served as a member of the committee that raised funding for the memorial in two years.

Bramhall is a veteran U.S. Army Intelligence sergeant, serving from 1988-1994. ► ’95 Brian E. Stana, BA Accounting, a veteran accountant specializing in the insurance industry, has been named vice president and treasurer of BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee. Stana has more than a decade of experience in leadership roles with major accounting firms in Birmingham. He is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants. ► ’95 Capt. Frank Michael, USN, MPA, was the keynote speaker at Misericordia University’s annual convocation ceremony in Dallas, PA. Michael received his undergraduate degree from Misericordia and his MPA from UWF. U NI V E R S I TY o f W E ST F LO R I DA Fall 2012

13

CLASS NOTES

► ’96 Rachelle Selser, BS Environmental Restoration & Management, is the new executive director of Green Horizon Land Trust. The organization was created in 1991 to preserve environmentally valuable or sensitive lands and open space areas in and around the Central Florida Ridge. ► ’99 & ’00 Raymond Grant, BS Business Administration & MBA, works for USAID in Kyrgyzstan and manages the development budgets for American Assistance programs for the Kyrgyz Republic. After completing an assignment to Serbia, Grant completed six months of Russian training at the Foreign Service Institute to prepare for his current assignment. ► ’00 & ’03 Bridget M. Richard, BA & MA Communication Arts, has been hired by the Okaloosa County Supervisor of Elections as Voter Education and Public Relations coordinator. Richard joined the Supervisor of Elections office from Cox Communications, where she served as a television producer in Public Affairs for more than five years. ► ’01 Heather L. Sanderson, MS Sports Medicine, has accepted the position of North Carolina State associate director. ► ’01 Dr. Troy Allen Shoemaker, Specialist in Education, is the new president of Pensacola Christian College in Pensacola. For the past four years, Shoemaker has simultaneously served as chief administrator of the academy, vice president and dean of graduate studies and chief academic officer for the international A Beka Academy longdistance learning program. ► ’01 Jeffrey S. Pribble, MA English & Creative Writing, was one of five finalists for Florida Teacher of the Year. He was the first Escambia County teacher to be a finalist for the state award since 1995. ► ’02 Dustin Rennspies, BS Health, Leisure & Sports, is the new head coach of West Hall Spartan baseball. Rennspies was drafted by the Los Angeles Dodgers and played in the minor league systems of the Dodgers and Atlanta Braves.

five blood services regions covering seven southern states and Puerto Rico. In her role as communications manager, Phillips will lead communication and digital engagement efforts for the Southeast Division and provide Division guidance and representation on national initiatives. She previously served as communications program manager for the organization’s Southern Blood Services Region in Georgia.

► ’04 Michael Jones, MEd Curriculum and Instruction, married fellow alum ’10 Tara Baker, MBA, on Oct. 22, 2011. ► ’05 Elizabeth Adams, BA Communication Arts, was married to Eric Branch on Oct. 15, 2011. The couple resides in Gulf Breeze. ►

’05 Naomi Kirkland Norton, BS Health Education, has graduated from the College of Dentistry at the University Norton of Florida. Dr. Norton recently joined the dental practice of Fairfield Dental Center in Pensacola. She was featured in the new member spotlight article in the October issue of the Florida Dental Association publication.

► ’05 Caroline Martin Lentz, BA English, has recently been named the new Alachua County community director of The March of Dimes. Lentz previously worked in the Office of Student Life at the University Athletic Association. ► ’05, ’08 Jeffrey A. Djerlek, BS in Business Administration & Master of Accountancy, was named director of the UWF Foundation in January 2012.

Djerlek recently earned the designation of Certified Public Accountant. ► ’06 Dr. Harry F. Calisch III, BS Biology, recently completed all the requirements for a Doctor of Medicine degree from the University of South Alabama College of Medicine. Dr. Calisch took the Military Oath of Office and will serve with the United States Navy.

’02 Catherine Thornton Bond, BS Business Administration, has been promoted to senior manager with Brown Thornton Pacenta and Company, P.A. Bond is a member of Pensacola Young Professionals, AICPA and the Florida Institute of Certified Public Accountants.

► ’06 Anita Stewart, MBA, an accountant with Warren Averett O’Sullivan Creel, has received her Certified Public Accountant’s license from the State of Florida. She has worked in the Pensacola office for five years and is responsible for preparing federal tax returns and foreign tax reporting.

► ’03 April M. Phillips, BA Communication Arts, was promoted to communications manager for the American Red Cross Southeast Blood Services Division, which consists of

► ’06 Roberta Meduna, BS Health Education & Community Health, and her husband, David, welcomed their daughter Abigail, born Sept. 15, 2011. Abigail is a future Argo!

►

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Phillips

Fall 2012 UNIVERS IT Y of WE ST FLOR IDA

Meduna

► ’06 Scott M. Williams, BS Health, Leisure & Sports & Exercise Science, was awarded the Professional Football Athletic Trainers Society Ethnic Minority Scholarship to work preparing New England Patriots players for the upcoming NFL season. ► ’07 Brittany Ballard, BA Elementary Education, wed Darin Rex in Berea, Ky., on Dec. 17, 2011. The couple lives in Lewistown, Ky. ► ’07 Jayme Michelle Lentz, BA Chemistry, graduated from Campbell University on May 11 with a Master of Science in Clinical Research (Summa Cum Laude) and a Doctor of Pharmacy (Magna Cum Laude). ► ’07 & ’09 Jason Loeffler, BS Accounting & MA Accounting, earned the designation of Certified Public Accountant. Loeffler has been a part of Saltmarsh, Cleaveland & Gund since 2007. ► ’08 Lawrence J. Kuhn, BA Political Science & Pre-law, has joined the staff of Keller Williams Gulf Coast Realty. Kuhn is a member of Big Brother Big Sister of Northwest Florida, the Pensacola Association of Realtors and the City of Gulf Breeze Beautification Committee. ► ’08 Nicholas Porter, BS Business Administration, has joined the staff of Baptist Health Care as the new director of compensation, benefits, payroll and HRIS. ► ’09 Caroline Lindemann, BA Mid-JR HS Math-Sci, married Jarret Brelsford, on Nov. 12, 2011, on Pensacola Beach. The couple resides in Fort Worth, Texas. ► ’09 Jonathan M. Welch, BS Physics, was selected as one of 30 young researchers from around the world to attend the annual Lindau Nobel Laureate Meeting in Germany. Welch is one of the up-and-coming physicists who exchanged ideas with dozens of Nobel Prize winners. ► ’09 Adam Ross Myers, BA Communication Arts, is a new addition to the administrative support staff at the Greater Pensacola Chamber. Myers will support all five of the departments within the Chamber to ensure the needs of the members are being met. ► ’09 & ’10 Brittany Adrion, BA Criminal Justice & MS Criminal Justice, was recently published with Associate Professor Matt Crow in Police Quarterly for their research on police use of force and taser use. Adrion was sworn in to the Pensacola Police Department on Nov. 30 after completing the seven-month Police Academy. ’09 Megan Wise, BS Accounting, is among the winners of the 2011 Elijah Watt

CLASS NOTES Sells Award. Wise achieved a cumulative average score above 95.50 across all four sections of the Uniform CPA Examination, completed testing during the previous calendar year and passed all four sections of the exam on her first attempt. More than 90,000 candidates sat for the exam and 37 met the criteria for the award.

► ’09 Lisa Rutherford, MEd Curriculum & Instruction, presented a paper entitled, “Omani Perceptions on Integrating Technology in EFL” in April 2012 at the 12th Annual ELT Conference held at Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Sultanate of Oman. ►

’10 Alexander Sullivan, BA Music, received an award from Mississippi College School of Law. Sullivan was the recipient of the John and Gwen Deakle Scholarship, given to a student selected by the Dean who possesses a concern for justice and is exceptionally motivated.

►

’10 Jeffrey Baugus, MEd Curriculum and Instruction, was named the 2012 Teacher of the Year for Santa Rosa County.

► ’10 Dorothy A. Carr, BA Legal Studies & Pre-law, has graduated from basic

training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas.

’77 George Martin Ferreira, BA Social Work, April 25, 2012

►

’11 Philip de Kozan, MBA, was married on June 9 to Beth Jones at Gulf Breeze United Methodist Church. The couple resides in Birmingham, Ala.

’81 Arthur Carl Sturgis, BA Social Work, April 1, 2012

In Memoriam

’87 Jeffery Scott Hess, BS System Sciences, May 7, 2012

’70 Stephen F. Barton, BA Elementary Education, June 6, 2012

’88 Wendell L. Griffith, MA History, June 12, 2012

’70 Larry Manziek, BS Chemistry, Feb. 9, 2012

’92 & ‘99 Randolph “Randy” Rose, BS Business Administration & MS Computer Science, May 22, 2012

’71 Rev. Dexter W. Kessler, BA Accounting, April 29, 2012 ’72 Dorothy “Dot” Bowen, BS Business Teacher Education, June 21, 2012 ’72, ’73 Patricia Carol Mizee Walker, BA Psychology & MA Psychology, June 16, 2012

’84 Barbara Marie Ditty, BS Systems Science, May 1, 2012

’94 Dellisa Mosley, BA Social Work, May 27, 2012 ’95 Chad Phillip Ludwig, BA Political Science, April 24, 2012 ’97 Michael C. Hennick, BS Environmental Studies, April 15, 2012

’73 Lawrence A. Keefe, USAF, (ret.), M. Ed. Educational Leadership, July 4, 2012

’00 William Craden, BS Biology, May 6, 2012

’74 Elizabeth Suzanne Hiles, BA Elementary Education, June 7, 2012

’11 Vincent M Scarcella, MB Biology, April, 2012

’75 Robert Lynn Pribbenow, Sr., MEd Educational Leadership, July 21, 2012

Dr. Thomas Committe, Retired Faculty, July 16, 2012

think

Can you of ways to change a life?

300

WE CAN. Whether you are a graduate of UWF or a friend, your gift to any of the nearly 300 funds at UWF offers the opportunity for YOU to change someone’s life. Funds you can support include those for scholarships, colleges, departments, athletic teams and programs.

Visit uwf.edu/give to find a fund that is meaningful to you.

Lequita Cox is a First Generation Scholarship recipient and her dream is to become a nurse practitioner so she can give back to the community that helped make her dream a reality.

For more information, contact: Kenda Hembrough, UWF Annual Giving Manager khembrough@uwf.edu • 850.857.6112

Make your gift today! Return the enclosed envelope with your gift or visit uwf.edu/give.

U NI V E R S I TY o f W E ST F LO R IDA Fall 2012

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Calendar of Events September Sept. 21 & 22

Men of Color Retreat This retreat

addresses issues men of color encounter during their experiences in higher education. We welcome all students, faculty, staff, administrators and community members interested in creating a healthy and open environment for all persons to succeed. The retreat will be held Friday, Sept. 21, 3 to 10 p.m. and Saturday, Sept. 22, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the University Commons Conference Center.

For more information, visit uwf.edu/mocc.

sept. 28

Alumni Scholarship Golf Classic

Join us for a full day of golf at Scenic Hills Country Club in Pensacola at our Sixth Annual Scholarship Classic. The event begins with a shotgun start at noon.

Register today to secure your spot at alumni.uwf.edu.

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Fall 2012 UNIVERS IT Y of WE ST FLOR IDA

October OCT. 1

Alumni Awards Call for Nominations

The UWF Alumni Association proudly announces its call for nominations for its Annual Awards and Recognition Program.

Those eligible for nomination include alumni, friends, faculty and staff of the university who make a difference to the alumni association, the university or their respective communities or career fields.

Awards will be presented Spring 2013 during Festival on the Green weekend. To make a nomination, visit alumni.uwf.edu.

OCT. 3

UWF Homecoming 2012 Cannon Fest

Celebrate from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. with free food, music, games and fun for the entire family at what may be the pinnacle of UWF campus tradition. For more information on all of the events, visit uwf.edu/homecoming.

UWF Homecoming 2012 Bonfire

Gather at Oak Grove from 8 to 10 p.m. to enjoy good music, good friends and a great location—the hallmark of this homecoming tradition. Come for the s’mores and stay for the atmosphere.

For more information on all of the events, visit uwf.edu/homecoming.

OCT. 2

OCT. 4

UWF Homecoming 2012 Pep Rally

College Of Business (COB) Education Center Grand Opening Ribbon Cutting Dedication The official ribbon cutting

Get fired up and come cheer on the fall athletic teams from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. The Mr. and Ms. UWF finalists will introduce themselves to the campus community with a lip-sync performance plus a variety of fun activities. For more information on all of the events, visit uwf.edu/homecoming.

dedication and opening of the College of Business Education Center begins at 4 p.m. outside the front atrium of the new center. This event is free and open to the public, staff, students, alumni and friends.

For additional information on College of Business Grand Opening events, visit uwf.edu/cobopening.

CALENDAR

UWF Homecoming is an exciting opportunity to return to campus and reconnect with former professors, fellow alumni and friends. Events are scheduled beginning Oct. 1 and culminating on Oct. 6 with a family-friendly festival and parade. For more information on all of the events, visit uwf.edu/homecoming.

UWF Alumni Association — Scholarship Golf Classic

is held on Sept. 28, and all UWF alumni and friends are invited to join us for a fun day of golf at Scenic Hills Country Club in Pensacola at the Sixth Annual Scholarship Classic. Golfers will have the opportunity to support student scholarships and win excellent door prizes. For more information about sponsorship opportunities and to register, visit alumni.uwf.edu.

UWF Alumni Relations will be traveling to areas across the country this year and wants to meet you! For the most upto-date information on events, please check the alumni calendar of events at alumni.uwf.edu/eventscalendar. If there is an event or program that you would like to see in your area, please email alumni@uwf.edu and share your ideas!

COB Education Center Grand Opening Reception Immediately following the ribbon cutting dedication guests are invited from 5 to 7 p.m. to enjoy tours of the new state-of-the-art center and interactive activities with College of Business faculty and students. For additional information on College of Business Grand Opening events, visit uwf.edu/cobopening.

OCT. 5

COB Alumni, Student and Faculty Luncheon with Special Lecture Lunch

in the Courtyard begins at 11:30 a.m. and the program begins at 12:15 p.m. in the First Floor Atrium. Join alumni, current students and faculty by honoring retired deans and faculty and listen to faculty member Bob Kimball talk about his passion for education and the impact the college has on current students. For additional information on College of Business Grand Opening events, visit uwf.edu/cobopening.

UWF Homecoming 2012 Tailgate Party and Soccer Games Alumni, students and friends of UWF come together amidst food, tents and lawn games to gear up for the evening’s soccer matches. Join our party or set up your own tailgate from 3:30 to 4 p.m. Stay for the men’s and

women’s soccer games from 5 to 9 p.m. to cheer on the Argonauts, compete in the Biggest “Argo-Nut” contest and find out who will be named 2012 Mr. and Ms. UWF. For more information on all of the events, visit uwf.edu/homecoming.

OCT. 6

UWF Homecoming 2012 Festival and Parade This celebration of the UWF

community from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., will feature free food, a family fun zone for kids, festival vendors, student concert and more, all at the Camellia Green. The parade will be rolling through at noon.

Parents, bring your kids, wagons and strollers to give our “Littlest Argos” the chance to be a part of the parade. Also be sure to check out the UWF Showcase to learn how faculty and students are making a difference. For more information, visit uwf.edu/homecoming.

OCT. 10

UWF Downtown The inaugural

lecture entitled “Where’s My Shovel?: Archaeological Tools and the University Presidency” presented by UWF President Dr. Judy Bense kicks off the new series launched by the College of Arts and Sciences promoting the value of liberal arts in contemporary life. “UWF

Downtown” will serve as a showcase for outstanding teacher scholars who serve the community as UWF faculty members.

The series will also include scholars of national prominence who amply illustrate the essential role of the liberal arts in building and sustaining contemporary culture. Visit uwf.edu/cas for more information.

OCT. 18

Alumni Chapter Event, Washington, D.C. Join us for a fun night of networking!

Meet and reconnect with fellow alumni, hear the latest university news and learn about new alumni programs and services.

For details on this event and upcoming events in your area, visit uwf.edu/alumni.

December Dec. 15

Commencement Join us at the

Pensacola Civic Center as we welcome the newest members of the UWF Alumni Association. Volunteers are needed to help “pin” new graduates as they walk across the stage as well as distribute alumni gifts following the ceremony. If you’re interested in volunteering, contact us at alumni@uwf.edu.

U NI V E R S I TY o f W E ST F LO R I DA Fall 2012

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SNAPSH OTS

Distinguished Alumna Greer Harvell with family at Alumni Awards dinner

Argie poses with student athletes Martinique Sykes and Renea Porsch

Proud alumnae Ildi Hosman and Becca Tieder catch up at Alumni Board Retreat

Sword & Shield Council member Terry Berling talks with former Athletic Director Richard Berg at Athletic Donor Dinner Dr. Bense thanks Brenda Robinson and other cherished donors and heritage club members at loyalty luncheon

Alumnus Tim Moore and Student Senate President Amy Bueno show their Argo-pride at Alumni Board

Smile!

Whether gathering at a board retreat, recognition dinner, chapter event or baseball game, our Alumni Association events provide the perfect opportunity for us to show our appreciation of your continued support. They are also a wonderful chance for you to socialize with fellow alumni, current students, staff, faculty and friends of the university.

Don’t miss out! Our Alumni Association keeps adding more new events into the mix. For a look at upcoming events visit alumni.uwf.edu.

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Fall 2012 UNIVERSIT Y of WE ST FLOR IDA

SNAPS H OTS

Faculty member Eileen Perrigo with husband Craig and alumna Joann Massey at Blue Wahoos baseball game

Dr. Judy Bense shows her appreciation of this year’s Alumni Award winners

Alumni take over Margaritaville party deck at Pensacola Blue Wahoos Stadium

2012 Alumni Award Recipients ALUMNI SERVICE

Tim Haag FRIEND OF THE UNIVERSITY

Gulf Power Company Pen Air Federal Credit Union HONORARY ALUMNUS

Dr. Carl Backman General Mike Ferguson OUTSTANDING YOUNG ALUMNUS

Steven Barry Tyson Ray DISTINGUISHED ALUMNUS

Greer Harvell John Jerralds Frances Yeo

Argie holds NCAA National Runner-up trophy with Head Tennis Coach Derrick Racine, wife Terrie and tennis player Kevin Ducros

Alumni Association President Luke Van Blaricom alongside Alumni Coordinator Alesia Ross and Harriett Wyer at Alumni Board Retreat U NI V E R S I TY o f W E ST F LO R IDA Fall 2012

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LEGACIES

$2.75 Million Planned Gift to Impact UWF College of Business and Athletics

By Megan Prawdzik

J

ohn Switzer graduated from UWF in 1989, but his heart never left. A dedicated supporter of the university, the successful College of Business graduate has funded programs to help students and faculty.

Now, he has committed a planned gift of $2.75 million—one of the largest contributions in the university’s history—with the money going to support the College of Business and UWF Athletics.

When asked why he supports the university, Switzer replies without hesitation that it’s because of the education he received at UWF. “My professors taught me ethical business principles, which directly contributed to my success,” he says. Today, he heads JLSwit Company, a successful Gulf Coast-based business. Switzer is passionate about the future of UWF Athletics along with the relationships he has developed with coaches over the past several years—relationships that contributed to his planned gift decision.

To Switzer, supporting UWF makes a difference to those who are starting their life journey. He is committed to mentoring young people and sharing his life lessons with the hope that he can help provide opportunities for them to succeed in both their professional and personal lives.

“I hope that my gift to the university will inspire those throughout Northwest Florida to continue to give back,” he says. “Education is an experience that not only impacts an individual, but positively affects an entire community.”

Switzer received a B.S.B.A. in Management Information Systems in 1989 after completing a successful career in the U.S. Navy. Since graduating from UWF, Switzer

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Fall 2012 UNIVERS IT Y of WE ST FLOR IDA

has been a dedicated supporter. In 2001, he established the John L. Switzer Business Ethics Scholarship and helped fund the Switzer Brothers Professorship, which supports College of Business faculty, visiting professionals and guest lectures. Most recently, John and his brother Charlie (UWF ’81 B.A. in Economics) made a commitment to “I hope that my gift to the the College of Business expansion and named the Switzer Brothers university will inspire those Café that will serve students in the throughout Northwest Florida new College of Business Educa- to continue to give back. tion Center.

In an effort to further connect Education is an experience that with the university and students, not only impacts an individual, Switzer is enrolled in art classes at but positively affects an entire UWF. “I am a firm believer of the power of education and continu- community.” — John Switzer, ing to learn throughout your life,” B.S.B.A. Management Information he says. “These classes provide me Systems ’89 the opportunity to be active on campus and explore my interests.”

Planned giving is often described as “leaving a legacy” because such gifts can make an impact on future generations. When these estate gifts are endowed, instead of the entire amount of the gift being spent outright, the gift is invested and the annual interest income from that investment is used to provide perpetual support for specified programs. For additional information on planned giving, please contact Martha Lee Blodgett in the Office of Development at (850) 474-2712.

SC HOLARSH IPS

Pensacola Pledge Scholars Program Recognizes First Class of Recipients

By Megan Prawdzik

Q

uint and Rishy Studer, longtime supporters of the Pensacola community, established the Pensacola Pledge Scholars Program in early 2012 to give local high school graduates the opportunity to earn a college degree. The first class of 33 students has been chosen and awarded approximately $60,000 in scholarships.

The Studers’ generous donation provides an opportunity for high school graduates who live within the city limits of Pensacola to attend the University of West Florida (UWF) or Pensacola State College (PSC). UWF recently welcomed 24 freshmen who were awarded scholarships for the 2012-13 academic year. Nine students were awarded scholarships to attend PSC. “As a result of this generous gift on behalf of Quint and Rishy Studer, students will have more opportunity to pursue higher education and additional incentive to achieve success while in school,” said UWF Vice President of University Advancement Kyle Marrero.

The Pensacola Pledge Scholars Committee is responsible for selecting the most qualified candidates. In addition to meeting all admission requirements for UWF or PSC, the students were asked to submit an application and two letters of recommendation, along with a 500-word essay on what being a Pensacola citizen means to them.

For additional information about the scholarship program, visit uwf.edu/pensacolapledge.

2012 UWF Pensacola Pledge Scholars: Haley Anderson Andre Bordelon Jonathan Brannan Jackson Buckley Brett Calkins Alexa Carter Phillip Dugger Darian Feysa Sophie Irwin Lakeyah Johnson Deforest Jones

Latesa Jones Tanya Jones Tucker Massey Emily Mixson Layla Navidi Lyndon Parmer Elizabeth Quina Rachael Robinson Mary Tempesta Annie Thomas Timothy Tittel

Two UWF Pensacola Pledge Scholars wished to remain anonymous.

U NI V E R S I TY o f W E ST F LO R IDA Fall 2012

21

WAYS TO GIVE

How You Can Change a Life

Foundation Scholarships in the 2011-2012 Academic Year*

SC HOL ARSHIP S AWAR DE D

1,037

By Gretchen VanValkenburg

T

he brightest young minds, destined to become the next generation of doctors, lawyers, statesmen, scientists and teachers, are being sought out by universities around the world.

Additional enhancements to our existing financial aid program, in the form of scholarships, will enable UWF to continue to attract and support highly qualified students, including first generation attendees from families of modest means, as well as talented students who may otherwise lack the financial ability to pursue a college education.

The UWF Foundation offers a variety of ways that you can make a difference in the lives of our students.

Annual Scholarships

The minimum amount required to establish an annual named scholarship is $5,000 and may be gifted over a five-year period. Selection criteria for annual scholarships may be financial or merit-based, as well as restricted to a particular academic field of study. Once established, annual scholarships may be awarded each semester. Once the funds are expended, the scholarship account would be closed. Annual scholarships may be established by calling the UWF Development Office at (850) 474-2875.

“My parents do not have college degrees, yet they pushed me to pursue higher education because they wanted a better life for me. Thanks to the generosity of donors and alumni like you, I’m now part of the Honors Program and working toward owning my own business one day.”

— Josh Scott, First Generation Scholarship Recipient

STUD ENTS REC EIV IN G SC HOL ARSHIP S

924

$ $ $$ $ $ $ $$ TOTAL G I F T & STAT E M ATC H D O L L AR S AWARD ED

$1,104,208.47 TOTAL G I F T D O L L AR S AWAR D ED

(without state matching dollars)

Endowed Scholarships

$892,208.47

Existing Scholarships

Universityawarded First Generation Scholarships

The minimum amount required to establish an endowed scholarship is $25,000, which may also be gifted over a five-year period. The principal is invested in perpetuity and then endowed scholarships are awarded from interest earnings on the investment.

Once the endowment is fully funded in the UWF Foundation, it must be in place for a one-year period prior to the first award being made. To establish an endowed scholarship, please contact the UWF Development Office at (850) 474-2875.

To make a gift to an existing scholarship, visit uwf.edu/give. There you can search for scholarships by key word, or you can view scholarships by area of interest. Your contribution of any amount to the UWF Foundation can be made at any point during the academic year.

Scholarship gifts to the University of West Florida help to open doors of opportunity for today’s students who will be tomorrow’s leaders. Help transform a life by making a gift today.

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Fall 2012 UNIVERS IT Y of WE ST FLOR IDA

276

21

Students also Receiving other Foundation Scholarships

*Totals include First Generation Awards

Student Ambassador Q&A Bernice Marie Johnson is a senior majoring in psychology, with a minor in child welfare. A native of Quincy, Fla., her hobbies include competitive basketball, working out at UWF’s gym and socializing with family and friends. Her long-term goals include pursuing a master’s degree in counseling/psychology and landing a career as a U.S. Navy psychologist.

How did you initially become interested in the student ambassador program? It was during my freshman year of college back in 2009.

I became interested the moment I saw the ambassadors giving campus tours to visitors and potential students during orientation.

I wanted the opportunity to share my story, my knowledge and my experiences here at UWF. How long have you been involved? I have been involved for eight semesters and can honestly say I have blossomed. I entered the program as a quiet, shy person, but have grown to be energetic and confident. I have learned many new things, met important and influential people and had some of the best moments of my life. I am no longer an ordinary college student. I am now part of the elite here on campus, “A Green Coat.”

How has being an ambassador impacted your student life experience at UWF? The day I became part of the student ambassador family was the day my college life made a dramatic turn. I found myself happier, my grades went from average to above average, my social network increased, I engaged in more

Building bridges from the past to the present and

into the future…

activities and, most of all, I started to really enjoy my college experience. Being in the program has allowed me to meet new and interesting people and to learn new things about my school that the average student wouldn’t know. Last but not least, the Ambassador Program gave me a name that will always be remembered, “B-Nice.”

As a senior, what advice would offer to current students about becoming involved on campus? Everyone should be involved on campus. Extracurricular activities are proven to improve the college experience. Find something that interests you and get involved. Get a group of people and create your own club or organization. The opportunity is there and waiting for you, you just have to go after it.

Legacy giving is a meaningful way for visionary donors to create future opportunities.

The Heritage Club recognizes those providing future gifts to the university through estate provisions and is appropriate for individuals who desire to ensure the future of UWF through their gifts. Membership in the Heritage Club is a tangible way to let others know of your support to UWF. This recognition gives the university an on-going opportunity to say thank you, either publicly or privately, for these special gifts.

For additional information please contact: Martha Lee Blodgett, Assistant Vice President of Advancement 850.474.2712 800.226.1893 mblodgett@uwf.edu

uwf.edu/give U NI V E R S I TY o f W E ST F LO R I DA Fall 2012

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Connection

University of West Florida 11000 University Parkway Pensacola, FL 32514 uwf.edu/alumni

2012 Homecoming Events MONDAY, OCT. 1 All Day — Transform the Campus TUESDAY, OCT. 2 8 p.m. — Pep Rally

uwf.edu/homecoming

WEDNESDAY, OCT. 3 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. — Cannon Fest 8 p.m. — Bonfire THURSDAY, OCT. 4 All Day — Golden Fleece Challenge 8:30 - 10 p.m. — Argo Splash

FRIDAY, OCT. 5 4 - 7 p.m. — Tailgate Party 5 - 9 p.m. — Women’s and Men’s Soccer Game 10 p.m. - 1 a.m. — Homecoming Dance Party SATURDAY, OCT. 6 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. — Homecoming Festival Noon — Parade 9 p.m. — Homecoming Concert