Th e s e m e s t e r l y n e w s l e t t e r o f
F l o r i d a S tat e C o l l e g e F o u n d at i o n
Volume | Issue
February 2014
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In this issue:
JOIN US
C ORPORATE P ARTNERSHIP P ROGRAM L AUNCHED .. 5 2014 A RTIST S ERIES ... 6 ‘C OOKBOOK ’ E VENT R AISES $25,000 ..... 6 A LUMNI S POTLIGHT .... 7 HOPE R ECEPTION ..... 7 To make a gift to Florida State College Foundation, please visit our website or contact Maggie Hightower, Interim Executive Director, at 904-357-8896. www.floridastatecollegefoundation.org
WELCOMING
Dr. Cynthia Bioteau
M C K ISSICK S CHOLARSHIP ........... 3 L EGACY A WARD W INNER H ONORED ............. 5
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fter a comprehensive national search, Cynthia Bioteau, Ph.D., was selected by the District Board of Trustees to become the fifth permanent president and first female CEO of Florida State College at Jacksonville. She began her tenure in January 2014 and has quickly extended a sincere and spirited handshake to our community. Dr. Bioteau has more than 35 years of experience in higher education, strategic planning, partnership building, conservative fiscal management and fundraising. Her leadership success is evidenced by her many community-based awards, recognitions and professional affiliations. She previously served as the president and CEO of Salt Lake Community College in Utah. “Integrity – academic, organizational, fiscal, professional and personal – is embedded within my leadership value system,” said Dr. Bioteau. “It is my vision that together with the College’s faculty and staff, we will grow FSCJ into national prominence to be a role model for all other open access institutions of higher education.”
One of Dr. Bioteau’s key initiatives will be to work with the Foundation’s staff and board of directors to create a strategic plan that will increase endowments, planned giving and, ultimately, increase the number of awarded scholarships. The Foundation’s total scholarship distribution of $1.5 million in fiscal 2013 was the greatest amount given in the past five years. The total amount
awarded encompassed 1,011 scholarships earned by 816 current students. “Improving our fundraising efforts translates into making FSCJ more accessible to more students through scholarships,” said Dr. Bioteau. “I enjoy fundraising and ‘friendraising,’ and I am enthusiastic about working with the Foundation and the community to build more partnerships.”
A NEW ERA UNFOLDS
Staff Maggie Hightower, CFRE Interim Executive Director Anthony Sutton Director of Donor Relations and Special Events Lisa Maldonado Director of Operations Tania Yount, CFRE Director of Development Rick Granger Interim Communications, Marketing and Alumni Relations Manager Parker Leary Gift Processor/Data Assistant Carla Sodek Accountant Tia Smith Administrative Assistant
Board of Directors
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FSCJ
As 2014 begins to unfold, we are especially grateful for our dedicated donors who help us fulfill the Foundation’s mission to “...secure financial resources for Florida State College at Jacksonville to provide students in need access to an affordable, quality education...” We are also deeply grateful for the expertise and smooth transition afforded by the leadership of Dr. Willis Holcombe as interim president. Today, we celebrate the arrival of Dr. Cynthia Bioteau, FSCJ’s fifth permanent president and first female CEO. The Foundation staff and board of directors are enthused about the selection of Dr. Bioteau and will be working closely with her to strengthen our strategic plan and establish new donor relationships. We are looking forward to tapping into Dr. Bioteau’s expertise in fundraising and community “friendraising” — that is, developing unique relationships with donors who will help us fulfill our mission. Please join us in welcoming Dr. Bioteau. We believe her arrival signifies the beginning of a new era for FSCJ and the Foundation.
Robert Cook, Chair Dr. H. Wade Barnes, Jr., Immediate Past Chair Carl Cannon, First Vice Chair Karen Bowling, Second Vice Chair/ District Board of Trustees Liaison Martha Barrett, Secretary Jeff Edwards, Treasurer Michael Bell Dr. Cynthia Bioteau, College President Husein Cumber Andrew King Betsy Lovett Velma Monteiro-Tribble Robyn Moore Timothy Tresca Scott Verlander Wayne Young Edward A. Nimnicht, II, Director Emeritus James Winston, Director Emeritus Dr. Stephen R. Wise, Director Emeritus Donald Zell, Director Emeritus Kierstan Synder, Student Representative
Robert Cook Foundation Board Chair
C O R P O R AT E P A R T N E R S
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Estelle McKissick D E D I C AT E S H E R L I F E
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hen Estelle Williams McKissick graduated from college in 1950 with a bachelor’s degree in accounting, she was greeted with the harsh reality that opportunities for young, black women would be a challenge to find. After earning her degree, she returned to her hometown, Jacksonville, and worked for a time in an insurance company. But she quickly realized she could have a different type of career in teaching when she began substituting in her mother’s classroom. “As I spent time with the students in my mother’s classroom, I had several eye-openers that led me to the fact that I was called to be a teacher. My mother, father and two brothers were teachers so it felt natural for me to be in the classroom,” said McKissick. She went on to earn a master’s degree in education from Jacksonville University and her post-graduate studies in supervision and administration were completed at Florida A&M University. Today, more than 50 years later and a successful career as a teacher, assistant principal and principal in Duval County schools, McKissick’s intense interest in the education of young people is just as strong. “My deep passion for education remains an important part of my life, even at my age!” said McKissick. “So when my husband and I decided in 2005 to establish the Estelle W. McKissick scholarship, we wanted to make funds available to help students so they can contribute in a positive way to our community.” The Estelle W. McKissick Academic Excellence Endowed Scholarship awards deserving, full- and part-time Florida State College at Jacksonville students with funds to continue their academic endeavors. In addition to extensive education and community involvement, McKissick is a member of Bethel Baptist Institutional Church and director of B.E.S.T. (Bethel Enhancing Students Totally) Academy, which is a Saturday school provided for third- to twelfth-grade students throughout the community. She also serves as the executive director of the Summer School Enhancement Program for high school students. “My love for education has been extremely rewarding,” said McKissick. “The endowed scholarship is my way of connecting with even more deserving students and contributing to our wonderful Jacksonville community.”
How to Apply To apply for the Estelle W. McKissick Academic Excellence Endowed Scholarship, visit fscj.edu/mydegree/financial-aid/ scholarships/index.php. Eligible students must be a high school graduate, Jacksonville, Fla., resident, FSCJ student during the fall 2014 term, meet academic standards, submit a two-page typed essay titled “Why a College Education is Important to Me, My Community and My Church,” and must submit documentation of community and/or church service. Preference is given to Bethel Baptist members and Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority applicants.
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Welcome
NEW BOARD MEMBERS
MICHAEL BELL
HUSEIN CUMBER
ROBYN MOORE
Bell is director of public affairs for Rayonier, a publicly traded international forest products company and timberland owner. He is responsible for planning, developing, implementing and directing the state and local government affairs and issues management functions, public and media relations, and community affairs. Bell has a B.A. in Economics from the University of Maryland.
Cumber is executive vice president for corporate development for Florida East Coast Industries, Inc. He is responsible for guiding capital projects, including All Aboard Florida, which is the first privately owned, operated and maintained intercity passenger rail system in the U.S. Cumber holds a B.A. in U.S. National Security from Duke University.
Moore practices law at Bartlett Moore, P.A., in the areas of commercial and residential real estate, estate planning, land use law, and corporate and probate law. She served in the United States Air Force as an airborne cryptologic Arabic linguist. Moore earned a B.A. in English from George Mason University and graduated from the University of Florida, Levin College of Law.
WELCOME
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Tania R. Yount
Director of Development Tania Yount joined the Foundation team in November 2013. As director of development, she directs fundraising for the Foundation’s key funding initiatives: scholarships, programs and facilities. Yount is a Certified Fundraising Executive (CFRE), with a master’s degree from the University of South Florida and a bachelor’s degree from Wilmington College of Ohio. She was previously employed with the Salvation Army for 24 years.
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B LUE W AVE C ORPORATE P ARTNERSHIP P ROGRAM L AUNCHED
N AT I O N A L P H I L A N T H R O P Y D AY S P O T L I G H T S
Legacy Award Winner
B L U E Wn AV E CO R P Othe R AT E P A RT E R S H I PProfessionals, November 5, 2013, Association of N Fundraising the 28th Annual National M Coast L A UChapter, N C H Epresented D P R O G R AFirst Philanthropy Day Luncheon. National Philanthropy Day serves to
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recognize the importance of philanthropy and honor those dedicated to making an important impact in our community. As part of National Philanthropy Day, the Foundation proudly honored Harry Frisch, Beaver Street Fisheries, Inc., as the 2013 Legacy Award winner. A true philanthropic leader, Frisch believes in giving back and has supported many charities on the First Coast. Without an education to rely on, Frisch developed two guiding principles: service to others and keeping promises. Since its humble beginning as a family-owned seafood shop in 1950, Beaver Street Fisheries has been continuously growing, improving and building upon its decades of experience. The once small, fresh fish store on the westside of Jacksonville has grown into an international supplier of frozen seafood and other food items to food service, retail and wholesale accounts. Recently, Frisch and Beaver Street Fisheries contributed $1 million to support Florida State College at Jacksonville’s Institute for Food Safety (IFS). The IFS enables students to learn effective manufacturing practices, core-required sciences and other practical skills required of industry testing, inspecting and quality control personnel. This comprehensive program shortens learning curves for these future food safety professionals and provides a more robust food safety education program. The IFS program would not have been possible without the vision and generous support from Frisch and Beaver Street Fisheries. He credits the College with helping many students achieve their dreams through the power of education. Frisch’s spirit is contagious and serves as a reminder that anything is possible with hard work.
Florida State College Foundation invites you to join us as a BlueWave Corporate Partner. Corporations have a long tradition of investing in their local communities through the support of higher education. For more than 50 years, Florida State College at Jacksonville has been this community’s college and committed to being responsive to the area’s ever-changing needs. Recently, a study was conducted and produced by Economic Modeling Specialists, Inc. (EMSI) for the Florida College System Council of Presidents. The comprehensive study addressed the economic impact of all 28 state colleges and community colleges. The total economic impact from Florida State College at Jacksonville is $1.6 billion annually — evidence that an investment in your community’s college will directly benefit the area in which you do business. We are excited about the launch of our BlueWave Corporate Partnership Program, which will allow us to share your products or services with a specific audience. This strategic philanthropy allows us to build partnerships that will benefit college initiatives while increasing your company’s visibility with key constituents. For more information about how your company can become involved in this new program, please contact Anthony Sutton, Director of Donor Relations and Special Events, (904) 632-3271.
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A RT I S T S E R I E S 2014 S E A S O N For 48 years, the Artist Series has enriched lives throughout Northeast Florida with a diverse selection of performing arts, including Broadway, off-Broadway, opera, ballet, contemporary concerts, educational theater, world music, dance and many other national and international productions. Each year, the support of the Artist Series patrons through attendance and contribution marks success. Part of the proceeds from the Artist Series are endowed for scholarships through Florida State College Foundation. The Artist Series, the major presenter of national and international touring companies, thanks you for your support on behalf of the College and the Foundation.
War Horse February 18-23
Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater February 25
Celtic Women Live in Concert February 28
Frankie Valley and the Four Seasons March 5
Carmen March 7
The Not So Newlywed Game March 15
Memphis March 18-23
Special Events
‘M Y F AV O R I T E C O O K B O O K ’ E V E N T R A I S E S $25,000 On September 18, 2013, Florida State College Foundation, in partnership with the Jacksonville Public Library, presented a tasty event in support of the College’s culinary program. “My Favorite Cookbook” showcased the talents and personality of Grayson Schmitz, a recent contestant on Bravo TV’s Top Chef competition. “We were very pleased with the success of this inaugural culinary event and attendees enjoyed the interaction with Grayson and our students. It was a unique opportunity to showcase our Culinary Arts program,” said Anthony Sutton, director of donor relations and special events. Chef Schmitz started her day with FSCJ culinary students at the North Campus, preparing her very own meatballs and sauce recipe. She later joined a reception at the Jacksonville Main Library to meet supporters of the Foundation and the library. The My Favorite Cookbook event raised $25,000 in scholarship funds for FSCJ’s culinary program. Mark your calendars for this year’s event scheduled for October 2014.
Thank you to our Event Sponsors:
Bring It On The Musical April 1
Million Dollar Quartet April 22-27
The Addams Family May 2 Additional shows to be announced soon. For more information on the complete 2014 Artist Series season, visit artistseriesjax.org or call (904) 442BWAY (2929). Follow them on Facebook at facebook.com/artistseriesjax for show announcements and photos, ticket sale dates and cast interviews.
Thank you to our Restaurant Partners: Black Sheep Restaurant • Blue Bamboo • Moxie Kitchen + Cocktails • Omni Hotels & Resorts • Orsay • The Blind Fig • Taverna
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Alumni Spotlight
RANDY AMOS
B E L I E V E S E D U C AT I O N E Q U A L S S U C C E S S
“I still credit FSCJ as the first building block for my successes.” - Randy Amos, Alumnus
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acksonville native Randy Amos was the youngest of 10 children and grew up with a keen sense of how building relationships leads to success. From a young age, he worked in his family’s radiator repair shop and saw how customers should be treated. Likewise, Amos credits attending Florida Junior College, now FSCJ, in the mid-1960s with being instrumental in his future career successes. He was involved in on-campus student government and political clubs while earning his associate degree. Today, Amos prides himself on continuing to build relationships while delivering the highest possible level of customer service. “Serving as president of the Young Republicans club and participating in student government activities gave me the foundation I needed to build lifelong relationships that have helped me in my business career,” said Amos, who also earned a B.S. in Business Administration from Jacksonville University. In fact, Amos did have quite a successful career as the
president and CEO of Lake Shore Radiator & Specialty Auto Parts — yes, that’s the multi-million dollar family business, which he sold in April 2013. “I cannot place enough emphasis on the importance of education and how it positively impacts your future,” said Amos. “From running my business to serving my community as a Jacksonville city council member to being involved in many other committees and public service activities, I still credit FSCJ as the first building block for my successes.” Even though Amos sold his business last year, he hasn’t stopped building new relationships. He recently joined Cherokee Printing, Inc. and continues to tap into his wealth of experience meeting people, selling products and providing the best possible customer service. “I also plan to stay active in public service and volunteer work, along with advising business professionals and political candidates on effective business practices and life,” said Amos. “Some of my proudest moments managing political campaigns have been when the candidates have won.”
HOPE R E C E P T I O N H O N O R S DONORS AND RECIPIENTS Representatives of THE PLAYERS Championship and The Red Coats, along with the Florida State College at Jacksonville student scholarship recipients, were honored during the HOPE Reception at Maggiano’s Italian Grill on November 13, 2013. “HOPE Receptions are our way of allowing our scholarship donors and the students that are the beneficiaries of their generosity to have the opportunity to meet face-to-face in a casual business setting and encouraging both students and donors to get to know one another,” said Anthony Sutton, director of donor relations and special events for the Foundation. “HOPE stands for Helping Others Pursue Education and that is certainly what our many scholarship donors do with their generosity and encouragement.” THE PLAYERS Championship scholarship endowment was established in 2002 by a group of Red Coats, a committee of past chairmen of THE PLAYERS Championship. The original scholarship focused on helping students who were returning to school later in life to earn a college degree. In addition, many of the Red Coats continue to serve on the Foundation’s board and contribute to the scholarship.
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JACKSONVILLE, FL PERMIT NO. 3804
501 W. State Street Jacksonville, FL 32202-9968 (904) 632-3237 floridastatecollegefoundation.org Florida State College Foundation is an IRS Approved 501 (c)(3).
OUR MISSION
Our mission is to secure financial resources for Florida State College at Jacksonville to provide students in need access to an affordable, quality education and to enhance the lives and the economic development of Northeast Florida.
OUR VISION
We envision a community, where through availability and excellence in education resources, individuals and families will achieve their potential, have income stability and live happy, productive lives.
OUR VALUES Commitment - We are steadfast in our obligation to fulfill the intention of the donor and discover new financial resources for students in need of additional support. Trust - We are diligent and disciplined in carrying out our mission. We are reliable and responsible in ways that earn the trust of our donors, students and community. Stewardship - We properly invest and safeguard the funds entrusted to us, reflecting the intentions of our donors, and meeting the needs of the students and the college.
Support - We value our staff’s skills and actively support their continued growth and development as they advance the Foundation and adapt to future needs. Excellence - We strive to pay attention to every detail every day. We consistently seek creative and innovative ways to do better. Diversity and Inclusion - We seek to be inclusive and embrace diversity in all its forms. It strengthens our ability to achieve our goals by bringing together and serving a broad crosssection of individuals with varied needs, experiences, and perspectives.