A.C. Bagtzoglou Civil Engineering Fellowship Endowment
Purpose
Offer fellowships for graduate students studying water resources in the Civil Engineering Department. (GF000120)Description
Recipients must be graduate student studying water resources in the Civil Engineering Department. Preference for selection of suitable candidates will be given to full-time, master's-degree-seeking students. All candidates must meet satisfactory progress standards.
History
Amvrossios “Ross” Bagtzoglou, an alumnus of the Florida Institute of Technology, has established the A.C. Bagtzoglou Civil Engineering Fellowship Endowment for the Study of Water Resources in the College of Engineering. Bagtzoglou has made a 10-year pledge totaling $125,000.
“Water is power, especially when it is available in temporal and spatial points that are not well distributed. The lack of it creates immense humanitarian crises, too much causes flooding, and too little causes drought. Water studies will continue to be a critical area of study for the well-being of humanity,” said Bagtzoglou.
Friends, alumni, and supporters of the Department of Civil Engineering are challenged to match Bagtzoglou’s gift annually. When fully endowed, the fund will top $250,000, which will be used for an annual graduate fellowship.
Additionally, the university has pledged a tuition remission to match Bagtzoglou’s generous annual gifts, equaling three credit hours per semester.
“This enhances the university’s ability to attract top graduate students,” said Ashok Pandit, professor and head of the Department of Civil Engineering.
“Establishing fellowships and research-related endowments creates instant credibility and prestige for the research being conducted in our department, both among peers and prospective students. We are most grateful for this visionary gift from Dr. Bagtzoglou as it will help our students and faculty for many years to come,” he added.
Admiral O.D. Waters Graduate Fellowship
Purpose
Fellowships for graduate students enrolled in programs in the Department of Ocean Engineering and Marine Sciences, or successor academic unit. (GF000175)Description
The Department of Ocean Engineering and Marine Sciences faculty will select the best candidate. Each recipient must be in good academic standing as determined by the faculty of the Ocean Engineering and Marine Sciences. Preference will be given to students who received their undergraduate degrees from Florida Tech. Preference will also be given to renewing the same student for one successive year.
History
Rear Admiral O.D. (“Muddy”) Waters was born in Manassas, Virginia on July 13th, 1910. He graduated with distinction from the Naval Academy in 1932 and was also a graduate of the Naval Postgraduate School and the Armed Forces Staff College.
Starting as a Gunnery Officer on the USS Augusta, then as Torpedo Officer on the USS Downes, and as Assistant Naval Attache at the American Embassy in London, Admiral O.D. Waters was the first officer in charge of the Navy Mine Disposal School plus he served on the USS Memphis as Assistant of Staff for Fleet Gunnery and War Plans Officer.
Additionally, he served as Senior Technical Officer; Mine Development Officer to the Commander, Operational Development Force; Inspector General; and Assistant Chief of the Bureau of Naval Weapons. He commanded the Pacific Fleet Mine Force and Naval Base, Los Angeles before he was named as “Oceanographer of the US Navy”, which, because of his contributions, lead him to be awarded the Distinguished Service Medal which notes that he “enhanced the scientific and military posture of the Navy”.
Prior to his retirement in 1971, Admiral Waters served in the Office of The Assistant Secretary of the Navy and was an advisor in the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration of the Department of Commerce. Upon retiring, he joined the faculty of the Florida Institute of Technology where he established and was Head of the Department of Oceanography.
Admiral Waters died in May of 1986 leaving us the legacy of interdisciplinary science, engineering, and management education.
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Agatiello Family Endowment
Purpose
Support annual scholarships for undergraduate students who need financial assistance. (GF000444)Description
Support annual scholarships for undergraduate students who need financial assistance and with a preference for students working towards a degree in Computer Science or Engineering who are also involved in Florida Tech's Music Program.
History
In preparation for a long and distinguished career in Medicine, Dr. Paul Agatiello attended Brown University where he earned both a Bachelor’s degree with Honors in Biology and a Doctor of Medicine. In 1993, he was presented with a Fellowship of the American College of Physicians (F.A.C.P.), one of the highest honors given to a distinguished physician dedicated to Internal Medicine, as recognized by his peers.
Throughout his career in the State of Rhode Island, Dr. Agatiello expanded his horizons, earning many additional licenses, certificates and accolades. He has touched the lives of literally thousands of patients throughout his 40+ year career, while renowned by his patients and fellow physicians as a Board-Certified doctor in Internal Medicine since 1981.
In sum, Dr. Agatiello has led a life with much fulfillment and many memories, leaving a legacy of commitments to his fellow mankind.
Anthony Agatiello, the son of Dr. Paul Agatiello, has followed his father’s footsteps with respect to his commitment to excellence with two great passions of his own, i.e., technology and music.
Anthony came to Florida Tech from Rhode Island in 2017 where he majored in computer science and minored in musical theory and performance. While attending FIT, he played lead trumpet with the Florida Tech Jazz Ensemble, cementing his reputation with a unique ability to play very high notes on the trumpet.
Upon graduating, Anthony has performed with many musical groups including the Space Coast Big-Band, Jazz Cats, Swingtime Jazz Orchestra, Chief Cherry, and others where he continues to expand his musical endeavors.
This scholarship is established to celebrate the transformative experience of Anthony's years at the University (2017-2021) and to make a lasting impression for years to come.
Alan Edwin Paltzik Fellowship Endowment
Purpose
Fellowship awards to graduate students enrolled or enrolling in the Department of Chemistry. (GF000126)Description
Recipients must have a 3.5 GPA or higher from undergraduate chemistry studies; must have outstanding recommendations from mentors; must have the potential for excellence as a scientist - (published works/presentations at meetings).
History
The Endowment was established in memory of Alan E. Paltzik who died at age 37 in 1974.
Alfred A. & Beverly H. Nuttall Scholarship Fund
Purpose
Income from this fund will support one or more undergraduate chemical engineering students from Florida who have financial needs with a preference for Brevard County residents. The recipient must be a resident of the State of Florida. (GF000193)Description
Income from this fund will support one or more annual scholarships for undergraduate chemical engineering students from the State of Florida who have financial needs with a preference for students who are Brevard County residents. The recipient must be a resident of the State of Florida.
History
Al Nuttall earned his B.S.E. (1967) and M.S.E. (1970), in Chemical Engineering from the University of Michigan. He served in the U.S. Army at its Chemical Center, Edgewood Arsenal, MD, and then launched his career as a development engineer for Eli Lilly & Co. in Indianapolis. In his next role, he managed manufacturing, engineering, quality control, and support groups for three plant sites of PCR, Inc., producing silanes, organofluorine compounds, and other fine organics and pharmaceuticals. In 1984, he moved to Palm Bay to help found FAR Research, Inc., a profitable fine organic chemical manufacturing firm. From 1992-2015, he served in several roles culminating as the President/CEO of FAR and orchestrated an acquisition, bridged the ownership change, and, ultimately, oversaw the divestiture of the firm. Since retiring, Al has become involved in Florida Tech. He and his wife have provided for an endowed scholarship fund, he has been a speaker on campus, and has coached students in interviewing to better prepare them for launching their careers.
Allen S. Henry Chair
Purpose
Provide funds for a Faculty Chair in the College of Engineering. (GF000171)Description
This chair is selected by the university for their scholarly accomplishments and contributions to the advancement of knowledge in the field, following the general practices of the university for faculty appointment.
History
Allen S. Henry was born on June 18th of 1940, in Oskaloosa, Iowa. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree from the University of Iowa in 1964, completed his master’s degree in Mechanics in 1968, and in 1971, received a Doctorate in Mechanical Engineering from the same university. Right after, Allen’s professional life started at Collins Radio, a company that worked closely with NASA on the Apollo program. In 1972, he moved to Melbourne Beach, Florida where he began to work at Harris Corporation earning advancement to Engineering Vice President, Vice President/General Manager of the Government Communications Systems Division, and President of the Electronic Systems Sector. Allen worked at Harris Corporation until his retirement in 1996. He came out of retirement and, from 1996-2000, was Chairman, CEO, and President of Broadband Communications Products prior to its acquisition by Uniphase Corporation.
Apart from his extraordinary professional career, Allen Henry was a man with a generous and kind spirit. He did not only serve on the Health First Organization Board of Directors, Broadband Communications Products Board of Directors, and Chairman of Trustees at Florida Institute of Technology, but he also considerably donated to several philanthropic organizations such as Health First Heart Center, Florida Institute of Technology, Women’s Center of Brevard County, The Sharing Center, United Way, Florida Wildfire Sanctuary, Hacienda Girls Ranch, Project Hunger, Candlelighters, Family Promise, Youth Entity, and Colorado Animal Shelter, among others. Similarly, he fully endowed faculty chairs at the University of Iowa College of Engineering and Florida Institute of Technology College of Engineering.
Past Chairs
2011 - 2020: Dr. Martin Glicksman
2003 - 2008: Dr. Chang Wen Chen
Allen Henry passed away on March 19th, 2019 but will be remembered for his generosity and incredible experience.
Allen S. Henry Endowed Scholarship
Purpose
Award tuition scholarships to undergraduate students enrolled or planning to enroll at Florida Tech. (GF000076)Description
Recipients will be selected by the Office of Financial Aid. Recipients must be full-time students and must be in and remain in good academic standing; scholarships shall be awarded on the basis of need and merit. Preference will be given to renewing the same student in successive semesters.
History
Allen S. Henry was born on June 18th of 1940, in Oskaloosa, Iowa. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree from the University of Iowa in 1964, completed his master’s degree in Mechanics in 1968, and in 1971, received a Doctorate in Mechanical Engineering from the same university. Right after, Allen’s professional life started at Collins Radio, a company that worked closely with NASA on the Apollo program. In 1972, he moved to Melbourne Beach, Florida where he began to work at Harris Corporation earning advancement to Engineering Vice President, Vice President/General Manager of the Government Communications Systems Division, and President of the Electronic Systems Sector. Allen worked at Harris Corporation until his retirement in 1996. He came out of retirement and, from 1996-2000, was Chairman, CEO, and President of Broadband Communications Products prior to its acquisition by Uniphase Corporation.
Apart from his extraordinary professional career, Allen Henry was a man with a generous and kind spirit. He did not only serve on the Health First Organization Board of Directors, Broadband Communications Products Board of Directors, and Chairman of Trustees at Florida Institute of Technology, but he also considerably donated to several philanthropic organizations such as Health First Heart Center, Florida Institute of Technology, Women’s Center of Brevard County, The Sharing Center, United Way, Florida Wildfire Sanctuary, Hacienda Girls Ranch, Project Hunger, Candlelighters, Family Promise, Youth Entity, and Colorado Animal Shelter, among others. Similarly, he fully endowed faculty chairs at the University of Iowa College of Engineering and Florida Institute of Technology College of Engineering.
Allen Henry passed away on March 19th, 2019 but will be remembered for his generosity and incredible experience.
Allen S. Henry Presidential Award Endowment
Purpose
Provide students with financial aid in event of unplanned, unintended, and difficult financial problems (e.g., natural disasters, death in the family, government issues). (GF000124)Description
Students must have demonstrated financial need and meritorious GPA. Recipients will be chosen by the President upon the advice of the University Special Needs Committee.
History
Allen S. Henry was born on June 18th of 1940, in Oskaloosa, Iowa. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree from the University of Iowa in 1964, completed his master’s degree in Mechanics in 1968, and in 1971, received a Doctorate in Mechanical Engineering from the same university. Right after, Allen’s professional life started at Collins Radio, a company that worked closely with NASA on the Apollo program. In 1972, he moved to Melbourne Beach, Florida where he began to work at Harris Corporation earning advancement to Engineering Vice President, Vice President/General Manager of the Government Communications Systems Division, and President of the Electronic Systems Sector. Allen worked at Harris Corporation until his retirement in 1996. He came out of retirement and, from 1996-2000, was Chairman, CEO, and President of Broadband Communications Products prior to its acquisition by Uniphase Corporation.
Apart from his extraordinary professional career, Allen Henry was a man with a generous and kind spirit. He did not only serve on the Health First Organization Board of Directors, Broadband Communications Products Board of Directors, and Chairman of Trustees at Florida Institute of Technology, but he also considerably donated to several philanthropic organizations such as Health First Heart Center, Florida Institute of Technology, Women’s Center of Brevard County, The Sharing Center, United Way, Florida Wildfire Sanctuary, Hacienda Girls Ranch, Project Hunger, Candlelighters, Family Promise, Youth Entity, and Colorado Animal Shelter, among others. Similarly, he fully endowed faculty chairs at the University of Iowa College of Engineering and Florida Institute of Technology College of Engineering.
Allen Henry passed away on March 19th, 2019 but will be remembered for his generosity and incredible experience.
Alumni Association Operations Endowment
Purpose
Operating funds for Alumni Association. (GF000119)Description
Funds will be used on the discretions of the Director of the Alumni Association.
History
Your gift to the Florida Tech Alumni Association will support our efforts to connect with alumni around the world, contribute to student scholarships, help grow our alumni endowment, support our affiliation groups, increase Florida Tech's national rankings, and help your alma mater and fellow alumni continue to make important contributions to our world.
Astronaut Scholarship
Purpose
Scholarships for students at Florida Tech. (GF000010)Description
This scholarship is administered by the Office of Financial Aid.
History
Bank Of America/ Nations/ C&S Ntl Bank Scholarship Fund
Purpose
Scholarships for students from Brevard County. (GF000021)Description
This scholarship is administered by the Office of Financial Aid to a student from Brevard County.
History
Citizens and Southern National Bank of Florida started funding Florida Tech in 1989 when it pledged $30,000 for a fund to support Brevard County students. In the announcement on June 29, 1989, C&S President, Ed Weed said "We see our investment in FIT as an investment in the community from which everyone benefits. We are proud to support the university in providing educational opportunities to Brevard County."
The Citizens and Southern National Bank had at the time nine branches in Brevard County and 150 banking locations in 15 counties statewide. C&S traces its origins to 1887 when the Citizens Bank of Savannah was formed and to 1906 when it merged with its rival, the Southern Bank of Georgia 1906. A claim to fame, C&S boasted of having a vault that was full proof of fire, acetylene, flame, and high explosives with the safety boxes conveniently placed for the customers to use.
After various mergers and acquisitions, these banks ultimately came under the Bank of America parent company.
Atlanta Headquarters
Bank Of America/Barnett Bank Scholarship
Purpose
Funds for scholarships. (GF000020)Description
This scholarship is administered by the Office of Financial Aid.
History
Barnett National Bank Building in 2011
Barnes & Noble College Bookstores Inc. Scholarship Endowment
Purpose
Support scholarships for undergraduate students studying at Florida Tech. (GF000044)Description
Recipients will be chosen by the Office of Financial Aid. Recipients must be full-time undergraduate students; must be in good academic standing; shall be awarded on the basis of need and merit; preference to renewal with the same student in successive semesters.
History
In 1998, Barnes and Noble donated $30,000 to create the endowment “Barnes & Noble College Bookstores Inc. Scholarship Endowment”. The gift was matched by the F.W. Olin Foundation totaling an amount of $60,000. The fund has provided scholarships to undergraduate students studying at Florida Tech.
Bill Jurgens Rowing Center Endowment
Purpose
As an endowment, this fund will support the rowing program annually and has been set up to allow the fund to be used alternatively to build or assist in building the rowing center that Bill and others dreamed of seeing. (GF000441)Description
By endowing this fund in honor of Bill Jurgens, we recognize his legacy to the sport and to Athletics at Florida Tech.
Thank you to our generous donors who are helping to grow this fund and who are supporting the rich tradition of rowing at Florida Tech.
History
This fund was created from the support of numerous donors over the past decade, who aimed to support Rowing at Florida Tech and to build a rowing center.
1982Crew, Dad Vail Champions
FIT Crew, Bill Jurgens in the Early Days
Bill Morris Advanced Flight Scholarship
Purpose
Scholarship in Aeronautics. (GF000030)Description
This scholarship is administered by the Office of Financial Aid to advanced flight students enrolled in the College of Aeronautics. Recipients will be chosen by the College of Aeronautics based on the merit of students in need of financial assistance to maximize their studies.
History
Bill started to fly airplanes at age 15 and he flew with the same enthusiasm and passion he put into his treehouse. By the time he arrived at Florida Tech, he was ready to learn everything about flight. He was constantly honing his skills and he read every technical treatise on aerospace he could find. Bill was enthusiastic and involved College of Aeronautics student. He then became an excellent and highly respected flight instructor at Florida Tech from 1984 to 1992. Bill Morris was also the coach of the Falcon Flight Team in 1991 and he developed and taught Florida Tech’s course on turboprop jets. Bill was devoted to the pursuit of excellence in aviation, both as an adjunct faculty member and as a flight instructor. He was proficient in fixed-wing, land, and sea, as well as rotary-wing aircraft, and was respected by his students for his dedication to high standards of safety and proficiency. Bill also attended the British aerospace course on the jet stream 31. He was preparing to enter the USAF Officer Training School, when, on January 30, 1992, he was tragically killed while piloting a mechanically defective helicopter. His fellow instructors and students remember not only his remarkable skills as an aviator but, also, his ability to recall obscure facts from his rich store of aviation knowledge. More importantly, they remember Bill’s genuine joy in sharing his information, his skills, and his love of flying with them as colleagues and friends.
Aside from piloting, Bill was an excellent tennis player and was the number #1 varsity in each of his schools. Bill also logged in more than 4000 hours in the air. He was an excellent card player and sandcastle builder. Bill took the “greatest pleasure” in helping others excel. He was considered the wind beneath the wings of the plane of his students. Throughout his life, excellence was his motto. Bill also had a great sense of humor and marched to the beat of his own drum, he loved doing touch-and-goes and high-spiraling turns. When Bill invited his mother to fly with him one day she said, ‘I’m afraid of flying.’ Bill’s first response was, ‘don’t be silly, that’s like being afraid of the dark, she went on to say I am afraid of the dark. Being the compassionate person that he was he realized that she was truly concerned about flying in the small plane. So he said to his mother, “that’s cool I understand, but if you decide you want to go I’ll take you. If not, that’s okay too.” His mother ended up joining him on the airplane that day and she was so glad that she did. She shares this short story because it was one of the most memorable experiences she’d ever had and also it illustrates Bill’s compassion and mercy for people. He was sensitive to others, an excellent trait for a teacher and flight instructor to have. Bill’s mother, Margaret Plum accomplished many things, but what she is most proud of are her two children Bill and Julia.
A foundation was created in 1992, by his family, as a perpetual memorial to Bill Morris, honoring his life, his work, his excellence, and his passion for flying. This scholarship fund was intentionally established to offer worthy aviators a chance to realize their goals, follow their dreams, and honor Bill.
Bjornar and Bjorg Hermansen Scholarship
Purpose
Support scholarships for deserving undergraduate students enrolled at Florida Tech. (GF000029)Description
This scholarship will be administered by the Office of Financial Aid. Recipients must be full-time students; must remain in good academic standing; awarded based on merit and need; preference is given to renewal to the same student.
History
Mr. Hermansen was born on February 12th, 1943 in Tromsø, Norway. He was the son of Ole K. Hermansen and Klara I. Johannessen, he had two sisters; Gerd Mai Jacobsen and Anne-Grethe Hermansen of Tromsoe, and one brother Ole Hermansen Jr. (deceased). Mr. Bjørnar worked relentlessly from a very early age to succeed by excelling in his academic studies and early career.
He moved to America in 1983 with his wife, and his strong entrepreneurial spirit drove him to start several successful companies. He always said that he worked to allow him to care for his family, and friends and to enjoy life; all of which he did with gusto. He was incredibly generous, always willing to help friends in need and those less fortunate in his community and beyond through his steadfast commitment to numerous philanthropic organizations. To those who knew him in life and business, Mr. Bjørnar was a force to be reckoned with, while others who loved him as a patriarch and friend, knew that under the thick skin was a sweet, loving man.
Quickly, he became known as a savvy businessman whose vision helped change the nature of Port Canaveral and the cruise industry, — in addition to that, the Hermansens had interests in banking, real estate, and hotels, among other ventures. He and his wife, Bjorg, were just as well respected for their generosity. Other than business, Mr. Bjornar was incredibly well-read, very cultured in the arts, fine food, and especially, French wine. He helped many in Brevard to come to enjoy those same attributes.
Mr. Hermansen was diagnosed with ocular melanoma, a rare form of cancer of the eye in 2011 he tackled his illness the same way he did everything else, reading, researching, and getting all the facts. The disease ultimately took his life and he died in December 2015. Leaving behind his wife of 50 years Bjørg, his two sons Tom and John, their wives Cortney and Merete, and three grandchildren Erik, Sophia, and Vanessa. This scholarship was established to honor a man a “lot of people looked to” – Tom Hermansen.
Bjornar K. Hermansen Ocean Engineering Professorship
Purpose
To support a faculty member in Ocean Engineering. (GF000006)Description
Funds are awarded annually to the holder of this professorship.
History
Mr. Hermansen was born February 12th, 1943 in Tromsø, Norway. He was the son of Ole K. Hermansen and Klara I. Johannessen, he had two sisters; Gerd Mai Jacobsen and Anne-Grethe Hermansen of Tromsoe, and one brother Ole Hermansen Jr. (deceased). Mr. Bjørnar worked relentlessly from a very early age to succeed by excelling in his academic studies and early career.
He moved to America in 1983 with his wife, and his strong entrepreneurial spirit drove him to start several successful companies. He always said that he worked to allow him to care for his family, friends and to enjoy life; all of which he did with gusto. He was incredibly generous, always willing to help friends in need and those less fortunate in his community and beyond through his steadfast commitment to numerous philanthropic organizations. To those who knew him in life and business, Mr. Bjørnar was a force to be reckoned with, while others who loved him as a patriarch and friend, knew that under the thick skin was a sweet, loving man.
Quickly, he became known as a savvy businessman whose vision helped change the nature of Port Canaveral and the cruise industry, — in addition to that, the Hermansens had interests in banking, real estate and hotels, among other ventures. He and his wife, Bjorg, were just as well respected for their generosity. Other than business, Mr. Bjornar was incredibly well-read, very cultured in the arts, fine food, and especially, French wine. He helped many in Brevard to come to enjoy those same attributes.
Mr. Hermansen was diagnosed with ocular melanoma, a rare form of cancer of the eye in 2011 he tackled his illness the same way he did everything else, reading, researching and getting all the facts. The disease ultimately took his life and he died in December 2015. Leaving behind his wife of 50 years Bjørg, his two sons Tom and John, their wives Cortney and Merete and three grandchildren Erik, Sophia and Vanessa. This scholarship was established to honor a man a “lot of people looked to” – Tom Hermansen.
Blatt Chemistry Seminar Endowment
Purpose
To enlighten the public about various chemistry-related topics (GF000133)Description
The A.H. Blatt Seminar Endowment honors Dr. Blatt's contributions to chemistry and to Florida Tech and was funded by Organic Syntheses, Inc. and University Professor Gordon L. Nelson.
History
Professor A. Harold Blatt was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, and received his Ph.D. from Harvard University in 1926. After holding postdoctoral positions in France and the United States, he accepted a position as associate professor of chemistry at Howard University in 1932. In 1939 he became professor and department head in the chemistry department at Queen's College, City University of New York. He retired from Queen's College in 1971, and later moved to Melbourne, Florida in 1974. Blatt was instrumental in establishing the chemistry department at Florida Institute of Technology.
Blatt was an active research chemist, publishing nearly 50 articles, many on the chemistry of oximes. He edited Collective Volume 2 of Organic Syntheses and served on the board of directors of Organic Syntheses and on the editorial board of Organic Reactions. He also co-authored a widely used classic text: The Chemistry of Organic Compounds (with J.B. Conant).
In the midst of a busy, yet diverse career, Blatt interrupted his academic pursuits to serve as a science liaison officer with the US Forces in Europe. As an explosives expert, he often had to visit recently captured German explosives plants near the front lines in World War II. Blatt was awarded the Presidential Certificate of Merit in 1948 for his war-time service.
Below are the 16 A.H. Blatt Distinguished Lecture speakers from 1985-2016.
1985-1986 - Total Synthesis of Antitumor, Antibiotic, and Antifungal Agents by Prof. Steven D. Burke - University of South Carolina
1986-1987 - Some Excursions into Organic Sulfur Chemistry by Prof. Michael P. Cava - University of Alabama
1987-1988 - Recent Advances in Cycloaddition Chemistry by Prof. Albert Padwa - Emory University
1988-1989 - Enzyme Models and Mimics by Prof. Ronald Breslow - Columbia University
1989-1990 - Application of the Chemistry of Vicinal Tricarbonyl Compounds by Prof. Harry Wasserman - Yale University
1990-1991 - How to Win a Nobel Prize - A Personal Case History by Sir Derek H. Barton - Texas A&M University
1991-1992 - Cantor's Dilemma: A Fictional View of Ethics, Mentors, and Women in Science by Prof. Carl Djerassi - Stanford University
1992-1993 - Substituent Effects in Organic Chemistry by Prof. Kenneth B. Wiberg - Yale University
1993-1994 - Sequence Specific Recognition of Double Helical DNA and RNA by Prof. Peter B. Dervan - Cal Tech
1994-1995 - Concerted Organometallic Reactions by Prof. Charles P. Casey - University of Wisconsin
1996-1997 - Photochemistry Within Self-Assembled Monolayers: A New Method for Imaging by Prof. Marye Anne Fox - University of Texas
1997-1998 - Modern Catalytic Methods for Organic Synthesis with Diazo Compounds by Prof. Michael P. Doyle - University of Arizona
2002-2003 - Lessons from Nature by Prof. Koji Nakanishi - Columbia University
2007-2008 - Recent Work on the Synthesis of Peptides and Peptide Conj. by Prof. Alan R. Katritzky - University of Florida
2012-2013 - Design and Applications of Selective Catalysts for Olefin Metathesis by Prof. Robert H. Grubbs - Cal Tech
2015-2016 - Complex Natural Products as a Driving Force for Discovery in Organic Chemistry by Prof. Brian M. Stolz - Cal Tech
The A.H. Blatt Seminar Endowment honors Dr. Blatt's contributions to chemistry and to Florida Tech and was funded by Organic Syntheses, Inc. and University Professor Gordon L. Nelson.
History
Professor A. Harold Blatt was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, and received his Ph.D. from Harvard University in 1926. After holding postdoctoral positions in France and the United States, he accepted a position as associate professor of chemistry at Howard University in 1932. In 1939 he became professor and department head in the chemistry department at Queen's College, City University of New York. He retired from Queen's College in 1971, and later moved to Melbourne, Florida in 1974. Blatt was instrumental in establishing the chemistry department at Florida Institute of Technology.
Blatt was an active research chemist, publishing nearly 50 articles, many on the chemistry of oximes. He edited Collective Volume 2 of Organic Syntheses and served on the board of directors of Organic Syntheses and on the editorial board of Organic Reactions. He also co-authored a widely used classic text: The Chemistry of Organic Compounds (with J.B. Conant).
In the midst of a busy, yet diverse career, Blatt interrupted his academic pursuits to serve as a science liaison officer with the US Forces in Europe. As an explosives expert, he often had to visit recently captured German explosives plants near the front lines in World War II. Blatt was awarded the Presidential Certificate of Merit in 1948 for his war-time service.
Below are the 16 A.H. Blatt Distinguished Lecture speakers from 1985-2016.
1985-1986 - Total Synthesis of Antitumor, Antibiotic, and Antifungal Agents by Prof. Steven D. Burke - University of South Carolina
1986-1987 - Some Excursions into Organic Sulfur Chemistry by Prof. Michael P. Cava - University of Alabama
1987-1988 - Recent Advances in Cycloaddition Chemistry by Prof. Albert Padwa - Emory University
1988-1989 - Enzyme Models and Mimics by Prof. Ronald Breslow - Columbia University
1989-1990 - Application of the Chemistry of Vicinal Tricarbonyl Compounds by Prof. Harry Wasserman - Yale University
1990-1991 - How to Win a Nobel Prize - A Personal Case History by Sir Derek H. Barton - Texas A&M University
1991-1992 - Cantor's Dilemma: A Fictional View of Ethics, Mentors, and Women in Science by Prof. Carl Djerassi - Stanford University
1992-1993 - Substituent Effects in Organic Chemistry by Prof. Kenneth B. Wiberg - Yale University
1993-1994 - Sequence Specific Recognition of Double Helical DNA and RNA by Prof. Peter B. Dervan - Cal Tech
1994-1995 - Concerted Organometallic Reactions by Prof. Charles P. Casey - University of Wisconsin
1996-1997 - Photochemistry Within Self-Assembled Monolayers: A New Method for Imaging by Prof. Marye Anne Fox - University of Texas
1997-1998 - Modern Catalytic Methods for Organic Synthesis with Diazo Compounds by Prof. Michael P. Doyle - University of Arizona
2002-2003 - Lessons from Nature by Prof. Koji Nakanishi - Columbia University
2007-2008 - Recent Work on the Synthesis of Peptides and Peptide Conj. by Prof. Alan R. Katritzky - University of Florida
2012-2013 - Design and Applications of Selective Catalysts for Olefin Metathesis by Prof. Robert H. Grubbs - Cal Tech
2015-2016 - Complex Natural Products as a Driving Force for Discovery in Organic Chemistry by Prof. Brian M. Stolz - Cal Tech
BNP Associates Scholarship
Purpose
Support students who have been shown financial need. (GF000467)Description
This scholarship is administered by the Office of Financial Aid to students in good academic standing.
History
Bob & Jan Case Endowment for Student Enrichment
Purpose
Provide support for the WISH Scholarship Fund at the Scott Center for Autism Treatment at Florida Institute of Technology. (GF000113)Description
Distribution of this endowment is made on an annual basis and administered by the Director of the Scott Center for Autism to assist families.
History
Bob and Jan Case have always had a curiosity and passion for the arts. This can be traced back to when they were children and traveling to museums on school field trips. Due to Bob traveling for work, the family was always on the road. Luckily from this, Bob and Jan constantly would take their children to museums. One of these museums was the Ruth Funk Center for Textile Arts. Jan instantly fell in love with the center. She would soon become a docent at the center and she got to witness and talk to many acclaimed artists, like Yvonne Porcella. Jan established youth education programs with local schools to show kids the world of art and how culture plays a role in art. When Jan became Docent Chair for the textile committee, she and her husband created the endowment to influence students about the enriching world and opportunities that are presented in art.
Bozik Family Endowment
Purpose
Provide funds each year for undergraduate/graduate engineering students that have participated and demonstrated leadership in and through Florida Tech campus life activities, such as The Crimson, Yearbook, Campus Activities Board, SGA, etc. (GF000211)Description
Recipients must be U.S. citizens and junior, senior, or graduate-level students in good academic standing. Students must have filed a FAFSA with the Florida Tech Office of Financial Aid, which proves financial need.
History
Brevard Indo-American Medical & Dental Association "BIMDA" Scholarship Fund
Purpose
Support an annual scholarship for undergraduate student(s) in good academic standing who need financial assistance and who are enrolled in a pre-medical program at Florida Tech. (GF000502)Description
Support an annual scholarship for undergraduate student(s) in good academic standing who need financial assistance and who are enrolled in a pre-medical program at Florida Tech with a preference for students who are entered into a pathway program with a partnered Medical School (e.g., The Burrell College of Medicine).
History
The Brevard Indo-American Medical and Dental Association (BIMDA) has established an annual scholarship fund to support students at Florida Tech who are pursuing Pre-Med undergraduate degrees. The scholarship fund was announced at BIMDA’s annual Medical Expo and Dinner Awards on Saturday, April 29 at the Hilton Rialto. This BIMDA Scholarship Fund was established in honor of Glad Kurian, Florida Tech Alum and BIMDA Founder.
BIMDA is a valuable part of the Space Coast, uniting and supporting the community of Indian physicians, dentists, and other medical and health professionals in our region. This support coincides with the announcement this year of the planned Burrell College of Medicine at Florida Tech, and it is anticipated that recipients of this award may continue to earn their medical degrees here and ultimately serve the health care needs of the community right here in Brevard County.
Over the years, BIMDA has supported many worthy organizations and built the network throughout Brevard. In 2017, there was another $15,000 awarded to Florida Tech in support of STEM education.
John G Harris, Dean, College of Engineering and Science, and Gary Grant, Sr. VP for Advancement together received the endowment gift at the BIMDA ceremony. “This gift is an amazing contribution as Florida Tech continues to add medical and health impacts to our traditions in Space, Computer Sciences, and other fields of Engineering,” said Grant.
2023 BIMDA Gala in Melbourne, FL
Brevard Scholars Program
Purpose
Scholarships for Brevard County residents. (GF000070)Description
This scholarship is administered by the Office of Financial Aid. Recipients must be Brevard County residents.
History
The Brevard Scholars Program was initiated to generate financial aid for Brevard County students. When it began, this program offered a unique opportunity to create a legacy of endowed scholarships for deserving students in the area. Contributions to this endowed fund were initially matched by the F.W. Olin Foundation through Florida Tech's Campaign for a Rising Star.
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Brevard Scholarship In Life Sciences
Purpose
Support an undergraduate student studying Life Sciences. (GF000058)Description
This scholarship is administered by the Office of Financial Aid to local incoming freshmen, then renewed each year.
History
The Melbourne Kidney Center has been improving the lives of countless victims of kidney disease for several years, it keeps contributing to the health and well-being of Brevard, and it has state-of-the-art techniques and services.
The Melbourne Kidney Center established a scholarship program to support Brevard County undergraduate students enrolled in Life Sciences. This endowed scholarship prepares recipients for medical, life sciences research, and teaching careers, since a very high proportion of Florida Tech life sciences graduates go on to medical school and to careers in life sciences and medical research. Additionally, Florida Tech has outstanding life sciences programs.
Bryan J. LaRose Memorial Scholarship Endowment
Purpose
Scholarships for undergraduate students pursuing a degree in Science Education. (GF000035)Description
Recipients must be full-time undergraduate students in their junior or senior year pursuing a degree in Science Education. Scholarship recipients will be selected on the basis of need and merit determined by the Director of Financial Aid. Preference will be given to renewing scholarships to the same student(s) in successive semesters.
History
Mr. and Mrs. LaRose created an endowed scholarship fund when his son, Bryan J. LaRose, who was a FIT Alumni, passed in November of 2003. Due to many gifts from friends, colleagues, and family and a deposit of $12,560 from A. William and Margaret LaRose, the endowment was created with an amount of $26,500.
Captain Joseph Brayton Perkins Scholarship Endowment
Purpose
Provide scholarships to flight students in the College of Aeronautics. (GF000024)Description
The recipient of this scholarship will be a College of Aeronautics student who aspires to be an airline pilot, has a 2.8 GPA or higher, has a good overall record, and has a need for financial assistance.
History
The scholarship was established for Captain Joseph Bryton Perkins after his death in 1986. Capt. Perkins was in the army for close to 10 years and fought for our country in World War II.
Cavallucci-Strouse Family Endowment for Ethics and Leadership
Purpose
Support the Bisk College of Business Center for Ethics and Leadership. (GF000183)Description
Funds will exist in perpetuity with annual earnings made available to assist the Bisk College of Business Center for Ethics and Leadership in hosting the Ethics and Leadership Breakfast events. The remaining funds will be used to support expenses associated with student participation in intercollegiate business competitions with a preference given to competitions focused on Ethics and Leadership.
History
Eugene S. (Gene) Cavallucci earned his bachelor’s degree from Penn State University, his Juris Doctorate degree from Penn State’s Dickinson School of Law, and his Master of Laws degree in government procurement law from the George Washington University Law Center.
He served for seven years in the U.S. Army Force, where he was Chief of Contracts and Patents at the Eastern Space and Missile Center, Patrick Air Force Base, Florida, during his last assignment. Later, he became a partner in the law firm of Nabors, Potter, McClelland, Griffith, and Jones, P.A for a few years, and then started working at DBA Systems, Inc., where he was Vice President, Corporate Secretary, and General Counsel. In 1990, Mr. Cavallucci joined Harris Corporation where he served as Vice President and Legal Counsel of Harris’ federal government, aerospace and defense business units; as Director of Business Conduct; and as General Counsel. In 2010, he retired after 20 years of service to this Fortune 500 public company.
Mr. Cavallucci was also an adjunct professor at Florida Tech. He taught graduate courses in government contract administration and contract negotiations. He is a member of the board of overseers of Bisk College of Business and serves on the executive committee of the Bisk College of Business Center for Ethics and Leadership.
Moreover, Mr. Cavallucci has been a member of the NCMA, National Contract Management Association, since 1978, and was elected an NCMA fellow in 1992. He has served on the legal committee of the Aerospace Industries Association (AIA) and was chair of the government contracts council of the Manufacturer’s Alliance.
Chadley M. Rhodes Memorial Scholarship
Purpose
In memory of Chadley Rhodes. (GF000025)Description
Established in 1988, the program provides one or more annual scholarships of a minimum of $1,000 to full-time undergraduate students enrolled in the School of Aeronautics who are citizens of the United States. The Florida Tech Office of Financial Aid administers the scholarships. Each recipient must be a U.S. citizen and a full-time student majoring in an aeronautics program. Recipients must have reached the junior level of study (sixty semester hours or more), must have a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.0, and must demonstrate significant financial need. If a recipient continues to meet all award requirements, the scholarship can be continued for two years.
History
Joe Flammio, Ralph McKee, and Robert Graham Ferrell were the first contributors to the fund. Joe started a fund-raising effort to increase the endowment. Keener Smathers notified the family of Chad regarding Joe’s interest in raising the total contributions to the scholarship fund to the endowment level. The scholarship became an endowed fund in 1995. The initial principal of the fund may be added to later by others and shall be invested by Florida Tech and the income therefrom used annually to provide one or more scholarships in an amount determined by the Scholarship Committee. The scholarship awarded will be a minimum of $1,000, but shall not exceed the interest earned by the fund principal. The recipient of the scholarship shall be selected by Florida Tech’s Scholarship Committee. Accrued income in excess of the amount necessary for the scholarship shall be added to the principal of the fund. If no scholarship is awarded in any one year, the accrued income she is added to the principal of the fund. Florida Tech shall advise the Rhodes Family Scholarship of the name of the recipient each year.
Charles A. Frueauff Foundation Scholarship
Purpose
Scholarships for students with financial need. (GF000141)Description
The award will go to students in good academic standing and satisfactory academic progress with financial needs. Preference for renewing to the same student in subsequent years.
History
The Charles A. Frueauff Foundation (CAFF) was founded in 1950 by Charles A. Frueauff through his Last Will and Testament. He was an attorney in New York who served many charitable organizations during his lifetime. The Foundation is based in Little Rock, Arkansas. Its mission is “to improve the lives of those in need by awarding grants to nonprofits in the areas of social services, health and hospitals, and higher education. The Frueauff Foundation has made over $164 million in grants to over 1,185 organizations and institutions.
The Foundation focuses on areas such as education, human services, and health-related causes around the United States. In the area of education, CAFF has continually supported several private four-year colleges and universities in the US, providing assistance to aid current students and also serve future generations, and grants for technology, software upgrades, and other infrastructure assistance. In the area of health-related causes, the Foundation has helped to improve access to and raise the quality of health care for American citizens. And in the area of human services, CAFF supports agencies that seek assistance to improve children’s and families' lives.
Chi Phi Scholarship
Purpose
Scholarships for students at Florida Tech. (GF000009)Description
This scholarship is administered by the Office of Financial Aid.
History
Chris Giddings Memorial Scholarship
Purpose
Scholarships for College of Aeronautics students. (GF000032)Description
The College of Aeronautics will select 1-2 students annually to receive a $1,500 scholarship. Recipients must be a junior in the College of Aeronautics.
History
Christine Antoinette Mead Athletic Scholarship
Purpose
Fund athletic scholarships. (GF000012)Description
This scholarship is awarded directly by the Athletics Department.
History
On Sept. 26, 1981, Mrs. Christine Antoinette Mead set up a testamentary trust, including a life estate to benefit her friend Ethel C. Powell.
On April 14, 1987, Florida Tech announced the establishment of a $300,000 trust gift to establish an endowment for scholarships for student-athletes. Mrs. Mead was a long-time resident of the area and lived in Micco, FL.
Christopher Sherman Neese Scholarship Endowment Fund
Purpose
Scholarships for students studying Marine Science. (GF000026)Description
This scholarship is administered by the Office of Financial Aid to a student studying Marine Science. Preference (not a requirement) that the selected student be engaged in graduate work and that there is a credible interest in working in the coastal areas of the southeast.
History
This scholarship was seeded by a one-time contribution in Chris' memory.
Chris was a Master Open Water Diver who loved the sea. He thoroughly enjoyed serving as Divemaster/Instructor for beginner and seasoned divers alike. His favorite dives were night dives in the sunken vessels off Palm Beach. He often said: "There's nothing as exciting as turning a dark passageway corner on a sunken ship at night and coming facemask to snout with a barracuda; up close and personal in the limited light they appear as large and menacing as any shark ever could."
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The photo was taken in 1973 at a seaside restaurant on the island of Mykonos, Greece where Christopher Sherman Neese (1946-1988) was on a cruise that included diving.
Civil Alumni Recruitment Endowment (CARE)
Purpose
Scholarships offered with the purpose of assisting in recruitment and retention of outstanding undergraduate and graduate students in Civil Engineering. (GF000085)Description
Recipients will be selected by the Civil Engineering department head, the Civil Engineering Advisory Committee, and the director of Financial Aid.
History
Ashok Pandit obtained his bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering from the Indian Institute of Technology in Kanpur, India in 1973; his master’s degree in Water Resources Engineering from Clemson University in 1976; and his Ph.D. from Clemson University in 1982.
He has been serving at the Florida Institute of Technology since 1998. For three years (1998-2000), Ashok was a Professor and Program Chair of Civil Engineering; then, from 2000 to 2016, he was a Professor and Department Head of Civil Engineering; from 2016 to 2018, he was a Professor and Department Head of Civil Engineering and Construction Management; and since 2018, he has been Professor and Department Head of Mechanical and Civil Engineering.
In addition to teaching, his research activities “focus on simulation of contaminant transport in subsurface media using numerical and physical models, saltwater intrusion, hydrological modeling, and stormwater management.” Moreover, he is active in STEM education and outreach and recently received an NSF STEM grant to grow STEM education to students from Community and State Colleges.
Professor Pandit has also organized successful week-long Engineering Summer Camps since 2009 for 9th to 12th graders who are interested in engineering. During this camp, students learn about MATLAB, AutoCAD, Fusion 360, and Pro Engineer, plus they witness laboratory demonstrations and conduct well-design experiments in different fields.
Coca-Cola Scholarship
Purpose
Scholarships for minority and female students. (GF000041)Description
This scholarship is administered through the Office of Financial Aid. Recipients must be female or minority students studying engineering.
History
Founded in 1999, the Coca-Cola Scholarship Endowment was set up to enable more females and minorities to major in engineering at Florida Tech. The Coca-Cola Foundation expects to receive from Florida Tech the names and addresses of the students selected to receive the scholarship and recipients of scholarships must send a prompt thank-you letter. The F.W. Olin Foundation matched Coca-Cola’s funds. The first installment of their grant was $50,000 in 1998.
COE Endowment for Academic Programs
Purpose
Enable College of Engineering permanently to support its faculty and students and to maintain the College's teaching, research facilities, and resources at a high level. (GF000176)Description
Funds will be used at the discretion of the Dean of the College of Engineering to support student capstone design projects; to provide technological and electronic resources; to make faculty development opportunities available; to pay expenses related to support of faculty and students engaged in professional development and academic enterprises, and generally strengthen the mission of the College of Engineering.
History
College of Engineering and Science Scholarship
Purpose
Preference given to Chemical Engineering students with strong academic achievements, who have financial need. In addition: if a student from Africa meets the criteria, preference may given. (GF000494)Description
The Office of Financial Aid selects a student awardee in good academic standing.
History
Commitment to Excellence
Purpose
Support the College of Science. (GF000136)Description
Funds will be used to support the College of Science at the discretion of the Provost.
History
The Provost or Executive Vice President, Dr. Marco Carvalho, strives to boost the development of the academic programs for the students at Florida Tech. He also demonstrates great dedication to the faculty, staff, and students on a wide range of elements. Before coming to Florida Tech, he graduated from Tulane University with a PH.D. in computer science.
Construction Industry Advisory Board (CIAB) Endowment
Purpose
Support a Construction Management Program in the Department of Civil Engineering. (GF000177)Description
Funds will be used at the discretion of the Construction Management Department Head to provide instructional and research resources for faculty and students, to provide needed technological and electronic resources; to make faculty development opportunities available; to pay expenses related to support of faculty students engaged in professional development and academic enterprises related to the Construction Management Program.
History
The advisory board for the construction industry is made up of more than 30 construction companies around the Melbourne area. The joining of the companies onto one board is to construct a Construction Management Program and give students opportunities for jobs and internships.
Dan DeRosa Family Endowment
Purpose
To support families receiving services at the Scott Center for Autism Treatment. (GF000497)Description
Income derived from this fund goes directly to the WISH Scholarship fund which supports families receiving services at the Scott Center for Autism Treatment.
If you would prefer mailing a check in support of this fund, please make it payable to Florida Institute of Technology, adding The Dan DeRosa Scholarship fund in the memo section. Mail to: Florida Institute of Technology, 150 W University Blvd., Melbourne, FL 32901
History
Daniel (Dan) Christopher DeRosa was the son of Daniel and Linda DeRosa. Dan was a Doctoral student at Florida Institute of Technology and had just received a dual master’s degree the May before his death. He worked as a Graduate Assistant at Florida Tech as well as a Social Skills Coordinator at the Scott Center for Autism Treatment. Dan was passionate about making a better life for children with autism.
Linda L. DeRosa was Dan’s mother and was incredibly amusing, selfless, the best gift-giver, fantastic at holiday decorating, a shopaholic, a great cook/baker, had the best laugh, and was a true angel here on this earth. She would go out of her way for anyone at any time. Anyone who has ever met her, had to love her because that’s just who she was. She was a gift, a gem, a truly one-of-a-kind person.
Thank you for your support of this scholarship fund and the memories of both Dan and Linda DeRosa. Forever in our hearts.
David A. Kriegman Scholarship Fund
Purpose
Income from this fund will support an annual scholarship for undergraduate students who have promoted the university through extracurricular activities which benefit Florida Tech or the student body. (GF000428)Description
Income from this fund will support an annual scholarship for undergraduate students who have promoted the university through extracurricular activities which benefit Florida Tech or the student body. these activities include, but are not limited to, work on the student newspaper, student council, or student radio station. preference shall be given for supporting students, who have a financial need. the recipients of this fund shall be identified as David Kriegman Scholars.
History
Mr. Kriegman spent 30 years growing and managing companies that provide professional services to the government. He earned his Master of Science in Mathematics from the Florida Institute of Technology.
Mr. Kriegman credits Florida Tech with improving his professional and personal life and wants to help other students achieve the success he did. In his own words, “My years at Florida Tech helped me in both my professional and personal growth. I learned not just from my classes, but from participating in and contributing to campus activities. I want to encourage and help students in their total learning and growth experiences, and I want to demonstrate the rewards of giving something back to one's community.”
David Byron Thompson Memorial Scholarship
Purpose
Scholarships to provide support for students enrolled in the Mathematics Education program. (GF000099)Description
Recipients must be upper-level juniors or seniors enrolled in Mathematics Education with a preference given to students involved in golf; must remain in good academic standing and continue to meet the academic criteria that generally apply to recipients of financial aid.
History
David “Byron” Thompson was born on November 2nd, 1987 in Pace, Florida. He graduated from Pace High School in 2006, where he participated in different sports such as basketball, baseball, football, and golf. He attended the Florida Institute of Technology and graduated with a degree in Math Education in July 2010. He played varsity golf while at Florida Tech.
Byron died on August 7th, 2010, at the age of 22. However, he is remembered by his family, friends, and everyone who knew him. “Byron loved spending time with his family and friends, working on cars, designing and creating projects, and golfing with his dad. He was a funny, sweet, loving, inquisitive, compassionate, determined, and mischievous guy. Byron simply filled a room both physically and with his personality and all who knew him loved him”, his family said.
David L. and Theresa G. Clayton Fellowship
Purpose
Provide fellowships for graduate students enrolled in Florida Tech's Department ofOcean Engineering and Marine Sciences. (GF000150)Description
The recipient must be a U.S. citizen who is in good academic standing as determined by the faculty of the Department of Ocean Engineering and Marine Sciences. Preference will always be given to renewing the fellowship to the same student in successive semesters until a graduate degree is awarded.
History
David L. Clayton earned both his master’s degree in ocean engineering and MBA from the Florida Institute of Technology in 1983 and 1986, respectively. He worked for 16 years at Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institution, where he had different positions including research and development manager. In addition, he worked as general manager of Vetrol Data Systems in Vero Beach and serves as Mayor of the Town of Mt. Crested Butte, Colorado.
Theresa “Terry” Clayton spent her professional career in education as an elementary teacher and specialist and worked for more than 26 years in the Indian River County School District.
David Clayton, Terry Clayton, George Maul. Florida Tech library, 2015.
Deering-Irlandi Fellowship
Purpose
Fellowships for graduate students studying in the Department of Ocean Engineering and Marine Sciences. (GF000180)Description
Recipients must be graduate students within the Department of Ocean Engineering and Marine Sciences. Women are particularly encouraged to apply.
History
Dr. Elizabeth Irlandi has served the Florida Tech community for many years. The former faculty member created a paper on Marine and Environmental Systems called Ocean & Coastal Management. While her time at the institution she was cultivated with seagrass and the ecosystems that revolve around it.
Dent Smith Botanical Garden Fund
Purpose
Support Florida Tech's Botanical Garden. (GF000145)Description
This fund was created to support and maintain Florida Tech's Botanical Garden.
History
Dent Smith, also known as “The Palm Man”, was born in Staunton, Virginia in 1897. He started his college education at Auburn University but was enlisted in the Army in 1915 at the age of 18. There, he served for seven years and climbed up to the rank of the first sergeant.
In 1929, Dent Smith established his own brokerage firm after becoming a bond salesman in 1923. Ten years later, in 1939, he retired from his position as president of his own company and became profoundly interested in publishing a magazine called “Encore”, described as “a digest of the works of classical writers as well as modern.” However, during World War II, Smith sold it to another firm since it was never a financial success. In 1949, he moved to Daytona Beach and after “looking for a hobby that would keep his hands busy and his mind occupied”, he acquired four acres of land on the peninsula and, did not only start collecting palms and other trees but also studying them. Eleven years after, he had 150 different palm species growing on his property.
His passion and interest in palm trees and other trees, lead him to think about starting a journal for a palm society. In 1956, he fulfilled that goal with the help of Dr. Harold E. Moore, a distinguished botanist. The journal was printed and illustrated under the name “Principes”, with the thought that “palm trees were the princes of all trees.” Throughout the following years, the society gained over 2,000 members, including many in Europe, Asia, and Australia.
Before his death in April 1985, he received an honorary degree from the Florida Institute of Technology in appreciation for the work he did in establishing a palm garden.
Dettmer Family Scholarship
Purpose
Scholarships for students attending Florida Tech. (GF000052)Description
This scholarship is administered by the Office of Financial Aid.
History
In 1999, Dale Dettmer donated $25,000 to create the “Dettmer Family Scholarship Fund”. A future donation of $10,000 was made in 2000. The purpose of the fund is to support deserving students of the Florida Institute of Technology.
Division of Electrical & Computer Science & Engineering (DECSE) Endowment
Purpose
Provide funds to support capital equipment, laboratory needs, and operating expenses of the Division of Electrical and Computer Sciences and Engineering (DECSE). (GF000163)Description
Funds are used at the discretion of the Director of the Division of Electrical and Computer Sciences and Engineering (DECSE).
History
The department of the two engineering programs teaches students about the rapidly advancing technological world. Skills are learned in the fields of computer systems, networking, and communication in wireless form.
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Don Creech Memorial Scholarship
Purpose
Scholarships for Electrical Engineering students. (GF000065)Description
The recipient must be an undergraduate Electrical Engineering student with financial need and a resident of Brevard County. The student may continue to receive the scholarships until they graduate or leave the university, provided the student remains qualified for the scholarship.
History
The Don Creech Memorial Scholarship Endowment
My husband, Donald Edgar Creech, had a natural engineering talent and was born with a pioneer spirit. His curiosity for what makes things go led him to many lifetime achievements in a variety of interests and mastery in electrical and mechanical technology.
He built everything for his personal use himself. He did all his own repair work on cars and trucks. He hand-built a computer in the 1960s and taught himself computer languages. He learned how to repair organs and was self-taught in playing organ music. He was a ham radio operator. He was skilled in home construction. If he had lived one hundred and fifty years ago, he would have shared the spotlight along with the inventors of that time. The challenge of doing this was never too great for him.
In this modern era we are now living, an average man cares little about how to personally fix or build anything. That is for the specialists. Times have changed. The “everyman” of our own pioneer days is disappearing. Consequently, as we enter the 21st century, fewer people, like Don, seem to exhibit an inventive mind or are self-reliant.
Born on February 17, 1935, he grew up in a very volatile time during the last remnants of the Depression and America’s involvement in World War II and the Korean conflict. Military and family commitments prevented him from pursuing the engineering degree he had hoped for. However, he received diplomas from technical schools in Michigan and Florida, among them being RETS, (Radio Electronic Television School) in 1959, 1960, in Television and Communication Technology; PVTI (Pinellas Vocational Technical Institute, Florida) 1988, 1989, in Electro-Mechanical Technology and Industrial Electronics; PTEC, (Pinellas Technical Education Center, Florida) 1985, in Robotic Technology. He held an FCC Radio Telephone Operator License from 1958-2005 and was certified by the U.S. Power Squadron in Marine Electronics, in 1971. He was an avid reader of technical journals.
He honorably served in the U.S. Army from 1954-1957 on the East German border. He began his career as an engineer in the communications field with Western Electric in Michigan and Illinois, later joining GTE Planning and Development in Tampa, Florida in the late 1960s from which he retired in 1987.
Since retirement, we traveled extensively marveling at the engineering feats of ancient civilizations in the countries we visited.
In 1997, he enrolled in college with the intention of obtaining the engineering degree he’d always wanted. Before he could complete his degree, Don passed away on April 22, 2000.
He had an enduring respect for engineers crediting them for the major advancements of science and technology throughout the ages. His desire was to help deserving young people who are seeking an engineering degree (particularly electrical). And it is for this reason that I have set up an endowed scholarship fund.
The cost of a college education today is great. What better way can we secure a brighter future than to invest in the inquiring minds of engineering students?
Mrs. Donald E. (Joy) Creech
August 11, 2000
Douglas M. Schuler Lab
Purpose
This fund supports the Biomed Maker Space on the first floor of the Gordon L. Nelson Health Sciences Building. (GF000476)Description
Funds may be used for research in this lab, however, if the researcher(s) using this lab do not need funding, then the income may be used for any other biomedical research on campus. Funds are also available if needed for general equipment needs in the laboratory, including renovations necessary to keep the lab up to date and cutting edge.
History
Doug Schuler is a senior control engineer and computer control specialist for Westinghouse Corp. in Canton, Massachusetts. He has worked on projects in the United States, Canada, Algeria, and now China, where next-generation nuclear plants are being constructed.
A College of Engineering graduate, Schuler earned his degree in electrical engineering in 1972, and in 2013 established the Douglas M. Schuler Endowment to provide scholarships to electrical and computer engineer majors. He has invested in senior design projects and is a major donor to the Student Design Center, providing funds for equipment. He currently resides in the Boston area.
Doug Schuler
Douglas M. Schuler Scholarship
Purpose
Scholarship for undergraduates in the College of Engineering. (GF000214)Description
The Electrical and Computer Engineering Department Head will select a recipient based on financial need, with the name provided to the Office of Financial Aid for approval.
History
Doug Schuler is a senior control engineer and computer control specialist for Westinghouse Corp. in Canton, Massachusetts. He has worked on projects in the United States, Canada, Algeria, and now China, where next-generation nuclear plants are being constructed.
A College of Engineering graduate, Schuler earned his degree in electrical engineering in 1972, and in 2013 established the Douglas M. Schuler Endowment to provide scholarships to electrical and computer engineer majors. He has invested in senior design projects and is a major donor to the Student Design Center, providing funds for equipment. He currently resides in the Boston area.
Dr. Anne P. Rowe Scholarship
Purpose
Scholarships for senior students in the College of Engineering. (GF000082)Description
Must be a senior student in the College of Engineering. Recipients will be selected by the Director of Financial Aid in consultation with the Dean of the College of Engineering.
History
Anne P. Rowe was born on February 1st, 1927 in Detroit, Michigan. She lived and raised her family in Ann Arbor from 1946 to 1974 and obtained her BS and MS in chemistry, as well as her Ph.D. from the University of Michigan.
Rowe was a distinguished NASA and University of Michigan researcher, in addition to being a professor at three engineering colleges. She was the first woman to receive a Ph.D. from the University of Michigan in material science and engineering, focusing on electron microscopy studies of dental materials. Consequently, she received the University of Michigan Engineering Alumni Society Merit Award.
She was president of the Society of Women Engineers, and she actively promoted women in engineering and science all her life. She worked as a research metallurgist/material engineer on NASA space shuttles at Lewis Research Center and the Kennedy Space Center. Moreover, Rowe was a professor of mechanical engineering at Purdue University and then at the Florida Institute of Technology. She later served as a professor of chemistry at LaRoche College.
Aside from her professional career, Anne Rowe loved to travel, teach, and spend time with her family. She died on January 27th, 2012, at the age of 85, in Boulder, Colorado.
Dr. Bradley Rees Scholarship Fund
Purpose
Support an annual scholarship for undergraduate students majoring in engineering who are in financial need. (GF000468).Description
The Office of Financial Aid selects the student awardee.
History
Dr. Carol L. Philpot Family Psychology Fellowship
Purpose
Provide and opportunity for innovative, structured graduate and postdoctoral studies in clinical psychology and clinical experience in the area of family psychology. (GF000139)Description
Students who have received a solid foundation in basic clinical psychology and who have demonstrated excellence in academic and clinical realms will be chosen by the faculty of the School of Psychology.
History
Dr. Carol L. Philpot was the dean and professor in the psychology department. More specifically, she mainly could be found in the clinical research department. Course subjects that she taught included but were not limited to, marriage, family tracks, and gender psychology. Most students could spot her in the doctorate or upperclassman positions in courses. Dr. Philpot has contributed to the field of psychology by being on editorial boards of a multitude of gender-related books and wrote her own book on marriage therapy. The book is called Bridging Separate Gender Worlds: Why Men and Women Clash and How Therapists Can Bring Them Together.
Dr. Elizabeth B. Wolf-Corman Fellowship
Purpose
Offer fellowships to graduate students in the School of Psychology. (GF000037)Description
The recipient must be a graduate student within the School of Psychology. The recipient will be selected by the Scholarship Committee/Coordinator in the School of Psychology.
History
Elizabeth (Betty) Baker Wolf Corman was born in Cleveland, Ohio on February 25th, 1917. She attended Glenville High School and then graduated Phi Beta Kappa from Flora Stone Mather College of Western Reserve University in Cleveland and received her master’s degree and a doctorate in Psychology there.
Professionally speaking, Dr. Elizabeth Wolf, was highly influential in the establishment of the licensure of psychologists in the state of Ohio. She was an outstanding teacher and clinician and became a fellow of the American Psychological Association and a Diplomat of the American Board of Professional Psychology. Dr. Elizabeth Wolf served as a Selection Officer for Peace Corps and was director of one of the first clinical training programs at Western Reserve University. Furthermore, she was not only a Professor of Psychology and Director of Psychology Services at Marshal University in Huntington, West Virginia, but she also served as president of the West Virginia Psychological Association and played a key role in the development of the community mental health center in Huntington. Later, she became a Professor and Director of Clinical Training at the Florida Institute of Technology and, upon retirement, became Professor Emeritus.
Aside from her professional career, Betty was a dynamic force in the Jewish Community and was recognized as a “Woman of Valor” at Temple Israel of Brevard. She was active in the temple sisterhood of Ohev Shalom congregation in Huntington, WV and at Temple Israel, as well. Betty loved oil painting and playing Scrabble, which she regularly played with distinction.
Betty passed away on September 27th, 2006. However, she is remembered by her loved ones as someone who had a passion for life and was loved by all who knew her. “She was a wonderful role model for her children and grandchildren and always emphasized the importance of family, friends, and living life to its fullest. While realistically viewing the world around her, Betty was an eternal optimist, and regularly shared her enthusiasm for life with those around her. Betty was an incredibly compassionate and accepting person who strived throughout her life to contribute to the world around her.”
Dr. Frank M. Webbe School Of Psychology Endowment Fund
Purpose
Scholarships for undergraduate students within the School of Psychology. (GF000072)Description
This scholarship is administered by the Office of Financial Aid. Recipients must be undergraduate students studying within the School of Psychology.
History
Frank Webbe earned his B.A., M.S., and Ph.D. in psychology at the University of Florida in 1969, 1971, and 1974, respectively, and completed postdoctoral training in teaching at UF and in psychopharmacology/neuroscience at the University of Mississippi. He is a professor of psychology and behavior analysis at the Florida Institute of Technology, the research director of the East Central Florida Memory Disorder Clinic, and the director of the Florida Tech Sport-Related Concussion Project and Concussion Management Program.
His research focuses on two areas of neuropsychology: Alzheimer’s disease and sports-related concussion and he has studied standard and computerized methods of early assessment of Alzheimer’s disease, and in-home Applied Behavior Analysis interventions with family caregivers and Alzheimer’s patients. Moreover, he is a fellow of the American Psychological Association and the National Academy of Neuropsychology, a member and treasurer of the Sports Neuropsychology Society, past treasurer of the National Academy of Neuropsychology Foundation Board of Trustees, an immediate past Chair of the Technology Professional Interest Area of the International Society to Advance Alzheimer Research and Treatment, and former president of the Society for Sport, Exercise, & Performance Psychology of the American Psychological Association. Additionally, he has served for multiple years as the NCAA Faculty Athletics Representative at Florida Tech and is the past president of the National Faculty Athletics Representative Association (FARA).
Dr. Webbe has been recognized and awarded multiple times on different occasions such as “Florida Tech Outstanding Service Award (1995), Florida Tech Student Elected Teacher of the Year in the School of Psychology (1993, 1995, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2003, and 2006), Outstanding Young Man of America (1979), among others.
Dr. Gary N. Wells Scholarship
Purpose
Scholarship for students entering their senior year within the Biology Department. (GF000088)Description
An award committee will select the award recipient during the spring semester of their junior year.
History
Gary N. Wells worked at the Florida Institute of Technology for 34 years as a biochemistry professor, with 23 years as Head of the Department of Biological Sciences. During that time, he developed the Biology department from a teaching group to a powerful research-oriented faculty. Moreover, it was his initial approach to the F. W. Olin Foundation that later resulted in the largest donation to the school’s infrastructure, including the Olin Life Sciences Building.
Dr. Wells established the Sigma Psi chapter of Tri-Beta on campus in 1981. It includes activities that reflect the National Biological Honor Society’s objective as well as the diverse interest of the members such as camping and hiking trips, NASA tours, and Boo at the Zoo.
Aside from the administrative duties and teaching biochemistry, Dr. Wells’ greatest achievement was as leader of the faculty of disparate interest, providing them with a sense of unity and belonging. “Evidence of the cohesion of this faculty is a remarkably low turnover of members, with only two faculty members leaving to take other jobs.”- Mark Bush, Interim Head of Biological Sciences said in 2007.
Dr. J. Clayton Baum Scholarship
Purpose
Scholarships for Chemistry majors. (GF000087)Description
The recipient must be an outstanding Chemistry major in the junior year based on academic standing and research achievements.
History
Dr. J. Clayton Baum came to the Florida Institute of Technology in 1979 as an Assistant Professor. He was promoted to Associate Professor and later to full Professor. He earned his Ph.D. in Physical Chemistry from Princeton University and was a Postdoctoral Research Associate at Florida State University until 1977 when he joined the Department of Chemistry at Bowdoin College as a Visiting Assistant Professor. His research included the application of molecular spectroscopy and/or computational chemistry to the solution of a selection of chemical issues and the improvement of recent applications which included fluorescent sensors. Furthermore, he published 40+ peer-reviewed studies and research papers and the funding for his research exceeded $1 million dollars.
Dr. Baum not only was a successful teacher, but he was also a great mentor to both undergraduate and graduate students at the Florida Institute of Technology. For this, the Florida Tech alumni established this as the first endowed scholarship in chemistry in his name. In addition, service to the university was a hallmark of his tenure at Florida Tech. He received multiple awards including the Lynn Edward Weaver Award for Lifetime Achievement in Service to the Florida Institute of Technology.
Dr. Baum passed on June 21, 2020. His obituary read:
Indialantic - J. Clayton Baum, 74, passed away on June 21st. A native of Falls Church, VA, and resident of Indialantic, FL for 41 years, Clayton dedicated his life to teaching, exercising his passion over 37 years in the Florida Tech Department of Chemistry, where he provided award-winning teaching and mentorship to scores of students.
After earning his Ph.D. in Physical Chemistry from Princeton University, serving as a Postdoctoral Research Associate at Florida State University, and working as a Visiting Assistant Professor at the Bowdoin College Chemistry Department, Clayton arrived at Florida Tech in 1979 as an Assistant Professor of Chemistry. He was later promoted to Associate Professor and then Full Professor, a position he maintained until his retirement as Professor Emeritus in 2016.
During his time at Florida Tech, Clayton published more than 40 peer-reviewed studies and research papers, was recognized repeatedly for his excellence in the classroom with numerous awards, and had a scholarship established in his name by alumni, students, and friends in recognition of his teaching and mentoring. He continued to work on research after his retirement, including a National Science Foundation-supported project.
Outside of scholarship, Clayton was a loving husband and father who enjoyed camping, hiking, bowling, and watching movies with his family and friends. He also took pride and satisfaction in all manner of DIY home projects and working on his model train set.
Clayton is predeceased by his loving wife of 34 years, Melissa, as well as his parents, Robert and Adelaide. He is survived by his son, Matt, his daughter Katie and her life partner Mike, his sister Caroline and her husband John, his first wife and current partner Donna, and all of the teaching colleagues and students he inspired.
Dr. Jerome P. Keuper Endowment
Purpose
In honor of Dr. Jerome P. Keuper, founder and first president of Florida Tech. (GF000003)Description
This fund is to be used at the discretion of the President of Florida Tech.
History
Dr. Jerome P. Keuper was the founder and first president of Florida Tech. Dr. Keuper received a B.S. from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, an M.S. from Stanford University, and a Ph.D. from the University of Virginia. According to Florida Tech Today Online, "Dr. Keuper came to the Space Coast in 1958 as chief scientist in RCA's Systems Analysis Group." His career included being director of the Federal Reserve of Independent Colleges and Universities, where he also served as chair of the Council of Presidents. Dr. Keuper also served in the U.S. Army during World War II.
Under Keuper's guidance, Florida Tech grew from 225 students in 1958 to more than 7,500 in 1983. Dr. Jerome P. Keuper passed away on March 26, 2002.
Dr. Lynn Weaver commented to Florida Tech Today Online, "Dr. Keuper's spirit is in every part of the Florida Tech campus. His vision, his drive to succeed and his unparalleled optimism made [Florida Tech] possible. It is a remarkable thing to create a university and Dr. Keuper was certainly a remarkable man."
Dr. Julius Montgomery Scholarship Fund
Purpose
Award tuition scholarships to undergraduate students enrolled or planning to enroll at Florida Tech. (GF000453)Description
Recipients will be selected by the Office of Financial Aid. Recipients must be full-time students and must be in and remain in good academic standing; scholarships shall be awarded on the basis of need and merit. Preference will be given to renewing the same student in successive semesters.
History
The Dr. Julius Montgomery Scholarship Fund is in recognition of the work and dedication of Dr. Julius Montgomery. This scholarship will stand as a testament to Dr. Montgomery’s legacy. Before the Civil Rights Act made equal employment opportunity the law, Dr. Montgomery was making history in 1956 as the first black professional in the U.S. space program. In 1958, he was the first African American student to sign up for classes at the university. As the university did not yet have its own campus, the Brevard County School District’s ultimatum to prohibit the use of certain classrooms if he attended was potentially debilitating. Dr. Montgomery met with the university’s president, Dr. Jerome Keuper, and agreed to withdraw. President Keuper promised a place for him once the university had its own property. Shortly after receiving the land for the current campus, Dr. Montgomery effectively desegregated the school when he enrolled in classes. To honor the pioneering spirit and his contributions, the Alumni Association presents an annual Julius Montgomery Pioneer Award to a deserving candidate. Like the award, this scholarship will continue to celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. Montgomery by providing financial support for students from historically marginalized backgrounds. The student named for this scholarship may continue to receive the award each year until their graduation. Students receiving this award will be known as “Dr. Julius Montgomery Scholars”.
Dr. Kerry B. Clark Scholarship
Purpose
Scholarship awarded annually to a student majoring in Marine Biology. (GF000055)Description
In memory of Dr. Kerry B. Clark, a Florida Tech professor of biological sciences, this scholarship is awarded annually to a student majoring in Marine Biology whose dedication and high academic achievement give promise of an outstanding career in the field.
History
Kerry Bruce Clark was born in 1945 and began his career at Florida Institute of Technology in 1971 where he worked as an assistant professor, rising through the ranks to professor of biological sciences, and served as associate department head for graduate programs.
During his career, Dr. Clark established the foundations for the marine biology program and was of huge influence in establishing the department’s museum which houses specimens for both teaching and research. He published several articles in the area of opisthobranch biodiversity, reproduction, systematics, and algal symbiosis. Also, he described and named four new molluscan species and one new echinoderm species, plus he authored the award-winning CD-ROM “METAZOA” dealing with the exploration of invertebrate zoology, the proceeds of which he unselfishly used to purchase and upgrade equipment in the computer lab at Florida Institute of Technology.
Aside from being a member of multiple national and international societies, in 1991 and 1992, Dr. Clark received the Faculty Excellence Award for teaching, and in 1996, he was named a fellow by the American Association for the Advancement of Science in honor of his work documenting rare species of sea slugs. He served the university in many capacities and was a departmental member of the Graduate Council.
Dr. Clark was highly respected by both students and faculty. He was not only a mentor and a role model, but he was also an outstanding example of a truly innovative, engaging, and empowering teaching professor. He had a vast love of nature and broad knowledge. He was always excited to share. He died in 1999, but his memory will be remembered by all the people he helped, from family and friends to colleagues.
Dr. Leonard D. Healy Scholarship
Purpose
Scholarships available to graduate students. (GF000083)Description
Recipients will be chosen by the program director of the Orlando Graduate Center. The student is expected to be making satisfactory progress towards a degree; preference shall be given to applicants who are pursuing a degree in Dr. Healy's field of computer science; must submit a brief essay.
History
The scholarship was created by Fleur de Lys Healy. Fleur is the wife of the late Leonard D. Healy Ph.D. Leonardo was an adjunct professor in Orlando.
Dr. Pieter S. and Mrs. Afaf A. Dubbelday Scholarship Endowment in Physics
Purpose
In honor of long-time Physics faculty member Pieter S. Dubbelday, established by his daughters who are alumni. (GF000182)Description
This scholarship is administered by the Office of Financial Aid. Recipients must demonstrate financial need and high academic merit and must be majoring in Physics.
History
In 2014, the family of Dr. Pieter S. Dubbelday establish an endowed scholarship fund in honor of the eminent Florida Tech faculty member.
Dr. Pieter S. Dubbelday earned his doctorate in nuclear physics from the Vrije Universitet, a university in Amsterdam, Netherlands. Dubbelday was an outstanding physics and oceanography professor at Florida Tech for twenty years (1961-1981) and was known for his intellect, integrity, and dedication to students, making him the Florida Tech Teacher of the Year in 1980 at the annual award ceremony organized by the Student Government Association (SGA).
During his years at Florida Tech, he did not only serve as a professor but was also engaged in hydroacoustic research. Furthermore, he received the “Science Faculty Professional Development Award” from the National Science Foundation (NSF). This award allowed him to continue his research at the Underwater Sound Reference Detachment of the Naval Research Lab at Orlando.
Dubbelday’s achievements include designing and constructing an acoustic tank facility, developing an aluminum-based material transparent to sound with a density equivalent to water, holding a patent for a ferrofluid transducer, authoring 45 publications, and still being greatly cited in research these days.
Aside from his professional career, Dubbelday and his wife married in the Netherlands and raised two daughters in Florida. He retired and lived in Garland Texas later in life.
Dr. Rajiv & Priti Malkan Scholarship Fund
Purpose
Scholarships in support of undergraduate students majoring in the life sciences who have been determined to have financial need and are in good academic standing. (GF000346)Description
This scholarship is administered by the Office of Financial Aid.
History
Dr. Sam M. Hughes and Mrs. Kate Settle Hughes Scholarship
Purpose
Scholarships for undergraduate students enrolled at Florida Tech. (GF000028)Description
Recipients are selected by the Office of Financial Aid. The recipient must be a full-time student; preference given to students who are graduates of Melbourne High School and then preference to graduates of other high schools in Brevard County; must be in and remain in good academic standing; preference given to renewal to the same student.
History
On November 11, 1983, Ralph Johnson, Director of Development requested a waiver of the minimum endowment fund level of $10,000 because Sam and Kate Hughes had offered $1,000 to start this scholarship endowment and promised to build it over time. Because Sam was Florida Tech's first mathematics professor in 1958, the university granted the exception. In a letter on November 22, 1983, President Jerome Keuper stated "Your warm and generous love of people and gift to create an endowed scholarship is magnificent. On behalf of our students that will benefit from your generosity, it is my privilege to say thank you...Your contribution to the birth, growth, and graduates of F.I.T. will continue." Sam did give steadily every year over the next decades and this endowment became a part of the foundation of Florida Tech's overall endowment.
In 1985, Florida Tech bestowed Sam Hughes an honorary degree.
Sam went on to serve as a minister in Clinton, S.C. The Rev. Dr. Samuel Mason Hughes passed on December 2nd, 2004 at Laurens County Hospital and Kate passed on January 27th, 2010.
His obituary stated:
Born in Calhoun Falls, he was the son of the late Samuel Townsend and Elizabeth Stevenson Hughes and was the husband of Kate Settle Hughes. He was a member of the Clinton First Baptist Church, and was a minister, school teacher, college professor, and Shriner. He received an Honorary Doctorate degree from the Florida Institute of Technology, and was a World War II veteran, serving as a chaplain. He received his Doctor of Ministries Degree at the age of 80 from Erskine College.
Surviving, in addition to his wife, is a son, B. Mason Hughes of Ballwin, Missouri. There are five grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.
Dr. V. Lakshmikantham Math Scholarship
Purpose
Scholarship in the Mathematical Sciences Program for undergraduate maths majors and any successor programs. (GF000039)Description
Recipients must be within the Mathematical Sciences department, selected based on need and merit by the Office of Financial Aid. If there is no student within the department the scholarship can be awarded to a student pursuing a dual major in mathematics and some other field.
History
Dr. Walter M. Nunn, Jr. Scholarship in Electromagnetics
Purpose
Scholarships for Electrical Engineering students, solely in the field of Electromagnetic. (GF000033)Description
This scholarship is administered by the Office of Financial Aid. Students must be in good standing within the university which means a C+ or better for undergraduate and a B or better for graduate students. Recipients must be studying electrical engineering solely in the Field of Electromagnetics.
History
Walter Nunn, a professor of electrical engineering arrived at Florida Tech in 1969, just more than a decade after its founding. He spent many years as a faculty member, bolstering the knowledge and touching the lives of thousands of students from his microwave laboratory and classroom in the Frueauff building.
He passed away in 2005, and his wife Hortense passed in 2017. By then they had made clear their longstanding desire to enhance the teaching and development of electrical engineering by establishing a faculty chair dedicated to advancing research and education in that critical field.
In just his second year at Florida Tech, the university gained accreditation from the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology, now known as ABET, a critical step in confirming its place among the leading engineering schools in the country and solidifying the discipline’s pivotal role on campus.
“In those days, electrical engineering was the whole School of Engineering, and I comprised 25 percent of the school’s faculty, being the fourth member,” Nunn told the university’s Florida Tech Today magazine in 2003. Nunn worked for Harry Weber, who served as both head of the Department of Electrical Engineering and dean of the graduate school.
Weber supported Nunn during those early days when Nunn used unorthodox methods to advance the university’s teaching mission. “Harry helped me start the microwave laboratory,” Nunn said, noting that the original equipment, much of it built by students, was somewhat primitive. “Of course, we didn’t have room for it inside our building, so we put it together on tables in the parking lot.”
That arrangement remained until Florida Tech founding president Jerome Keuper came by during a lab session. “The lab went back into an extremely crowded building,” Nunn said.
In spite of these humble beginnings, Nunn pointed out with justifiable pride that the electromagnetic program he helped launch in 1971 was the first Ph.D. program at Florida Tech.
Both teaching and research were vital for Nunn. While he took great pleasure in teaching, he said his principal research in computer simulation and modeling was always a high priority.
Walter and Hortense grew up in Louisiana and had no children but saw the Florida Tech community as their extended family. Hortense put the university in her will in 2005 after her husband passed away.
“Walter worked at the height of his profession, both in the classroom and in the laboratory. When I went to visit him in the hospital the day before he died, he was still talking about the projects he was working on at FIT,” said Syed Murshid, a professor of electrical engineering and Walter Nunn’s colleague of 25 years. “He served as an inspiration for his colleagues in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering and for faculty throughout the college. He was simply a joy.”
And Nunn’s legacy lives on.
In his commencement address in May 2018 to the university’s spring graduates, Florida Tech Board of Trustees member Vik Verma, a successful Silicon Valley CEO, remembered his former teacher.
“One of my favorite professors was Professor Walter M. Nunn, Jr. He was a former Marine, a world-renowned professor in electromagnetic theory, and one of the toughest graders….Professor Nunn was an amazing man. He passed away a few years ago and I miss him today as does the entire Florida Tech family.”
Hortense Nunn established this Chair in Electrical Engineering through her estate gift in 2018.
Edward H. Kalajian Professorship
Purpose
Create a Professorship in the College of Engineering. (GF000187)Description
This Professorship is for the College of Engineering and shall be awarded to one worthy recipient for a five-year term. Funds from this endowment exist in perpetuity and are managed and invested in accordance with the University's general policy and procedures governing endowed funds. Endowed faculty professorships are crucial for recruiting and retaining the highest-quality faculty. The greatest institutions have the best minds, the most creative researchers, and the most engaged teachers. Ultimately, this attracts the best students.
History
“Welcome to Florida Tech. How can I help you to become the best engineer that you can be?”
This is the introduction Dr. Edward H. Kalajian’s delivered to incoming students. Dr. Kalajian taught every civil engineering student in Florida Tech’s history until his retirement. Take a moment to reflect on that declaration – the tens of thousands of alumni who are changing the world today.
Gifts from Dr. Kalajian's family, friends, and former students led a campaign to establish the Edward H. Kalajian Endowed Professorship to honor his 46 years of service.
"Being a part of FIT history in perpetuity is both humbling and inspiring. I am honored to continue to encourage and challenge the next generation of scholars," shared Dr. Kalajian.
In 1971, he joined Florida Tech to launch the ocean engineering program. Shortly afterward in 1974, he created the civil engineering department. His efforts were instrumental in the accreditation from ABET (Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology). This highly respected accreditation accelerated Florida Tech’s recognition as a great university.
He is a true visionary. He understands the importance of student involvement outside the classroom. The ASCE (American Society of Civil Engineers) student chapter, National Concrete Canoe competitions, and National Student Steel Bridge competitions are thanks to him. He also founded the Civil Engineering Honor Society Chi Epsilon chapter.
Edward Kalaijan, Professor and Associate Dean at Florida Tech, obtained his bachelor’s and master’s degree in Civil Engineering from the University of Maryland in 1962 and the University of Massachusetts in 1969. In 1971, he obtained his Ph.D. from the University of Massachusetts.
Dr. Kalaijan started his professional career working as a Civil Engineer at the Naval Facilities Engineering Command. In 1971, he was Assistant Professor at Florida Tech and, in 1975, became Associate Professor in the Civil Engineering Department. In 1978 and 1979, he worked as Civil Engineer for the U.S. Army and as Ocean Engineer for the Harbor Branch Foundation, respectively. In 1979, Dr. Kalaijan came back to Florida Tech and worked as Associate Professor and Department Head of the Civil Engineering Department to later become the Director of the Division of Engineering Sciences (Mechanical, Civil, Chemical, and Aerospace Engineering). Since 1999, Dr. Kalaijan has been a Professor of Civil Engineering and Associate Dean of the College of Engineering.
Dr. Kalaijan’s honors and awards include the Walter M. Nunn Jr. Award for Teaching Excellence from the College of Engineering; the Civil Engineering Advisory Council Outstanding Service Award; Engineer of the Year, ASCE, Cape Canaveral Branch; ASCE University of Houston Student Chapter Outstanding Professor; Letter of Recommendation for Kittinger Award for Teaching, and U.S. Navy Southeast Asia Civil Service Award.
Dr. Kalaijan is a registered Professional Engineer in Florida with expertise in soil mechanics, foundation design, concrete materials, waterfront construction, and waste stabilization. He is an active member of the American Society of Civil Engineers, American Society for Engineering Education, Chi Epsilon, and Tau Beta Pi, and also, he is a member of the advisory board of The Hinckly Center for Solid and Hazardous Waste Management.
Past Recipients
2019-2023: Dr. Paul Cosentino
Edward W. Snowdon and Lee Hill Snowdon Fellowship
Purpose
Award fellowships to graduate students in the Florida Tech Department of Ocean Engineering and Marine Sciences. (GF000067)Description
Recipients must be graduate students studying under the Department of Ocean Engineering and Marine Sciences. The Department Head and a committee of his faculty will select one or more fellows this year.
History
Edward W. Snowdon was born in Washington in 1910. He graduated from Western High School in Washington, DC in 1929 and from Wesleyan University in 1933.
Edward and his wife, Lee Hill (1919-1993), met in 1937 on a ship crossing the Atlantic, when Lee joined her parents on a trip to Europe after completing boarding school outside Washington D.C. At that time, Edward was working for a concert impresario and although he was based in New York City, he spent much of his time traveling through Europe discovering new talent and promoting opera stars. Lee and Edward got married in 1941 after Lee’s four years at Duke University in Plainfield.
Edward Snowdon was a captain in the US Army Signal Intelligence during World War II and participated in the D-Day invasion and the Battle of the Buldge. He was awarded the Bronze Star and two Croiz de Guerre from France for his service in the liberation. Snowdon worked for the Charles L. Wagner Opera Company and Young and Rubican in New York City until his retirement in 1972, when he and his wife Lee Hill, moved to Manalapan, Fl. Here, he was a member of the Everglades Clun and was a past Commodore of both the Manalapan Yacht Club and Key Largo Anglers Club.
Lee Hill was the daughter of Marguerite Stewart and Arthur Bullock Hill, founder of the Arthur B. Hill Foundation (which became the Hill-Snowdon Foundation) in 1959. She was on the foundation’s Board and was the primary decision-maker for several years after her father died. When she and Edward moved to Florida, Lee did not only continue to support numerous organizations in Plainfield but also began funding Florida groups such as the Red Cross.
Edward Snowdon, Top-Left
Edwin A. Link Special Collections Endowment
Purpose
Support the special collections at Evans Library known as the Edwin A. Link Special Collections. (GF000146)Description
Funds will be used at the discretion of the Dean of Evans Library; to purchase materials for the Edwin A. Link Special Collections; to provide needed resources to maintain special collections; to partially support a Link Librarian position in the Evans Library; to compensate technically gifted students to provide services that support Special Collections, and to generally strengthen the Special Collections.
History
Edwin A. Link was born on July 26th, 1904 in Huntington, Indiana. He was a pioneer in aviation, underwater archaeology, and submersibles, and was mostly recognized for inventing the flight simulator commercialized in 1929 that trained countless pilots, including half a million airmen during World War II.
Early in his life, Mr. Link founded his own company, Link Aviation, where he was president and board chairman until it merged with the General Precision Corporation. After that, he was president and a director of General Precision until its merger with the Singer Company of Stamford. The company, now the Link Flight Simulator Division of the Singer Company, is based in Kirkwood.
He spent the second half of his life immersed in oceanographic exploration, creating innovative ways to explore the oceans. He designed and developed several devices to aid scientific research, including Johnson-Sea-Link Class submersibles, and they have been used to discover, observe and collect thousands of biological samples from ocean reefs, previously unknown to the marine science world.
Aside from all his professional accomplishments and advancements, in 1958, he established the Link Foundation which has awarded grants for research in aeronautics and oceanography to more than 120 universities and nonprofit organizations.
Mr. Link passed away on September 7th, 1981. However, is still remembered by thousands of people throughout the years for all his great achievements and help. In 2018, Edwin A. Link was named inductee to the Florida Inventors Hall of Fame.
“I never worked a day in my life. I had fun and got paid for it” – Edwin A. Link
Eldridge and Navaretta Scholarship Endowment
Purpose
To support undergraduate scholar-athletes, specifically for the Men's Soccer team. (GF000490)Description
Recipients will be chosen by a three member selection committee, made up by the university's Athletic Director, Head Soccer Coach, and Assistant Soccer Coach. The recipient shall be a male soccer player at Florida Institute of Technology who is a full-time student in good academic standing with a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0.
History
J. Michael Eldridge Personal Biography Mike was born in Mt Airy, NC in 1949. He graduated from North Surry HS and was a multisport athlete. He earned a BS in 1972 and an MA in 1973 from Appalachian State University, where he played soccer on ASU’s first Southern Conference championship team. He was also an assistant coach there during his graduate work. Mike began his teaching and coaching career in 1974 in Florida through the Brevard County Public School system. He married Sherry Greene Eldridge late that same year, and he taught school and also coached at Melbourne High School until he was hired as the head soccer coach at Florida Institute of Technology.
He became an USSF Nationally Certified Soccer Coach and went on to coach there from 1974 until May of 1983. Mike was elected President of the Florida Intercollegiate Soccer Coaches Association in 1978 and again in 1981. Mike embraced a team made up of many international players from all over the world and the US. His win/loss record of 89-43-22 was achieved with very little scholarship money. His teams from 1978 thru 1982 were annually ranked in the top 5 in the NCAA Division II South Region. His team achieved 3rd place in the University of Central Florida Bowl in 1977; 2 nd place in the 1978 Pepsi Cola Invitational and 1st place each successive year thru 1981; 3rd place in the 1980 Methodist College Invitational tournament and 1st place in 1981 and 1982 consecutively. Mike continues to be very proud of all those athletes who worked so diligently to achieve these accolades. He is even more proud of the men they have become outside the sport. Mike began to work in the Financial Services arena part time with Fidelity Union Life in 1980, while continuing to coach at FIT. He became extremely successful and nationally recognized in the industry. After the birth of his daughter, Ashley, and with a heavy heart, Mike made the difficult decision to leave Melbourne and his coaching position at FIT to pursue his Financial Services career. His son, Paul, was born in 1986, and Mike passed his love of soccer on to a new generation. He coached Paul’s club teams with an over-all record of 57-20-6, until Paul reached the Olympic Development team in NC.
Paul played in college and two years professionally, so soccer was a huge part of Mike’s family life In 1984, Mike began a very long career with IDS Financial Services. In 1992, while working in Minneapolis with a team of 30 advisors and staff to redesign and rebrand the company, he simultaneously earned a Certified Financial Planning degree through the College of Financial Planning and continued to build his Financial Planning practice in Boone, NC. IDS became American Express Financial Services as a result of the Design Team’s efforts over a 3 year process. The company continued to evolve as Ameriprise Financial Services. Mike retired in 2015 as a Platinum Financial Planner, after a 31 year career with the company. His 54 year history of refereeing continues for high school, middle school and collegiate games in Wilmington where he and Sherry have retired. His love of the game is still a big part of his life.
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Peter Navaretta Personal Biography
Peter was born in Brooklyn, New York with soccer boots on his feet. He played soccer from a very young age in school and recreational programs. His father died when he was a teenager but luckily his soccer coach was there to support him and guide him to apply to colleges to play the sport that he loved.
He received an athletic scholarship at Ithaca College where he received numerous awards and recognitions as an athlete in three sports including soccer. After receiving his bachelor’s degree, he moved to Washington DC employed by Ogden Corporation. The soccer athlete in him led him to the British Lions Soccer Club. He played defense for this multi-national amateur club which won the United States National Amateur Cup in 1969. The team received their awards at the British Embassy presented by tennis professional, Arthur Ashe.
In 1971 Florida Institute of Technology opened a campus in Cocoa Beach/Port Canaveral. Peter held the position of Director of Student Affairs. He was impressed with the curriculum and philosophy of the school but realized something was missing...an athletic program. So with nothing more than a thought and feeling of confidence he planned and formed a soccer team. This campus, its programs, faculty, and students including the soccer team relocated to Jensen Beach Florida. FIT had purchased the St. Joseph's College campus transforming it to Florida Institute of Technology Jensen Beach Campus.
It was here in Jensen Beach where soccer exploded under the guidance of Coach Navaretta. His team of players from around the world including Africa, France, Kuwait, Columbia, and Mexico held clinics for the area youth players which in turn inspired the creation of local youth programs including Stuart Youth Soccer Club. Upon leaving FIT he started the boys and girls soccer program at Martin County High School. The successful programs started in Martin County by Coach Navaretta trickled down to Palm Beach County and to St. Lucie County to the north. But he gives credit to the players at the small Jensen Beach FIT campus who were the true proponents of the sport of soccer.
Peter's career took a turn in 1983 when he accepted a Financial Advisor position at E.F. Hutton. Forty years later he continues to work at Oppenheimer & Co. Peter hopes this endowment will serve as a "steppingstone" to a male soccer athlete to help further his education while enjoying his soccer experience at FIT. Soccer will always be in his heart and soul, and he is grateful to all the players he has had the opportunity to coach.
1982 Men's Soccer team
1976 FIT-JBC Men's Soccer team
Eric J. Primavera ASCE Student Chapter Endowment
Purpose
Provide student competition expenses at Regional and National levels, and send Florida Tech ASCE students to national ASCE and other pertinent Civil Engineering Society meetings. (GF000170)Description
Funds are distributed at the discretion of the Program Chairman in Civil Engineering and/or the ASCE faculty member.
History
Eric Primavera was a gifted engineering alumnus and builder of Florida Tech’s first concrete canoe. He was not only an outstanding student during his time at Florida Tech, but he was also a leader among undergraduate and graduate students.
After he received his master’s degree from Florida Tech, he moved to New York for a few years and then came back to Florida to work at Port Canaveral Company, Gee & Jensen. There, he “oversaw complex coastal engineering projects, including the design of piers for new cruise ships.”
Eric’s professional achievements include developing a 17,000-psi high-strength mix and advancing the ACI code for high-strength anchor pullout through his Master’s Thesis. Additionally, in 1991, Eric and other Florida Tech students attended the ASCE Southeast Regional Competition at Mississippi State where they placed 4th in a field of more than 30 schools after Eric introduced Florida Tech’s first canoe effort.
He was married to Tina Ortiz and enjoyed teaching structural engineering courses during his free time. On April 20th, 2000, Florida Tech lost an outstanding alumnus who is remembered as “an inspiration to everyone who was fortunate enough to know him.”
Erik Joh Intercollegiate Rowing Program Endowment
Purpose
Benefit the students and coaches who participate in the College's Intercollegiate Rowing Program. (GF000168)Description
The fund may be used by faculty or staff who coach the students and could be used to purchase necessary equipment for the sport.
History
Erik Edward Joh, Esq., grew up in Binghamton, NY and throughout his life, he maintained a farm there, growing hops. He attended Dartmouth College from 1963-1967 where he fell in love with rowing and football. While majoring in Government and History at Dartmouth, he joined the Psi Upsilon Fraternity and rowed competitively for the Dartmouth Rowing Club. Erik went on to coach crew from 1966-67 and was recognized with Steward's Award for contributions to Dartmouth Rowing.
Erik once shared that he would have continued as a rowing coach, but his father made an offer to pay for law school and told Erik he had to take that offer now or it would be rescinded. This jolted Erik to go to law school and he earned his JD from Albany Law School in 1970. In law school, he served as Football Coach At Christian Bros Academy, was the Social Chair for the Student Bar Association, and was a research editor for the Albany Law Review. After graduating, he was admitted to the New York and Florida Bar Associations.
Erik went on to have an outstanding career in law and politics and served for nearly 53 years as an attorney for Hinman, Howard & Kattell, LLP. The firm specialized in offering sophisticated and highly personalized wealth-transfer strategies to high-net-worth individuals.
Here Erik counseled clients on tax law, wills, trusts, and estates, as well as non-profit corporations and foundations.
Erik was involved in numerous campaigns, including working with Nelson Rockefeller.
He also served as the President and CEO of Cypress Trust and for 32 years was managing trustee for the Gertrude E. Skelly Charitable Foundation.
Mr. Joh was an active member of several industry-related organizations, including the Broome County Bar Association, the South Palm Beach County Bar Association, and the New York State Bar Association. He was also a member of the Real Property, Probate, and Trust Law and Tax Sections of the American Bar Association.
Erik was very supportive and saw the importance of nurses in health care. He was an Honorary Fellow of the American Academy of Nursing and the Sigma Theta Tau International Nursing Society.
Some of Mr. Joh's avocational memberships include the Country Club of Florida and the East Coast Football Officials Association, as well as the Country Club of Florida Scholarship Foundation, where he serves as a board member.
Other roles included serving as a trustee of Colby-Sawyer College and trustee, vice chairman, and treasurer of Albany Law School (Union University).
Active for more than 55 years with the American Red Cross, Joh served on the organization's National Board of Governors for more than six years. In 2001, he received the organization's highest award: the Harriman Award for Exceptional Leadership
In 1995 he received the Distinguished Alumni Award from Albany Law School and that same year earned a Leadership Award from the American Red Cross.
In 2001 he received The Harriman Award for Exceptional Leadership from the American National Red Cross.
In 2002, Mr. Joh was Knighted and admitted to the Sovereign Order of St. John of Jerusalem, Knights Hospitaller; one of the oldest orders of Chivalry still in existence.
2018, he received a 65-Year Volunteer Award 2018.
Erik joined the Board of Trustees for Florida Tech in 1998 and was an active leader, ultimately serving for many years as the Chair of the Development Committee. Everyone knew Erik as an incredibly personable and caring individual. He made it a point to get to know every member of the staff he could by their first name.
At FIT he started a crew scholarship and did not name it so that others could add to it. We added his name back to the fund upon his retirement from the board.
Erik received the Albert Nelson Marquis Lifetime Achievement Award and in 2019, he was listed in Marquis Who's Who.
F. Alan Smith Distinguished Lecture Series
Purpose
Establish a nationally significant speaker series at Florida Tech. (GF000111)Description
The program has established a flagship speaker event that brings senior leaders to Florida Tech to share their expertise in discussing national trends with students, faculty, and the broader community. The Alan Smith Lectures focus typically on topics relating to transportation.
History
F. Alan Smith obtained his bachelor’s degree from Dartmouth College in 1951 and an MBA from the Tuck School of Business in 1953. Throughout his life, or for more than 30 years, to be more specific, he has held different leadership positions in which he has succeeded such as Executive Vice President of Finance of General Motors and President and General Manager of General Motors of Canada, Ltd. Additionally, he served on the Board of Directors of 3M Corp.
Smith has served on Florida Institute of Technology’s Board of Trustees since 1996 and, in 2007, founded the “F. Alan Smith Distinguished Lecture Series”, in which corporate executives speak to students, faculty, and community leaders at Florida Tech. The lecture series includes topics such as innovation in the automotive industry, self-driving cars, the Hyperloop high-speed rail, and advances in ridesharing, among others.
Faculty Senate Scholarship
Purpose
Support undergraduate students. (GF000014)Description
This scholarship is for students attending Florida Tech. There are no specified criteria, only that recipients will be designated in a round-robin queue, decided by random means by the members of the Senate Scholarship Committee. To retain the award, students must maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.0 and full-time student status.
History
First documented in 2004, the Faculty Senate Scholarship gives a $4,500 merit scholarship to a deserving sophomore every academic year. The Faculty Senate Scholarship award is distributed equally over three years. The existing endowment has come from many years of generous faculty and staff donations and, when available, matching funds from foundations. In order to give Florida Tech colleges and schools a chance to award their students the scholarship, a round-robin was established.
Farmer Scholars Program At Florida Tech
Purpose
Offer a full four-year scholarship awarded annually to a Florida resident and high school graduate to assist in pursuing a degree at Florida Tech. (GF000094)Description
The recipient must be a Florida resident freshman in good academic standing, from the top 5 percent of their high school class; a qualified recipient of the State of Florida scholarship support; a student with an outstanding personal character determined through references; a student with proven leadership qualities; financial need may be considered but shall not be a requirement.
History
Phillip W. Farmer was born on August 30th, 1938 in Goldsboro, North Carolina. He attended Duke University where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics in 1960. His first job right after graduating from college was with General Electric, which recruited him in his senior year to join its Financial Management Program in New Jersey. There, he met his beloved wife of 56 years, Jean McDonald Farmer.
After a few years, Mr. Farmer joined Harris Corporation and worked as Vice President and General Manager of one of its Government Systems divisions in New York. In 1984, Mr. and Mrs. Farmer moved to Florida, and he held several upper-level positions including Vice President of Harris’s Palm Bay operations, President of the Government Systems Sector, President of the Semiconductor Sector, Executive Vice President of Harris, President, and Chief Operating Officer, and lastly, in 1995, he became Chairman, President, and CEO of Harris Corporation. He retired from this position in 2003.
Mr. Farmer was also a member of the Board of Directors of the Vulcan Material Company, George Weston, LTD, and AuthenTec, Inc.; he is past chairman of the Manufacturers Alliance, served on the Board of Governors of the Aerospace Industries Association and was a member of the Defense Policy Advisory Committee on Trade. He served as Chairman of the Board of Directors, the Health First Foundation, and the Brevard Zoo.
In 1994, he became a member of the Board of Trustees at Florida Tech, where, because of his work, a residence hall (Farmer Hall) was built and named in his honor. Additionally, his personal commitment to the success of the students at Florida Tech was demonstrated by funding a $1.5 million endowment to create the Farmer Scholars Program, which provides a full, four-year scholarship awarded annually to a Florida resident who demonstrates outstanding academic performance and personal character.
Aside from his professional life and achievements, Mr. Farmer loved spending time with his wife, three children, and eight grandchildren. He enjoyed sports, reading, and automobiles. After his retirement, he and his wife Jean traveled the world and shared some of these experiences with friends and family.
Mr. Farmer passed away on October 28th, 2018, at the age of 80, leaving behind a great legacy. “Without Phil Farmer, Florida Tech would undoubtedly be a lesser institution, and the many, many students whose lives he influenced would not be making their mark in the world today. He made those around him better, which is the truest form of leadership, and his vision for Florida Tech, motivated by an unwavering belief that we were an outstanding university that could be truly exceptional, motivated all of us to strive for excellence,” where some of the words from Dwayne McCay, Florida Tech President.
Over his lifetime, Phil Farmer contributed over $12 million to Florida Tech.
Father Douglas F. Bailey, S.D.S., Endowment to Support Catholic Campus Ministry
Purpose
Support Catholic Campus Minister. (GF000161)Description
Funds will be dispersed at the discretion of the Campus Minister, they may be used to pay expenses related to Catholic Campus Ministry.
History
Father Douglas Bailey is the Florida Tech Catholic Campus Minister and University Chaplain. His role and responsibilities as a Catholic Priest of the Florida Tech campus have been going on for more than 30 years. Fr. Douglas is not only a spiritual advisor to students, but he is also an instructor and teaches classes such as World Religion and BioEthics. He holds daily masses, Bible study once per week, Rosary, and other activities such as Spaghetti Dinner for Students.
Father Doug studied philosophy in college and earned his Master’s in religious studies. He was ordained in 1976.
Flag Officers Leadership ROTC Scholarship
Purpose
Award tuition scholarships to undergraduate students enrolled or planning to enroll in Florida Tech who are participating or planning to participate in the ROTC program. (GF000080)Description
The recipient will be chosen by the Office of Financial Aid. The recipient must be a U.S. citizen who is recommended by the ROTC program; participate in the ROTC program; demonstrate good character; have no conscientious objection to military service; be willing to sign a loyalty oath to the U.S. Constitution; honorable discharge if prior military service; must remain in good academic standing.
History
ROTC, or Reserve Officers’ Training Corp, teaches the next generation of military leadership, discipline, and survival skills. The ROTC members are current Florida Tech students and dual between each position.
Florida Tech Alumni Association Scholarship
Purpose
Financial Aid for undergraduate and first-year graduate students. (GF000061)Description
Recipients are selected by the Office of Financial Aid in consultation with the Alumni Association Board. Recipients must be undergraduate or first-year graduate students who are FIT alumni or children of FIT alumni.
History
Since the Florida Institute of Technology was established in 1958, more than 60,000 students have graduated from our university. Our alumni live in all 50 states and in every country. They include a wide variety of professionals in engineering, science, business, aviation, psychology, communication, and the humanities.
The goal of Florida Tech's Alumni Association is to promote a lifelong relationship of mutual benefits and support for both the university and its alumni. All students who graduate from Florida Tech (or have the equivalent of one year of completed coursework) are eligible for membership.
Francis O. Blume III Endowed ROTC Scholarship
Purpose
Scholarships for deserving U.S. citizens who are ROTC students. (GF000078)Description
The recipient is chosen by the Office of Financial Aid. The recipient must be a U.S. citizen who is not a conscientious objector; must demonstrate good character and be motivated by a strong patriotic allegiance; must be a participant in the ROTC program; if there is military history must have been honorably discharged must be a full-time student; must be in good academic standing. Preference is given to renewing to the same student.
History
Francis O. Blume III, in 2003, donated $50,000 to the school to create the ROTC scholarship. Later was matched by the F.W. Olin Foundation. The 1971 alumni of electrical engineering know what it feels like to serve the country. He retired from the military after providing service in the National Security Agency in Maryland.
Frank M. Tricomi Scholarship Fund
Purpose
Support students with financial need. (GF000475)Description
Support students with financial need with a preference towards students graduating from East Ridge High School in Clermont, FL.
History
Friends of the Evans Library Endowment
Purpose
Provide resources for the library and information resources and to keep those resources the most modern available worldwide. (GF000147)Description
Funds are used at the discretion of the Director of Evans Library to purchase books, journals, publications, and other resources; to provide instructional and research resources; to compensate students to provide services that support the purpose of endowment; to provide technological and electronic linkage and interactive connections to information resources worldwide.
History
When creator Keuper was starting to figure out what the school was going to be, the library became a question. Eileen Hall was the first library and supposedly the first full-time employee in May 1961. After a conversation, the two elaborated on the assistance that a library can provide to its students and faculty, whether that was through academic books, tuition support, or a quiet place to study. Hall cared deeply about the assistance that the library can play in a student’s education that she did not take a paycheck.
Flossie Evans and John Evans were predominant members of the community and strived to help the college in any way possible. Flossie became the first female trustee and received the dormitory name honor. When Flossie died, her husband sold his estate and gave the institute a part of the money. The library took the Evans name in memory of the contributions made by the Evans family.
George & Carole Maul Family Scholar Award in Oceanology
Purpose
Supports tuition/fees for OEMs summer field studies courses. Rising seniors in the College of Engineering and Science, Dept. of Ocean Eng. and Marine Sci., taking an OEMS summer field studies course are eligible; pref. to students w/ fin. need. (GF000213)Description
Eligibility: Award is available to rising seniors in the Department of Ocean Engineering and Marine Sciences (OEMs) taking an OEMS summer semester field studies course in Oceanology (Oceanography, Marine Biology, Ocean Engineering, Environmental Science, Marine Conservation, Fisheries and Aquaculture, Meteorology, Coastal Zone Management, or Sustainability). Summer field studies in oceanology include but are not limited to seagoing cruises on an oceanographic research vessel, field data collection and laboratory analysis of environmental variables, computer modeling of biogeochemical transformation, advanced forecasting of weather and climate, and impacts of global change on local communities.
History
George A. Maul, professor emeritus of Oceanography at Florida Institute of Technology, graduated from Brooklyn Technical High School in 1956, earned a bachelor of science degree in Marine Transportation from the State University of New York Maritime College, and was granted a U.S. Merchant Marine Officer’s license in 1960, and earned his Ph.D. in physical oceanography from the University of Miami in 1974.
From 1994 through 2014, Maul served as head of the Department of Marine and Environmental Systems at Florida Tech, where he created the undergraduate and graduate meteorology programs and the graduate earth remote sensing program. Before this position, in 1960-1969, he held ranks from Ensign to Lieutenant Commander in the commissioned officer corps of the US Coast and Geodetic Survey and served as Operations Officer aboard the USC&GS Ship Discoverer. From 1969 to 1984, Maul was a Research Oceanographer at the Atlantic Oceanographic and Meteorological Laboratory in Miami. Then, from 1984 to 1994, he was a Supervisory Oceanographer with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), where he earned 5 Outstanding Performance Awards and 3 Distinguished Authorship Awards. He’s been Chief Scientist on numerous oceanographic cruises and has published more than 200 journal articles, book chapters, guest editorials, technical reports, and refereed abstracts, and eight books on oceanography and meteorology.
Additionally, Maul is a member of the American Geophysical Union, the American Meteorological Society, the Marine Technology Society, and the Florida Academy of Sciences. During 1989-1995, he served as Vice Chairman of the Subcommission for the Caribbean and Adjacent Regions (IOCARIBE) of the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) of UNESCO and as Founding Chairman of the IOCARIBE Group of Experts on Ocean Processes and Climate, and the IOCARIBE Tsunami Steering Group of Experts. He was Co-Director of the International Symposia on Marine Positioning, a past member of the IOC Group of Experts on the global sea level observing system, chaired the United Nations Environment Programme / Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission Joint Task Team on Climatic Changes in the Wider Caribbean Region, and served on the editorial boards of Marine Geodesy, Remote Sensing of Environment, and the Journal of Earth System Science Education.
Maul’s awards and recognitions include the College of Engineering Teacher of the Year by the Florida Tech Student Government in 1997, the US President’s Volunteer Service Award in 2010, the College of Engineering Faculty Excellence Award for Service in 2012, and the Faculty Senate Excellence Award for Service in 2015. Maul was also elected a Fellow of the Marine Technology Society in 1999; a Fellow of the American Meteorological Society in 2003; elected to Omicron Delta Kappa, Phi Beta Delta, Sigma Xi, and the Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi; and was given the singular honor of being named the 2016 Florida Academy of Sciences Medalist.
Dr. George A. Maul (center) was honored as the 2016 Florida Academy of Sciences Medalist. On the left is Academy Secretary Dr. David Karlen and on the right is Academy President Dr. Jeremy Montague.
George and Dorothy Cheng Scholarship
Purpose
Award undergraduate scholarships to students in the College of Engineering and Science. (GF000450)Description
Supports undergraduate students in the College of Engineering and Science, specializing in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering. Awardees should be individuals who show entrepreneurial and leadership interest
History
Mr. and Mrs. George Lung Cheng
George Cheng was a career diplomat for the Republic of China and Dorothy Cheng was an artist. Their story started in China involving two wars that went on to shape their life, World War II and the Chinese Civil War, and yet they somehow ended up here in Florida.
Both George and Dorothy were born in a time of major upheaval; a weak China was fighting a war of resistance against a modern mechanized military of Imperial Japan. It was a time when attending school was but a dream. George was orphaned by the war with Japan and was evacuated further West as the Japanese advanced from the East. He dreamed of studying to be an actor to make people happy and to make them laugh because in his childhood years he saw only the sadness and despair of war. Unfortunately, there were no full time schools to attend. Constantly on the retreat, George would catch a few classes at one school and within months be forced to relocate and attend another school. Dorothy was the second daughter of a chief mechanic in the Chinese Air Force. She was much luckier that she was with her family throughout the War. However, life too was a constant retreat towards the West of China. She was younger and did not have to attend school at the time, but she remembered the retreat as one of constant hunger. In addition to never having enough food, there was widespread disease and famine all around her. She lost her little sister to illness during that time.
A civil war erupted in China soon after the Japanese surrender to Allied forces. The civil war ended with the victory of Communist forces in China. Both George and Dorothy found themselves in Taiwan with the retreating anti-Communist forces. In Taiwan, they rebuilt their lives. George found himself on the streets of Taiwan, but soon enlisted in the military. However, he understood the importance of education; he always believed that education was a means to improve one’s circumstances regardless of the situation. He gave up his dream of acting and studied hard on his own to pass the college entrance exams. Because George realized he could teach himself any subject but mathematics, he knew that he could only study in a field that did not require complex mathematics. This ultimately lead him to law school. While in law school, George continued his military service as an English translator.
Dorothy came to Taiwan with the Air Force and lived in the military base. She went to school and found herself studying dance, and then the arts. While in dance school, Dorothy joined a dance troupe that occasionally performed on military bases; that’s how George and Dorothy met and started a new chapter of their life together. After marriage, George knew he needed a career to take care of his new family. Like all government jobs in Taiwan at the time, he had to qualify by passing exams. Through education, hard work, perseverance, and having been a translator, his strong language skills enabled his start with a career in the Foreign Services. As a diplomat, his life changed rapidly for the better. George worked his way up in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs from a Consul, to Director, Consul General, Charge d’Affaires, and finally to Ambassador. Along his career path, Dorothy was always there by his side, helping in the way she could as an artist. She taught Chinese painting and calligraphy to foreign friends and dignitaries in countries where George was assigned to: Thailand, Cyprus, St. Lucia, Finland, and South Africa. In a way George fulfilled his dreams of acting, being able to help make people’s lives better. He knew he had made the right choice and was happy with his career as a diplomat. Education, to him, really was the means to improving the circumstances not only for him, but also for his family.
George and Dorothy, as a Father and Mother to three sons, ensured that their children received the proper education. Every step along the way George and Dorothy reminded their sons of the importance of education for a prosperous and meaningful life. After retiring from the Foreign Ministry, George and Dorothy moved to Florida and settled there to be with their children and grandchildren.
Education to make a positive impact in one’s life has always been a key aspect of both George and Dorothy’s lives. Their son’s feel that the best way to honor their memory is through a scholarship. To give back to what has afforded them a better life; education. What better legacy to leave behind than to help as many kids as they can, and for those kids to receive an education that will change their lives for the better.
George Jenkins Memorial Scholarship
Purpose
For undergraduate students. (GF000005)Description
This scholarship is administered by the Office of Financial Aid to full-time undergraduate students in need of financial assistance, with demonstrated academic excellence. Preference is given to renewing with the same student.
History
Mr. George W. Jenkins Jr. was once asked how much he'd be worth if he had not given so much away. His response: "probably nothing."
George was born September 29, 1907, in Warm Springs. Georgia. He was one of eight children and at the age of 12, he started working at his father's store which sold everything from coffins to collar buttons. Following his family's move to Atlanta, he attended Georgia Tech and briefly studied Electrical Engineering although he never finished. Instead, he took up odd jobs such as driving a cab, selling candy, and working as a clerk at Piggly Wiggly where he was eventually promoted to manager in St. Petersburg as a result of his long hours and hard work.
After the collapse of the Florida economic boom, the store failed and Mr. Jenkins used the $1,300 he had saved to get a new car and open his own store. In 1930, the corporation known as Publix Food Store Inc. was formed. He innovated the supermarket experience by including electric doors which opened automatically, fluorescent lighting, air conditioning, and frozen food holders. His design using glass and marble mantel with stucco exteriors was extremely rare at that time hence it was a phenomenon in supermarket history. In addition, Publix Food also started testing debit card use in 1984 so customers could pay for products via bank cards.
George W. Jenkins passed in 1996 at the age of 88. In his memory, a scholarship for undergraduate students was established at Florida Tech.
Geraldine E. Phipps Biomedical Lab
Purpose
This fund supports the research in the laboratory on the first floor of the Gordon L. Nelson Health Sciences Building. (GF000466)Description
Funds may be used for research in this lab, however, if the researcher(s) using this lab do not need funding, then the income may be used for any other biomedical research on campus. Funds are also available if needed for general equipment needs in the laboratory, including renovations necessary to keep the lab up to date and cutting edge.
History
Geraldine (Geri) E. Phipps (nee Otey)
November 9, 1929 – January 31, 2021
Geri was born in Brooklyn, NY, as the only child of James H. Otey, Jr. and M. Frances Johnson Otey. Geri received her BS in nursing from Adelphi University in Garden City, NY, and her MS in nursing education from St. John’s College, Queens, NY. After her father’s early death in 1945, Geri summered with her mother on Chebeague Island in Maine where she met Robert (Bob) Hubbard Phipps. They married on June 16, 1956, and lived in Lindenhurst, NY, through Bob’s early death on April 13th, 1965.
After Bob’s early death, Geri worked to support her young family of three children (who ranged in age from 2 to 7 years at the time of Bob’s death) as a School Nurse Teacher in the Lindenhurst public schools. In 1971, Geri relocated with her three children (Jim, Tom and Barbara) to Merritt Island, FL.
Geri was dedicated to the value of high-quality education and she supported all of her three children and eight grandchildren in their pursuit of college and postgraduate education. Geri’s middle child, Tom Phipps, attended Florida Tech for his freshman year before transferring to FSU where he received his BS in 1983.
Geri attributed “son Tom’s” success in college to the start he got while at Florida Tech. She named Florida Tech as one of four educational institutions in her charitable remainder trust. Geri’s children wish to thank Florida Tech for naming the Geraldine E. Phipps Biomedical Lab laboratory in her honor and appreciate that the education of future students will benefit from her legacy.
Gertrude E. Skelly Fellowship
Purpose
Create fellowships for students within the Department of Ocean Engineering and Marine Sciences. (GF000049)Description
A committee of Ocean Engineering and Marine Sciences faculty will select the best candidate for the fellowship.
History
Gertrude E. Skelly was born on November 4th, 1918 in Wilmington, Delaware. She was a US Navy auxiliary, also known as WAVES (Women Accepted for Volunteer Emergency Service), during World War II and that is when her interest in the nursing profession began. She attended schools in Delaware and Connecticut and graduate from Finch College in New York City.
She established The Gertrude E. Skelly Charitable Foundation in 1991 to provide medical care and educational opportunities for those who cannot otherwise afford them. It was also her wish to continue in the tradition of her parents who had a strong interest in education, medicine, and health care. Mrs. Skelly died on June 22nd, 1995 when she was 76 years old in Palm Beach County, leaving her legacy and meaningful charitable foundation. Mr. Erik Joh, the lead trustee for the Gertrude E. Skelly Foundation, is committed to carrying forth her legacy for years to come.
The foundation’s primary mission is to provide educational opportunities, mainly at colleges and universities, and needed medical care who are unable to afford them. All grants must affect multiple individuals and meet some educational, medical, or emergency need.
Gordon L. Nelson Health Sciences Fund
Purpose
To support innovation grants for health science research at Florida Tech. (GF000464)Description
This gift supports the university’s strategic investment in health sciences research and education. The gift resulted in the naming of the 61,000-square foot Gordon L. Nelson Health Sciences building which opened in early 2022. The majority of Dr. Nelson’s gift establishes an endowment “to fund awards for advancing research projects proposed by Florida Tech faculty in the multiple health sciences disciplines based upon competitive proposals.” The gift is the largest individual donation to Florida Tech in its 65-year history. The funds already used and the endowment in perpetuity will contribute to keeping up with high-tech demands. The program, Dr. Nelson says, is meant to “catalyze research innovation.”
History
Dr. Nelson’s background is in physical organic chemistry, the how and why of organic reactions. Much of his research has been in the area of polymer flammability. His more than 200 publications are principally in the area of the flammability of polymers; particularly engineering plastics. His early contributions included extension of the oxygen index test as a tool to elucidate the effect of chemical structure on flammability. In industry (General Electric Company) he developed a major multidisciplinary laboratory devoted to fire and plastics. Over 500 large-scale simulations of fires in plastics products were conducted with considerable new understanding attained. He conducted some of the early industrial animal toxicity studies on products of combustion of burning polymers.
He was the first to recognize the importance of CO2 in more fully accounting for toxicity of CO in small-scale toxic potency tests. As a result of this extensive experience, he has participated extensively in the standards process for fire safety.
Dr. Nelson received the Society of the Plastics Industry Structural Foam Division’s Man of the Year Award for 1979. The Mississippi Legislature passed a Concurrent Resolution in his honor in 1987. He was the American Institute of Chemists Members and Fellows Lecturer in 1989. Nelson was also the 1992 chair of the Council of Scientific Society Presidents and was 1988 President of the American Chemical Society. He was the 1998 recipient of the Charles Holmes Herty Medal presented by the Georgia Section of the American Chemical Society. From 2013-2015 he was President of the Council of Scientific Society Presidents. On 2015 he was elected as a Fellow of the American Chemical Society.
Dr. Gordon L. Nelson has had a front-row seat to Florida Tech’s growth and evolution over the last three decades, as well as key roles in pushing the university to the top reaches of higher education. He was heavily involved with the construction of the F.W. Olin Physical Sciences and F.W. Olin Life Sciences buildings. Already a renowned chemist and past president of the 160,000-member American Chemical Society, Nelson came to Florida Tech in 1989 to serve as dean of the College of Science and Liberal Arts. He remained dean of the college, which later became the College of Science, for 22 years. From 2011 to 2012, he was vice president for academic affairs. He was then named university professor of chemistry, the position he holds today.
Gordon L. Nelson
Gronfeldt-Strother Endowed Scholarship
Purpose
Provide financial support for a student of students in an academic year. (GF000191)Description
Students must be in good academic standing.
Award Criteria A - The recipient must be either an undergraduate or graduate student in one of the Communications programs, or a student in the FastTrack program for an M.S. in Global Strategic Communications;
- Must have a 3.0 cumulative GPA at the end of the semester;
- Must complete application essay;
- Must be registered for at least one of the communications courses offered as part of the Study Abroad Program.
- The recipient must give a public presentation during the fall semester.
Award Criteria B - The recipient must be a citizen of Iceland. Maybe a current or incoming student, or an exchange student. This scholarship as it pertains to Icelandic students is not restricted to any one academic program.
History
Dr. Svafa Gronfeldt is a Florida Tech alumni. She graduated in 1995 with a master's in technical and professional communications. She has traveled all around the world furthering her knowledge in education. She received her Ph.D. in London in leadership and organizational behavior. After school, she created Alvogen. She mainly instructs the company in communication procedures, planning for the future, and advancing the organizational development.Gronfeldt truly appreciated her time across the seas, that she has developed the study abroad and communications scholarship.
H. Seeley and Ruth E. Funk Fund for the Textile Arts
Purpose
To construct and support an art gallery for fiber and textiles on the Florida Tech campus. (GF000264)Description
The fund is to preserve the textiles that have been donated and/or collected over the years. All the textiles/arts will be used to educate the Florida Tech students and community about the importance of textiles and the culture that can influence an art design.
History
Ruth Funk was a lover of the Fine Arts and education. Funk taught fine arts, published two books, served as a director of interior design, and was part owner of an art gallery. Her involvement with FIT helped to pioneer the textile exhibition space and further the art community.
Ruth was survived by her daughter Susan Bayly and son-in-law Ed Bayly of Melbourne, Fl, and her son Richard Seeley Funk of Albany, NY.
Harbor City Volunteer Ambulance Squad Scholarship
Purpose
Provide support for undergraduate students in the College of Aeronautics. (GF000063)Description
This scholarship is awarded at the discretion of the Director of Financial Aid.
History
In 1966 the Harbor City Volunteer Ambulance Squad (HCVAS) was formed as a non-profit business to provide emergency and non-emergency ambulance services for portions of Brevard County. After more than 30 years, HCVAS ceased operations on September 30, 1999, when its ambulance services were transferred to the Jurisdiction of the Board of County Commissioners of Brevard County, Florida.
Being aware that Florida Tech's College of Aeronautics was engaged in research projects relating to HCVAS's mission, they donated available funds in the amount of $55,000 to fund research in areas associated with the health care industry, air ambulance operations, medical transportation requirements, civil disaster support, and other related matters as well as to establish a scholarship endowment in the name of HCVAS.
In addition, they donated $25,000 to establish this endowed scholarship for selected graduate students enrolled in the Florida Tech College of Aeronautics. They requested a preference for any student who was a former volunteer or employee of HCVAS.
Health First Endowed Chair In Community Health Management
Purpose
Offer a professorship that will be involved in teaching, research, and innovative community health care delivery design. (GF000107)Description
The professorship is academically assigned to the College of Psychology and Liberal Arts.
History
Founded in 1995, Health First founded and became Central Florida's only fully integrated delivery network (IDN). As of this history, Health First operated four hospitals: Health First's Cape Canaveral Hospital (opened in 1962), Holmes Regional Medical Center (opened as Brevard Hospital in 1937 and serving as Brevard County's only Trauma Center), Palm Bay Hospital (opened in 1992) and Viera Hospital (opened in 2011) and is home to Brevard County's only Level II Trauma Center. Health First Medical Group is the largest multi-specialty physician group on the Space Coast. Health First also offers numerous outpatient and wellness services, including Health First Aging Services, three Health First Pro-Health & Fitness Centers, Home Care, and a Hospice of Health First.
Past Chairs
2003-2006 Dr. Julie Siciliano
2008-2011 Dr. Kristi Sands Van Sickle
2017-Present Dr. Vida Tyc
Henry L. and Grace Doherty Visiting Professorship
Purpose
Funds will allow for visiting professorships within the Department of Ocean Engineering and Marine Sciences. (GF000106)Description
The occupant of this chair would be chosen for their interdisciplinary accomplishments that would benefit not only the Department of Ocean Engineering and Marine Sciences but the entire Florida Tech community. The contract is typically associated with a one-year visit and in exceptional circumstances, a one-year extension.
History
Henry Latham Doherty was born on May 15th, 1870 in Columbus, Ohio. He was a leader in the oil industry, president and co-founder of the Cities Service Company- which later became CITGO Petroleum Corporation, and philanthropist.
When he was only 12 years old, Doherty was hired by Columbus Gas Company and worked his way up to become the Chief Engineer at the age of 20. Later, Doherty became acting president and treasurer of the Denver Gas & Electric Company. In 1905, he started Henry L. Doherty & Co., a company that provided technical and financial consulting services to utility companies, and five years later, he had begun Cities Service Company. Additionally, in 1916, he established the Doherty Energy Research Laboratory Co. (DORELCO) in Oklahoma.
Doherty was recognized and awarded several times for his contributions to the development of scientific methodology in the petroleum industry. Correspondingly, he was awarded the Franklin Institute’s Walton Clark Medal in 1931, and, in 1969, Columbia University added his name to the Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory.
Doherty met Mrs. Grace Eames in New York, NY, got married in 1928, and adopted her daughter from a previous marriage. Henry Doherty died on December 26th, 1939. However, The Henry L. and Grace Doherty Charitable Foundation, located in New York, NY, primarily promotes marine science and education, and assists institutions engaged in oceanographic activities.
2000-01 Dr. Anne C. Steinmann
2001-02 Dr. Joseph A. Angelo
2002-03 Dr. Stefan M. Groghowalski
2003-04 Dr. Michael Hartnett
2004-05 Ms. Diane D. Barile
2004-05 Mr. Frank R. Leslie
2004-05 Mr. Michael E. Splitt
2005-06 Dr. In-Young Gong
2006-07 Dr. Christopher Waldmann
2007-08 Dr. Kenyon C. Lindeman
2008-09 Dr. Martha F. Wolfe
2009-10 Dr. Ronnal P. Reichard
2011–12 Mr. Christopher Combs
2013–14 Mr. Carlton R. Parks
2014–15 Ms. Leesa Souto
2016–17 Dr. Claudia Listopad
2017–18 Dr. John “Travis” Hunsucker
2018–19 Dr. Jeffry Eble
2019-20 Dr. Christopher Collimore
2020–21 Mr. Joel Tumbiolo
2022-23 Dr. Milla Costa
2023-24 Dr. Milla Costa
Henry Paul Clausen Scholarship
Purpose
Scholarships for students enrolled at Florida Tech. (GF000152)Description
This scholarship is administered by the Office of Financial Aid.
History
The scholarship was established in memory of the late Henry Paul Clausen. He died in 1994 at age 89.
Herman Kessler Moore, M.D. Memorial Scholarship
Purpose
Scholarships for undergraduate students majoring in Life Sciences. (GF000060)Description
Students must demonstrate financial need and be in good academic standing within the Life Sciences department.
History
Dr. Richard B. Moore, the Cardiologist, obtained his medical degree from the University of Miami School of Medicine in Florida. He finished his residency at Northwestern Memorial Hospital and his fellowship training at Loyola University Medical Center. His board certifications include Nuclear Cardiology, Cardiovascular Disease, and Internal Medicine.
Dr. Richard B. Moore established an endowed scholarship in the name of Dr. Herman K. Moore. Dr. Herman Moore was born in Macon, Georgia, and attended medical school at the College of Georgia. He served in World War II as a Navy Medical Officer and practiced medicine for more than 40 years in Key West. After his retirement, he wrote more than 400 columns for The Key West Citizen which included medical history and advances and opinions on different topics.
Holzer-Lequear Endowment
Purpose
Support Medical Genetic Research; if this ceases to be appropriate then used to promote research and teaching in molecular biology. (GF000114)Description
Based on a proposal from the Director of the Medical Genetics Laboratory; final approval by the trustee.
History
Dr. Oswald A. Holzer, or “Bubba”, as he was more commonly known, was born in 1911 in Benesov, Czechoslovakia. He was a physician who fled to China during the German Invasion at the outbreak of World War II and worked at the Rockefeller Endowed Peking Union Medical College. Bubba obtained his medical degree from Charles University in Prague, Czechoslovakia, and completed his medical internship and residency in the United States. After this was done, the Wartime Office of Procurement and Assignment for Physicians assigned him to American oil fields in Peru and Ecuador.
In 1948, he started working at Florida State Hospital and, in 1952, he went into private practice in Melbourne and, at the same time, became the seventh member of the old Brevard hospital staff (now Holmes Regional Medical Center). There, he was part of the staff in an honorary and emeritus position until his death in 2000. In 1974, he retired and founded the Student Health Services at the Florida Institute of Technology. The clinic was named in his honor after Dr. Holzer donated his salary to the University for 10 years and, in 1985, was awarded an Honorary Doctor of Science degree by Florida Tech.
Along with an outstanding career, Dr. Holzer was also an honorary member of the International College of Surgeons and Southeastern College of Surgeons; a member of East-minster Presbyterian Church, the Brevard County Medical Society, and Florida Medical Association; Commodore of the Eau Gallie Yacht Club; and a former Melbourne Chamber of Commerce education committee chairman, plus he served on the boards of the Brevard Mental Health Center and was Vice President of Trinity Towers.
Ruth Alice “Chick” (nee Lequear) Holzer, Dr. Holzer’s beloved wife, was a teacher who had been born and raised in China by missionary parents. She graduated from Bridgewater College in Virginia and was an active member of Eastminster Presbyterian Church, where she sang in the choir, taught Sunday school, and served as President of Women of the Church. Chick co-founded the choir and was named a lifetime Woman of the year, in addition, was president of the Brevard Hospital Auxiliary and Brevard County Hospital Auxiliary, and a Lifetime member of the American Association of University Women. Chick and Bubba raised three children, Tom, Pat (Holm), and Joanie (Schirm), to value community involvement for the common good.
Dr. and Mrs. Holzer met in China and got married in Beijing, China in 1940. That same year, with the increasing occupation in China by Japan, they moved to the United States and to Melbourne, Florida in 1952, where they found a home until their deaths in 2000. Bubba Holzer passed away at the age of 88, two days after his beloved wife Chick’s passing at the age of 83.
Bubba and Chick are remembered by everyone who knew them and those whom they helped. Oswald Holzer was a remarkable man who had a special passion for helping young people and whose conductor’s imperative advice was “keep moving.” The Jewish army officer who had the nerve to publicly criticize the Nazis' thugs, did “keep moving” after the Czech army’s breakoff. He kept moving across Europe to Egypt, Yemen, Djibouti, Singapore, Shanghai, China, Peru, Ecuador, and, finally, Melbourne.
Hydro Aluminum Corporation College Of Engineering Scholarship
Purpose
Scholarships for undergraduate students within the College of Engineering. (GF000042)Description
This scholarship is administered by the Office of Financial Aid for students enrolled in the College of Engineering with a preference for pursuing a degree in Mechanical Engineering. Recipients must be full-time students who show merit and financial need. Preference will be given to renew the current holder. If there is no current holder, it will be available to new applicants and the company will announce it to the employees of Hydro Aluminum.
History
In March 1998 a donation of $60,000 from Hydro-Aluminum was made to create the endowment “Hydro Aluminum Corporation COE Scholarship Fund”. The gift was matched by the F.W. Olin Foundation totaling an amount of $120,000. The fund has been used to support students enrolled in the College of Engineering (Mechanical Engineering preference).
Indiafest Brevard Scholarship Endowment
Purpose
Provide financial support for a Eastern Florida State College (EFSC) graduate to transfer to Florida Tech. (GF000100)Description
Students must have filed their FAFSA; must be in good academic standing; a graduate of EFSC; have a proven history of community involvement and volunteering; residents from Brevard County are eligible. If the candidate meets all other criteria except residency, Central Florida residents from the following counties will be considered: Volusia, Osceola, Orange, Seminole, Indian River, and Polk. Preference is given to renewal to the same student in subsequent semesters.
History
Indiafest started in the 1990s as a celebration of India’s rich culture and traditions. Indiafest is a symbol of cultural enrichment in Brevard County and is celebrated with great enthusiasm. This well-run festival has a fresh and new look year after year. A different theme is presented each year showing the unique aspects of India’s culture, history, and traditions.
Indiafest is a fun family festival that brings focus and a sharing of Indian culture in Brevard County.
An admirable factor of this festival is its commitment to community service with the purpose of cultural enlightenment. Indiafest is a volunteer-run, non-profit, cultural organization, known for its charitable efforts, supporting over $1 million for a variety of charitable causes including Florida Tech.
Other beneficiaries have included: Haitian earthquake relief, Florida hurricane relief, early intervention programs, Daily Bread, Serene Harbor, Crosswinds, the Cancer Care Center, and Sentinels of Freedom – Veterans Re-Training Program as well as The Children’s Hunger Project, Promise in Brevard, Habitat for Humanity, and Shriners of Brevard.
In 2011 Indiafest established an Endowment Scholarship at Florida Tech for a Brevard student and in 2020 named the Panther Dining Atrium with a gift that provided emergency loan support for students.
Indiafest offers something of interest for everyone, from hands-on activities for the youths, to shopping for adults, to mouth-watering Indian cuisine, yoga demonstrations, and all-day entertainment. The stage comes alive with performances by local artists dancing to traditional folk, classical, and modern Indian music while the fashion show is a highlight of the day.
The grounds buzz with vendors selling jewelry, rich colorful ethnic garments, arts and crafts, music, and videos. Participants enjoy temporary body art of exotic Henna designs while the aroma of the tantalizing flavors of food being prepared entices the taste buds.
Today, as technology makes the world smaller and more accessible, assimilation of the different cultures is very real and the need to appreciate each other is ever more apparent.
At Indiafest visitors take back a part of India’s rich cultural heritage – be it arts and crafts, food, jewelry, music, dance, or clothes.
International Aerospace Lighting Conference (IALC) Scholarship
Purpose
Provide one or more scholarships to undergraduate students. (GF000074)Description
The recipient will be chosen by the Office of Financial Aid. The recipient must be a full-time student preference given to students enrolled in engineering or physical sciences who must remain in good academic standing based on need and merit; preference to renewal with the same student.
History
J.V. and A.R. Lopez Endowment Scholarship Fund
Purpose
Provide financial support for a student working towards a degree in Oceanography, Environmental Science, and Ocean Engineering. (GF000154)Description
Students must have filed a FAFSA with the Florida Tech Office of Financial Aid, which proves financial need. Students must be in good academic standing. Preference is given to students working towards a degree in Oceanography, Environmental Science, and Ocean Engineering. Preference is given to Latino students.
History
Jack and Pat Pruitt Endowment
Purpose
Funds are to be used where the need is greatest as deemed by the University's president. (GF000004)Description
Proceeds from this endowment are unrestricted and will be available to the University's president to use where the need is greatest.
History
Jack Pruitt created the fund with his wife in 2007 so that the institute can fix any problem that has the greatest need. Jack is a trustee member ever since 1992. At one point the funds were used to establish and renovate the Alumni Center. It was clear that the building was a gateway to campus life and the community after graduating.
James Constantine Endowment for the School of Aeronautics
Purpose
Support the College of Aeronautics. (GF000123)Description
This endowment was created in order to support the College of Aeronautics.
History
Students in the School of Aeronautics are immersed in the industry. They study and get certified in aviation. Whether they experience flying through simulations or real-life situations, they are involved in hands-on learning.
James G. Kennedy Sr. Library Endowment
Purpose
Support Evans Library resources in the fields of engineering and business. (GF000423)Description
Funds are used for library resources in engineering, engineering management, information sciences, and business, providing students with work opportunities in system design and information management.
History
James G. Kennedy was the founder, president, and chairman of James G. Kennedy & Company, Inc. in New York City.
James was born in 1907 in Harlem, New York City, both of his parents were immigrants from Ireland. He attended Townsend Harris High School and graduated in three years. He attended the Mechanical Institute in New York City.
After several years as a plasterer, James Gerard Kennedy founded James G. Kennedy & Co., Inc. in 1935. After serving his country as a highly-decorated World War II veteran with the Army Corps of Engineers, his first significant project involved a major renovation for Bankers Trust company at 14 Wall Street. The Kennedy Company has since done multiple major renovations for the same client for over 60 years.
A landmark project in the company's history was actually made into a motion picture by the New York Telephone Company. The film was titled ''The Miracle of Second Avenue.'' It told the story of how ''Ma Bells' main switching center, devastated by fire, was restored to 100% working order in record time with the help of James G. Kennedy & Co., Inc. under the leadership of its President, James G. Kennedy, Sr.
Mr. Kennedy's career has been marked by ongoing involvement in the industry and civic and religious activities. He has served as the President of The Building Contractors Association of the City of New York and has been a Committee Member and a member of the Board of Directors of the BCA. Mr. Kennedy also helped to maintain the integrity of the famous Heisman Trophy when he served as a Governor of the Downtown Athletic Club, home of the Heisman Trophy, in New York City. As Chairman of the Executive Council of the American Irish Historical Society, he was responsible for the reconstruction of the entire Fifth Avenue headquarters of the Society. Mr. Kennedy has been honored by The American Jewish Committee as ''Man of The Year,'' and in 1989 he was honored by The Dominican Academy as ''A Catholic Gentleman'' for his generosity in constructing the James G. Kennedy Science Center at the school. Mr. Kennedy is also a Knight of Malta.
James G. Potter Scholarships for Physics Students
Purpose
Scholarships for physics students. (GF000069)Description
This scholarship is administered by the Office of Financial Aid. Recipients must be a student within the physics department.
History
James G. Potter was born on April 2nd, 1907, in Manhattan, Kansas. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Princeton in 1927, MS from New York University in 1931, and Ph.D. from Yale in 1939, all of them in physics. His professional career started at the Naval Research Laboratories and continued at Armour Institute of Technology (now the Illinois Institute of Technology) as an instructor and assistant professor. He also served at the South Dakota School of Mines and Technology as a professor and head of the department of physics. From 1945 to 1966, he was a staff physicist at Bell Labs and served as a professor and head of the physics department at Texas A&M University, and in 1967, he was assistant dean for student resources there.
Potter moved to the Florida Institute of Technology in 1967 and helped build the physics department. He was a professor and head of the department until 1972 and continued as a professor until 1987 when he became professor emeritus. Moreover, Potter founded, guided, and supported the local chapter of the Society for Physics Students and continued to operate the physics laboratories and train graduate student assistants as instructors.
James Potter was fully active in the Florida Tech physics department until a few months before his death on October 21st, 1993.
Jane Gleason Madry Library Endowment
Purpose
Support the Evans Library. (GF000148)Description
Funds are used at the discretion of the Director of Evans Library to purchase books, journals, publications, and other information resources; to provide instructional and research resources; to compensate students to provide services that support the purpose of endowment; to provide technological and electronic linkage and interactive connections to information and resources worldwide.
History
Jane Carey Gleason graduated from Duke University with a bachelor’s degree in Political Science and Government in 1980, and from Florida Tech with an MBA in 1989. Her professional career started as Director of Community Relations at Holmes Regional Medical Center; then she continued her career at Florida Institute of Technology where she worked as Director of Community and Government Relations, Associate Vice President for Advancement and Community Relations, and Associate Vice President for Development and Community Relations; in 2012, she started her own consulting firm “Carey Gleason Consulting” where she was working in different roles such as public relations, marketing, development, strategic planning, etc.; in 2014, she became the Executive Director of Bridges Foundation; and in May 2019, she started working at Habitat for Humanity of Brevard as Vice President Development and Marketing.
Jane started the “Jane Gleason Madry Library Endowment” in honor of her aunt, Jane Gleason Madry, who passed away on August 18th, 2015. She was also a graduate of Duke University and a member of the AAUW (American Association of University Women). She volunteered and was a member of the Jr. League of South Brevard, Space Coast Science Center, Aid for the Arts, Brevard Art Center and Museum, and EGYC.
Jeff Simonds Memorial Scholarship Fund
Purpose
Offer scholarships to students during the summer semesters for field sources within the Department of Biological Sciences. (GF000209)Description
The recipient must generally be enrolled during the spring semester prior to the summer field program. Students must be enrolled in the College of Science. Scholarships will only be awarded when summer field programs occur. Preference is given to students majoring in Biological Sciences. Up to three students may be awarded.
History
Jeffrey Daniel Simonds was born on April 24th, 1978 in Marathon, Florida. He attended C.W. Baker High School in Baldwinsville, New York, and he double majored and obtained his bachelor’s degree in marine biology and ecology from the Florida Institute of Technology in 2000. During his time at Florida Tech, Simonds was an active member of the Tau Kappa Epsilon Fraternity. Moreover, Simonds worked for the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s Fish and Wildlife Research Institute in Marathon, Florida, as a marine biologist.
His hobbies included scuba diving and fishing. “He loved to tinker on his ‘arrest-me-red” Camaro and to hike in the Adirondacks when he visited Baldwinsville”, his family said.
Jeffrey Simonds died on February 18th, 2010, at the age of 31.
Jeffrey Allen Dimond Scholarship Endowment
Purpose
Aviation scholarship in memory of Jefferey Allen Dimond. (GF000027)Description
The College of Aeronautics selects the recipient of this scholarship. Recipients must be deserving flight students enrolled in the College of Aeronautics.
History
In February 1990, Jeffrey Allen Dimond, son of Dr. Keith and Ms. Julie Dimond, was a freshman at Florida Tech majoring in Aviation Management and Flight Technology. On the morning of February 3rd, during a cross-country flight, he followed all FAA regulations to land his aircraft at the Sebastian Municipal Airport. His plane was struck from behind on final approach by another plane resulting in his death. Medical Associates of Savannah created the endowment in memory of Jeffrey. His mother, Julie Dimond is grateful to learn of the recipients each year.
JoAnn H. Morgan Women in Engineering Scholarship
Purpose
Scholarships for female students within the College of Engineering. (GF000101)Description
Recipients must be undergraduate female students in good academic standing maintaining a 3.0 GPA. First priority is given to residents of Brevard, Volusia, of Osceola counties. The next priority gives to Florida residents. Third priority to U.S. citizens. Qualified recipient of scholarship support who has filed for financial assistance. Preference may be given to a student with greater financial need.
History
At age 17, JoAnn H. Morgan, while obtaining her Bachelor of Arts in mathematics from Jacksonville State University, worked during the summers as a University of Florida trainee for the Army at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. This program was then rolled into the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, also known as NASA. Morgan became an employee there and worked on the Mercury, Gemini, and Apollo programs.
She was the first NASA woman to win a Sloan Fellowship, which she used to earn a Master of Science degree in management from Stanford University. When she came back to NASA, she became division chief of the Computer Systems division. After that, Morgan was successful in several other roles such as deputy of Expendable Launch Vehicle, director of Payload Projects Management, and director of Safety and Mission Assurance. She was one of the last two people who verified the space shuttle was ready to launch and the first woman at Kennedy Space Center to serve in an executive position, associate director of the center. During her career, she was the first woman to hold any of these positions and received many honors and awards, including four NASA exceptional service medals, two NASA outstanding leadership medals, a Meritorious Executive of the federal government, and the Presidential Distinguished Rank Award. She was inducted into the Florida Women’s Hall of Fame, won the National Space Club Debus Award, the Florida Woman of Achievement Medal received a national award from the Society of Women Engineers, and the Daughter of American Revolution (DAR) National Medal of Honor.
She retired from NASA in August 2003 as the director of External Relations and Business Development. However, she states that even though she is almost 80 years old, she is not giving up. Morgan encourages women to pursue careers in STEM and sponsors endowments and scholarships at seven universities, including the Florida Institute of Technology, and provides internships at IHMC (Institute for Human and Machine Cognition).
Joe Brett Endowment Fund
Purpose
Funds are to be used at the discretion of the President. (GF000128)Description
This endowment was created to support Florida Tech, funds are to be used at the discretion of the President.
History
Joseph “Big Joe” Brett, Founder and Owner of Gator Chrysler Plymouth in Melbourne, Fl, was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania in 1927. In 1970, he moved to Brevard County and served in different positions such as President of The Melbourne Rotary and a Paula Harris Fellow, President of the Melbourne Area Chamber of Commerce, Commodore of the EGYC (EAU Gallie Yacht Club), President of Honor America, President of South Brevard Automobile Dealers Association, President of Florida Chrysler, President of Plymouth Dealers Advertising Association, Secretary of Florida Chrysler, Chairman Easter Seal Board of Directors, Director-Brevard County Civilian Military Council, Director-Panther Athletic Association at Florida Institute of Technology and Board Member of Buena Vida.
Big Joe died on August 27th, 2012 in Melbourne, Florida, and is remembered by his family, friends, and coworkers.
John M. Williams Fellowship Endowment
Purpose
Funds will be used for fellowships for graduate students within the Department of Ocean Engineering and Marine Sciences studying Meteorology-related courses. (GF000112)Description
Recipients must be in good academic standing. Preference will be given to students who received their undergraduate degree from Florida Tech's Department of Ocean Engineering and Marine Sciences. Preference will be given to renewing the fellowship to the same student. A committee of Ocean Engineering and Marine Sciences faculty will select the best candidate(s) for the fellowship.
History
John Williams was born in St. Paul MN. He received his education from the Officer Candidate School. When he moved to Florida he became a member of the faculty board for the Hurricane Research. Hurricanes has always been an interesting topic for Williams. He co-wrote three different books on the hurricanes that Florida sees. Even though he passed away on February 21, 2007, his memory still lives on through his three children, grandchildren, and the mother of his children.
John Thomas and Martha Hartley Endowed Scholarship
Purpose
Award tuition scholarships to undergraduate students enrolled or planning to enroll in Florida Tech. (GF000075)Description
Recipients will be selected by the Office of Financial Aid. The recipient must be a full-time student; must be in and remain in good academic standing; selected on the basis of need and merit with a preference to awarding based on need. Preference is given to renewing the same student in successive semesters.
History
John Thomas “Jack” Hartley, born on March 4th, 1930 in Jacksonville, FL, earned a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering in 1951 and a master’s degree in Electrical Engineering in 1955 from Auburn University, where he taught different courses for a short period of time and met his beloved wife Martha Hartley.
In 1956, he decided to leave teaching and joined the small startup company, Radiation, Inc., in Melbourne, FL. There, he started his career by being involved in research, business development, and program management. However, for his leadership and hard work, Mr. Hartley reached upper-level roles such as Vice President and General Manager of the largest electronics operating unit after the company was acquired by Harris-Intertype Corporation, then became Executive Vice President and was subsequently promoted to President and COO in 1985. One year later, he became Chairman and CEO and served in this position until his retirement in 1995. He continued to be part of the Harris Corporation Board of Directors until 2002 plus being a member of the Board of Directors of the AXA/Equitable Life Insurance Corporation and of the McGraw-Hill Company.
Even though his work was already valued and recognized by the people who knew and worked with him, Mr. Hartley received many honors including the Outstanding Alumnus Award in 1987 from Auburn, election to the Alabama Engineering Hall of Fame, Florida Industrialist of the Year, the 1992 Financial World CEO of the Year, an honorary doctorate of philosophy degree from Florida Tech in 1994, an honorary doctorate of science degree from Auburn University in 1996, the United States Department of Defense Medal for Distinguished Public Service, and was appointed to the National Security Telecommunications Advisory Committee in 1998.
Furthermore, Mr. Hartley was named to the Florida Tech Board of Trustees and worked relentlessly to make Florida Tech one of the nation’s outstanding private universities and helped secure significant financial support. His generosity left a print on campus with the John and Martha Hartley Room in the student union building and Hartley Hall, a residential facility. Also, he and his wife created the John Thomas and Martha Hartley Scholarship, which continues to benefit students at Florida Tech.
Mr. Hartley passed away on June 5th, 2018, at the age of 88. He is remembered by his family, friends, coworkers, the Florida Tech community, and everyone who he helped. “Jack’s impact on Florida Tech cannot be overstated and will forever be remembered. As with his leadership at Harris, and really in everything he did, Jack was guided by his unerring desire for excellence and his vision for how to achieve it. And he always achieved what he set out to do, a fact for which all of us at Florida Tech are eternally grateful,” said former Florida Tech President, Dwayne McCay.
Jonathan B. Zung Family Scholarship Endowment
Purpose
Scholarships to provide support for an entering freshman to study Chemistry. (GF000102)Description
Recipients must be outstanding incoming freshmen; must be U.S. citizens; must be majoring in Chemistry. This scholarship is intended to be for an incoming Chemistry major each year, versus awarding it once every four years.
History
Alumnus and Trustee Jonathan B. Zung, Ph.D., has established The Martin Zung Memorial Chemistry Endowment Fund at the Florida Institute of Technology in memory of his late father Martin Zung. Jonathan Zung received his bachelor’s degree in chemistry from the university and his doctoral degree in analytical chemistry from Emory University.
The scholarship will annually recognize an outstanding junior or senior chemistry major who has demonstrated strong academic performance and outstanding independent research. The recipient will be presented with a plaque and a financial award, which is anticipated to be at least $1,500.
“We are very pleased with this financial commitment by Jonathan Zung, who has always been a staunch supporter and friend of the university,” said Susan St. Onge, Florida Tech senior vice president for advancement and chief development officer.
Martin Zung was an educator, pharmacist, and strong supporter of the sciences and of Florida Tech and its mission. Jonathan Zung, a resident of Upper Holland, Pa., is a vice president at Bristol-Myers Squibb Company in Princeton, N.J.
Joseph Caruso Family Scholarship
Purpose
Provide scholarship support for an eligible junior or senior and a member of Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity at Florida Tech. (GF000086)Description
The Fund supports active members in good standing of the Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity at the Florida Institute of Technology. Preference is given to students enrolled in the Nathan M. Bisk College of Business, but may be awarded to a student from any College. Both domestic and international students may receive this scholarship.
History
Joseph Caruso came to Florida Tech in 1969 with $100 in his pocket. After years of hard work, Joseph earned his bachelor of science in 1973 and his master’s degree in 1976. He began his career with a decade of hands-on financing and growth in the banking industry. In 1984, he founded Omnifirst Capital, a successful private investment firm focused on opportunities in the telecommunications, health care, technology, and entertainment industries.
With a career based on relationship development and coalition building, Joe is the managing partner in nine companies. He is involved in every aspect of a client’s business, including arranging appropriate debt and equity funds, mergers and acquisitions, and other consulting and advisory strategies that create solutions for the company’s $4.5 billion portfolio of impact investments.
As the co-founder and owner of the Trenton Thunder minor league baseball team, the Double-A Affiliate of the twenty-seven- time World Champion New York Yankees, Joe is also immersed in revenue growth and strategic planning for the company. The Trenton Thunder has been recognized multiple times by the baseball industry for marketing and business practice excellence and boasts nearly 400 players who have moved up to Major League Baseball.
Never losing his Panther pride, Joe established the Joseph Caruso Family Scholarship in 2007. The scholarship fund was created to give students the opportunity to continue their pursuits in business and become successful entrepreneurs and leaders. Through this scholarship, Joe fosters real-life lessons for students to see themselves as the CEO of their lives and career while learning the important skills of network building and collaboration.
Joe credits his membership in Pi Kappa Alpha as another transformational life event. He remains an active Pike brother, spearheading the capital campaign to build a new Zeta Sigma house in Palm Bay, Florida.
Joy & Gordon Patterson Botanical Garden Endowment
Purpose
To support in perpetuity, the Botanical Garden at Florida Tech. (GF000156)Description
This fund may be used for any need necessary to preserve and enhance the Botanical Garden as a permanent part of Florida Tech and to ensure that it is enjoyed by students, faculty, and the public.
History
Gardens have always occupied a special place in our lives. Nearly fifty years ago we were married in UCLA’s Mathias Botanical Garden. Our introduction to Florida Tech was a walk beneath these palms. Later, our son grew up playing here. Gardens teach us much. They remind us to cherish the fleeting beauty of the present and our responsibility to the future. Life is short no matter how long one lives. It is our hope that this garden will endure as a place of peace and beauty for generations to come.
- Joy and Gordon Patterson
***
F.I.T. acquired the first forty acres of its present campus fronting on Country Club Road through a generous donation from the University of Melbourne in 1960. The land was originally owned by V.C. Brownlie who had donated the 40 acres to the University of Melbourne for educational purposes. After a few years of operation, and has built a small building on the site, the University decided that it was no longer viable as an educational institution. Of course, there was some competition from others who were interested in acquiring the property. Enter Mrs. Virginia Wood who, while Chairman of the University of Melbourne, was instrumental in donating the land to F.I.T. I believe the critical factor in our favor was my pledge to maintain the natural hammock that threaded through the property and to not disturb any of the trees unnecessarily. Conservation was of great concern to the U of Melbourne as it is to us. "Brownlie" and "Wood" Halls derive their names from these two key players in the process of the evolution of F.I.T. as we know it today.
Attempts at landscaping the campus began almost immediately. We planted a row of royal palms on the new campus all along Country Club Road. People were pouring in from the north expecting to see palms everywhere. I didn't intend to disappoint them, they would see plenty of them at F.I.T. But then came January 1961 and most of my beautiful royals turned into skinny haystacks. One of them has survived to this day and was subsequently transplanted to the protected south side of the "Quad". The unusually cold winters it has endured are readily evident by the gross irregularities of its trunk profile.
It was evident that I had a lot to learn about palms but I soon heard of a man named Dent Smith who could help me. He had founded a palm society and was growing a great many species in Daytona Beach. It seemed obvious that whatever he could grow there we should be able to grow here. A visit to his place was easily arranged and set the stage for a lasting friendship and a mutual interest in developing a palm garden at F.I.T. In subsequent years Dent Smith contributed greatly and in many ways to accomplish this. To recognize him we dedicated the trail through the hammock garden as the Dent Smith Trail.
During the construction of the dormitory complex, I was informed by the Fla Power & Light Co. that it would be necessary to dig a trench through the hammock to lay a power cable to the dorms. I had no choice but to agree to the project but extracted a promise from FP&L to snake the trench and cable around the existing trees and palms. This they did and it worked out well. Students began to use the narrow filled-in trench as a shortcut to the dorms. The winding path crossing the hammock seemed to have a natural beauty all of its own [later to become the Dent Smith Trail]. A curving concrete bridge was built over the stream and Dent Smith and I began to plant Chinese fan palms [Livistona chinensis] along the way to complement the natural stand of Sabal palmettos. A potential for developing the hammock into an accessible place of beauty while maintaining its natural setting was becoming apparent. A botanical garden was about to unfold on the campus of the Florida Institute of Technology.
The palm garden is a native hardwood hammock in the floodplain of Crane Creek. The canopy of live and laurel oaks, red maple, and cabbage palms are adapted to having their feet wet when the creek floods. This dense canopy provides a greenhouse effect so that cold-sensitive plants might better survive periods of cold weather. The soil is fertile and wet and supports abundant jungle-like growth.
In 1972 the Board of Trustees formerly dedicated this "jungle" as the students call it, as a botanical garden. At one time there were approximately 400 species of palms, but the subsequent freezes in recent years have reduced this number to about 60. Many have silver identification tags.
Dr. Jerome Keuper
Juanita Neal-Baker Graduate Fellowship
Purpose
Graduate student fellowship for research and training in reducing violence toward women and children. (GF000172)Description
Recipients are chosen by the Dean of the School of Psychology.
History
Dr. Juanita Neal Baker, Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from the University of Illinois, is a Florida limited licensed psychologist and professor emerita at the Florida Institute of Technology.
Dr. Baker once said, “I want to do something relevant to people that will make a difference in our lives” and that is what she has been doing her whole life. Before moving to Florida in 1984, she lived in Lahore, Pakistan from 1966-1979, where established a pediatric clinic, was a school psychologist, taught kindergarten and high school art and also psychology at Forman Christian College, and founded the first children’s public library in a community serving more than twelve thousand children.
During the time she served as a professor at Florida Tech, from 1984-2007, Dr. Juanita Baker taught different courses on ethics, program evaluation, women’s studies, sexual abuse, and child behavior disorders and psychotherapy. Additionally, her research was focused on sexual abuse, trauma, grieving, depression, abusive parents, and domestic violence. From 1991-2007, she directed a sexual abuse treatment program where she supervised graduate trainees who were not only treating victims of sexual abuse, but also their non-offending caregivers, siblings, and offenders.
In 2012, Dr. Baker along with Dr. Sarah Weinstein-Arnett, ’10 Psy.D., started the innovative project Psychology Science Minute (PSM) where they posted one-minute-long informative videos for public access and education covering meaningful topics in psychology.
Junda Lin Marine Biology Professorship
Purpose
To support a professor in marine science. (GF000340)Description
To support a professor who has achieved great distinction in the area of marine science and to honor Dr. Junda Lin who had a passion for teaching and research. The Junda Lin Marine Biology Professorship will recognize the quality, productivity, and importance of Professor Lin's research and the indelible mark he has made on students, colleagues, and the university.
History
Dr. Junda Lin
Dr. Junda Lin, 55, was born on March 16, 1960, in China,
passed away Wednesday, March 2, 2016.
Survived by his wife, Fanghua Wang, and sons, Kurt, and Kyle.
Dr. Junda Lin was a Professor of Biological Sciences at the Florida Institute of Technology and the Director of the Institute for Marine Research (IMR). The IMR was designed to coordinate the management of shared marine facilities in the university, including the Vero Beach Marine Laboratory and the Evinrude Marine Operations Center. The IMR also encouraged interdisciplinary research and integrates marine-related activities with external governmental and non-governmental institutions, foundations, agencies, and industry.
Dr. Lin’s Lab focused on the development of aquaculture technology for marine ornamental species to offset and replace wild collection. Extensive and destructive collection of these animals can directly deplete the target species that are already under threat from habitat loss or degradation and can indirectly damage the delicate coral reef ecosystem. Aquaculture of marine ornamental species is recognized as a viable alternative to the wild collection. Dr. Lin’s lab studied the basic biological processes of several shellfish and fish species, evaluated their aquaculture potential, and developed cultivation technology.
Dr. Lin has mentored dozens of undergraduate and graduate students in the field of ornamental aquaculture including many in the marine ornamental trade and MASNA. His legacy will live on through the people he has inspired.
Professional positions:
Professor, Florida Tech, 2002-2016
Associate Professor, Florida Tech, 1996-2002
Assistant Professor, Florida Tech, 1991-1996
Biostatistician, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, 1990-1991
Postdoctoral Fellow, Smithsonian Environmental Research Center, 1989-1990
Board of Directors, World Aquaculture Society, 2008-2011
Associate Editor, Journal of World Aquaculture, 2003-2016
Editorial Board, Journal of Shellfish Research, 2008-2016
Karl And Ingeborg Sendler Endowed Scholarship
Purpose
Scholarships for undergraduate students. (GF000071)Description
Recipients must be undergraduate student who has been determined to have financial need and are in good academic standing.
History
Karl Sendler, former top NASA Kennedy Space Center executive, was born in Vienna, Austria in 1914. He graduated from the University of Vienna with a master’s degree in electrical engineering and was a member of the Wernher Von Braun rocket team who came to the United States in 1947 as part of the US Army’s “Operation Paperclip”, which was program that brought selected German scientists to work on America’s behalf during the Cold War. He worked there until 1974 when he retired as KSC’s director of Instrumentation Systems.
He made major contributions to the development of US manned space capabilities such as the Army’s Doppler Velocity and Position systems, which helped determine a rocket’s position in space and the deviation of a missile from a predetermined flight path, providing crucial information for range safety. Additionally, Sendler made different primary improvements in telemetry systems as well as in tool calibration and missile tracking. One of his finest contributions was the development of launch processing systems for the Apollo program.
Karl Sendler died on May 3rd, 2001, at the age of 86. However, he is not only remembered for the contributions he made but also for how he was with the people he worked with. He had a way of making his team members believe they could meet challenges, no matter the circumstances. Correspondingly, he expressed his belief in teamwork this way: “I think one of the most important things responsible for our space program successes is that we started with a small team working together, and as we have grown, adding people along the way, we haven’t lost that initial team concept.”
Kathleen Callahan Scholarship
Purpose
Provide financial support, preferably for a deserving undergraduate student or students with learning disabilities in an academic year. (GF000472)Description
The Office of Financial Aid selects a student awardee who is in good academic standing.
History
Kenneth C. Long Endowment
Purpose
In memory of Kenneth C. Long. (GF000002)Description
This scholarship is administered by the Office of Financial Aid.
History
The Kenneth C. Long Endowment Fund was established in 1986 through the will of Mr. Kenneth C. Long a friend of FIT who passed in or around 1984. His fund was dedicated to supporting students with financial needs in any college or department without restriction.
Mr. Long was a photography enthusiast and supporter of numerous philanthropic causes such as cancer and heart research and children.
Kenneth P. Revay Class of 2018 Scholarship
Purpose
Scholarships for undergraduate students enrolled in a Mechanical Engineering program within the College of Engineering. (GF000066)Description
Recipients must be full-time undergraduate student enrolled or planning to enroll in the College of Engineering and who is pursuing studies in Mechanical Engineering. Scholarships shall be awarded based on need and merit. Preference is given to renewing the scholarship to the same student in successive semesters until graduation.
History
Kenneth Revay, an Entrepreneur, and Philanthropist graduated from the Florida Institute of Technology with a bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering in 1982. During his time in college, he was part of several societies and groups, including serving as the chairman of the Florida Tech Student Chapter American Society of Mechanical Engineers, project director at Mini-Baja All-Terrain Vehicle, and student representative to Canaveral Section ASME. Additionally, since he started as an Air Commerce major, he was able to obtain his FAA Private Pilots License in his first year.
After graduating, he worked for Rockwell International as a member of the technical staff for a year. Then, for several years, he held managerial positions and participated in special projects at Lockheed Martin Space Operations and United Space Alliance.
Since 2013, he has been a Member of the Board of Trustees (Volunteer) at the Florida Institute of Technology. He holds NACD (National Association of Corporate Directors) Leadership and Governance Fellowships, and an NACD Master Class.
Kitty & Jill Eanes LGBTQ Scholarship
Purpose
To support students who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or queer (LGBTQ) or who have demonstrated themselves to be an ally for the LGBTQ community. (GF000192)Description
Students matching the criteria stated in the fund purpose will be selected by a three-member selection committee consisting of the university's chief diversity officer, the VP of student affairs, and the chair of the university diversity committee or their designee. Priority will be given to students from the College of Aeronautics first and after that to a student who has demonstrated leadership and/or promotion of equality for the LGBTQ community on or off campus. Students apply by submitting a one-page letter to the Kitty & Jill Eanes LGBTQ Scholarship highlighting their desire and reasons for applying.
History
Jill A. Eanes grew up outside of Washington, DC. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Aviation and her M.B.A. at Florida Tech, where she was also an assistant chief flight instructor. Currently, Jill flies the Boeing 777 as a captain for United Airlines based in San Francisco. Jill and her wife, Kitty, live in Sunnyvale, CA. They enjoy hiking in our incredible National Parks, as well as biking and running in less wild locations.
L3Harris Chair in Assured Information
Purpose
Funds will be used to create an endowed Chair in Assured Information. (GF000097)Description
Florida Tech appoints this Chair.
History
L3Harris Endowed Professorship
Purpose
The endowment will be used to fund the two Harris Professorships. (GF000138)Description
The professorship is academically assigned to the College of Engineering.
History
These Harris Professorships were established and have been funded by the Harris donation to Florida Tech through the Florida Tech Trust established by the trust agreement dated the 8th of June, 1984. In the past, the $200,000 in annual support of the Harris Professorships was contributed each March for the following year. The trust has made its last donation for the year beginning March, 1999. It is understood and it is a condition of Harris' current $2 million donation that all future funding of the two Harris Professorships will be solely provided by annual income generated by this current Harris donation and the Olin matching funds.
The Harris gift to the Florida Tech Endowment Fund may be presented and publicized in accordance with the wishes of the President of Florida Tech. It is our intention to provide the University with the opportunity to take the utmost advantage of Harris' gift to support the University ongoing Capital Campaign.
L3Harris Student Scholars in Institute for Assured Information
Purpose
Stipends for students identified as Harris Student Scholars. (GF000089)Description
This scholarship is administered by the Office of Financial Aid.
History
Larry P. Pollack Undergraduate Scholarship Endowment
Purpose
Supporting Environmental Science students. (GF000425)Description
The Larry Pollack Endowed Scholarship will provide deserving full-time environmental science students the opportunity for financial assistance to realize their aspirations so that the world will be a better place for future generations.
History
Larry Pollack graduated from Florida Tech in 1985 with an MS in environmental science where he studied the environmental fate and degradation of a specific commercial pesticide frequently applied to citrus groves in the vicinity of the nearby Indian River Lagoon in addition to other agricultural land throughout Florida. His background encompasses more than twenty years of experience in environmental sample collection protocols in addition to conducting field and laboratory chemical analyses. The latter part of his career with the Department of Defense focused on working with U.S.-based small business firms conducting research and development to design and manufacture innovative, state-of-the-art technologies to mitigate the hazards of Weapons of Mass Destruction, particularly chemical and biological threats.
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