Another Inspiring Year: Upward Bound Celebrates Growth, Grit, and Potential

Posted on April 25th, 2026 by

Another Inspiring Year: Upward Bound Celebrates Growth, Grit, and Potential

The last of the 2025–2026 Rotary Ray Darling Upward Bound Award celebrations took place this month. These events are not simply another awards date on the calendar. They are a reflection point, a moment where students, families, educators, and community leaders come together to recognize something meaningful. While students proudly walk across the stage to receive their awards, what they truly carry with them is a lasting affirmation that they are seen, supported, and valued.

In a time when so much attention is placed on outcomes and final results, I am always grateful that the Ray Darling Upward Bound Awards continue to center their mission on the journey. Awarded twice a year to elementary and secondary students, the program honors the quiet determination behind the scenes: the extra time spent studying, the perseverance through challenges, and the steady commitment to personal growth.

Once again, a familiar and cherished presence helped guide the event. Serving as master of ceremonies, Rotarian Tommy Thomas brought his trademark warmth, enthusiasm, and genuine heart to the program. His connection to the event runs deep, and his ability to connect with students and families alike continues to make the ceremony feel both meaningful and personal.

Sharing a special message on behalf of the Citrus County School Board, Chairman Joe Faherty encouraged students to continue making good choices, reminding them that today’s decisions shape tomorrow’s opportunities. Drawing from his own journey growing up in New York City, he spoke candidly about the challenges young people can face and the importance of staying on the right path. He shared how he followed in his father’s footsteps into law enforcement, serving as a Citrus County Sheriff’s Deputy and later as a School Resource Officer. In those roles, he not only protected students but also mentored them directly, reinforcing his message that character, discipline, and positive influences are key to long-term success.

One of the most powerful moments of the morning came from guest speaker Charlotte Opall, whose story captured the very essence of Upward Bound. Standing before this year’s recipients, she reflected on her own experience receiving the award at just 11 years old, a moment she described as life-changing.

“It was one of the first times in my life that I had ever been recognized, not just for what I had already accomplished, but for what someone believed I could become.”

That belief, she explained, became a turning point. “At such a young age, being told that I had potential helped me begin to believe in myself.” What followed was a steady climb defined by effort, discipline, and a willingness to embrace challenge.

Now a senior in the prestigious International Baccalaureate program at Lecanto High School, Charlotte has been accepted to the University of Florida, where she plans to major in biological sciences. Along the way, she immersed herself in leadership and service, carrying forward a lesson she emphasized to the audience: “Success is not just about personal achievement. It’s about giving back.”

Her message to this year’s students was both direct and deeply encouraging. “You are sitting here today because someone saw something in you that you may not even fully see in yourself yet. That belief is powerful, but it only matters if you choose to act on it.”

She urged them to stay consistent in their effort, even when the path becomes difficult. “Keep showing up, even when it’s hard. Keep putting in effort, even when no one is watching. Growth doesn’t happen all at once. It happens in the small decisions you make every day to keep going.”

Perhaps her most resonant reminder was also her simplest: “This recognition is not just about what you have done; it is about what you are capable of becoming.”

The success of Upward Bound is never the result of a single effort. It is built on a strong foundation of partnerships and shared commitment. The Citrus County Rotary Clubs remain the enduring heartbeat of the initiative, continuing to carry forward Ray Darling’s vision through both support and belief in students’ potential.

Community partners also play a vital role in making the event special each year. A heartfelt thank you goes to Oysters of Crystal River and its owner, William Bunch, whose generosity ensures that students, families, and educators are welcomed with a warm breakfast and a sense of community. Likewise, the team at the Citrus Springs Community Center continues to provide a welcoming and well-organized space where these important moments can unfold.

As the ceremony concluded and the applause faded, Charlotte left the students with one final thought that perfectly captured the spirit of the day: “Someone believes in you. Now it’s your turn to believe in yourself.”

This year’s ceremonies may be over, but the mission continues. Upward Bound remains a living message that success is accessible to every student. As this year’s recipients step forward, they do so with more than recognition. They carry with them belief, momentum, and the support of a community that stands firmly behind them.

Thank you, Citrus County Rotary Clubs and Rotarians, for your continued support of Upward Bound.

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Health Academy Senior Earns Early Acceptance to Dental School

Posted on April 17th, 2026 by

Health Academy Senior Earns Early Acceptance to Dental School

The Citrus County Class of 2026 continues to prove itself a remarkable cohort of individuals, students who have navigated change, challenge, and opportunity with resilience and purpose. Among them, one story stands out as a powerful intersection of academic excellence, personal determination, and a clear sense of mission.

Jeremiah “Jerry” Randall, a standout senior in the Biomedical pathway at the Academy of Health Careers and a leader at Crystal River High School, received life changing news today. He has been officially accepted into the Early Acceptance Program, EAP, for the LECOM School of Dental Medicine.

For those unfamiliar, the EAP is far more than a standard college admission. It is a rigorous and highly competitive 4+4 pathway that links a student’s undergraduate studies directly to medical school. In Jerry’s case, that journey begins at Florida Southern College and leads straight into LECOM. By securing this opportunity as a high school senior, Jerry has successfully navigated one of the most selective pipelines in higher education. He has effectively reserved his future as a Doctor of Dental Medicine while bypassing a national pool of thousands of applicants.

A Foundation of Excellence

To understand why Jerry was selected for such an elite program, one can look at the numbers, though they tell only part of the story. Ranked second in a class, he holds a perfect 4.0 unweighted GPA and an extraordinary 4.761 weighted GPA. He is not simply completing a demanding curriculum of Advanced Placement and honors level courses. He is mastering it.

His honors include Biomedical Student of the Year and AP Scholar with Distinction, recognitions that reflect a student who sees rigor not as a barrier but as an opportunity.

Yet the LECOM EAP seeks more than academic performance. It looks for a problem based and forward thinking mindset. Jerry exemplifies this. He has already earned professional credentials as a Biotechnician Assistant and a Certified Medical Administrative Assistant through the Academy of Health Careers at CRHS. His versatility extends even further. He earned an Apprentice Architectural Drafter Certification as a sophomore and achieved back to back first place finishes in Physics at the District Science Fair.

Purpose Forged in Adversity

What truly distinguishes Jerry, however, is the why behind his achievements.

In healthcare, many students are drawn by prestige or aptitude. Jerry’s motivation runs deeper. He understands that dentistry is not just about teeth. It is a critical gateway to overall health. Inspired by his childhood dentist’s stories of service and global outreach, Jerry envisions a future where he can combine clinical excellence with meaningful service to others.

Leadership Beyond the Classroom

Ask his teachers or teammates, and they will tell you that Jerry’s impact is felt most strongly through his leadership.

As Captain of the Boys Varsity Swim Team and a four year regional finalist, he has demonstrated discipline and perseverance in and out of the pool. Perhaps the clearest reflection of his character is his recognition as the first recipient of the Capt. Thomas T. Holme Jr. Honor Award.

This distinction is not awarded for speed or scores. It honors the senior who exemplifies teamwork, integrity, and leadership that endures beyond competition. Whether leading Rise Against Hunger initiatives as President of the Interact Club or serving as an Academy Ambassador, Jerry consistently models what it means to be a servant leader.

The Road Ahead

This fall, Jerry will head to Lakeland to join Florida Southern College as a Biology major on the Pre Dental track. There, he will continue his journey in an environment that reflects his commitment to academic excellence and community service.

With his place in LECOM already secured, Jerry can focus fully on deep learning and clinical preparation, confident that the next step toward his future is already in place.

As he moves forward, Jerry carries more than an impressive resume. He carries the pride of a community, the resilience shaped by personal challenges, and the determination of a scholar athlete ready to make a lasting impact on the field of dental medicine.

Congratulations, Jerry. Citrus County is proud of you, and the future of healthcare is brighter because of your dedication.

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Blue and Green Jackets, Bright Futures: Celebrating the Heart of Citrus County Agriculture

Posted on April 16th, 2026 by

Blue and Green Jackets, Bright Futures: Celebrating the Heart of Citrus County Agriculture

One of the greatest privileges I have as a school board member is participating in our opening exercises. Twice each year, I have the opportunity to invite students and educators into the board chambers to begin our meeting, and without fail, those moments serve as a powerful reminder of why we do this work. This month’s opening exercises, held just after the Citrus County Fair, were especially meaningful.

As I looked out across the room, I saw a sea of blue and green jackets filling the chambers. The iconic blue corduroy jackets of FFA and the green of 4-H represented something far deeper than organizations. They represented commitment, discipline, leadership, and a connection to a way of life that has long been a cornerstone of Citrus County.

The 2026 Citrus County Fair was, once again, a tremendous success. In our community, it has become both an expectation and a point of pride to align the fair with our spring break. For many, spring break is a time to rest, travel, and recharge. But for a dedicated group of students, educators, and volunteers, it is anything but a break. Our FFA members, their sponsors, agricultural educators, and our 4-H families spend that week working tirelessly, caring for animals, preparing projects, and representing months of effort and dedication.

During the opening exercises, we had the privilege of hearing directly from our agriculture teachers, advisors, and students from across Citrus County. Their stories were nothing short of inspiring.

At Citrus High School, under the leadership of Paul Spalding, students demonstrated excellence both in and out of the ring. Chapter president Nicole Secor recently took the oath to serve in the United States Marine Corps, while also helping lead a pig project to a third-place finish in just a week and a half. Vice President Lillian Slusser earned acceptance to NOVA in Fort Lauderdale, where she will conduct research at the Guy Harvey Research Center, and she also secured first place with her Flemish Giant rabbit. Secretary Andrew Manella brought home a Grand Champion title for his poultry.

Crystal River High School, led by Samantha Longfellow, celebrated major achievements as well. Their chapter earned Grand Champion County Bred Steer and Reserve Grand Champion for their layers. Just as importantly, Ms. Longfellow highlighted the wide range of futures her students are pursuing, including one senior headed to flight school to become a pilot.

At Lecanto High School, Steve Richardson, a longtime educator, spoke about the deeper lessons his students learn. Beyond the ribbons and awards, these programs instill responsibility, confidence, and pride. His students, whom he affectionately refers to as “dirt farmers,” are learning how to represent their community with integrity and hard work.

Our middle school programs are just as impressive. At Lecanto Middle School, Jennifer English shared the long-term impact of agricultural education, including the success of former students who have gone on to achieve at high levels. She also emphasized the importance of community support, particularly through the Citrus County Education Foundation, which provides critical resources for these programs.

Crystal River Middle School, led by Beth Cooper, is already making its mark. In her first year, her Milk Quality and Products team placed fifth in the state. Students also earned multiple Grand Champion showmanship awards across various categories, demonstrating both skill and dedication.

Inverness Middle School, under Scott Stepper, showcased remarkable achievements as well. One sixth-grade student raised a steer that graded as Prime Beef, a distinction achieved by less than eight percent of beef nationwide. Other students successfully participated in livestock showing for the very first time, gaining confidence and experience that will carry forward.

Dr. Marnie Ward, representing 4-H through the UF Extension Office, reminded us of the tremendous amount of work that happens behind the scenes. Record books, educational meetings, and the daily feeding, grooming, and care of animals all require discipline and perseverance. Her personal story, with all three of her children now attending the University of Florida College of Agriculture, stands as a testament to the lasting impact of these programs.

The FFA Organization is a dynamic youth leadership organization that prepares students for both academic and career success through agricultural science education. It is rooted in personal growth, premier leadership, and exposure to diverse career pathways, from traditional farming to biotechnology and agribusiness. Similarly, 4-H stands as one of the premier youth development organizations in the country, providing hands-on learning experiences in STEM, agriculture, and healthy living. Together, these programs equip students with real-world skills and a sense of responsibility that will serve them for a lifetime.

Agriculture is not just a part of Citrus County’s history. It is a vital part of our future. That future is already taking shape in exciting ways, including the launch of the Agri-STEAM Academy at Floral City Elementary. This innovative program blends agriculture with science, technology, engineering, the arts, and mathematics, creating a hands-on learning environment where students engage directly with the world around them. From planting and harvesting to problem-solving and creative exploration, students are developing skills that will prepare them for an ever-changing world.

As I reflect on the opening exercises, I am reminded that success cannot always be measured by test scores alone. It is found in early mornings at the barn, in the responsibility of caring for an animal, in the confidence built through competition, and in the pride of representing your school and community.

Our FFA and 4-H students are truly extraordinary. They embody the values that make Citrus County strong. We are deeply grateful to their educators, their families, and the many volunteers who support them.

And for me, standing in that room surrounded by blue and green jackets, there is no clearer reminder of the importance of investing in our students and the bright future that lies ahead.

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Leading with Excellence: Celebrating the Lecanto High School IB Class of 2026

Posted on April 15th, 2026 by

Leading with Excellence: Celebrating the Lecanto High School IB Class of 2026

There are moments in a school year that feel routine, and then there are moments that remind you exactly why schools matter so deeply. The Lecanto High School IB Diploma Candidate Banquet honoring the Class of 2026 was unmistakably the latter. It was an evening filled with pride, gratitude, laughter, and reflection, a celebration not only of academic achievement, but of growth, resilience, and community.

As the evening unfolded, it became clear that no student reaches this level of accomplishment alone. The recognition of parents, guardians, and families highlighted the steady support systems behind each student’s success. These are the individuals who encouraged late nights, supported early mornings, and believed in their students through every challenge. This partnership between school and home, though often unseen, is essential to every achievement celebrated that evening.

Equally important was the collective impact of educators and leadership. The IB program is demanding by design, but it is teachers who bring it to life by challenging, guiding, and inspiring students beyond the curriculum. Their influence shapes not only academic success, but also personal growth. At the same time, strong leadership at both the school and district levels ensures that programs like this continue to thrive.

And then, there was the Class of 2026.

The International Baccalaureate program cultivates critical thinking through two specialized pathways: the Diploma Programme, which offers a rigorous, multidisciplinary academic foundation, and the Career-related Programme, which pairs IB’s high standards with practical, industry-focused training. Both tracks move beyond rote memorization, challenging students to analyze complex global issues and apply inquiry-based learning to real-world situations. This comprehensive approach ensures graduates are not only prepared for college, but also equipped with the adaptable, leadership-oriented mindset needed in today’s workforce.

When discussing college and career readiness, this class provides clear and compelling evidence. The outcomes shared during the evening were extraordinary. At the University of Florida, where the general acceptance rate is approximately 19 percent, an impressive 55 percent of Lecanto’s IB seniors were accepted. At Florida State University, where the statewide average is around 25 percent, this class achieved a remarkable 65 percent acceptance rate. These figures reflect a level of preparation, discipline, and academic excellence that sets this group apart.

Beyond these flagship universities, the success of this class extends across a wide range of postsecondary opportunities. Students have earned admission to the University of South Florida, the University of Central Florida, the University of Miami, and the prestigious Culinary Institute of America. Notably, members of this class also received appointments to the United States Naval Academy and the United States Coast Guard Academy, along with an Ivy League acceptance. These accomplishments demonstrate that this group does more than meet expectations; they consistently exceed them.

The accomplishments of this class are, quite simply, remarkable. From National Merit recognition to acceptance into highly selective institutions, these students have established a standard of excellence. Their college acceptance rates far exceed state averages, and their representation across top universities is both broad and impressive.

This year also marked a historic milestone for Lecanto High School. For the first time, the school celebrated graduates from both the IB Diploma Programme and the IB Career-related Programme. This achievement reflects a commitment to expanding opportunities and meeting students where they are, providing pathways that align with their individual goals and aspirations.

What makes their success even more meaningful is the diversity of paths they have chosen. Some are pursuing traditional academic routes, others are entering specialized programs such as the Culinary Institute of America, and some have committed to serving their country through military enlistment or academy appointments. Each path reflects purpose, and each deserves recognition.

Throughout the evening, the tone shifted from formal to lighthearted during the student and teacher superlative awards. These moments brought laughter and personality into the celebration, highlighting the relationships and shared experiences that define the high school journey. Each award reflected not only individual traits, but also the strong sense of community within the program.

The teacher awards were equally meaningful, offering insight into how students view the educators who have influenced them most. Selected by students, these recognitions honored not only teaching ability, but also character, humor, and authenticity. They served as a powerful reminder that the most impactful educators leave lasting impressions far beyond the classroom.

One of the most meaningful moments of the evening was the presentation of the Lecanto High IB Award for Educational Excellence to founding IB Director Mr. Darrick Buettner. His vision and leadership established the foundation for everything being celebrated. The program’s success is rooted in his belief that Lecanto students were capable of more, and in his determination to turn that belief into reality. Superintendent Dr. Scott Hebert was also recognized for his continued support of the IB program and its students.

The keynote address was delivered by Kaileigh Moran, a member of the Lecanto High School IB Class of 2025, who is currently pursuing a pre-med track at the University of South Florida. Her message was both practical and inspiring, offering meaningful guidance and encouragement to the Class of 2026 as they prepare for the next chapter of their journey.

In closing, Principal Troy LaBarbara challenged students to remain focused and committed as they move forward. He also recognized the exceptional leadership of IB Coordinator Dr. Ashley Shidner, whose work, alongside the entire IB team, recently guided the program through a comprehensive Programme Evaluation. This rigorous, year-long process ensures alignment with the highest International Baccalaureate standards. Its successful completion reaffirms Lecanto High School’s commitment to excellence, continuous improvement, and student success.

As the evening came to a close, there was a strong sense of both celebration and reflection. Moments like this are not just about marking the end of a journey, but about recognizing the effort it took to get there and the opportunities that lie ahead. The Class of 2026 has proven they are ready, leaving Lecanto High School not only with impressive accomplishments, but with the skills, mindset, and character to make a meaningful impact. No matter where their paths lead, they carry with them the pride and support of a community that will continue to cheer them on.

Congratulations to the Lecanto High School IB Class of 2026.

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Academy of Health Careers Class of 2026 Senior Awards

Posted on April 5th, 2026 by

Academy of Health Careers Class of 2026 Senior Awards

Spring in our schools brings a season of celebrations, with moments set aside to recognize the achievements, growth, and promise of our students. Among these, the annual Senior Awards Banquet for the Academy of Health Careers at Crystal River High School stands out as something truly special.

The evening is a formal gathering with speeches, recognitions, a shared meal, and the symbolic transition of a graduating class. For those who have attended over the years, it becomes clear that this event represents far more. It reflects the values of a program, the investment of a community, and a deep and enduring commitment to honoring students in a way that is both personal and lasting.

That commitment is rooted in the very foundation of the Academy itself. Established more than 30 years ago, the Academy of Health Careers remains the longest-running magnet program in Citrus County. What began as a single pathway has grown into a robust program serving approximately 250 students across Citrus County. It is designed to prepare high school students for a wide range of careers in health, life, and STEM fields, while also providing opportunities to earn industry certifications in each pathway.

Today, those pathways include Certified Nursing Assistant, Project Lead the Way Honors Biomedical Sciences, Dental Assisting, Veterinary Assisting, and Emergency Medical Technician. Within each, students do far more than learn content. Widely regarded as one of the most successful Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs in the region, the Academy has produced thousands of healthcare and STEM professionals, including nurses, doctors, first responders, engineers, and military leaders.

This year’s event stood out not only for its execution, but for how clearly it reflected the purpose and standards of the program itself. From the moment students and families arrived, welcomed by the Crystal River High School Naval JROTC Honor Guard Arch of Swords, to the opening remarks that framed the evening, every detail was intentional. Principal Phillip McLeod welcomed attendees, followed by Danielle Doherty Koch, Academy Coordinator, who set the tone with personal and meaningful remarks.

Senior speakers Kaitlyn Smith, representing Biomedical Science and EMT, and Alanei Hart, a Veterinary Assisting senior and President of CRHS HOSA, delivered reflections that captured both their individual journeys and the shared experience of the class. Their words underscored not only what they had accomplished, but who they had become.

The evening also provided important opportunities to celebrate each graduate. From individualized senior bios to Outstanding Senior Awards presented by pathway instructors, to lighthearted senior superlatives, each moment reinforced the importance of recognizing students as individuals.

The evening included partner recognitions and scholarships, highlighting the critical role of community support. The Academy’s partner, Tampa General Hospital, awarded ten scholarships to graduating seniors. This was followed by April Royal, representing the Phil Royal Legacy Foundation and the Academy’s Phil Royal EMT Program, who provided special recognition and gifts to EMT students. These contributions not only celebrated achievement, but also reflected a powerful sense of continuity and investment in the students’ futures.

Throughout the evening, there was a consistent focus on honoring students and their families in a way that felt genuine and personal. That level of execution does not happen by chance. It is the result of strong leadership, thoughtful planning, and a deeply committed team.

Under the guidance of Danielle Doherty Koch, Academy Coordinator, supported by a dedicated and collaborative staff and school administration, the strength of the program was on full display. The idea that it takes a village was evident throughout the evening. Just as clear was the leadership that brings that village together, defined by heart, purpose, and an unwavering commitment to students.

From the perspective of a former Academy parent, the importance of evenings like this cannot be overstated. These are the moments that stay with students long after graduation. They serve as lasting reminders of the support, recognition, and belief that surrounded them during a formative time in their lives. For some, this may be one of the most meaningful recognitions and ensuring that it feels that way is no small task. Yet it is one the Academy of Health Careers continues to accomplish year after year.

The Class of 2026 Senior Awards Banquet was more than an event. It was a reflection of a program built on purpose, sustained by people, and dedicated to preparing students not only for careers, but for meaningful contributions to their communities.

Read the AHC Senior Bios at https://tinyurl.com/42j7kj72
Photos from Event at https://photos.app.goo.gl/8ezzHTZzVFjW18bS7

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Leading with Heart: Educators, Healers, and Trailblazers

Posted on March 29th, 2026 by

Leading with Heart: Educators, Healers, and Trailblazers

A Personal Reflection for Women’s History Month on the Legacy of Service

As the month of March comes to a close, I want to take a moment to honor the role of women in history and the vital part they have played in shaping our world as we recognize Women’s History Month. This month is a time to celebrate the incredible women who have inspired generations through their courage, leadership, and determination.

We honor trailblazers like Harriet Tubman, Eleanor Roosevelt, Margaret Thatcher, Rosa Parks, Virginia Woolf, Maya Angelou, Amelia Earhart, and Ada Lovelace, women whose courage, vision, and determination continue to inspire us all. Their stories remind us of what is possible when we lead with strength, creativity, and conviction.

However, I want to take a personal moment to honor some amazing women in my own family and the roles they are playing in this world. They have been inspired by the many great women who came before them, and in turn, they are inspiring those who will follow.

Thomasine Kennedy: A Legacy of Education and Mentorship
Thomasine is my amazing wife of 34 years and a true partner in every sense. For three decades, she dedicated herself to the classroom as an ELA teacher at both the middle and high school levels. A graduate of the University of Florida College of Education with a Bachelor’s in English and a Master’s in Secondary Education, Thomasine has a unique passion for literature. She finds great joy in breaking down complex stories and teaching her students the value of critical thinking. She brought literature to life and demonstrated its impact on our world, showing students the power words have to inspire, influence, and empower. It is truly meaningful to hear from her former students who, years later, still remember her introducing them to great authors and influential stories. Since her retirement, she continues this mission of service as a mentor for the Citrus College and Career Coalition and the Citrus Education Foundation, while also serving our church.

Clarine Elizabeth Kennedy: The Matriarch and Trailblazer
My mother, Clarine, was a commanding figure and a model leader. She rose from a Licensed Practical Nurse to become the Director of Risk Management, Quality Assurance, and Patient Relations, one of the first women to hold such positions at New England Memorial Hospital outside of Boston. She was a professional conflict resolver and a trusted resource in complex situations, known for her high ethical standards and deep spiritual devotion. Mom taught me invaluable lessons in self advocacy and education advocacy that continue to guide my work on the school board today. Her protective and determined approach for students with learning disabilities was legendary. My former high school English teacher and principal, Joelle Andrea, another remarkable woman I look forward to sharing more about in the future, once shared that my mother never grew weary of helping the world see the potential and accomplishments of her children and students. She was the foundational influence for five generations of women in our family who followed her into the medical profession.

Clarine Nordell: Healing the Heart and Body
My cousin and my mother’s namesake, Clarine Nordell, BSN, RN, has served as a nurse in Ocala for over three decades, specializing in women’s and children’s health. Within our family, she is a trusted professional we often turn to for guidance and care. Beyond her clinical expertise, she carries a unique gift inspired by her minister father, the ability to speak not only to the mind, but directly to the heart, reflecting faith and compassion in all she does. She is a powerful example of how professional skill and spiritual depth can come together to bring healing.

Dr. Kimberly Silver Dunker: Empowering Future Educators
My niece, Kim, has dedicated more than 25 years to serving patients, students, and fellow educators, demonstrating an extraordinary commitment to the nursing profession. She holds both a PhD and a DNP and serves as a full professor with dual certifications as a Nurse Educator and Clinical Nurse Educator. In her current role as Director of Graduate Nursing Programs at Loma Linda University, she leads the development of future advanced practice nurses across our nation. Her academic achievements include a PhD in Leadership and Higher Education from Andrews University, a Doctor of Nursing Practice from Regis University, and a Master’s in Nursing Leadership and Business. A published Sigma author, her research, including her work on the empowerment of nursing faculty and student preceptor relationships, addresses critical challenges in healthcare education today. Through her leadership and mentorship, she is helping shape a future generation of nurses who are supported, empowered, and grounded in strong ethical values. We are incredibly proud of the impact she is making on a national level.

Genevieve Kennedy: A Fifth Generation of Service
My daughter, Genevieve, represents the fifth generation of this calling in nursing. Her journey began at Crystal River High School, where she earned her National EMT certification. She continued on to Florida Southern College, where she competed as an NCAA Division II swimmer while earning her Bachelor of Science in Nursing and working as an EMT and nursing intern at Tampa General Hospital in Crystal River. Graduating magna cum laude, she now serves as a Registered Nurse in Winter Haven. She carries forward our family’s legacy with the same discipline, compassion, and commitment she has shown since she was a young student.

Savannah Brennan: Excellence in Athletics and Medicine
I am also proud to honor Savannah, my soon to be daughter in law, whose achievements reflect a rare combination of athletic and academic excellence. A former NCAA Division II national qualifier and top finisher, she was recognized as a Top 30 NCAA Woman of the Year in 2023 and the Sunshine State Conference Woman of the Year in 2022. Her success as a CSCAA Division II All American First Team athlete carried into her academic accomplishments. Savannah earned a Bachelor’s degree in Molecular Genetics and Biomedical Science and a Master’s degree in Biotechnology from the Florida Institute of Technology, followed by a Master of Physician Assistant Studies from the University of South Florida. She now practices as a Physician Assistant at UF Health in Jacksonville, representing the highest standards of professionalism, dedication, and care. We are grateful to have her in our family and proud to see her continue forward in a career that reflects her commitment to excellence.

These women are just a few of the many who have impacted and continue to shape our world. I am honored and proud to have them in my life and to witness the difference they make each and every day. Their stories are not told often enough, and their impact on our world and on future generations of women is truly profound.

God bless the women of this world. They care for their families, raise future generations, and strengthen communities in ways that bless us all. I am deeply grateful for their presence and their work.

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