Sarah Scarboro’s Faith-Driven, Academic Journey 28 Mar 4:55 AM (4 days ago)
March 28, 2025 | 2-3 min read Sarah Scarboro, originally from Bowling Green, Kentucky, has found Florida College to be a transformative journey of both academic growth and spiritual development. As a junior in kinesiology, focusing on pre-physical therapy, she is thriving in a community that supports her faith and future aspirations. “I came to Florida College because I saw a place of genuine community that was focused on both academics and faith,” Sarah shared. “It was clear to me that the people here were striving after God together.” This sense of belonging is one of the main reasons she chose to attend Florida College. She felt it was a place where students and faculty weren’t just working alongside each other academically, but also pursuing God’s will together. Sarah is pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology with a focus on pre-physical therapy. Her passion for this field comes from her desire to help others. “I want to be able to help and serve others through my future career,” she explained. “I want to show others the love of Christ and glorify Him in my everyday life and career. I love seeing more evidence of our Creator through learning about the human body in kinesiology,” she noted. Florida College has also helped Sarah in her spiritual journey. “FC has helped me follow Christ by providing opportunities to imitate Him in service to others,” she reflected. From community service with her peers to leaning on God during tough times, she has learned valuable lessons in how to navigate life’s challenges. Outside of the classroom, Sarah is deeply involved in campus life. As an officer in the Florida College Health Science Association, she connects with health professionals and professors who are guiding her toward her goal of becoming a physical therapist. She is also a member of Phi Sigma Chi, a society that has become like family to her. One of her most cherished memories is participating in Society Rush Night, where she and her friends dressed up in blue from head to toe, welcoming new students into their society. “It showed me how much FC is a family, especially in our societies!” she said. Looking ahead, Sarah is preparing for the next step in her journey: physical therapy school. “I feel confident in the education and experience I have gotten here at FC,” she said. “My professors genuinely care for me and have helped me make sure I am meeting all the requirements I need for grad school.” For Sarah Scarboro, Florida College has become much more than a place of study—it’s a place where faith, community, and purpose intersect, and where she is being prepared for a future of service and impact. To get a glimpse into Sarah’s FC Experience, watch her video here.
Sarah Scarboro’s Faith-Driven, Academic Journey Toward Purpose and Impact
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Florida College Students Present Research at Prestigious Toxicology Conference 25 Mar 11:49 AM (7 days ago)
March 25, 2025 | 1-2 min read Students Meredith Hammontree, Halle Martin, and Olivia Richardson recently represented Florida College at the 64th Annual Society of Toxicology (SOT) Conference and ToxExpo, held last week. This premier event brought together leading scientists, researchers, faculty, and students from around the country to share advancements in the field of toxicology. The trio presented original research they’ve been conducting over the past year, titled “Assessing the Effects of Brevetoxin Exposure on Zebrafish through Novel Object Recognition Tests.” Their work explores how exposure to brevetoxin—a harmful compound associated with red tide—affects memory and cognition in zebrafish, a model organism commonly used in neuroscience and toxicology studies. During the conference, the students had the opportunity to network with prominent figures in the field, including professionals from institutions such as the University of Florida and Oregon State University. These connections, along with meaningful conversations with fellow undergraduate and graduate students, provided valuable insights and feedback to help refine their research. The experience of presenting at such a high-level scientific conference was both humbling and inspiring. By engaging with other researchers, Meredith, Halle, and Olivia gained a deeper appreciation for the collaborative nature of scientific inquiry—and the vital role that their work at Florida College plays within the broader research community. In addition to presenting their findings, the students explored the ToxExpo, which featured dozens of vendors showcasing innovative technologies and tools at the forefront of toxicological research. This milestone marked not only a significant academic achievement but also a memorable experience the students will carry with them as they continue their scientific pursuits. It stands as a testament to their hard work, dedication, and the high caliber of student research taking place at Florida College.
Florida College Students Present Research at Prestigious Toxicology Conference
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Florida College Awards Tenure to English Professor Julie Gant 20 Mar 11:44 AM (12 days ago)
March 20, 2025 | 2-3 min read Florida College is pleased to announce that English professor Julie Gant has been awarded tenure, recognizing her exceptional dedication to the College’s mission and ideals. This milestone affirms both her steadfast commitment to the institution and Florida College’s enduring support of her contributions as an educator, scholar, and mentor. The awarding of tenure at Florida College is a rigorous process, requiring faculty to demonstrate excellence in four key areas: effective teaching, academic and professional growth, sacrificial service, and collegiality. After an extensive review by the Tenure and Promotion Committee and evaluations by the Provost and President, tenure is granted on behalf of the College’s Board of Directors. Professor Gant’s journey with Florida College began as a student when she earned her Associate of Arts degree in 1983 before transferring to Ball State University, where she completed her Bachelor of Arts in English (1986) and a Master’s in English (1988). Since joining Florida College as an adjunct professor in 2015 and later as a full-time faculty member in 2020, she has enriched the English department with her expertise, compassion, and unwavering commitment to her students. Beyond the classroom, Professor Gant has served in various capacities, including as the faculty sponsor of the Art Club and as a member of the Curriculum Review Committee. Her work on the Rules, Welfare, and Discipline Committee, though often confidential, has been marked by a deep concern for students’ well-being—not just academically, but spiritually. Students consistently praise her as an inspiring educator who fosters a love for English and writing. Course evaluations highlight her impact: “I loved how the course material was presented enthusiastically every class day. She really wants us to enjoy writing, not just complete an assignment.” “Mrs. Gant is an amazing professor, and I have nothing but good things to say about her. She is an absolute delight to work with.” “This course helped me realize how much I love English and writing. She is the very definition of a great teacher.” Florida College proudly celebrates Julie Gant’s tenure, recognizing her as a devoted educator who upholds the College’s mission with excellence and selfless dedication.
Florida College Awards Tenure to English Professor Julie Gant
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Celebrating Over Six Decades of Spiritual Enrichment: Florida College Lectures 2025 26 Feb 11:44 AM (last month)
February 13, 2025 | 2-3 min read For over six decades, the Florida College community has gathered each February to deepen faith, reconnect with lifelong friends and explore timeless truths. Since its inception in 1964, Lectures has blossomed into a cherished tradition—and this year’s event, held February 3–6, was no exception. Guests left campus with renewed purpose, strengthened relationships and heartfelt gratitude for a week that wove together spiritual growth, academic insight and the warmth of shared fellowship. Lectures brought alumni, students, and supporters together under the theme “Come Let Us Return to the LORD,” offering a blend of scholarly discussions and practical wisdom from Old Testament prophets. Distinguished speakers shared their foresight on biblical topics ranging from profound reflections on God’s love in the time of the prophets to modern challenges like anxiety and the role faith in a fractured world. Dr. Nathan Ward’s session on lament resonated deeply with guest and alumna Emma Hammontree. “There are many lectures from this week that I would like to share—we are leaving challenged and encouraged from studying the minor prophets. But this lecture, especially, verbalized things with which I’ve personally wrestled over the past five years. Nathan Ward offered careful, clear, and bold encouragement for the church and our relationships with God. I would really encourage you to listen, even (or maybe especially) if the topic of “lament” doesn’t interest you or makes you feel uncomfortable,” she said. Beyond the enriching lessons, Lectures week celebrated milestones and new beginnings. Ms. Becky Cawthon received the Friend to Youth Award, recognizing her 28 years of selfless service to generations of young women on our campus. Ms. Cawthon’s kindness, wisdom and unwavering dedication have touched countless lives, creating a lasting impact on the Florida College community. Fortress Christian School, Florida College’s new online K-12 program, also debuted during the week. This exciting initiative offers a high-quality, personalized education that prioritizes both academic excellence and spiritual growth. From spiritual lessons to precious reconnection with friends and classmates, Lectures 2025 embodied Florida College’s unwavering commitment to cultivate a supportive community where we can grow together in faith and service. For 61 years, Lectures week has reminded us that our journey toward God and seeking truth is enriched by the support and encouragement of those around us, and it will continue to do so for years to come.
Celebrating Over Six Decades of Spiritual Enrichment: Florida College Lectures 2025
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Composing a Legacy: Briana Ayres Shares Passion for Music to Inspire Others 19 Feb 10:48 AM (last month)
February 19, 2025 | 2-3 min read Briana Ayres, a junior from Greenwood, Indiana, is a dedicated music education student at Florida College, where she is pursuing her passion for music and combining it with her faith. For Briana, music has always been an essential part of her life. Growing up, she was inspired by wonderful music teachers who nurtured her love for music and motivated her to give back by becoming a music educator herself. Briana’s journey to Florida College was influenced by her time at FC Indiana Camp, where she had the chance to experience the welcoming environment of the college. Originally planning to stay closer to home, Briana’s visit to Falcon Days left a lasting impression and she made the decision to study at Florida College. At Florida College, Briana found a place where her values align with the values of the College. Briana has formed lasting friendships with like-minded peers who encourage her to stay true to her faith. The knowledge gained from her music education courses and the Bible classes at FC have not only helped her prepare for her future but have also strengthened her foundation, answering questions she didn’t even know she had. Briana is deeply involved on campus. She currently serves as president of FC’s National Association for Music Education, vice president of Psi Beta Gamma, and a student leader of Unplugged, an acoustic band group on campus. She is also an active member of the musical and chamber choir. Looking to the future, Briana’s dream is to teach middle school choir and offer private voice and guitar lessons. She is driven to inspire and nurture the next generation of musicians, just as her teachers did for her. One of Briana’s favorite memories at Florida College is performing in Unplugged with her friends. For her, making music with such talented people is a true highlight of her college experience. Briana Ayres embodies the spirit of Florida College – combining a love for music with a heart for Christ and a desire to make a difference in the lives of others. To get a glimpse into Briana’s FC experience, watch her video here.
Composing a Legacy: Briana Ayres Shares Passion for Music to Inspire Others
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Alum Leah Rude’s Extension of Christ’s Love through Work at Women’s Crisis Center 30 Jan 12:07 PM (2 months ago)
January 30, 2025 | 2 min read Leah (Gann) Rude (’15) is making an impact in the lives of women in Hillsborough County. The Texas native arrived at Florida College in 2011 to play on the inaugural women’s basketball team—a last-minute decision that would prove life-changing. “I was supposed to go to junior college, but all my camp friends were going to FC, and I’d heard about the basketball program,” she said. “Coming to FC was a last-second decision, and I’m so grateful I did because it was a full experience.” After receiving her Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies in 2015, Rude moved back to Fort Worth, where she accepted a position at a women’s center for abuse victims. Eight years later, she returned to Tampa to serve as director of a faith-based pregnancy center, where her FC experience helped her embrace her role as a client advocate, counseling women about pregnancy resources, including ultrasounds, pregnancy tests and basic maternal needs. “Since the clinic is faith-based, I can weave that into our conversation and address their deeper spiritual needs,” she said, noting the importance of her education—particularly Bible and behavioral health courses—in her career. “FC encouraged me deeper as a follower of Christ, how people work and what their core needs are,” she explained. “I can approach men and women in moments of crisis in a way that looks like Christ, and FC helped me learn humility and to be a vessel by serving as His hands and feet.” In 2023, Leah reconnected with Evan Rude, whom she had met at FC years before. In December 2023, the couple married and are now active members at Henderson Church of Christ, worshipping alongside the FC community they came to love more than a decade ago. “We both needed a lot of spiritual help and mentorship when we arrived at FC,” she recalled. “We’re still learning a lot from our mentors as we do life with people who’ve walked these stages before, especially during our first year of marriage.” A decade after leaving campus, the Rudes now find themselves in a mentor role as well, hosting studies for young men and women and volunteering as counselors at the FC Texas camp. “The FC community has been nothing but beneficial and represents an amazing cloud of witnesses around us,” she said. “It’s what God’s family is supposed to look like.”
Alum Leah Rude’s Extension of Christ’s Love through Work at Women’s Crisis Center
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Inspired to Serve: Dr. Brian Gilliam’s Cross-Country Journey to Florida College 28 Jan 12:23 PM (2 months ago)
January 28, 2025 | 3 min read It’s a long way from the West Coast to Temple Terrace, but Business Department Faculty Chair Brian Gilliam, DBA, found his way. A decade later, his leadership and service continue to impact the lives of Florida College students and faculty. Born in Michigan, Gilliam moved to Southern California at age seven and grew up in a close-knit, religious family in Tustin. As providence would have it, Gilliam was reconnected with his childhood best friend, Wes McCracken, as teenagers, after both families relocated to Tustin. “Wes began dating Susan Woodside, whose dad was an elder at the Tustin church, and Wes learned the gospel and was baptized in high school,” Gilliam recalled. While Wes left for college, Gilliam attended California State University, Fullerton, occasionally studying with Susan’s father Linton Woodside. In 1983, Gilliam married his fiancé, Jacqueline, at their Episcopal church, with Wes at his side. “I was working at Disneyland, and there were several people studying the Bible around me, so I was surrounded by a cloud of influences,” he remembered. “We wanted to learn more about the Bible, and I told Jacqueline, ‘I know who we need to study with.’ We called Linton, and five years after my first study with him, Jacqueline and I were both baptized.” Fresh out of college with his Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and Math, Gilliam enjoyed an 11-year career at Disneyland, eventually overseeing some 550 employees as an operations supervisor and supporting the launch of Tokyo Disneyland. In 1989, he accepted a leadership role at Hughes Aircraft Company, simultaneously completing his MBA in finance and entrepreneurship from the University of Southern California. In 1994, he joined Vulcan Materials Company, and six years later traded the corporate world for education, serving the Anaheim Union High School District as mathematics department chair. For more than 30 years, the Gilliams and their children, Andrew and Amanda, worshipped at the Tustin church of Christ, where friends introduced the family to the Florida College Southern California Camp. “By the end of the week that first year our fourth-grade daughter said, ‘I know where I want to go to college,’” Gilliam recounted. “She was lit up by FC.” Brian and Jacqueline served as counselors and later camp directors, allowing them to learn more about the college and establish relationships with faculty. “Our 35 years in Tustin created so many intersections with FC, and I knew it was a place I’d like to work one day,” he said. By 2015, Andrew and Amanda were building careers and families of their own, so Brian and Jacqueline prayerfully made the move east. “There was a business professor position open, and I wanted to serve students,” Gilliam recalled. “My education, industry experience and work in the church all converged, and it’s been a blessing for me and my family.” Jacqueline, also an educator, accepted a position as a fourth-grade teacher at Florida College Academy, where she inspired young students for several years. Since 2015, Brian has taught 18 of the courses offered in the business degree programs, now comprised of 170 declared business program majors and 36 courses across four degree programs. In 2020, Gilliam realized another professional goal when he received his Doctorate in Business Administration from the Muma College of Business at the University of South Florida. A decade after arriving in Hillsborough County, Gilliam said being a part of the Temple Terrace community continues to be a life-changing experience. “God has provided for me since birth, when I was adopted by parents who respected the Bible and prayed with me every night,” he said. “Our lives have been completely transformed, and now we have the opportunity at FC to be a support and influence. I seek to inspire, challenge, encourage and love the hearts and minds of my students and colleagues to glorify the Lord in pursing the Florida College mission.”
Inspired to Serve: Dr. Brian Gilliam’s Cross-Country Journey to Florida College
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From College Friends to Business Partners: How Two Florida College Alumni are Shaping Tampa Bay’s Housing Market 18 Dec 2024 11:25 AM (3 months ago)
December 18, 2024 | 2-3 min read Florida College alumni Chase Clark and Peter Murphy, founders of HomeProp Realtors, are making a significant impact in the Tampa Bay area by providing housing, employment, and investment opportunities for students, families, and investors. Their journey from college friends to successful business partners has also created a valuable resource for Florida College graduates looking to settle in the region. Clark and Murphy met in the late 1990s at Florida College, where they formed a strong bond while studying in business school. Both went on to marry sisters Lauren and Tara Venable, further strengthening their partnership. Murphy credits their shared Christian values as the foundation of their smooth, conflict-free business relationship. “I didn’t know Chase well, but had an expectation of his trustworthiness because there were things I could assume about his character in those early days,” Peter remembered. “Chase and I have had a wonderfully peaceful partnership with very little conflict, because it comes from shared values.” In the early 2000s, the duo capitalized on the booming housing market to launch Home Encounter, which would become the largest property management company in the Southeast United States. After selling the company to a Wall Street private equity firm in 2016, they founded HomeProp in 2018, shifting their focus to real estate investment in the Tampa Bay area. Since then, HomeProp has expanded its reach, with many of its investors, tenants, and employees having ties to Florida College. “We’ve been able to backfill our business with high quality Christians, including interns and business majors, which has been a huge contributor to our success and created a really good synergy,” said Clark, who teaches a real estate investment course at FC. HomeProp also supports Florida College graduates in their transition from school to work by helping them find housing in the competitive Tampa Bay market. Many of the company’s clients are parents who want to invest in real estate for their grown children. “The Tampa market is full of opportunities, and we’re seeing more students stay in the area after graduation,” said Murphy. “Parents are increasingly looking to invest in stable housing markets to support their children as they start their careers, knowing it’s a solid investment even after their kids move on.” The lasting connections between the Clark and Murphy families and their Florida College roots have had a positive impact on their personal and professional lives. “The network of people who have stayed in Tampa and worshipped with us since college has really strengthened our community,” Clark said. “It’s a place where young Christians can grow and be influenced by other faithful individuals, which is a rare and valuable environment.” Through their business and their community involvement, Chase Clark and Peter Murphy continue to help young Florida College graduates find their footing in the Tampa Bay area, contributing to both the region’s housing market and the thriving Christian community. This spring, they will both serve as full-time professors in the Florida College business department, expounding their impact on students through their knowledge and expertise.
From College Friends to Business Partners: How Two Florida College Alumni are Shaping Tampa Bay’s Housing Market
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Karen Witherington’s 30+ Years of Shaping Minds Through Literature at Florida College 16 Dec 2024 4:48 AM (3 months ago)
December 16, 2024 | 3-4 min read Karen Witherington, M.A., has been a fixture on the Florida College campus for more than three decades. Now chair of the English and Languages department, she couldn’t have imagined the impact of her decision to attend FC when she arrived in 1978. Originally from Longview, Texas, Witherington received her associate’s degree from FC and later her Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of Northern Alabama. “I enjoyed literature classes so much but didn’t really know what to do, so I went home to Longview and decided to continue my education,” she said. After receiving her graduate degree at Steven F. Austin State University in Nacogdoches, Texas, she returned to Temple Terrace in 1985 – this time as faculty. In 1991, she married FC alum David Witherington (‘82), and later welcomed sons Zach and Joseph (’22). She spent several years at home before returning to teach core humanities classes and Survey of British Literature – one of the only literature courses offered in the late 90’s. “In the early 2000s faculty developed the English degree program, and American Literature was added,” she remembered. Today, FC’s English Department includes more than 20 upper division courses spanning British and American literature, along with creative writing, advanced grammar, professional editing, and writing concentration courses, all proving popular among students in other degree programs as well. The 2024-25 school year also includes a Modern Poetry class covering an overview of 20th century authors, along with Medieval Literature. “That’s one of my favorite courses, because it was a rich period spanning hundreds of years,” Witherington explained. “It’s referred to as the ‘dark ages’ but produced such a rich culture in literature and writings.” Another personal favorite is 19th century British Romantic Literature, delving into works by Byron, Shelley and Keats. “It’s important to view literature not as being isolated, but rather a reflection of what’s going on culturally and historically, looking at what’s being promoted in the writing and what it says about that time period,” Witherington emphasized. “It’s just fascinating how these stories tell us where we come from and human nature in general, both the good and the bad. Being able to make biblical connections, determining whether the literature conforms to a biblical message or counters it, is also special.” Witherington has seen countless changes in her 30 years on campus but credits colleagues and students with bringing her back each semester. “The kids are great and keep me energized and connected,” she said. “I enjoy interacting and studying with them, and I love our conversations. Those are special moments for me, and the fact that we share a faith is unusual in the academic setting. To have worked for a lifetime in that kind of scenario is a great blessing.”
Karen Witherington’s 30+ Years of Shaping Minds Through Literature at Florida College
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Florida College Honors The Legacy of Dedicated Professor Shane Scott 5 Dec 2024 10:53 AM (3 months ago)
December 5, 2024 Beloved Florida College professor Paul Shane Scott passed away December 4 after a lengthy battle with ALS, leaving a legacy of love for Christ and the students he served. “The Lord blessed Shane with the ability to relate to others. He truly could be ‘all things to all men,’” said longtime friend and colleague Phil Robertson, VP of Advancement. “Growing up in a modest home without a father taught him how to value others, especially those who had been hurt by life. Regardless of the pain, the sin, the attitude, or politics, Shane had a relationship with them. Throw in his self-deprecating humor and amazing intelligence and you had a master communicator of God’s will and love.” A native of Kentucky, Shane earned a Certificate of Achievement in Biblical Studies from Florida College in 1989 before pursing his M.A. in Theology from Cincinnati Bible Seminary. Prior to his diagnosis, Shane was pursuing his PhD in Humanities from Faulkner University in Montgomery, Alabama. Shane preached for congregations in Illinois, Indiana, Tennessee and Florida before he and his late wife Kristi joined the Valrico church of Christ, where he faithfully served until his death. During his first tenure as FC faculty (1998-2001), Shane taught History and Geography of the Old Testament, Old Testament Poetry, History and Geography of the New Testament, Christian Evidences, Ephesians/Colossians, and Religious Thought (Biblical Eschatology) Ethics. He returned in 2022 to teach Great Books. “Shane was among the most gifted and beloved faculty members ever to teach at Florida College, and his legacy at FC will run deepest through the many students he taught and befriended so impactfully,” observed Florida College president, Dr. John Weaver. “And nothing was more impactful than his faithful endurance of personal pain and loss in order to serve others and show the cross-shaped love of Jesus.” Robertson said teaching at Florida College was a dream come true for Shane and noted that he will be remembered for his rare combination of intellect and humility. “He was brilliant, and he was truly a Biblical scholar,” Robertson said. “However, he never made you feel stupid or inferior. What was even more impressive was how he could communicate challenging principles and instruction from God’s Word. He made the ‘hard things’ easy to understand. Or better yet, he would say ‘I don’t know the answer.’ He was never pretentious or arrogant.” Shane had been writing two books at the time of his death, one on the Lord’s Supper (available February 2025) and another on apologetics, taken from his FC course notes and sermons at Valrico church of Christ. “Many brethren have been working with him to edit those books the past few months,” said Robertson, who preached alongside Shane at Valrico. “Even with his ALS diagnosis he was still teaching and inspiring all of us to grow in our faith and our ability to reason. I will greatly miss my friend, but I am also rejoicing with him. It’s an awesome thought to know that the man who taught us to reason and think through our faith does not need that reason or faith anymore. He is with the One who is the reason for all things. And that’s a wonderful thought.” Today during chapel, our student body remembered and honored Shane’s incredible life and legacy in a special service which can be viewed here. With the help of AI technology, Shane led FC faculty and staff in the pre-session devotional about the profound privilege of Following Christ. To listen to his message, click here. In lieu of flowers, those who love him respectfully request that donations be made to Florida College. Contributions may be made by mail to Florida College, 119 N Glen Arven Ave, Temple Terrace, FL 33617, or online here.
Florida College Honors The Legacy of Dedicated Professor Shane Scott
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