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Over the years, Broward College has recognized alumni who have made outstanding contributions in professional, civic, public, and philanthropic arenas and have demonstrated how their lives have been enriched by their educational experiences at their alma mater. Here is a roster of those who have received Hall of Distinction Awards since 1983.
Captain Barrington Irving was inducted into the Broward College Alumni Hall of Distinction on during a ceremony commemorating the 50th Anniversary of the Emil Buehler Aviation Institute on Tuesday, November 14, 2017, on the Judson A. Samuels South Campus in Pembroke Pines.
Since 1983, Broward College has recognized alumni who have made outstanding contributions in the professional, civic, public and philanthropic arenas and have demonstrated how their lives have been enriched by their educational experiences at the institution. The men and women who have been inducted into the Broward College Hall of Distinction include members of the legal and medical professions, performing artists and scientists, financial advisors and officers of the law, educators, elected officials, writers and civic activists.
What these diverse individuals have in common is an educational foundation that began at Broward College.
Captain Irving was selected as a distinguished alumnus for many reasons, including setting two Guinness World Records when he became both the youngest and the first black pilot to fly solo around the world.
Born in Kingston, Jamaica, and brought up in inner-city Miami, Irving was surrounded by crime, poverty and failing schools, but he beat the odds to make his historic flight at the age of 23. He was inspired to pursue aviation at age 15 when a Jamaican airline pilot offered to mentor him. He rejected college football scholarships to pursue a career in STEM and never looked back. He began taking courses at Broward College in 2002 and worked toward an Associate of Science degree in the Professional Pilot program. He graduated magna cum laude from Florida Memorial University’s aeronautical science program.
He has traveled to 50 countries, conducted more than 30 STEM expeditions, and successfully challenged middle school students to build a car faster than a Ferrari 430 and then high schoolers to build a plane he flew on its test flight. He has a passion to explore, inspire, and educate others. He developed a Flying Classroom curriculum to improve the way students learn STEM: in following his global expeditions, they engage in problem-solving activities that enable them to overcome new challenges.
Before founding the Flying Classroom, he created a nonprofit, Experience Aviation, which offers hands-on, STEM-based programs and career guidance to middle and high school students in Florida, Texas, and Georgia. He was the recipient of a Congressional Resolution acknowledging his pioneering work in aviation education.
He was the keynote speaker at Broward College’s Spring 2010 graduation ceremony and he was the keynote speaker at the inaugural American Dream Summit.
Captain Irving is also a philanthropic individual, having recently created a named American Dream Scholarship to benefit Broward College students.
During the ceremony, representatives of the aviation industry, aviation faculty and students, previous inductees in the Alumni Hall of Distinction, and major donors to the College gave Captain Irving a standing ovation when his name was announced. Irving was visibly moved by the honor of being named a distinguished alumnus. His story of having risen from a young man whose only dress shoes had three holes in the soles to someone who, through scholarship support, was able to give back to a new generation of students was truly inspiring.
Recognizing service rendered voluntarily to Broward College that enriches the college community and advances the college’s objectives and ideals.
After earning his Associate of Science degree in Criminal Justice at Air Force University, Amos earned his Associate of Science in Computer Programming and his Bachelor of Applied Science in Information Technology from Broward College, and he currently is pursuing his Master of Science in Information Technology Management at Florida Atlantic University. Amos is CEO and Founder of Brandage, LLC, and Product Manager for Tofani, which works with the Broward College Innovation Hub to provide internship opportunities for students, allowing them to work on real, professional projects with the real responsibilities expected of permanent employees. He serves on the college’s Computer Science and Information Technology Advisory Board.
Recognizing voluntary efforts of alumni for contributions to causes that improve our community.
Michael earned his Associate of Arts degree at Broward College and his Bachelor of Science at Florida Atlantic University.
He has served as a commissioner with the City of Lighthouse Point since 1999. Making a difference in our community is a value that he has held since childhood.
Presented to those who have distinguished themselves in their chosen professions or fields of endeavor in such a way as to reflect positively upon their alma mater.
After earning her degree in nursing at Broward College, Taren continued her education at Florida Atlantic University and earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing and her Master of Science in Nursing. She is Vice President and Chief Nursing Officer at Holy Cross Hospital. Becoming a nurse was her childhood dream. A visionary leader, she believes the healthcare profession must be fluid and responsive to ever-changing demands.
Presented to those who have distinguished themselves in their chosen professions or fields of endeavor in such a way as to reflect positively upon their alma mater.
Scott trained at the Police Academy of Broward College’s Institute of Public Safety. He is a Captain with the Broward Sheriff’s Office. After spending 27 years as a police officer, he became an ordained minister, providing family and marriage counseling and working with recovery groups. He now leads BSO’s Homeless Outreach Initiative, allowing him to utilize both his law enforcement and pastoral experiences.
Presented to those who have distinguished themselves in their chosen professions or fields of endeavor in such a way as to reflect positively upon their alma mater.
Kingman earned his Associate in Science in Fire Science Technology at Broward College and his Bachelor of Public Administration at Barry University. He believes public service, the desire to serve one’s community and citizens, is perhaps the most profound calling an individual can experience.
Presented to those who have distinguished themselves in their chosen professions or fields of endeavor in such a way as to reflect positively upon their alma mater.
Cheryl-Dene earned her Associate in Science in Legal Assisting at Broward College and her Juris Doctorate at Nova Southeastern University. She is Managing Partner of SoBi Law Group. In the past, she has been an adjunct faculty member at Broward College teaching Legal Technologies, one of the core classes for the paralegal program.
Recognizing service rendered voluntarily to Broward College that enriches the college community and advances the college’s objectives and ideals.
Bob, a veteran of the United States Navy, is president and chief executive officer of OK Generators and a member of the boards of directors of many local nonprofit organizations, including the Broward College Foundation. This November, the Fort Lauderdale / Broward Chapter of the Association of Fundraising professionals will recognize Bob as this year’s Outstanding Volunteer Fundraiser. He completed advanced placement courses at Broward Community College while simultaneously attending Nova High School.
Recognizing voluntary efforts of alumni for contributions to causes that improve our community.
Christopher, an attorney, is an aide to Tim Ryan, Mayor of Broward County. He has extensive volunteer experience with local civic organizations. He earned his Associate in Science degree in Criminal Justice at Broward Community College (Dean’s List and President’s List) and was also an outstanding graduate of the college’s Institute for Public Safety.
Recognizing voluntary efforts of alumni for contributions to causes that improve our community.
Cynthia, a journalist and editor with Broward College’s Office of Public Relations, is a mentor with the City of Fort Lauderdale’s Neighbor Volunteer Office’s “Show Up, Step Up, Stand Up” intergenerational youth leadership development program, among other volunteer activities. She earned her Associate of Arts degree from Broward Community College.
Recognizing those who have made a significant impact in their profession and/or the community at large since graduation and who have attended or graduated within the past 10 years.
Paola, a product designer who will begin a new job with Facebook next month, has previous experience with Groupon, Harvard University and Credit Suisse. She earned her Associate of Arts in Management Information Systems from Broward Community College.
Presented to those who have distinguished themselves in their chosen professions or fields of endeavor in such a way as to reflect positively upon their alma mater.
William Becker is a teacher, fencing coach and international fencing referee employed by the Fencers Club of Arizona and the Federation Internacional d’Escrime. This year William was named to the Top 8 Elite World Referees list, and he has coached medalists in men’s, women’s, senior and youth categories. He credits his teachers and the classes he took at Broward College for setting him up for his successes and for teaching him to work hard to attain his goals. He earned his Associate of Arts degree in Physical Education at Broward Community College.
Presented to those who have distinguished themselves in their chosen professions or fields of endeavor in such a way as to reflect positively upon their alma mater.
Dr. Carl W. Carruthers, Jr., chief scientist at NanoRacks, LLC, works with NASA scientists and engineers as payload developer for the International Space Station. For the past five years Carl has served as Vice President of the Experimental Aircraft Association Chapter 12, which is dedicated to the promotion of General Aviation, flying and homebuilding in the Greater Houston Area. He says the faculty and staff at Broward College who challenged and enabled him provided him with the confidence to accomplish more than he ever thought possible. He earned his Associate of Arts degree at Broward Community College.
Presented to those who have distinguished themselves in their chosen professions or fields of endeavor in such a way as to reflect positively upon their alma mater.
An attorney and entrepreneur of healthcare related companies such as Advocate Home Care and Red Tree Health, begin his studies at Broward Community College. He has served many civic organizations, including the Broward County Sheriff’s Advisory Council, HANDY and the Spinal Muscular Atrophy Association. He said because of Broward College, he had a chance to begin his academic career and focus on where he wanted to go in life. David was recently appointed to the Broward College District Board of Trustees.
Presented to those who have distinguished themselves in their chosen professions or fields of endeavor in such a way as to reflect positively upon their alma mater.
An educator with Broward County Public Schools, teaches science and is the athletic director at Stranahan High School. She has been a Miami Dolphins Teacher of the Week, a Broward County Public Schools Best Practice Winner, and recently she earned the Broward Education Foundation Hall of Fame Distinguished Alumni Award. Jennifer earned her Associate of Arts degree at Broward Community College.
“Broward College was the first step that led me through my path.”
Frank Adderley has served the people of our community for more than 33 years as a member of the Fort Lauderdale Police Department. Frank grew up in the northwest portion of the city, and his entire career has been dedicated to keeping local residents safe. Through his years of service, Frank received many accolades and promotions. In 2008, he was appointed the first African-American Chief of Police for the City of Fort Lauderdale. Frank serves as the president of the Broward Chiefs Association, and he is a member of the International Association of Chiefs of Police.
Frank credits Broward College for advancing his career through education. “Because of Broward College I was prepared for my promotion to Sergeant and to be competitive for promotion to ranks beyond. I went on to get my bachelor’s degree and have graduated from special FBI and DEA training. Broward College was the first step that led me through my path of professional advancement.”
“I owe everything to my experiences at Broward College.”
Joshua Lenchus has a unique talent for being able to look at something and make it better. During his short tenure as a post residency physician, he has integrated systems to improve hospital operations, created methods to more effectively train doctors, and led research on medical innovations and protocols that will better serve patients. Recently he was honored as the President of the Medical Staff for Jackson Memorial Systems, working with hospital administrators to innovatively improve this renowned institution’s medical care.
Joshua credits Broward College for getting him where he is today. He was a member and served as president of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society and was a graduate of the honors program. “Thanks to working with Dr. Mary Jo Henderson and so many others, I was recognized for academic achievement. That recognition allowed me to attend the University of Florida with minimal cost. I owe everything to my experiences at Broward College, for setting me on the path that I continue to travel. I am eternally grateful.”
“I carry Broward College lessons forward in my life and in my business”.
Bob Saxon is an iconic figure in the global yachting community. He is regarded by many as the patriarch of yacht management and charters, bringing a highly professional approach to effective administration and operation of mega-yachts around the world.
Bob began his career as an English teacher at Deerfield Beach High School. He later taught at Cardinal Gibbons High School and coached baseball. When the opportunity presented itself, Bob applied the principles of teaching and coaching to the yachting world, elevating the entire industry to a new standard of excellence. He credits this skill to his professors at Broward College. “My instructors’ positive encouragement drove me to be and do the very best of which I was capable. I carry those lessons forward in my life and in my business.”
“Broward College provided the foundation for my career.”
Nancy Tanner started college academically prepared for success but financially unable to attend full-time. After trying at first to balance classes with part-time employment, she decided to postpone her education. Ten years later, she renewed her commitment to her schooling, and with support from Broward College’s faculty, she finished what she began.
While an adult learner at the college, Nancy was introduced to Kids in Distress and became its first student intern. After completing her bachelor’s degree, she started working professionally at that organization as a social worker. For 23 years, Nancy has served as the director of the Victim Advocate Unit at the State Attorney’s Office. She works to ensure that crime victims are treated with dignity and respect and that their voices are heard.
Nancy was among a small group of women who founded the Broward Victim’s Rights Coalition. She has been elected chair of that organization, as well as the Broward Domestic Violence Council, the Broward Children’s Consortium, the Broward Unit of the National Association of Social Workers, and the Florida Network of Victim Witness Services. She also has served on the boards of Kids in Distress and Leadership Broward. She has helped thousands of people in our community through her volunteerism and service. Because of Broward College, Nancy was able to ultimately achieve her dream of becoming a clinical social worker and helping others recognize their strengths and overcome the challenges that life sometimes presents.
“Broward College allows the best of me to shine and thrive!”
Dr. Sharry Kimmel knows there is more to the college experience than learning in the classroom. Students also need opportunities to expand their horizons, learn about the world they live in and learn about giving back to their communities. As a professor and a volunteer at Broward College, Sharry dedicates herself to creating such opportunities.
Sharry founded Broward College’s Kappa Delta Pi Honor Society, serves as an advisor for the Education Club and will start a chapter of Hillel this fall. She said, “Through these organizations, I am able to give students opportunities to develop themselves as leaders, mentors, volunteers, and even receive job opportunities. Watching my students thrive is a tremendous reward!”
Sharry became a student at Broward College through a special program while she was in high school. Her experience led her to realize how much she wanted to go to college and become an educator. During her tenure, she has been selected as Professor of the Year, awarded two Endowed Teaching Chairs, and received accolades from student organizations.
“Without Broward College I would neither have been equipped nor had the professional confidence to see this dream through.”
Rick Mijares always had a vision. He wanted to be a successful businessman. He wasn’t sure what kind of business, and he did not necessarily know how to get to where he wanted to be. What he had was desire and determination. Then he came to Broward College.
“It was the professors I had that made the difference. They spent countless hours guiding me to success and to completing my degree. They went that extra step to explain business concepts and strategies that I utilize in my business today.”
Where is Rick now? He owns one of the most successful restaurants in South Florida, American Social Bar & Restaurant. Since the doors opened in June of 2012, Rick has successfully celebrated two full years of business. American Social has been recognized and has won several awards in the tri-county area for its high-quality food and beverages. Generating over $4.5 million per year, American Social is expanding to two more locations in Miami and Delray Beach in the fall of 2014. “With continued hard work and a little luck, American Social will be a name recognized all over this great country.”
Known for his considerable experience in Governmental and Public Policy Law, George Platt’s skill helped him earn a reputation as a leading lawyer/lobbyist in Broward County. With more than 40 years in practice, he counsels clients on regulatory law, government contracts and procurement, land use, environmental law and related corporate issues. He is an “AV” or top-rated attorney in his field.
George has represented clients on some of South Florida’s major projects, including the Broward County Convention Center, Dolphins Stadium, development of Coral Springs and Parkland communities, the Bank Atlantic Center and the 450-acre Pembroke Pines Mitigation Bank as well as environmental projects across South Florida. He is heavily involved in government procurement issues and is known for his special expertise on Airport and Port matters.
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