Florida State University’s Faculty Senate recognized distinguished alumni, leaders and the university’s police department during the annual Torch Awards ceremony held March 31 at the Heritage Museum.
The awards honor individuals and groups who have made sustained contributions to the university’s academic mission and community. Established in 1996, the Torch Awards reflect the three values represented on the university seal: Vires (strength), Artes (aesthetics) and Mores (character and tradition).
This year’s honorees included former Board of Trustees Chair Ed Burr, alumna and education leader Liz Cohen and longtime broadcaster and Florida State alumnus Lee Corso. The Faculty Senate also presented a special commendation to the Florida State University Police Department.
“This is a special evening because of who we are here to honor,” Provost Jim Clark said in opening remarks. “Each of our honorees has contributed to the academic excellence and well-being of FSU in significant and lasting ways. They believe in our mission and care about our faculty, staff, students and community.”
Burr received the Vires Torch Award for his decades of leadership and service to Florida State. A business leader and founder of GreenPointe Holdings, Burr has remained engaged with the university through roles on the Board of Trustees, the FSU Foundation Board and other key advisory groups. His philanthropic work includes founding the Monique Burr Foundation for Children, which focuses on preventing child abuse and protecting vulnerable youth.
Cohen was honored with the Artes Torch Award for her lifelong commitment to education and service. A former school principal and national education consultant, she has supported school systems across the country and contributed to initiatives backed by organizations such as the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. Cohen has also remained active at Florida State through volunteer leadership, alumni engagement and the creation of multiple endowed scholarships.
Corso received the Mores Torch Award for his enduring impact as a Florida State alumnus and ambassador. A former Seminole football player and longtime ESPN analyst, Corso spent nearly four decades in broadcasting, promoting college athletics and higher education nationwide. Though unable to attend, he was recognized for a lifetime of service reflecting strong character and commitment to tradition.
The ceremony also included a special recognition of the Florida State University Police Department for its response during the April 17 campus tragedy. Faculty Senate leaders praised the department’s professionalism, courage and dedication to protecting the university community.
“Their actions that day, and every day, reflect the very best of public service,” said Jayne Standley, co-chair of the Torch Awards committee.
The Torch Awards are presented annually by the Faculty Senate on behalf of Florida State faculty.