Florida State University invites alumni, students, parents and friends to celebrate Homecoming 2025 from Friday, Oct. 24, through Sunday, Nov. 2. The university will host a series of events, themed “Legacy in Every Frame,” to unite the FSU community in honoring tradition, fostering connections and recognizing alumni achievements.  

Signature festivities include Homecoming Live, the Homecoming Parade, Alumni Awards and the Homecoming football game against Wake Forest on Saturday, Nov. 1, which will also serve as FSU’s Seminole Heritage game. At halftime, the Homecoming Chief and Princess will be revealed, celebrating the university’s special relationship with the Seminole Tribe of Florida.  

A full schedule of events is listed at homecoming.fsu.edu.  

Featured events include: 

FRIDAY, OCT. 24 

Chalk on Legacy Walk 

Noon | FSU Legacy Walk 

Chalk on Legacy Walk is a fall-themed celebration where student organizations will showcase their creativity by chalking designs along FSU’s Legacy Walk. They will be judged as part of the Homecoming competition. 

SATURDAY, OCT. 25  

Homecoming Live 

7-10 p.m. | Donald L. Tucker Civic Center 

Homecoming Live is the university’s largest student-run pep rally. This high-energy tradition kicks off Homecoming Week at the Donald L. Tucker Civic Center with special guest artist R&B singer-songwriter Mariah the Scientist. Homecoming Live is an unforgettable display of Seminole spirit and tradition featuring performances by the FSU cheerleaders, Golden Girls and other student organizations. Doors open at 7 p.m.  

For tickets and more information, visit homecoming.fsu.edu/live. 

MONDAY, OCT. 27 

Bingo for a Cause 

5-7 p.m. | Student Union Ballrooms 

FSU is known for its involvement in community service, and Bingo for a Cause offers students a chance to meet organizations supporting meaningful causes. Explore ways to give back through sustainable service while enjoying a night of Bingo with a chance to win exciting prizes. 

TUESDAY, OCT. 28  

Spirit Night  

5:30-9:30 p.m. | Askew Student Life Center Courtyard 

It’s lights, camera, spirit! Come dressed in your best Garnet and Gold for an evening filled with live performances. Spirit Night is a vintage Hollywood-themed celebration with singing, dancing, improv and unique talents. Strike a pose on the red carpet, get crafty at activity stations and cheer on contestants in the Most Spirited Competition. Plus, meet your Homecoming Court, enjoy free food and exclusive merch. 

WEDNESDAY, OCT. 29  

Homecoming Chief and Princess Voting  

8 a.m. – 8 p.m. | Online 

Voting for FSU Homecoming Chief and Princess is open to current students and takes place online from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.   

Odds and Evens 

4-8 p.m. | Main Campus Fields  

Gather a team or come dressed to impress — the Odds and Evens kickball and flag football tournaments offer energy and excitement as teams vie to be crowned champions. Show off your team’s most creative costumes for a chance to win Best Team Costume or compete for Best Individual Costume and stop by for competitive yard games, delicious food, free goodies and more.

THURSDAY, OCT. 30  

Homecoming Festival 

1 p.m. | Union Green 

Come out to Union Green for food, rides and games at the Homecoming Festival and enjoy an afternoon of fun with fellow FSU students. 

EXTRAV National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) Step Show 

7-10 p.m. | Student Union Ballrooms 

NPHC member organizations compete through choreographed performances to showcase their creativity, rich tradition and community bond. 

FRIDAY, OCT. 31 

Emeriti Homecoming Reunion 

The Emeriti Alumni Society will kick off its Homecoming reunion weekend events with a welcome luncheon at 11:30 a.m. in the Beth Moor Lounge. The reunion allows graduates of 50 years ago or more to relive cherished memories, reconnect with classmates and enjoy campus tours, with VIP parade viewing. 

Homecoming Parade 

2-3:30 p.m. | Westcott Plaza 

The annual Homecoming Parade, organized by the Student Alumni Association, will travel north from the Civic Center parking lot along Macomb Street, turn west on College Avenue, then head south on Copeland Street. All personnel from the FSU Police Department and Public Safety teams will be honored as this year’s grand marshals, represented by FSU Police Chief Jason Trumbower (B.S. ’98) and Assistant Vice President for Public Safety, Barbara O’Connor. Alumni, students and the Tallahassee community are invited to cheer on the Marching Chiefs, cheerleaders and decorated floats along the parade route.

FSU Alumni Awards 

6-9 p.m. | Goodwood Museum & Gardens 

The FSU Alumni Awards ceremony will honor recipients of the Reubin O’D. Askew Young Alumni, Inspire, Circle of Gold and Bernard F. Sliger awards.  

For details and registration, visit gonol.es/alumniawards2025. 

SATURDAY, NOV. 1 

Grads Made Good Awards and Homecoming Breakfast 

8:30-10:30 a.m. | Bricks & Brass 

The 2025 Grads Made Good awards, presented in partnership with the FSU Circle of Omicron Delta Kappa, recognizes alumni who have made a significant impact through outstanding success in their fields. 

For details and registration, visit gonol.es/GMG2025.  

Homecoming Tailgates 

Alumni and friends are invited to connect at several alumni network tailgates before the Homecoming football game. The Veterans Alumni Network and Women for FSU will offer tailgates with food, fun and spirit.  

SUNDAY, NOV. 2 

Homecoming Weekend concludes with the Emeriti Alumni Society Induction Brunch and Awards Ceremony at 10 a.m. at Dodd Hall’s Heritage Museum. Members of the Class of 1975 will be inducted into the society and receive a signature 50-year medallion. The celebration will also honor the accomplishments and enduring legacy of five remarkable Emeriti honorees. 

The post ‘Legacy in Every Frame:’ FSU celebrates 2025 Homecoming appeared first on Florida State University News.

Florida State University continues to be recognized among the best in the nation according to The Princeton Review’s latest college rankings list, adding to FSU’s nationally renowned reputation in providing exceptional educational value and meaningful student experiences.

Florida State secured the No. 22 spot for Best Value public college nationally and No. 1 in the state of Florida according to The Princeton Review.

“Florida State University is deeply committed to academic excellence and to helping every student fulfill their highest potential,” said Joe O’Shea, vice president for Student Academic Success. “What’s very special is that students, regardless of family background or major, graduate at some of the highest rates in the country. FSU is an amazing place to be, where students can experience both a rigorous academic environment and a vibrant community where we all really care about and support one another.”

The rankings are based on a survey of 170,000 students at 391 schools. Students were asked 98 questions in four sections about their school’s academics and administration, life at their college, their fellow students and themselves.

• FSU is No. 1 in the state of Florida on the “Their Students Love These Colleges” list based on student satisfaction, earning the No. 2 spot among public universities nationally. The student-led recognition reflects the university’s continued investments in student success and resources.
• FSU’s Career Center works to prepare students for their future careers with numerous career services and events. The university climbed one spot to No. 13 on the “Top 20 Best Schools for Internships (Public Schools)” list, making it the top public institution in the state for internships.
• FSU students are the most spirited in the state when it comes to the university’s numerous intercollegiate sports teams. The university checked in at the No. 10 spot on The Princeton Review’s “Students Love Their School Teams” list.
• FSU placed No. 13 on the “Top 20 Best Alumni Networks (Public Schools)” list.
• Students enjoy many options for recreational and athletic facilities on and off FSU’s campus, from classes and workout spaces at the Bobby E. Leach Center and Fitness & Movement Clinic, to FSU’s Lakefront Park and top-notch athletic facilities. FSU claimed the No. 15 spot for “Best Athletic Facilities” and best in the state according to the student survey.

The post FSU tops The Princeton Review’s best value, student satisfaction rankings in Florida appeared first on Florida State University News.

Florida State University will recognize 15 outstanding alumni during Homecoming weekend, Oct. 31–Nov. 2. 

“Our 2025 honorees exemplify what it means to be a graduate of Florida State University,” said Julie Decker, associate vice president for University Advancement, Alumni Engagement and president of the FSU Alumni Association. “They inspire our students, uphold the values of leadership and excellence that define the Seminole spirit and embody the lifelong bond shared with FSU. Through their achievements and dedication, these alumni continue to strengthen our university and make it better every day.” 

The FSU Alumni Awards ceremony will take place on Friday, Oct. 31, at Goodwood Museum & Gardens. The event will honor 11 distinguished alumni, including recipients of the Reubin O’D. Askew Young Alumni, The Inspire, Circle of Gold and The Bernard F. Sliger awards.  

On Saturday, Nov. 1, the FSU Homecoming Breakfast, presented in partnership with the FSU Circle of Omicron Delta Kappa (ODK), will celebrate four recipients of the Grads Made Good award at Bricks & Brass.  

For more information and to register to attend the Alumni Awards and Homecoming Breakfast, visit gonol.es/alumniawards2025 and gonol.es/GMG2025, respectively. 

FSU Alumni Awards — Friday, Oct. 31

The Reubin O’D. Askew Young Alumni Award honors alumni age 35 or younger whose achievements exemplify outstanding professional success and a commitment to service. The 2025 Askew Award honorees are: 

• Lauren Albaum (B.M. ’11) serves as vice president of student affairs at Florida Southern College, overseeing more than 100 staff and 15 functional areas. A Notable Nole, she is recognized nationally for transformative leadership in higher education and widely honored for her civic engagement, including leading literacy initiatives and serving as president and CEO of the Junior League of Greater Lakeland. 

• Kenneth Cagnolatti (B.S. ’21) is a private wealth client performance analyst at Wells Fargo Advisors, where he has worked with ultra-high-net-worth clients managing billions in assets. A Certified Financial Planner™, he also is deeply committed to mentoring and community engagement, having founded Invest A Nole and led service programs through Kappa Alpha Psi and Progressive Black Men Inc. 

• Terrence Williams Jr. (B.S. ’13, MPA ’14) is director of contracts at GE Aerospace, where he leads negotiations on multimillion-dollar defense programs supporting global security. A first-generation graduate of FSU’s CARE program, he has excelled as a Florida Gubernatorial Fellow, mentor and motivational speaker, continuing to inspire future leaders through service and professional excellence. 

The Inspire Award recognizes graduates who have distinguished themselves as leaders in their professions while serving as role models for current and future students. The 2025 Inspire Award honorees are: 

• Ashlee Fontes (B.S. ’04, Ph.D. ’24) is a groundbreaking leader in the global soccer industry and an advocate for women in sports. She was the first woman of color to lead a U.S. professional sports franchise, co-founded the Girls Academy and served as president of United Soccer Coaches, the world’s largest coaching organization. At FSU, she has taught sport management courses, mentored students and established partnerships to expand professional opportunities for future leaders. 

• Delores Spearman (B.A. ’98, M.A. ’08) has dedicated her career to service and philanthropy, impacting both her community and Florida State University. A founder of Project Hunger through the United Way of Brevard, she has helped provide meals to more than 1,600 children weekly during the summer months. At FSU, she has served on the Alumni Association Board of Directors, Seminole Boosters Board and Presidential Search Committee, and with her husband, Guy, established the Guy and Delores Spearman Endowed Professorship and supported multiple scholarships and facilities. 

The Circle of Gold honors alumni and friends of the university who, through their service and achievements, personify the university’s tradition of excellence. The 2025 Circle of Gold inductees are: 

• Jennifer Collins (B.S. ’93, J.D. ’06), a two-time FSU graduate, is an accomplished attorney and dedicated alumna. She co-founded and chaired the FSU Parent & Family Advancement Council and serves on the International Programs Council, helping foster a culture of philanthropy that strengthens the university community. Collins began her legal career as an assistant attorney general in Tallahassee before moving into private practice as a complex commercial litigator, where she earned recognition for her strategic insight and leadership. Her professional achievements and commitment to Florida State reflect a career defined by excellence, service and lasting impact. 

• Andrea Friall, M.D. (B.S. ’93) is a board-certified obstetrician-gynecologist, physician leader and dedicated advocate for medical education. She was the first female physician at North Florida Women’s Care and now serves as vice president and chief medical officer at Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare. Her numerous roles at FSU include service on the Foundation Board of Trustees and presidential and dean search committees. She also established the Walter T. King Scholarship for aspiring physicians. 

• Zach Heng (B.S. ’07) is a visionary HR executive, nonprofit board director, entrepreneur, community advocate and speaker. He has been a driving force in building the FSU Asian American Alumni Network and served on the Alumni Association Board of Directors. Recognized nationally for his leadership, Heng continues to advance diversity and community engagement while supporting students and alumni as a mentor and advocate. 

• Mary Katherine “Cricket” Mannheimer (BFA ’81, M.S. ’94) has devoted nearly four decades to elevating FSU’s School of Dance. As co-founder and longtime leader of Friends of Dance, she helped establish the Maggie Allesee National Center for Choreography and has created opportunities for students, faculty and the arts community. 

• Bob Sasser (B.S. ’73), former CEO of Dollar Tree, guided the company’s growth into a Fortune 200 business. A member of the FSU College of Business Hall of Fame, former FSU Board of Trustee member and generous benefactor, Sasser has made transformative investments in Legacy Hall and student success. 

The Bernard F. Sliger Award, the Alumni Association’s highest honor, is named for FSU’s 11th president and recognizes a lifetime of service to the university. The 2025 honoree is Guy Spearman. 

• Guy Spearman (MSW ’75) is the founder and president of Spearman Management in Cocoa, Florida. Early in his career, he was recruited by Governor Reubin Askew to serve as an aide in his office. Spearman went on to build a respected government relations firm that has served clients across industries for decades. Spearman has dedicated much of his life to advancing Florida State University, serving on the Alumni Association Board of Directors, Seminole Boosters Board and the College of Social Work Advisory Council. With his wife, Delores, he established the Guy and Delores Spearman Endowed Professorship and has supported scholarships, facilities and athletic programs, ensuring opportunities for generations of students. His leadership, philanthropy and loyalty to FSU embody the spirit of the Bernard F. Sliger Award.

FSU Homecoming Breakfast—Saturday, Nov. 1

The Grads Made Good Award recognizes alumni who have made outstanding contributions in their fields. The 2025 Grads Made Good Award recipients are: 

• James “Chef” Barlow (B.S. ’95) is a retired U.S. Air Force fighter pilot and entrepreneur who transformed military training. He founded Blue Air Training Corp., which pioneered the use of contracted pilots and aircraft to train joint terminal attack controllers and fighter pilots, creating a new global industry. The company has executed more than 45,000 airstrikes, trained allied forces worldwide and saved taxpayers more than $1 billion. Under his leadership, Blue Air Training earned repeated recognition on the Seminole 100 list and merged with Top Aces Inc. to become the world’s leading provider of contract air services. 

• Larry Hogan (B.S. ’78) served as governor of Maryland from 2015 to 2023, and he is recognized as one of the most popular bipartisan leaders in America. He cut taxes for eight straight years, turned a $5.1 billion deficit into a record surplus and chaired the National Governors Association, where he led national responses on infrastructure and the COVID-19 pandemic. Hogan was also chair of the Chesapeake Bay Commission and co-chair of No Labels.  

• Eduardo Pérez (B.S. ’89) is a marketing innovator and entrepreneur. He co-founded PM3, a nationally recognized Hispanic advertising agency acquired in 2021, and has been a leading voice in multicultural marketing. He now invests in startups, including EQUIHEMP, an emerging leader in hemp-based animal health products. Pérez serves on advisory boards for FSU’s College of Communication and Information and the Center for Hispanic Marketing. A lifelong athlete and passionate Seminole, he remains committed to advancing entrepreneurship and diversity. 

• Leslie Webber (BSN ’99) is director of nursing for pediatric emergency services at Wolfson Children’s Hospital, where she oversees the emergency, ECMO and flex teams. She has been honored as one of the Great 100 Nurses of Northeast Florida and received the DAISY Nurse Leader Award. Under her leadership, Wolfson’s emergency department earned the 2024 Lantern Award from the Emergency Nurses Association, one of just 15 pediatric emergency rooms nationwide to receive the honor. A nurse for more than 25 years, Webber has advanced from bedside caregiver to executive leader while mentoring the next generation of nurses. 

About the FSU Alumni Association

The FSU Alumni Association works to create meaningful connections between alumni and Florida State University, strengthening the alumni network and supporting students on campus every day. All graduates of FSU are members of the FSU Alumni Association; no dues are required. Alumni are encouraged to stay connected through the Alumni Association’s career resources, networking opportunities, mentorship programs, travel benefits and more.

Learn more at alumni.fsu.edu.

The post FSU to honor distinguished alumni during Homecoming weekend appeared first on Florida State University News.

Equiturn Business Solutions, headquartered in Dania Beach, Florida, has earned the No. 1 spot on the 2025 Seminole 100 list of the fastest-growing businesses owned or led by Florida State University alumni.

Led by FSU alumnus Joshua Orlinsky (B.S. ’13), the No. 1 business was celebrated on Saturday, Feb. 22, at the Donald L. Tucker Civic Center in Tallahassee during the eighth annual Seminole 100 Celebration.

Equiturn Business Solutions is a global investment banking firm that empowers visionary leaders and organizations through cutting-edge advisory, regulated financial services and tailored wealth management solutions designed to drive growth and innovation.

Since its founding in 2017, the company has partnered with more than 500 businesses, with 90% of clients reporting significant expansion within their first year.

“We are proud to celebrate the accomplishments of our outstanding alumni,” FSU President Richard McCullough said. “Their innovative products, services and solutions drive economic growth and strengthen our communities. They embody the entrepreneurial spirit of Florida State University and serve as an inspiration to future generations of leaders and innovators.”

Each year, FSU honors its top 100 alumni entrepreneurs through Seminole 100, where honorees discover their individual rankings and receive their awards while networking with fellow business leaders.

Seminole 100 companies were ranked by the global financial services firm EY, which verified the information provided and ranked the companies based on their compound annual growth rate over the past three years.

The post FSU announces Equiturn Business Solutions as 2025 Seminole 100 No. 1 Fastest-Growing Business appeared first on Florida State University News.

The post Photos: January 2025 winter storm at Florida State University appeared first on Florida State University News.

Florida State University alumnus and Kennesaw State University lecturer John “JD” Doughney IV will deliver the keynote address at FSU’s 2025 Seminole 100 Celebration.

The annual Seminole 100 list and celebration recognizes the fastest-growing businesses owned or managed by FSU alumni and represents some of the most innovative and profitable companies in the U.S.

Doughney is a two-time FSU graduate with bachelor’s degrees in communication and political science (2002) and a master’s degree in integrated marketing communication (2003). He also holds an MBA from Emory University and has a distinguished career spanning over two decades. He teaches international marketing, advertising and social media at Kennesaw State University.

Previously, Doughney served as chief marketing officer at Bay Point Advisors, an Atlanta-based hedge fund with $1 billion in assets under management, where he led strategic growth initiatives to expand internationally and enhance brand presence.

Earlier in his career, Doughney held leadership roles at Coca-Cola Co. and Glaceau, where he helped scale the VitaminWater and Smart Water brands from a $175 million startup to over $1 billion in annual revenue. He also worked in brand marketing at Red Bull North America and E&J Gallo Winery.

Additionally, Doughney had an 11-year tenure at Meta, spearheading global partnerships with leading consumer packaged goods and automotive companies. He was instrumental in developing award-winning global advertising campaigns for top brands like Toyota and Coca-Cola. Under his leadership, Meta’s market cap grew from $50 billion to $1.5 trillion and his team generated over $1.5 billion in annual recurring revenue.

“I am honored to return to Florida State University to celebrate the entrepreneurial spirit and accomplishments of my fellow alumni. The Seminole 100 honorees exemplify the innovation, dedication and leadership that make FSU alumni so exceptional.” 

— John “JD” Doughney IV, FSU alumnus and Kennesaw State University lecturer 

“I am honored to return to Florida State University to celebrate the entrepreneurial spirit and accomplishments of my fellow alumni,” Doughney said. “The Seminole 100 honorees exemplify the innovation, dedication and leadership that make FSU alumni so exceptional.”

The Florida State University Seminole 100 Celebration’s presenting sponsor is the Jim Moran Institute for Global Entrepreneurship in partnership with the FSU Alumni Association. Honorees and their businesses will be celebrated Saturday, Feb. 22, at the Donald L. Tucker Civic Center in Tallahassee.

Tickets to the 2025 Seminole 100 event are available for purchase at gonol.es/S100.

For more information on the Seminole 100 event, including sponsorship opportunities, visit seminole100.fsu.edu.

Follow along on Instagram @fsualumniand the hashtag #Seminole100.

About the Division of University Advancement

The Division of University Advancement works to enhance Florida State University’s leadership, reputation and private financial support in academics, research, service and athletics. The division oversees the FSU Alumni Association and the FSU Foundation. Learn more at advance.fsu.edu.

Florida State University Alumni Association reserves the right, in its sole discretion, to determine the final list.

The post John ‘JD’ Doughney IV to deliver keynote at FSU’s 2025 Seminole 100 Celebration  appeared first on Florida State University News.

Florida State University has established the First-Generation Alumni Network, a new initiative to foster a community of first-generation alumni and help ensure their continued success beyond graduation.

This network, created in partnership with the Center for Academic Retention and Enhancement (CARE), the Division of Undergraduate Studies and the FSU Alumni Association, exemplifies FSU’s ongoing commitment to supporting first-generation students and alumni.

“Our first-generation students bring incredible strength, ingenuity and resilience to Florida State, and we are committed to celebrating and empowering them at every stage of their journey,” said Joe O’Shea, associate provost and dean of undergraduate studies. “I’m grateful for all the alumni who are stepping up to mentor our students and share their experiences.”

With more than 30,000 first-generation FSU alumni, including more than 17,000 who participated in CARE, this initiative seeks to cultivate an engaged and supportive community that promotes professional growth and philanthropy among FSU’s first-generation graduates.

“FSU continues to shine as a leader in serving first-generation students,” said DeOnte Brown, assistant dean of undergraduate studies and director of CARE. “Building new avenues for mentorship is part of the all-around support we provide in our commitment to set our students up for success.”

The network will initially form a board of 8-10 first-generation alumni representing diverse experiences, including participants from both the current CARE program and its predecessor, Horizons Unlimited. It will raise awareness and funds for first-generation student support, engage alumni at events and student-focused programs and encourage alumni involvement at FSU.

The post FSU establishes First-Generation Alumni Network to empower and engage graduates appeared first on Florida State University News.

Florida State University has announced its 2025 Seminole 100 list, an annual recognition of the fastest-growing businesses owned or led by FSU alumni. Representing some of the most dynamic and successful companies in the nation, the Seminole 100 celebrates FSU alumni whose innovative thinking and leadership are making a significant impact in their industries.

“The outstanding alumni leading these companies embody the entrepreneurial spirit that thrives at Florida State University,” said FSU President Richard McCullough. “Their achievements inspire future innovators and business leaders, and we are proud to honor their success.”

Honorees and their companies will be celebrated on Saturday, Feb. 22, 2025, at the Donald L. Tucker Civic Center in Tallahassee.

The Seminole 100 list, presented in alphabetical order below, is unveiled in ranked order during the event, culminating with the announcement of the No. 1 alumni-owned business.

Global professional services firm EY verified the information submitted by each company and ranked the businesses based on their compound annual growth rate over the past three years.

• Aaron Rich Marketing

• Abyde

• Agostino Utilities, LLC

• A-LIGN

• Allied Instructional Services, LLC

• Alluvionic

• Ardent Eagle Solutions (Trident Technical Solutions, LLC)

• Ardent Global Logistics

• ATvantage Athletic Training (ATvantage LLC)

• B. Corbin Clarinet Products LLC

• Black & Denim Apparel Company

• Blind Tiger Coffee Roasters

• Brundage Group

• Canopy Management Consulting Group LLC

• Canopy Road Cafe

• Carter and Leonardo Environmental Services, LLC

• Champions First Credit Union

• Coastal Detox

• CompassMed

• Distinction Agency (Ad Infinitum LLC)

• Diverse Computing, Inc.

• Don’t Tell Comedy, Inc.

• Doumar Insurance & Financial Services, Inc

• Drip Drop Fitness

• DSF Promos (DSF Group LLC)

• EnLight.Energy

• Equiturn Business Solutions

• Evergreen Solutions, LLC

• Excellere IT Services

• Fandiem INC

• Florida Environmental and Land Services, Inc

• George & Associates, Consulting Engineers, Inc.

• Greater Orlando Family Law (Go Family Law)

• Harvey Books, LLC

• HAWM Law

• Health Advocates Network, Inc.

• Hernandez Family Law and Mediation (Cynthia Hernandez Law)

• Impact Landscaping & Irrigation, LLC

• Imperial Fence Supply

• IMS Business (Innovative Management Services)

• Independence Digital

• Insurance Services of Central Florida Inc.

• Izquierdo Law Firm, P.A.

• Kaye Kendrick Enterprises, LLC

• Kerigan Marketing Associates, Inc.

• Killearn Lakes TaeKwonDo

• Kupanda Capital, LLC

• Law Offices of Stephen A. Smith

• Les S. Kushner, P.A.

• Lisa Carey, Realtor, Coldwell Banker Hartung

• Lytal, Reiter, Smith, Ivey and Fronrath

• Marmer Construction, Inc.

• Miller Visions Transportation Group LLC

• Modern Fitness Tallahassee

• Moisand Fitzgerald Tamayo, LLC

• NDM Holdings Group LLC

• NICH Culture

• NLS Cleaning LLC (NLS Pressure Washing, LLC)

• North Florida Spine and Wellness (Zaideman Natural Health PLLC)

• OmniCon

• On the Ball

• OneLife Health & Performance

• Panhandle Engineering, Inc.

• PFS Signature Wealth

• Piers Property Group

• Platform Surfaces LLC

• Pomeranz Law PLLC

• Prime Meridian Bank

• Professional Building Services (Pro Building Services, Inc.)

• R&D Construction & Roofing (RDCR, LLC)

• Rambana & Ricci, PLLC

• Rapid Business Plans (Prior Business Consulting LLC)

• Rapid Loop Consulting LLC

• ReliaQuest

• Renegade Resources

• RennWorks Outdoors

• Revell Media

• Robert Nichols Insurance Group, Inc.

• Russell Rowland, Inc.

• Sanchez Fischer Levine, LLP

• Siegel Financial Group

• Silver Spoon Solutions

• Social Catering and Events

• Social Kitchen (Premier Store LLC)

• Southern Spear Ironworks, LLC

• Southern Spear Properties, LLC

• SRI Management, LLC

• Stack Moxie Inc.

• Tal Search Group, Inc.

• TELETIES

• The CI Group (Corporate Interiors of Orlando, LLC)

• The Concrete Yedi, Inc.

• The National CIO Review (Burgett Enterprises)

• The Nieves Law Firm, APC

• Tomahawk Crane and Rigging, LLC

• Tomahawk Transportation (Students First, Inc.)

• Trulieve

• Trulight LLC

• WeDo Insurance & Taxes (WEDO TAXES MULTISERVICES LLC)

• Who We Play For

Follow on Instagram @fsualumni and the hashtag #Seminole100

The Florida State University Seminole 100 Celebration is presented by the Jim Moran Institute for Global Entrepreneurship.

To learn more about the Seminole 100 event, including sponsorship opportunities, visit seminole100.fsu.edu.

About the Division of University Advancement

The Division of University Advancement works to enhance Florida State University’s leadership, reputation and private financial support in academics, research, service and athletics. The division oversees the FSU Alumni Association and the FSU Foundation. Learn more at advancement.fsu.edu.

Florida State University Alumni Association reserves the right to verify that the nominees meet the criteria and reserves the right, in its sole discretion, to reject any nominee for any reason.

The post Florida State University unveils Seminole 100 list ahead of eighth annual award ceremony appeared first on Florida State University News.

Florida State University invites alumni, students, parents and friends to the 2024 Homecoming celebrations from Saturday, Nov. 16 through Sunday, Nov. 24. This year’s theme, “Tuned in to Tradition,” will bring a week of events filled with Seminole spirit and legacy.

For the first time this year, there is an opportunity to meet the Homecoming Court at a caricature station, drawn by the court itself, on Friday, Nov. 15. Attendees can help create a banner during Paint the Groove that will be showcased during the Homecoming parade.

Some of the time-honored festivities include the Homecoming Live pep rally, alumni events and Friday’s Homecoming parade leading up to the Homecoming football game against Charleston Southern on Saturday, Nov. 23. Adding a touch of tradition to the game day atmosphere, the Homecoming Chief and Princess will be revealed during halftime.

A full schedule of events is listed at homecoming.fsu.edu.

The post ‘Tuned in to Tradition’ as FSU celebrates its 76th anniversary of homecoming appeared first on Florida State University News.

Florida State University alumnus Bert Kreischer, a celebrated comedian, actor and podcast host, will serve as the university’s Homecoming Parade grand marshal, FSU’s Alumni Association announced Wednesday.

Celebrated as Rolling Stone Magazine’s “Number One Partier in the Nation,” Kreischer has since become one of the top-grossing stand-up comics in the industry. He also has starred in the major motion picture, “The Machine,” from Sony Pictures. In March of 2023, Kreischer released his fifth stand-up special, “Razzle Dazzle,” and recently shot his sixth special for Netflix in his hometown of Tampa, Fla., selling out all six shows in one day.

Kreischer’s connection to FSU runs deep. He is a 1998 graduate of the College of Arts and Sciences, where he studied creative writing in the English Department. In 2021, he returned to Tallahassee and performed stand-up at the Donald L. Tucker Civic Center. He began his career with stand-up comedy sets at Potbelly’s, a Tallahassee nightclub, during his time as a student.

Hosted by the FSU Alumni Association and the Student Alumni Association (SAA), the Homecoming Parade will take place at 2 p.m. Friday, Nov. 22, and will celebrate the 45th anniversary of SAA. With a vibrant display of school spirit, creative floats and a performance from the world-renowned Marching Chiefs, the parade is one of the week’s most anticipated events.

“The FSU Alumni Association honors Bert Kreischer as the 2024 Homecoming Parade grand marshal,” said Julie Decker, associate vice president of advancement, alumni engagement and president of the Alumni Association. “This ceremonial role has the honor of leading one of the best Homecoming Parades in the country. We proudly invite one of the top comedians in the nation and a member of our FSU alumni family. We can’t wait!”

In addition to the parade, Homecoming festivities will include activities to engage students, alumni and the Tallahassee community. From the FSU Alumni Awards to game day tailgates, there will be something for everyone.

Can’t make the parade in person? You can livestream the parade by accessing the FSU Alumni Association Facebook page.

For more information about the Homecoming events, visit gonol.es/Homecoming24.

For more information about Bert Kreischer, visit bertbertbert.com.

About the FSU Alumni Association

The FSU Alumni Association works to create meaningful connections between alumni and Florida State University, strengthening the alumni network and supporting students on campus every day. All graduates of FSU are members of the FSU Alumni Association; no dues are required. Alumni are encouraged to stay connected through the Alumni Association’s career resources, networking opportunities, mentorship programs, travel benefits and more. Learn more at alumni.fsu.edu.

The post Comedian Bert Kreischer to serve as FSU’s 2024 Homecoming Parade grand marshal appeared first on Florida State University News.

Two-time alumnus Granville L. Larimore honored Florida State University through a $9.5 million estate gift this fall. The gift has the potential to enhance student success and research opportunities across 30 departments and more than 200 programs of study.

The funds will be evenly distributed between the College of Arts and Sciences and the College of Social Sciences and Public Policy as an unrestricted gift, which allows the deans of each college the discretion to apply the funds to the areas of greatest need, including faculty and student support.

Larimore, Larry to his friends, earned a bachelor’s degree in history and a master’s in economics from FSU in the early 1960s. After graduation, he moved to Atlanta and ultimately secured a position with the Environmental Protection Agency, from which he retired in 1997. Larimore’s passion for history lasted a lifetime, and, from Switzerland to Egypt, he spent his retirement traveling abroad with his sister, Lila. Larimore died in February at age 86, leaving the gift as part of his estate.

In the College of Arts and Sciences, just over $3.5 million will establish the Granville L. Larimore Endowment for Excellence in Arts and Sciences. The remaining $1.2 million will be immediately put to work.

“As we stand in celebration of Granville Larimore’s and his family’s generosity, we are beyond pleased with this gift,” said Sam Huckaba, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences. “With its size and flexibility, the Larimore endowment will have spectacular and lasting impacts on the college and benefited departments. We will use it wisely, track it carefully, and never lose appreciation of its source.”

Similarly, the College of Social Sciences and Public Policy will use just over $3.5 million of the funds to establish the Granville L. Larimore Endowment for Excellence in Social Sciences, which will allow for creation of new faculty and student support opportunities and a program to recognize faculty and staff excellence. The remaining $1.2 million will support programming and events aimed at enriching the lives of students and alumni.

“This gift from Granville Larimore and family will have lasting impacts within FSU’s College of Social Sciences and Public Policy,” said Tim Chapin, dean of the college. “These funds will be invested in our world-class faculty and students, as well as yield expansions to our programming, all in alignment with Mr. Larimore’s belief that higher education can play a key role in making a better world.”

Charitable bequests, such as Larimore’s, are gifts made through a donor’s will or trust that support FSU’s mission and make a lasting statement about what matters most to the donor. According to Nancy Smilowitz, assistant dean of advancement and alumni affairs in the College of Arts and Sciences, charitable bequests are the result of trust built over time between a donor and FSU and allow donors to establish a legacy at FSU.

“Flexible gifts of this degree make transformational impacts at the college level,” Smilowitz said. “Building trust over the course of a lifetime affords donors the confidence that the university’s deans will apply their funds to the areas of most need, which retains and enhances the health of FSU’s academic units.”

For more information about philanthropy at FSU and to learn how to make the university part of your philanthropic priorities, visit give.fsu.edu.

The post Gift from FSU alumnus to have transformational impact on College of Arts and Sciences, College of Social Sciences and Public Policy appeared first on Florida State University News.

Florida State University will recognize 22 of its most notable alumni at three different events during Homecoming weekend, which will take place Friday, Nov. 22, through Sunday, Nov. 24.

“Our remarkable alumni honorees demonstrate the value of a degree from FSU, and Homecoming is the perfect time to recognize them,” said Julie Decker, associate vice president of university advancement, alumni engagement and president of the FSU Alumni Association. “They exemplify what it means to be a graduate of Florida State. FSU educates students who go on to make an impact wherever they land. These alumni show us what is possible. We invite all alumni, students, parents and friends to join us in celebrating this happy occasion.”

On Friday, Nov. 22, the FSU Alumni Awards ceremony will celebrate 12 distinguished alumni, including recipients of the Reubin O’D. Askew Young Alumni, The Inspire, Circle of Gold and The Bernard F. Sliger awards.

The FSU Homecoming Breakfast, presented in partnership with the FSU Circle of Omicron Delta Kappa (ODK), will celebrate four recipients of the Grads Made Good Award on Saturday, Nov. 23.

On Sunday, Nov. 24, the Emeriti Alumni Society at FSU’s Induction Brunch and Award Ceremony will celebrate six honorees of the Commitment to Excellence, Conradi Lifetime Achievement and Dean Eyman Distinctive Service awards. All three events will take place at the FSU Alumni Center, 1030 W. Tennessee St.

FSU Alumni Awards—Friday, Nov. 22

The Reubin O’D. Askew Young Alumni Award is the highest honor bestowed upon young alumni by the FSU Alumni Association. The 2024 Askew Award honorees are:

Joanny “Joey” Arellano (B.A.’15, B.A. ’15)
Joey Arellano possesses a distinct expertise in public relations which spans the arts, corporate, health care, nonprofit sectors and more. He is the deputy director of communications for the Florida House of Representatives Office of the Minority Leader. In 2022, he received the Unsung Hero Award in recognition of contributions made in his previous role and to the community, and in 2024, he was recognized as one of Florida’s “Great Communicators” by Influence Magazine. Arellano was recently appointed to The Florida Bar’s Citizens Advisory Committee. He earned dual degrees in international affairs and editing, writing and media, complemented by a disaster management and homeland security certificate from FSU.

Derrick Scott II (B.S ’16) 
Derrick Scott II is a strategic finance and management consulting expert. As the founder and CEO of CardinalWisdom Consulting, he guides middle-market companies toward operational excellence through transformative business strategies. Scott began his career at GE overseeing global financial reporting for its $7 billion power portfolio. His innovative finance data model significantly reduced aged accounts receivable balances by 80%, earning him the Servant Leader award. At Deloitte & Touche, he helped develop a predictive analytics dashboard that informed executive decision-making within Deloitte’s six major operating portfolios, becoming a standard tool across the firm. Committed to fostering welcoming environments, Scott relaunched Deloitte’s Black Employee Network and served as the youngest president of its southeast region. He was also a founding member of the Young Alumni Network at FSU and served as its president. A first-generation college graduate with a B.S. in finance, Scott continues to serve his community as an advisory board member for Inner Explorer, a College AIM mentor and an active member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity.

The post FSU to recognize esteemed graduates during homecoming weekend  appeared first on Florida State University News.