SPRING 2019 CHAMPIONS

EVEN THE BRAIN, OUR MOST POWERFUL ORGAN, NEEDS BENEFACTORS. SPRING 2019 This fall, UF officially designated “the brain” a universitywide area of focus. While scientists in all corners of campus have been researching and treating Parkinson’s disease, dystonia, ALS, brain tumors, spinal cord injuries, features addiction and other brain-related issues for decades, with many UF services and scientists ranked among the top in 18 The Brain’s A-Team their fields, this new initiative prioritizes research and collaboration. It creates opportunities for greater funding and When it comes to brain research and treatment, UF scientists are at the expands UF’s partnerships with other institutes and universities. top of their games. Meet a few of the heavy hitters in neuroscience. The Gators below are the champions who have invested millions in UF’s brain research and clinical work. Their vision, dedication to helping others and faith in UF’s faculty, staff and students means thousands of patients and 24 Shooting for a Cure UF researcher David Vaillancourt’s discoveries are better positioning families have hope for greater health, and future generations will inherit the possibility of cures for some of the scientists who are giving Parkinson’s disease a full-court press. most dreaded and debilitating diseases. Learn how their gifts are advancing neuroscience on pages 18-23. 28 Just Gotta Dance A marathon of motion and music raises $18 million for sick children. 30 My Old School Carl Hiaasen and other Gator authors share memories from their student days at UF. 32 Art + Action UF experts team up with artists to shine a light on environmental changes that will have lasting consequences in The World to Come. departments Barbara Harris Harry T. Lauren & Lee 4 Alumni Board Update Wells rosen Mangurian Jr. Fixel 5 Conversation with

6 The Big Picture SPRING 2019 Renowned for her dedication to He is widely heralded for his Foundation While Lee Fixel is best known for improving lives through the arts, investments in underserved his success with technology start- 9 University Avenue A developer in and New health care, human services and communities. From pre-K programs up investments, he and his wife, Faculty Focus education, she directed a $10 to college scholarships, his efforts York, Mangurian owned the NBA’s Lauren (BSJ 07), are also generous 15 million gift in 2011 to name UF’s transform lives by vastly expanding Boston Celtics and was a longtime philanthropists. This year they 16 Campus Collections Department of Neurosurgery opportunities available to families horse racing leader with a farm gave $20 million to expand UF for her grandmother, Lillian. in two of Orlando’s struggling in Ocala. Although he and his Health’s neurological research and 40 Two Bits: Grant Holloway ON THE COVER A new UF initiative This infusion and her other gifts neighborhoods. Rosen also created wife, Dorothy, passed away, his treatment efforts. Named for Lee’s 43 Gators Going Greater catapulted the capabilities and robust college and healthcare foundation supports UF Health father who graduated from UF in prioritizes brain research and treatment, which stature of that team’s research and programs for his employees. his research. It invested $3 million in 1975, the Norman Fixel Institute 49 I’m A Gator includes the work of UF UF Health’s study of leukemia and treatment enterprise. In 2018, she year, he contributed $12 million for Neurological Diseases at UF 52 Gator Club News scientists (L to R) Duane led the Lillian S. Wells Foundation toward UF’s brain tumor research Lewy body dementia, which is the will focus on degenerative diseases Mitchell, Todd Golde, to invest another $10 million in program. He is Florida’s largest second most common degenerative such as Parkinson’s, ALS, dystonia, 55 Class Connections Laura Ranum and Michael dementia after Alzheimer’s disease. UF Health’s brain programs. independent hotelier. Alzheimer’s and concussions. 60 Life Members Okun. Find out why these experts are part of 63 Then and Now UF’s A-team on page 18. Photo by Aaron Daye

FLORIDA GATOR | 1 Florida GATOR Conversation with Kent Fuchs The Magazine of the Alumni Association Volume 6 Issue 4 VICE PRESIDENT FOR ADVANCEMENT Thomas J. Mitchell FELLOW GATORS, Our Machen Florida EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, UF ALUMNI ASSOCIATION Opportunity Scholars program, Matthew Hodge, Ph.D. (BSADV 94) AS INCOMING FRESHMAN launched in 2006, provides UFAA BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND THEIR FAMILIES THINK PRESIDENT AHEAD TO NEXT FALL, MANY funding for students who Brian D. Burgoon (BA 94, JD 97), , GA MAY WONDER HOW THEY are Florida residents, PRESIDENT-ELECT UFAA BOARD NEWS the first generation Katrina D. Rolle (JD 91), Tallahassee WILL AFFORD THE COSTS in their families to VICE PRESIDENT SPRING EVENTS OF COLLEGE. Mark J. Criser (BALAS 92, MA 94, JD 97), Tampa I myself faced that challenge. When attend college and IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT I was an undergraduate, my parents whose families earn Karen Unger (BALAS 92), Tallahassee CELEBRATE $40,000 or less each PRESIDENTIAL APPOINTMENTS weren’t able to contribute to my college Barbie P. Tilman (BSR 00), Tampa expenses, so I washed dishes in the year. We’ve awarded Kristin M. Carter (BSJ 93), Ft. Lauderdale GATORS AND dining hall and spent summers as a Machen scholarships REGIONAL DIRECTORS to about 300 new students Region 1: Amanda L. Robinson (BSPR 01), Sebastian STRENGTHEN UF construction laborer in South . Region 2: Christopher L. Carmody, Jr. (BA 02, JD 05), Orlando each year. Region 3: Renee H. Dabbs (BA 85), Tampa I also took out today’s equivalent of Region 4: Gordon J. Glover (BSESS 01, MESS 02), Ocala $40,000 in student loans. Many UF We’re expanding other Region 5: Dr. Sunil N. Joshi (BS 94, MD 98), Jacksonville FRIENDS: The Gator Nation continues to inspire me and others this spring with students and thousands of alumni took a financial assistance programs. Region 6: David W. Uslan (BSAC 90, MACC 91), Pensacola its creativity, innovation and hard work. Region 7: James E. Gadsby (BSBA 91), Marietta, GA similar path. In fall 2016 we began offering Region 8: Amy R. Summers (BSPR 97), New York, NY For instance, the winners who were honored at the fifth annual Gator100 micro grants to assist Region 9: Jacqueline M. Davison (BSJ 06), Alexandria, VA This experience of learning to event in February deservedly received a standing ovation for their efforts. students in unexpected AT-LARGE DIRECTORS manage money, time, work and studies Ashton C. Adler (BA 09, MS 11), Ft. Lauderdale; J. Carter Andersen Gator100 honors the world’s fastest-growing Gator-owned or Gator-led was an important part of my growing financial crises. In 2018, (BSBA 91, JD 98), Tampa; Rebecca L. Brock (BA 94, JD 98), Jupiter; businesses. From construction and exercise companies to veterinary hospice Jason T. Brodeur (BSA 97, MBA 03), Sanford; Steve M. Bunch up. Also, in my experience, loans can we launched a program to provide funds (BSAC 98, MACC 99), Tampa; Bobby B. DuBose (BALAS 95), Fort and nanny businesses, these Gator leaders are improving their communities and for startup expenses to first-generation, Lauderdale; Juan C. Enjamio (BSBA 82 ), Miami; Jess J. Johnson be beneficial when they help students fueling the economy. See if one of these winners is in your area on page 35. (BSBA 04, BSJ 04, MS 06), Tampa; Jessica Furst Johnson (JD graduate quickly. low-income students. students and families. A student with 07), Alexandria, VA; Dr. Lance A. Karp (BS 96, DMD 00), Sarasota; This spring, UF also admitted the students who will make up UF’s class of Kristine M. Lambert (BA 91, JD 94), Portland, OR; Kevin M. Mayeux However, even though UF’s tuition While UF’s investment in financial financial need would receive more than a (BA 92, JD 96), Arlington, VA; Jocelyn M. Moore (BA 98, MED 00), 2023. In partnership with UF’s Office of Admissions, our alumni board will is among the lowest in the nation, for aid is substantial, and while our tuition student with no financial need. I believe New York, NY; Dr. Trey A. Mueller (BSA 01, DMD 05), Tampa; Ryan host several regional events for these students. I hope you can join us, so we can D. Murtagh (BSBA 96), Tampa; Kevin F. Reilly, Jr. (BA 08, MS 09), some students the cost of going to is among the lowest in the nation, I Bright Futures scholarships should be Tallahassee; Oscar A. Sanchez (BA 79, MA 80, JD 82), Miami; Prineet continue the tradition of welcoming these new Gators together. D. Sharma (BSBA 94), Windermere; Jamal A. Sowell (BA 05), St. college is simply too high. believe the state, the nation and UF all merit-based and need-aware. Petersburg; Lori A. Spivey (BA 96), Orlando; M. Scott Thomas (BS In February, your UF Alumni Association held its spring Board of Directors’ Helping these students is a priority need to increase aid. On the federal level, the Pell Grant 90, JD 93), Ponte Vedra Beach; Dr. Larry W. Tyree (BAE 66, MED 68, meeting in UF’s renovated Career Connections Center at the Reitz Union. EDD 72), Orlando; Joshua B. Weingard (BSBA 94, MBA 98, JD 98), for UF. We invest nearly $16 million in At the state level, I am grateful that recently began providing financial aid for Miami; Bettina W. Weiss (BSAC 97, MACC 97), Jupiter; Dr. Scooter Board members shared ideas for strengthening The Gator Nation, celebrated lawmakers have more than doubled Willis (BSEE 98, MBA 03, MSCE 05, PHD 10), Boca Raton; Carlina J. financial aid for undergraduates each some summer classes. This is great, and UF’s No. 8 rank on U.S. News & World Report’s list of best public universities Womeldorph (BSAC 94, MBC 96), Parker, TX; Tad A. Yates (BALAS year — and we are committed to doing Florida Student Assistance Grant I hope lawmakers continue to expand 91, JD 94), Orlando nationwide and renewed our commitment to support UF’s quest to reach the even more. funding for students with financial this program. UF BOARD OF TRUSTEES REPRESENTATIVE top five on this list. Marsha D. Powers (MBA 79), Ponte Vedra Beach need in the past two years, increasing For UF’s part, we’re focused on You have an opportunity to aid UF’s quest for the top five, as well, because STUDENT ALUMNI ASSOCIATION PRESIDENT UF’s annual allocation to more than growing our endowment to increase Briana S. Bazail (MA 19), Miami one of the considerations in this ranking is our “alumni participation rate.” $14 million. financial aid for students in need. Our STUDENT BODY PRESIDENT This number reflects how many alumni make a gift to their university in a Florida’s signature financial Ian M. Green (MA 19), Atlanta, GA goal for UF’s Go Greater campaign is given year. To this end, UF hosted its first-ever day of giving on Feb. 26, aptly aid program is the Bright Futures Florida GATOR to add $100 million to the financial aid Email: [email protected] Phone: 352-392-1905, P.O. Box called “Stand Up and Holler.” Of course, you and your fellow Gators did not Scholarship. Last year, 93 percent of endowment. I thank all alumni and 14425, Gainesville, FL 32604-2425 disappoint. Thank you for your spirit and your generosity that made this event a This publication is available in an alternative format for the blind and UF’s in-state freshmen received this friends whose generosity is helping us visually impaired. Please contact [email protected]. rousing success. scholarship. I thank our lawmakers for get there. UF ALUMNI ASSOCIATION: If you missed Stand Up and Holler, you can still make a gift that will count expanding their investment and [email protected], 352-392-1905, P.O. Box 14425, Gainesville, FL In just a few months, we will 32604-2425 toward UF’s alumni participation rate this year. The size of your gift does not allowing students to use the welcome the Class of 2023. With your SUPPORTING UF: matter. Rather, the number of alumni who participates does. Visit www.uff.ufl. scholarship to attend summer help, and with more attention to need- To make a gift to the University of Florida or any of its programs, edu/give/givingday19 and contribute any amount to the UF program, college or contact the University of Florida Foundation at terms. based financial aid from all quarters, www.uff.ufl.edu/OnlineGiving or contact Joe Mandernach at scholarship that means the most to you. I hope you will spread the word to your Bright Futures awards we will make UF a university that all [email protected], 352-392-5406. fellow Gators and encourage them to play a direct role as we strive for the top five. are based on academic merit, students can afford. FLORIDA GATOR is published quarterly by the University of Florida Alumni Association, Inc. for its members. Address Thank you for all you do to inspire others and strengthen The Gator Nation. which I support. However, changes can be sent electronically to [email protected], I would like to see the Kent Fuchs, Ph.D. faxed to 352-846-3636 or mailed to Alumni Records, UF Alumni Brian D. Burgoon (BA 94, JD 97) Association, P.O. Box 14425, Gainesville, FL 32604-2425. amount of the awards based President Standard postage paid in West Allis, Wis., and at additional President, UF Alumni Association mailing offices. Membership and advertising queries should be on the financial needs of University of Florida sent to the above address.

2 | SPRING 2019 FLORIDA GATOR | 3 ERIC ZAMORAERIC THE BIG PICTURE

TWO NEW HOMES Construction on the new Institute of Hispanic-Latino Cultures (La Casita) and Institute of Black Culture (IBC) facilities began in late September. Replacing their dilapidated predecessors at 1510 and 1504 West University Avenue, the new $9.9 million facilities will serve as a hub for student and cultural activities. “Our goal was to design welcoming facilities that represent the cultural fabric of today’s students, while celebrating their past, present, and future,” said Mike Lindsey (BDES 02, March 05), designer for the project’s architectural and engineering firm, DLR Group. The grand openings are slated for the fall.

ARTIST RENDERING BY DLR GROUP

4 | SPRING 2019 FLORIDA GATOR | 5 UNIVERSITY A POLAR-OPPOSITE HOLIDAY

AVENUE Lor

People who have suffered from a certain type of vision loss

UF | IFAS since childhood may be able to PHOTO: BILLY COLLINS, MONTANA STATE UNIVERSITY A BUG YOU’LL LOVE: THESE BEETLES CAN HELP YOU FIGHT While many people were enjoying their regain their eyesight AGAINST YOUR BACKYARD AIR POTATO INVASION holiday break in December, these two UF scientists found a solution for Floridians whose property and vegetation has Gators were taking scientific samples been overtaken by the invasive air potato vine. In conjunction with state and federal at Mercer Subglacial Lake in Antarctica. agencies, UF/IFAS provides free air potato leaf beetles, the natural enemy to air Microbiology and cell science associate potato plants, to anyone who registers by April. For details, visit bcrcl.ifas.ufl.edu/ Brent Christner (left) and life AirPotatoBiologicalControl.shtml sciences doctoral candidate Christina Davis GENE TREATMENT traveled 600 miles inland to capture the ROBO-CROPS water samples from the liquid lake beneath Gator Bob Pitzer (BSME Antarctic’s ice sheet. Their work is part of FOR BLINDNESS 97) and Gary Wishnatzki a multi-institution project funded by the are working on a robotic National Science Foundation. strawberry picker that could WINS FDA APPROVAL change the ag industry. Pitzer is a robotics expert and co- N The treatment, known as Luxturna, uses founder of Harvest CROO a gene delivery process that originated at Robotics. Wishnatzki is a third-generation owner of Wish UF with Dr. William Hauswirth, a College of Farms in Plant City. While their Medicine ophthalmology professor. prototype is the first since they joined forces in 2013, the pair The therapy has already successfully reversed blindness aim to have a fully operating system by 2020. Pitzer says in Lancelot, a Briard dog born with the sight-robbing genetic Mercer defect called Leber congenital amaurosis type two, or LCA 2. each robot will be able to pick Subglacial 8 acres in a day, and will still Lake An estimated 4,000 people in the United States and Europe require humans to work with it. have LCA 2, which affects specialized light- and color- PHOTO COURTESY OF HARVEST CROO ROBOTICS detecting cells in the back of the eye. The basis of Luxturna – a treatment technique which HEARD IN GATORVILLE uses a harmless virus to deliver a functional copy of a crucial, “My love for [UF] has remained “We will never be able to erase LANCELOT, sight-saving gene to the retina – was devised by Hauswirth. A BRIARD BREED subsequent collaboration as well as other research work at the undiminished since 1953 when I first that injustice. It lives with us.” University of Pennsylvania brought Luxturna to the public. set eyes on her as a second grader.” — LE VIN COLLEGE OF LAW DEAN Hauswirth continues his 25-year journey developing gene LAURA ROSENBURY therapies that restore or maintain vision. He also made the — STEPHEN STILLS About the state’s pre-1958 practice of refusing to AAV vectors for five other gene therapies to treat different Rock-and-roll legend and UF’s December admit African-American students. In October, UF genetic forms of blindness. Those therapies have restored commencement speaker, a day after celebrated its 60th anniversary desegregation with vision in animal patients and are currently undergoing receiving an honorary doctorate. He sang guest of honor George Starke, UF’s first African- human clinical trials. “So Begins the Task” for the new grads. George Starke American student. UF 6 | SPRING 2019 FLORIDA GATOR | 7 UNIVERSITY AVENUE

NUMBERS UF EARNS A GO FOR LAUNCH 16 UF who are OF NOTE TOP 5 RANKS NASA LAUNCHED A UF SATELLITE INTO ORBIT ON National Academy of DEC. 16 CALLED CHOMPTT (cubesat handling of multisystem UF ONLINE, THE Inventors fellows. Two NO. 7 precision time transfer). The satellite’s goal is to improve UNIVERSITY’S HUB FOR of those, Christine Gainesville’s rank synchronizing systems, such as GPS, through laser technology. WEB-BASED BACHELOR’S Schmidt (researches on AARP’s top 10 UF will spend the next 12 months studying optical pulses “best college towns DEGREES, IS TIED FOR THE biomaterials for from ground to space, calculating the time discrepancies. The for retirement” NO. 5 SPOT IN THE COUNTRY nerve regeneration) UF team hopes to improve GPS accuracy from six meters to list, thanks to UF’s on U.S. News & World Report’s and Philip Koehler six centimeters. “dizzying array of 2019 best online programs list (investigates new “We’ve done the analysis, we’ve done the work,” said UF pest management attractions,” some of (tied with Penn State World mechanical and aerospace engineering Associate Professor John technologies), were the most “electrifying GETTY IMAGES Campus and the University of Conklin. “We already are successful, our clocks are working in inducted Dec. 11. games in the NCAA” Rhesus macaque monkeys Illinois at Chicago). and free courses orbit. That’s a first. No one has ever demonstrated an atomic UF Online (ufonline.ufl. through UF’s Institute NASA clock operating successfully on such a small satellite as ours.” INVASIVE THREATS edu) offers 20 undergraduate 13 for Learning in degrees and plans to add 10 Patents held by Retirement. NOW INCLUDE WILD MONKEYS more in coming semesters. professor Frank Bova, UF WILDLIFE ECOLOGY AND CONSERVATION SCIENTIST Beyond those programs, UF the 2018 American STEVE JOHNSON, WHOSE RESEARCH FOCUSES ON WAYS Association for $16M offers 88 certificate tracks as TO CONTROL INVASIVE SPECIES, SAYS THE THREAT OF WILD Physicists in Medicine Amount UF will well as 77 master’s and nine receive from the MONKEY POPULATIONS IN FLORIDA IS NO JOKE. lifetime achievement doctorate degree programs National Cancer award winner. A quarter of the community of rhesus macaques in Silver Springs online through the UF Institute over the He most recently State Park near Ocala carry a herpes virus that can be deadly to Distance Education office next five years to patented a robotic humans. Since the troop of monkeys is growing rapidly – from the 175 distance.ufl.edu launch and lead a ( ). imaging platform that documented three years ago to the expected 350 by 2022 – Johnson cancer health equity UF graduate online improves navigation and his lead doctoral student, Dr. Jane Anderson, says it’s a matter of center in which programs that also earned top capabilities in other universities will time before the animals are in contact with their human neighbors. individual U.S. News & World computer-assisted participate. UF’s research, recently published in The Journal of Wildlife Report ranks include: neurosurgeries. Management, tested possible ways to control the expanding • Education, tied for No. 1 Bova co-founded population, including removing or sterilizing some adult females. • MBA at No. 4 UF’s radiosurgery 209 “The population is just going to grow, and the frequency of the program and leads the New UF professors • Engineering, tied for No. 16 problems is going to grow,” Johnson said. If monkeys get out of the For Gators who work at radiosurgery/biology hired this fall as lab in UF’s McKnight park, they’re even more likely to interact with people, which poses Walt Disney Co., Walmart and part of Provost Joe Brain Institute. Glover’s effort to further dangers. UF’s research focused on the troop of monkeys Discover Financial services, SARAH CAREY / UF VETERINARY MEDICINE add 500 new faculty inside the park and did not include another troop living nearby. earning an online bachelor’s UF veterinarian Simon Swift examines Zoey, a 12-year-old Maltese, with owner, Janette Jordan of Oviedo. and reach a 16-to-1 Anderson and Johnson are advising Florida Department of degree is easier than ever. These 2 student-to-faculty Environmental Protection officials, who will ultimately decide how and companies partner with UF to DOGS BENEFIT FROM UF’S NEW PARTNERSHIP UF faculty inducted ratio by 2020. UF’s whether to control the troop’s prolific reproduction. In the meantime, allow employees to study tuition this year into the largest college, Liberal the scientists offer some simple advice: Look at the macaques, but don’t free, provided they meet UF UF’S COLLEGE OF VETERINARY MEDICINE the ultimate goal of UF being able to operate and prestigious American Association for the Arts and Sciences, feed them and try to avoid them. admissions qualifications. WILL LAUNCH AN OPEN-HEART SURGERY maintain the program independently. Advancement of added the most PROGRAM FOR DOGS LATER THIS YEAR, Mitral valve repair surgery treats a condition Science. Robert faculty so far: 66. becoming the only fully functional program of its known as degenerative mitral valve disease, or HEARD IN GATORVILLE Ferl grows plants kind in the United States and the only one to offer endocardiosis. This disease has a genetic component on the International 37.9% “If we can do this miracle in Florida, “Pushing back against social the complex procedure known as mitral valve repair. and is responsible for about 75 percent of all canine Space Station and Admissions and I think we can, this will be the boundaries is where women The program will be a collaboration between UF cardiac issues. in Antarctica to application increase and renowned veterinary cardiologist Dr. Masami Although any dog breed can develop determine how to best over the past five best thing I’ve ever done in my life.” get empowerment.” Uechi of the JASMINE Veterinary Cardiovascular degenerative mitral valve disease, small-breed dogs feed future colonists. years, according Medical Center in Yokohama, Japan. such as cavalier King Charles spaniels, dachshunds, Jeffrey Jonesbattles to a UF report. The — JAMES PATTERSON — HEATHER GIBSON The partnership means Uechi and his team Malteses, poodles and chihuahuas are most various crop diseases, jump correlates with World’s best-selling author who is UF sociologist who pioneered the will come to UF multiple times this year to train commonly affected. Older dogs are more likely to such as citrus canker UF’s rise in national working with UF experts to drastically study of women travelers and and bacterial spot, in rankings. UF cardiologists, surgeons, anesthesiologists, have the disease, but some breeds get this disease at improve reading proficiency among offers tips for women who travel perfusionists, critical care specialists and other key a younger age. For example, 50 percent of cavaliers Florida and worldwide. middle school students in Florida. alone on www.news.ufl.edu. staff to perform mitral valve repair surgery, with have this disease by age 5 or 6, said Dr. Simon Swift. 8 | SPRING 2019 FLORIDA GATOR | 9 UNIVERSITY AVENUE

SEEN IN GATORVILLE 1

36 YEARS PHOTO COURTESY OF UF MACHINE INTELLIGENCE LABORATORY Length of John Wright's teaching career at UF’s 5 CHAMPIONSHIPS College of Journalism and Won by UF’s autonomous vehicles at the Communications before he Maritime RobotX Challenge since 2012. retired in December. During Eleven UF engineering students spent finals that time, he also served as week (Dec. 8-15) competing in the 2018 dean (2007-12), in four other event in Oahu, Hawaii. Their NaviGator administrative roles and won autonomous boat was tied for first place the college’s Teacher of the going into the final round and finished fourth LEHAN BRIANNE Year title three times. overall out of 16 international teams. See photos and videos from the competition at 3 the Machine Intelligence Lab site, www.mil.ufl.edu. PHOTO COURTESY OF JESSE BORDEN ADVENTURES IN BIODIVERSITY: STUDENT MAKES DISCOVERY On a research trip to Kenya, UF Wildlife Ecology and Conservation doctoral student 2 Jesse Borden discovered a new gecko species. Since amphibians and reptiles, such LEHAN BRIANNE as the chameleon pictured above, are strong bioindicators of a healthy environment, Bordon is studying how these animals are responding to habitat destruction and climate change. See the gecko and watch Borden swing through the forest canopy and describe his trip in a short video at www.news.ufl.edu (search “Borden”). PHOTO CREDIT PHOTO JUST SPIT: NEW UF TEST SPEEDS MALARIA TESTING A team of UF researchers released a new, easy-to-use saliva test to screen for the parasite 4 5

that causes malaria. Led by infectious disease researcher Rhoel Dingsan, the scientists LEHAN BRIANNE BRAD McLENNY/THE GAINESVILLE SUN hope their method could replace the more-invasive and sometimes less-accurate blood 1. The Homecoming parade involved lots of chomps. PHOTO COURTESY OF WARRINGTON COLLEGE OF BUSINESS tests. They also hope their new development will speed efforts to diagnose, treat and 8 ACRES even eradicate the disease, which kills a child every two minutes. 2. Seven UF projects won cash prizes after competing Size of the new lime rock 38 IN CHINA with more than 60 proposals that address real-world reef UF/IFAS faculty Shanghai was the destination for 38 problems locally as part of the Gainesville Research designed along the historic Warrington College of Business students 219 MILLION Award Showcase, held in Emerson Alumni Hall. Lone Cabbage reef in the Gulf of Mexico. The nearly who traveled to meet regional leaders, Malaria cases worldwide, 2017 3. Walk the Moon band performs at Gator Growl. including (bottom, right) Jane Sun (BSAcc three linear miles of reef is 4. College of Education Dean Glenn Good welcomes 92), COO of Ctrip, Asia’s largest online expected to revive Florida’s seven of the 12 new faculty he hired this year. travel agency. Read about one student’s 435,000 oyster population. UF project revelations from the trip online by searching Malaria deaths worldwide, 2017 5. UF’s Health Hut staff recently celebrated the program’s funding is connected with the BP Deepwater Horizon oil “Sarah Beth Hoover, UF, China.” SOURCE: WORLD HEALTH ORGANIZATION 20th anniversary of reinforcing positive habits among

students, such as sustainable eating habits. LEHAN BRIANNE spill settlement. 10 | SPRING 2019 FLORIDA GATOR | 11 UNIVERSITY AVENUE 141/203 Days conjoined twin Nationally recognized for sisters Jesi (141) and Remi (203) Pitre of Apopka, FL, spent at UF Health Shands problem-solving care. Hospital after their birth on May 16 and successful separation The only hospital ranked in . surgery on July 26.

ALAN & CATHY2,574 HITCHCOCK FIELDParking & FORK PANTRY tickets forgiven in 2018 through UF’s new amnesty program ALAN & CATHYwhereby HITCHCOCK donations FIELD & FORKof non-perishable PANTRY

AARON DAYE food are made to UF’s Hitchcock Field and FACULTY FOCUS: AUGUSTO SOLEDADE Fork Pantry in-lieu of a fine. About 13,397 BRINGING CULTURES, PEOPLE TOGETHER pounds of food were collected, then given DANCE PROFESSOR IS ONE OF 11 NEW COLLEGE OF THE ARTS FACULTY to students who are food-insecure. Q: What led you to become a professor of dance? knowledge with the public and confront people with A: When I began my studies, I got to know the work different ways of thinking. I’d like to help create a bridge between UF and people in other parts of the 150 MIN. of Garth Fagan, who choreographed the “Lion King” Moderate exercise world whose communities include strong African Broadway play. He blends multiple dance idioms: recommended each Diasporic cultural elements. The African culture has Jamaican dance, ballet, modern and post-modern. week for adults. A This was exactly the path I wanted to pursue. I call my already spread throughout parts of the Caribbean UF study in January work Afro-fusion, as it combines African Diasporic, and Europe. As this continues throughout the rest of found that low levels Afro-Brazilian, contemporary and other dance styles to world, specifically through the arts, my fusion of dance of physical activity create a specific aesthetic. I teach it and research it. idioms can help bring us all together. can put adults with healthy weights at the Q: What can your students learn from you? Q: What do people not understand about your work? same risk for heart A: The biggest challenge with a fused form is the A: I want to help them make their own discoveries. disease as adults who audience’s familiarity with the cultures I’m combining UF is a place where a lot of discoveries are made. are overweight. It also says 30 percent of within modern dance. They may not be able to Students aren’t here to imitate what I do. Rather, they normal weight U.S. identify specific moves that connect with Afro- can learn from what I have to offer and create their adults are at increased own dance. Brazilian people. So, they may see my work as plain risk of heart attack or contemporary dance. Also, people often overlook the Q: Would you like to collaborate with other faculty? stroke. These adults UF Health Shands Hospital and UF Health Shands Children’s level of research needed to create contemporary dance had more belly fat and Hospital were ranked in 12 specialties, according to U.S. News & A: and help this field evolve. Some see dance as pure I’m already collaborating with Welson Tremura in shortness of breath World Report. This designation reflects our unwavering dedication entertainment, rather than an art or an art form. the school of music, a Brazilian music specialist. And, upon exertion. Learn to providing high-quality care for patients and validates the work I’m co-directing a study abroad program with Rosana more at UFHealth.org of physicians, scientists, nurses and staff at UF Health. Q: What do you want to accomplish at UF? Resende from the Center for Latin American Studies. (search “sedentary A: I believe the nature of a university is to promote That’s the great thing about UF: it’s easy to find other lifestyle cancels out Learn how we solve problems every day at ProblemSolvingCare.org. interactions beyond university walls ... to share scholars with common interests. heart benefits”). 12 | SPRING 2019

25105 Florida Gator Fall 8.5 x10.875.indd 1 9/24/2018 4:25:59 PM CAMPUS COLLECTIONS Minna Fernald (1860-1954) is said to have taken a sketchbook and notebook with her on all of her travels. Her artwork, which focuses mainly on landscapes and wildflowers, is now cherished by Florida Museum of Natural History researchers.

Timeless Paintings Aid Scientists

WHEN ARTIST MINNA FERNALD DONATED Fernald’s obituary in The Winter Park Herald attributes MORE THAN 320 WATERCOLOR PAINTINGS her painting skill and fine detail to her studies at the of Florida wildflowers to UF in 1942, she unknowingly Maryland Institute under Hugh Newell of the American provided future UF scientist with a rich record of the state’s Watercolor Society, whose work was popular during the past ecological life. mid-19th century. The newspaper also says Fernald’s art was “If you go out looking for these plants nowadays, you can exhibited in Amherst, Massachusetts, and later won numerous find them but they’re only in little isolated preserves,” said UF awards in the Central Florida Exposition and exhibitions of botanist Mark Whitten at UF’s Herbarium in Dickinson Hall. the Florida Federation of Art. “My impression is what Minna Fernald saw was a much more The most impressive thing about Fernald’s paintings is wild and interesting Florida than what it is now.” that the plants she chose to depict are nearly all immediately Married to the chair of the department of entomology at identifiable, said Lucas Majure, assistant curator of the the University of Massachusetts, Fernald (1860-1954) spent herbarium, which is part of the Florida Museum of much of her life in Massachusetts before moving to Winter Natural History. Park to retire. While in Florida, her husband was honored for “Not only are they of artistic value, but I would say his contributions to the field with a banquet by the Newell they’re of scientific value from the standpoint that we were Entomological Society at UF. According to the program, the all standing around those paintings going ‘Oh, that’s that … dinner included speeches by Harold Hume, Jon Tigert and because they’re exquisitely painted,” he said. “They’re really Wilmon Newell – all familiar names at UF and important nice paintings, but at the same time, they’re very realistic.” figures in the history of the Florida Agricultural Experiment UF is digitizing the paintings to preserve them and make Station that first housed the herbarium. them available to the public. — HALLE MARCHESE (4LAS) AND LIESL O’DELL (BSJ 92)

14 | SPRING 2019 FLORIDA GATOR | 15 BY MICHELLE KOIDIN JAFFEE PHOTOGRAPHY BY AARON DAYE

iseases of the brain steal: Some steal the brain for decades. But last fall, UF Provost balance, others memory; some take Joe Glover declared the brain to be one of UF’s Daway the ability to walk, even speak. priority initiatives. He offered additional funding Some result in a decline that’s long and gradual, to many of UF’s cross-disciplinary, brain-related or heartbreakingly fast. Each condition is projects and directed scientists to accelerate devastating in its own way for those afflicted their studies to offer the public more and and for all the people who love them. improved treatment options. Dementia, brain cancer, Parkinson’s disease, The following four brain experts are among ALS, stroke, dystonia, addiction and the typical the many UF scientists, physicians, engineers, cognitive declines that often come with aging microbiologists, pharmacists, nurses and other are just a few of the threats to the brain. While faculty working on this initiative. In areas of to date neuroscience has revealed a great brain research, treatment and the training of deal about how the brain works, it remains a up-and-coming brain pioneers, they are UF’s mysterious frontier. heavy hitters. UF researchers have investigated, tested and treated myriad illnesses associated with

16 | SPRING 2019 FLORIDA GATOR | 17 DUANE MITCHELL Helping the body destroy tumors from within A-TEAM GLIOBLASTOMA IS THE DEADLIEST OF BRAIN TUMORS, TYPICALLY BRAINSVILLE CLAIMING ITS VICTIMS IN LESS THAN A YEAR AND A HALF FROM LAURA P. W. RANUM, PHD Director, Center for NeuroGenetics diagnosis. It attacks the young, like Cara Nature, was named as a top 10 paper in remain in applying the approach to brain Became a Gator: Nov. 15, 2010 Hobbs, a 31-year-old marathoner with clinical and translational science in all of cancers. One at a time, Mitchell’s team Favorite quote: “I have never let two toddlers, and the senior, like 81-year- U.S. scientific literature in 2015. is taking the hurdles down. He is leading my schooling interfere with my education.” – Mark Twain old Sen. John McCain. Dr. Duane Now, Mitchell’s team is pursuing a the way nationwide with a new UF Hobbies: I like to swim, sometimes Mitchell is out to stop it. large Phase 2 clinical trial to confirm the Health-organized collaboration known a mile, sometimes a little less. I’ve A trailblazer in the use of benefits of the vaccine, while also leading as the ReMission Alliance, a first-ever done triathlons. I love to hike. immunotherapy for brain tumors, new immunotherapy clinical trials for 10-year initiative bringing together Mitchell brought his team from Duke children with malignant brain tumors. neuro-oncology experts from top peer to UF in 2013, and since then has won Immunotherapy, which uses institutions from across the United States national recognition for the results of the body’s own immune and Canada. a clinical trial using an enhanced system to fight cancer, “The question that drives us is: vaccine credited with significantly has proved to be an How can we best engage the immune extending the lives of multiple incredible advance system to fight this deadly disease?” says glioblastoma patients, including in treating Mitchell. “The ultimate goal is to make one woman who is now in cancers such a significant contribution that helps cure her 13th year cancer-free. The as melanoma, brain tumors and can be applied to other study, published in the journal but hurdles cancers as well.”

LAURA RANUM Discovering genetic mutations to spur new treatments WHEN SHE WAS 5, SHE TOOK HER BIKE APART, TO SEE HOW THE CHAIN AND OTHER PIECES WORKED. IT WAS 1965, AND SHE EXPECTED A SCOLDING. “WHO TOOK YOUR BIKE APART?” HER DAD DEMANDED.

A-TEAM “I did,” said little Laura. dystrophy. Her discoveries inform drug being named a fellow by the American BRAINSVILLE “Huh,” he said. “Maybe you should development for these disorders. Association for the Advancement in DR. DUANE A. MITCHELL become a mechanical engineer.” It was Ranum’s work has upended Science, awarded to those who make Director, UF Brain Tumor Immunotherapy Program a first taste of what would become years longstanding beliefs about how proteins distinguished scientific advances. Became a Gator: July 1, 2013 of encouragement toward a career in in cells are made; she discovered that What drives her? Hobbies: One of my favorite engineering or science. in people carrying “repeat expansion “I’m just really motivated to figure pastimes is hip-hop dancing. Ranum (pronounced Ran-uhm) mutations” — or long stretches of repeat out the puzzle of genetics,” Ranum says. In my spare time, I like to write took that curiosity in how things work DNA — cells make unexpected proteins “If you know how a mutation is working fi ction (adventure, sci-fi ). I haven’t to pursue a career in genetics. Today, that build up in the brain and can lead to to cause disease, then you have the published any; it’s still a goal. she is widely recognized for discovering neurodegenerative diseases. potential of fixing the problem. Today a series of genetic mutations and an And while her findings were we fundamentally know something very unexpected type of protein production controversial at first, they are now different about how these mutations work, found in neurologic diseases such as ALS, recognized as groundbreaking and, in and that may provide an Achilles’ heel to Huntington’s disease, ataxia and myotonic 2016, earned her the great honor of treat these disorders.”

18 | SPRING 2019 FLORIDA GATOR | 19 TODD GOLDE Developing new therapies and managing an army of scientists LOOKING FOR THE DOC? HE MAY BE IN THE LAB, ENCOURAGING STUDENT- SCIENTISTS IN THE PURSUIT OF POSSIBLE DRUG TARGETS FOR ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE. OR YOU MIGHT TRY HIS OFFICE, WHERE HE’S DESIGNING A

protocol for the UF-led 1Florida kind of neuroscience research. The MBI psychological stress pathways, Golde’s aim Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center, has some of the world’s leading experts remains cracking the nut of developing a statewide effort he directs to fight a in neurodegenerative diseases, such as new therapies. disease that affects as many as 600,000 Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and ALS; brain “My true passion is trying to find Floridians. Or he could be brainstorming cancer; cognitive aging; dystonia; mental new approaches to this challenge, not with a cross-disciplinary team in UF’s health, neurobehavioral sciences and only for Alzheimer’s disease but other Evelyn F. and William L. McKnight psychiatry; and brain and spinal cord neurodegenerative or neurological MICHAEL OKUN Brain Institute, known as the MBI, which injury, and Golde’s mission is to support disorders that lack therapeutic options under his direction is conducting some of research that translates into therapies that for patients,” Golde says. “Our ultimate Helping patients manage debilitating symptoms the nation’s highest-quality neuroscience could benefit patients. goal is to help contribute to research AT WORK, HE OFTEN PICTURES AN research. Golde (pronounced Goldie), an And while his own successes in the that will change the lexicon from being international expert in the scientific lab include a leading role in the series of untreatable, incurable and inevitable to ARTISTIC RENDERING OF A MAN understanding of Alzheimer’s seminal papers that laid the foundation treatable, curable and preventable.” STANDING ATOP A GLOBE, LOOKING disease, became MBI director for the breakthrough advance known as in late 2016, and since then has the amyloid hypothesis of Alzheimer’s at his watch. To Okun (pronounced Oak-un), the image represents been facilitating multidisciplinary disease and, more recently, studies his patients with Parkinson’s disease, dystonia and other movement teams from among more than 150 faculty involving the use of antibodies to target disorders — patients waiting and hoping for better treatments. members from all 16 UF colleges It’s what drives him to constantly push to develop new approaches, who are involved in some rather than sit and count gains from the last 17 years. Okun, now chair of neurology, and his neurosurgeon-partner Dr. Kelly Foote have become known internationally as pioneers in deep brain stimulation, a therapy remarkably effective at controlling tremors, and have implanted leads in more than 1,000 patients. But between surgeries, A-TEAM BRAINSVILLE they continue to work to refine and improve the technology, while DR. MICHAEL S. OKUN also expanding who can receive it beyond patients with Parkinson’s Executive Director, Norman Fixel or essential tremor: Okun and Foote have seen life-altering symptom Institute for Neurological Diseases relief in patients with dystonia, Tourette syndrome and obsessive- Became a Gator: In 1993 for my compulsive disorder. second year of medical school after All the while, Okun is carrying out his overarching vision. completing my fi rst year at FSU, while simultaneously fi nishing my A renowned expert in Parkinson’s disease who has cared for undergrad degree in history. patients from across the globe including Muhammad Ali and Janet A-TEAM BRAINSVILLE Hobbies: I’ve published a book of Reno, Okun co-created with Foote a one-of-a-kind combined clinic- poetry, “Lessons from the Bedside,” lab in 2011 where patients with movement disorders can see all their DR. TODD E. GOLDE about the medical school experience. potential providers under one roof — neurologist, occupational Director, UF McKnight Brain Institute therapist, speech-language pathologist, social worker, neurosurgeon Became a Gator: December 2009 and more — so the team can collaborate on patient care and also do Favorite Quote: “The most exciting research into emerging personalized therapies, while the patient only phrase to hear in science, the one that heralds the most discoveries, is has to go to one location. “The patient is the sun,” Okun says, “and we not ‘Eureka!’ but ‘That’s funny …’” Editor’s note: These busy scientists were great sports should all orbit around the patient.” by Isaac Asimov to participate in this photo shoot that portrays With a generous gift in January 2019, what was known as UF’s Hobbies: In my spare time, I like to cook. My favorite dish is paella. them as baseball players. However, it wasn’t such a Center for Movement Disorders and Neurorestoration has grown to stretch for Todd Golde, who played first and third become the Norman Fixel Institute for Neurological Diseases at UF bases in high school. He’s proud to have played his Health; construction on a new building with an expanded mission is entire senior year without making a single error. underway. Michael Okun is a huge baseball fan, too. He “We’re always looking forward,” Okun says. “How many can we follows the Atlanta Braves and New York Yankees. help heal? How many can we help with their suffering?” FLORIDA GATOR | 21 TWO JOCKS, ONE GOAL:

It’s a chilly December morning in Gainesville, and inside the O’Connell Center basketball arena, two men in their 40s — one in a red T-shirt, the other in Gator blue — are playing a game of one-on-one.

Trotting up and down the orange-and-blue floorboards, disease. Its symptoms — shaking, stiffness, difficulty with the two players might not be professional athletes, but they’re balance, walking and coordination, depression — start fueled by a similar desire to excel. gradually, vary widely from patient to patient, and can CURE The player in red, Gary Keating, launches a jump shot, be easily mistaken for those of other neurodegenerative his feet lightly tapping together before he lands. Swish. conditions. In fact, more than a quarter of patients initially PARKINSON’S Grabbing the rebound, David Vaillancourt, in blue, diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease (PD) later turn out to shows a nice touch on the ball as he goes for one in the have something else. STORY BY BARBARA DRAKE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY AARON DAYE paint. Swish. Medications can control symptoms, but there is no Back to Keating, who scores some threes from cure — yet. the perimeter. Those realities make life very hard for people with PD, Just two regular guys shooting around, right? who number about 1 million in the United States. Not quite. Dr. Vaillancourt, 44, is a renowned professor “Our ability to move is core to who we are as humans,” and researcher in movement disorders at the UF College says Vaillancourt, a Texas native who began his college of Human Health and Performance. His recent laboratory career on a basketball scholarship before earning his PhD in discovery is poised to transform how Parkinson’s disease is kinesiology at Penn State. diagnosed and monitored — and maybe even cured, one day. “In Parkinson’s disease, your ability to perform the Keating, 48, is a patient and a participant in one of simplest of movements becomes problematic over time,” Vaillancourt’s research studies. A former basketball coach he explains in calm, measured tones. “So I’m very much from New Jersey who was diagnosed with Parkinson’s at age attracted to alleviating that issue. 38, Keating has managed to slow the disease’s progression “I think that if we can do that, we’ll have a major impact — partly, it seems, by practicing his own series of daily on society and people’s wellbeing.” basketball drills. They’re here in the O’Connell Center because — medical TEAMING WITH FOX FOUNDATION research aside — the two discovered a mutual love of Until very recently, Parkinson’s researchers lacked an the sport. essential tool: biological indicators of the disease, such as “Let’s play together,” suggested Vaillancourt. “At the proteins in the blood, that can be measured and quantified. O’Dome,” he added, never one for half measures. Without those biomarkers, as they’re called, specialists “Great,” Keating e-mailed back, trying not to smash the have had to rely on patients’ symptoms to diagnose and keys in excitement. monitor PD. So today’s game of one-on-one skews more “social” (For a comparison, imagine if there were no blood tests for than “science.” But now that Vaillancourt’s chasing Keating leukemia, and oncologists had to tease out a diagnosis based on around the court, now that he’s seeing the unusual facility a patient’s temperature, fatigue level and weight loss.) with which this young-onset Parkinson’s patient moves — his Biomarkers also are needed for new Parkinson’s smooth footwork, quick hand movements, crisp passes — it medication studies. Biomarkers enable scientists to objectively crosses his mind: Maybe I could learn something new from assess how a treatment affects the underlying pathology in this guy. the body, revealing if the medication is capable of slowing or Because, to be honest, even for a specialist like even stopping progression of the disease. Vaillancourt, it’s really hard to see that Keating has any The need for reliable PD biomarkers is so urgent that in disease at all when he’s on the court. 2012 the Michael J. Fox Foundation launched the Parkinson’s Progression Markers Initiative (PPMI) to encourage scientists WORKING ON A MYSTERY to find these critical missing links for better treatments. Parkinson’s is a mystery. First identified more than 200 Since Vaillancourt’s days as a post-doc student at years ago, scientists still can’t pinpoint what causes the the University of Illinois at Chicago, he’s been using

22 | SPRING 2019 FLORIDA GATOR | 23 neuroimaging to search deep inside the brain for signs of PD rapidly and aggressively. His lab also is investigating the and other movement disorders. Now his years of effort have effects on free water of an existing Parkinson’s medication scored a slam dunk for the PPMI. (Azilect), the first time a PD biomarker has been used in a In 2014, Vaillancourt and his UF lab made history when clinical drug trial. they identified the first noninvasive imaging biomarker of Both studies rely on the advanced imaging systems at UF’s PD: structural changes in the substantia nigra, a nucleus McKnight Brain Institute. Trial volunteers lie inside futuristic in the midbrain that is key to movement and production fMRI machines for 40-plus minutes while performing specific of dopamine. motor tasks. On the other side of the glass, a technician The team used diffusion imaging, a type of MRI, to captures tens of thousands of images of each patient’s brain, reveal that, over time, Parkinson’s patients lost vital layer by layer, in real time. dopamine neurons in the substantia nigra It’s a demanding, tedious process, and gained more of a fluid known as but these test subjects gladly stay put, free water. knowing their data sets can lead to Those initial results — first a cure. limited to a study involving 48 Many PD patients share this patients at UF and the brain “Our ability to desire to help others, Vaillancourt scans of 134 patients from the has observed. PPMI database — were then move is core “People with Parkinson’s are validated in a four-year NIH- very motivated about improving funded study involving eight to who we are not only their own health care, sites around the globe. as humans.” but other people’s too,” he Importantly, unlike an says, “so they are very much earlier, costlier brain biomarker — Dr. David Vaillancourt into research. Getting patients for PD, Vaillancourt’s marker to participate in studies is easy can be detected without because they’re just such good- having to inject patients with hearted, down-to-earth people.”

radioactive dye. That makes the For Gary Keating, who earned OF COLLEGE UF BY PROVIDED PHOTO PERFORMANCE HUMAN AND HEALTH process noninvasive, faster, safer a degree in athletic administration for subjects and doable on even from St. Johns University, taking part in basic MRI equipment, thus lowering costs for researchers Vaillancourt’s research trials has given him a renewed and clinicians. purpose in life. “Dr. David Vaillancourt’s pioneering research has “I always knew there was a reason I was given the potential to improve the way we diagnose and track Parkinson’s,” says Keating. “And that reason is, I want to “The news hits you hard,” he admits. “I knew what my treatment in Florida. A steady regimen of two low-dose PD Parkinson’s disease,” says Mark Frasier, senior vice president help people.” father went through. At first, all I could think was, ‘That’s my medications, Requip and Azilect, accompanied him wherever of research programs at the Michael J. Fox Foundation, which “I did it as a coach,” he adds. “Now I’m supposed to future.’ It was quite an emotional day.” he went. funded the PPMI landmark study. continue helping people in a different direction — by doing But the neurologist told him to stop replaying memories of “The medications have held the disease back,” says Keating. Since its debut four years ago, the free water biomarker has the trials and giving my results. It’s exciting.” his elderly father’s 14-year-long demise. “Sometimes I’ll get the tremor again, but nothing like before, passed through every subsequent hurdle for it to be adopted in “The first thing the doctor said to me was, ‘Do not when I wasn’t taking them.” testing new medications. A FATHER’S DIAGNOSIS compare yourself to your father because what happened to him He also credits his religious faith and a positive attitude for “Now all that’s needed is for it to be included in a new For an athlete used to beating competitors on the court, may not happen to you,’” recalls Keating. “And he explained keeping him healthy — as well as an unorthodox Parkinson’s clinical trial,” says Vaillancourt. Keating views Parkinson’s as the ultimate opponent. He how individualistic Parkinson’s is. That woke up the fighting exercise regime: his own series of daily basketball drills. refuses to give in. spirit in me. “I’ve kept on playing basketball in the driveway,” he says, “a VOLUNTEERING FOR A CURE “I’ve fought through a lot of this in my life,” he says in his “I said, ‘Okay, there’s a better road.’ I don’t want to end up half an hour to an hour a day,” using the same drills he used to While waiting for that green light, Vaillancourt and soft Jersey accent. “This is just another one to me.” like my father. I want to stay like this — active.” train his young players. his team at the Laboratory for Rehabilitation Neuroscience His mettle was first tested while his dad, also a basketball “Dribbles, one hand to the other, stationary, moving,” he have been forging ahead with the free-water technique, coach, was sick with PD. Keating gave up his own dream job THREE COACHES says. “It helps.” Helps is an understatement: People usually look at Keating testing its application in two distinct areas. coaching basketball at Keystone College, in Pennsylvania, Keating has been on a quest ever since to live well in surprise when he tells them he has PD. In one study, they’re examining the biomarker’s to care for him. Then, six months to the day after his father’s with young-onset Parkinson’s. Over the last decade, he But the disease is more than just tremors. Many Parkinson’s effectiveness at distinguishing PD from other death, in 2009, a neurologist told Keating he had the retired from coaching, fought discrimination at work patients experience non-motor symptoms, such as problems with “parkinsonisms,” related disorders that develop more same disease. due to his illness and left the northeast to seek better

24 | SPRING 2019 FLORIDA GATOR | 25 sleep, mood, vision and even sense of smell. Impaired memory and thinking are also common, says Dr. Rachel Dolhun, a movement disorder specialist and vice president of medical communications at the Michael J. Fox Foundation. “Cognitive dysfunction can occur at any stage in GEORGE H.W. BUSH MICHAEL J. FOX Parkinson’s disease and can range from mild to severe,” says Dr. Dolhun. “It typically involves activities like multitasking, problem solving, planning or organizing. People can also have problems concentrating or finding their words when speaking.” Keating, who is an articulate communicator, admits that words sometimes escape him. For him, having the disease is primarily an internal experience. “There are days I feel lightheaded and weak, and I can’t do much,” he says. “Other days, I’ll look okay, but I might have to LINDA RONSTADT MUHAMMAD ALI reach out and hold “I always knew onto your arm.” In his quest PARKINSON’S there was a for the best reason I was given care possible, DISEASE Keating Parkinson’s. And that resettled in • Neurodegenerative disease that Gainesville interferes with movement reason is, I want to four years ago SHOOTING FOR A CURE and sought • Affects about 1 million Americans, help people.” Back at the O’Dome, Vaillancourt and Keating are winding posture — all the things patients need. In many ways, he’s treatment at 7-10 million people worldwide up their game. They leave the court drenched in sweat, but at doing something really fresh and out of the box.” — Gary Keating UF Health’s a cameraman’s insistence, Keating comes back to demonstrate Today’s game has given the two men an appreciation • More frequent in men than women Center for the daily drills that keep his motor skills up to speed. They’re of each other’s skills and taken them outside their everyday (about 2:1 ratio) Movement his own invention, but they’ve got Vaillancourt intrigued. routines. Looking forward, what are their hopes for the future Disorders & Before joining the faculty at the College of Health and of Parkinson’s research? • Symptoms and severity vary widely, Neurorestoration, which encompasses a National Human Performance, Vaillancourt contributed to a study that “My dream is to one day find the cure,” says Keating. “To and may include: Parkinson Foundation Center of Excellence. concluded regular resistance training — with a focus on the do anything possible that I can do, to help find it. It’s all for Tremor of hands, arms, legs or face o It was at UF that Keating volunteered for one of whole body — helps slow down Parkinson’s. Keating’s drills that one day that I can tell my father, ‘We won.’” Slowed movement o Vaillancourt’s biomarker studies in 2017. Participating in the aren’t anything like those exercises. And Vaillancourt? Rigidity of limbs and trunk o study spurred Keating to write a short memoir, “Father and “He’s doing a lot of small movements of his hands, ball He glances at Keating, smiling a boyish grin: “I cannot o Problems with balance, coordination Son: A Game and a Battle with Parkinson’s,” published this year handling,” says Vaillancourt. “His moves incorporate balance, have another dream. He’s pretty much summed it all up.” • o Slurred speech by Covenant Books. o Depression “I’m hoping the book will help other people who have it — and maybe other young-onsets,” says the first-time author. • Cause(s) are unknown “Because I know some young onsets don’t want to say they • No cure, yet have Parkinson’s.” TO SUPPORT VAILLANCOURT’S RESEARCH, During the 12 months he participated in the UF study, call Lesley Thurston at 352-294-1650 or email • Famous people with PD include: Keating had no idea Vaillancourt coaches two youth basketball [email protected]. To learn more about Dr. Vaillancourt actor Michael J. Fox teams in Gainesville — yet another connection between the o and his team’s ongoing and completed studies, visit former U.S. President George two men. o www.hhp.ufl.edu and search “Laboratory for Rehabilitation H.W. Bush When Keating found out their shared love of the sport, in Neuroscience.” Keating’s memoir, “Father and Son: A Game o boxer Muhammad Ali November 2018, he was speechless. “Wow!” he said. “What are and a Battle with Parkinson’s,” is sold online at Amazon and o singer Linda Ronstadt the odds? Three coaches — him, me and my dad.” Barnes & Noble. o actor Alan Alda o civil rights activist Jesse Jackson o singer Neil Diamond o former NBA player Brian Grant

26 | SPRING 2019 FLORIDA GATOR | 27 MARATHON MILESTONES A MARATHON OF MOTION AND MUSIC RAISES 2003: Nine years in, total donations top $1 million A TOTAL OF $18.3 MILLION FOR SICK CHILDREN 2012: 18 years after inception, combined contributions surpass $5 million 2013: For the first time, $1 million collected in a single year 2015: Total giving doubles to $10 million; and annual fundraising tops $2 million for first time 2017: Dance Marathon’s popularity soars, and with it JUST GOTTA cumulative giving passes $15 million 2018: $3 million in one year raised for first time, and total giving is $18.3 million

BET YOU DIDN'T KNOW • UF’s Dance Marathon is the largest fundraising student organization in the Southeast. • Dance Marathon is so popular there isn’t enough room on the dance floor for everyone who wants to participate. Each year, because of fire codes, organizers turn away wannabe dancers who don’t register soon enough. • For every student wearing dancing shoes, another seven WHAT THEY or so people work behind the DANCED TO scenes to stage the marathon Miracle Network Dance Marathon unites colleges across the United States and Canada in a students’ driven A sampling of Billboard’s and raise dollars. movement to help children with serious illnesses. The Gators’ Dance Marathon program supports UF Health Top Pop Songs of the PHOTOS COURTESY OF UF DANCE MARATHON Year Shands Children’s Hospital, one of the 170 pediatric hospitals in not-for-profit Children’s Miracle Network. since the begining of • Although the annual Dance Dance Marathon: Marathon itself is just STORY BY DAVID FINNERTY THEN AND NOW 1995 - “Gangsta’s Paradise” Coolio one weekend, the Dance Marathon program hosts n 1995, Gators quarterback Danny Wuerffel led the NCAA in 1996 - “Macarena” touchdown passes. That same year, Dance Marathon at UF became Los del Rio events throughout the year 1999 - “Believe” Cher to support the Children’s one of the first five programs of its kind in eth country. Miracle Network. I - “Yeah!” Usher With it, Gator altruism would be forever changed. Students finally 2004 2007 - • There have been more than had a voice — and the feet — to make a cause their own. In the 25 “Irreplaceable” Beyonce 100 child ambassadors during years this spring since, 15,327 dancers and an army of advocates have NUMBER OF DANCERS 2008 - “Low” Flo Rida the past 25 years. Two of them raised more than $18.3 million for research, technology and activities 1995 2018 2010 - “Tik Tok” Kesha — Nate Ferrell, 10 (pictured for pediatric patients at UF Health Shands Children’s Hospital, 2014 - “Happy” above, second row, center), 79 825 Pharrell Williams and Izabella Neira, 7 (at left) Gainesville’s Children’s Miracle Network hospital. Rion Ballroom, O’Connell — have been recognized as Reitz Student Union Center 2017 - “Shape of You” 2019 Dance Ed Sheeran national Children’s Miracle Marathon Child 2018 - “God’s Plan” Drake Network champions: AMOUNT RAISED Ambassador, Nate for 2014 and 2018; 1995 2018 For more information and how to get involved go to floridadm.org Izabella Neira, 7. Izabella for 2019. $12,424.66 $3,026,420.19 28 | SPRING 2019 FLORIDA GATOR | 29 AARON DAYE/UF ADVANCEMENT ART+ACTION CREATING THE WORLD TO COME

BY ALISSON CLARK (BSJ 98, MAMC 16)

HE CHALLENGES FACING THE NATURAL WORLD THAT SUSTAINS US ARE MASSIVE. So are the determination and ingenuity T of University of Florida faculty, staff and students devoted to solving them. Here, we highlight some of the people dedicating their careers to our well-being, paired with works from “The World to Come: Art in the Age of the Anthropocene” an exhibition created by UF’s Samuel P. Harn Museum of Art. If you’ve ever wondered what one person can do in the face of such overwhelming issues, read on ZOLISWA “ZOE” NHLEKO + WHITE RHINO EXTINCTION and be inspired. See the rest of the series at Doctoral candidate, UF/IFAS School of for, then we may be able to move them from ufl.to/theworldtocome. Natural Resources and Environment; high-poaching areas.” Wildlife Ecology and Conservation FEAR FACTOR: Figuring out what scares A junior scientist with South African National white rhinos could help protect them. “If Parks, Nhleko uncovers how stress from we know what stresses them, we could poaching affects white rhino populations. manipulate the environment and make RHINO MYSTERIES: “There’s lots of general it unsuitable in a way that gets them descriptive information about rhinos — they out of danger. walk around and nibble on this and that. HOW DO YOU STAY OPTIMISTIC? “It’s the But we are missing some key elements that PHOTOS OF UF SCIENTISTS ARE BY BRIANNE LEHAN possibility that we might actually figure will help us save them. One key question is AND LYON DUONG, UF PHOTOGRAPHY something out and save the species. It’s been how they choose their habitat. It’s not clear done before. They’ve saved rhinos from less why they prefer the southern part of Kruger than 100 individuals left.” National Park over some of the other habitats available in the northern parts of the park. ABOUT THE ARTWORK: This photo “White “Once we understand what they are looking Rhino, Namibia,” is by Maroesjka Lavigne

30 | SPRING 2019 FLORIDA GATOR | 31 MAIA MCGUIRE + PLASTIC POLLUTION UF/IFAS Extension Florida Sea Grant agent WHAT’S NEXT? “We ultimately need policy Up to 95 percent of litter in the ocean is plastic, changes, whether it’s climate change, plastics in which harms wildlife and makes its way into our the ocean, coastal erosion or invasive species. But food and water. McGuire has inspired thousands to by raising awareness and providing people with make small changes to reduce plastic waste. actions they can take, I really do believe that in the DESCRIBE YOUR WORK: “My job is to teach long term, people will band together and things people about the coastal environment and the will happen at a higher level.” ways human actions impact it.” HOW ABOUT THE SHORT TERM? “I’d love to get TAKING THE PLEDGE: McGuire created the Florida “THE WORLD TO Microplastic Awareness Project, which offers eight people to rethink the way they shop. You can buy COME: ART IN fruits and vegetables loose instead of in a plastic ways to cut plastic waste, from using sustainable THE AGE OF THE shopping bags to choosing natural fabrics over bag or on a foam tray.” McGuire also carries a ANTHROPOCENE” synthetics. “I’m often asked, ‘What can one person container in her car for restaurant leftovers and When this Harn exhibit it do?’ One person can do a lot!” even a mess kit to avoid disposable plates and ends on March 3, will travel to the University SMALL CHANGES ADD UP: “If you go to a fast utensils. For more ideas, visit plasticaware.org. of Michigan Museum food restaurant once a week and use a reusable of Art from April 27- cup instead of a disposable cup, lid and straw, ABOUT THE ARTWORK: This photo by Chris July 28, 2019. that’s more than 150 pieces of plastic a year you’re Jordan shows plastic items found in the stomach no longer throwing away.” contents of a juvenile Lavsan albatross.

CHRISTINE ANGELINI + COASTAL CONSERVATION Assistant professor, Engineering School of Sustainable Infrastructure & Environment, Wertheim College of Engineering A diehard ice hockey player, she turned her penchant for teamwork and tough challenges toward science during her junior year at Brown and has been working on coastal conservation ever since. DESCRIBE YOUR WORK: Understanding and restoring resilient coastal ecosystems WHAT DO YOU WISH PEOPLE UNDERSTOOD? Coastal wetlands can protect us from storms and algae blooms and support fishing and tourism, but they remain underappreciated. “A marsh is not a wasteland. A marsh is something that brings us tremendous value. WHAT KEEPS YOU MOTIVATED? “We’re constantly learning new things about how the environment is working, and to me it’s always fascinating.” HOW DO YOU STAY OPTIMISTIC? “I’ve been working a lot more with managers here in Florida who are on the ground doing restoration activities. I almost think it’s the opposite of what’s happening in the political climate of divisions, of folks not talking to each other.” WHAT CAN WE DO? “Every property owner can be a steward of the land by their home, whether they are near a beach, salt marsh or have a dock, they can help protect those ecosystems.” For ideas, visit www.flseagrant.org/florida-living-shorelines. ABOUT THE ARTWORK: The photo behind Angelini is titled, “Swamp and Pipeline, Cancer Alley, Louisiana” by Richard Misrach

32 | SPRING 2019 FLORIDA GATOR | 33 PRABIR BAROOAH + SUSTAINABLE ENERGY Associate professor of mechanical engineering, Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering Buildings consume almost half of the energy used in the U.S. Barooah works on ways to reduce consumption while delivering better results. Next up: Taking his expertise public to help inform policy. DESCRIBE YOUR WORK: Sustainability through intelligent energy use HOW CAN BUILDINGS BE MORE ENERGY EFFICIENT? Buildings use energy about as well as a car that’s being driven in third gear all the time: It works, but it’s not efficient. He is working on software that would serve as the equivalent of an automatic transmission. “We need better algorithms to make these systems shift gears automatically, all the time.” WHAT KEEPS YOU MOTIVATED? “We don’t have a backup planet.” WHAT DO YOU WISH PEOPLE UNDERSTOOD? LEED certifications are a start, but would you buy a car based on its great gas mileage if there was no Because every purchase should way to verify it? “... Verification is unsexy, but if you really care about efficiency, energy policy needs to be backed up by measurement.” scream Go Gators! HOW DO YOU STAY OPTIMISTIC? “As a university professor, I deal with young people, and they don’t come with preconceived notions.” WHAT’S NEXT? “I’d like to educate Show your school pride policymakers to make sure they’re asking the right questions. As engineers, we can every time you use your come up with technologies, but unless the policy framework is there to make Wells Fargo Debit Card. sure the right technologies are used, then things are not going to change.” ABOUT THE ARTWORK: This Customize your card today by logging into your sculpture that integrates electrical objects and wiring is titled, account at wellsfargo.com/carddesignstudio or “Ornamental Mountains and Seas — stop by and speak to a Wells Fargo team member Monster and Cloud” by Haegue Yang. to learn more.

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34 | SPRING 2019 © 2018 Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. All rights reserved. Member FDIC. What are your most vivid memories of being a student at UF? We posed this question to five celebrated writers at the 35th annual Miami Book Fair in November. Here’s what they told us about their Gator days:

James Grippando Aaron Thier fields. So there was this intersection with Winner of the 2017 A native of western history that hadn’t been available to AND OTHER Harper Lee Prize for Massachusetts and me before. The Civil War is real there; MUSINGS Legal Fiction, Grippando author of three darkly slavery is real. There are scars on the (BA ’80, Law ’82) comic novels, Thier landscape itself. All that ended up being balances dual careers as a trial lawyer (MFA Fiction ’12) is a finalist for the in my first novel. FROM and legal-suspense author. The secret to his Thurber Prize for American Humor. He GATOR realistic dialogue lies in lessons learned the recalls the surreal experience AUTHORS hard way at UF. of encountering the Southern landscape for Carl Hiaasen ne of the most meaningful memories the first time. was a class led by Sid Homan, then A longtime columnist for O had only applied to the and the head of the English department. Sid was among the top three teachers I’ve ever IMFA programs bestselling novelist with below a certain more than 20 books to his had. He had us write a paper a week, no more than three to five pages line of latitude. credit, Hiaasen (BSJ ’74) is known for his I was really fed biting commentary on corrupt politicians, So we had to be good self-editors, and Sid – he insisted we call him Sid, never up with my business scandals and attacks on the New England- environment. Professor Holman – would have two or three papers that he would read out loud to ness and those winters. So he most vivid memory I have of the class. It was an honor to have your paper arriving in UF is Buddy Davis’ [1924-2004] chosen, but it was also revealing because, T Gainesville in editorial writing class. Of course, he’d to this day, I can recall how it feels to see that heat, with won a Pulitzer writing editorials for the someone stumbling over something you Spanish moss Gainesville Sun, and he was extremely wrote. That especially sticks with me as a everywhere – it like demanding. Every week you wrote an writer of fiction, where dialogue has to ring being on a different editorial, and he didn’t give you a written true. To this day I will read out loud what planet. I kept leaving grade; he critiqued the whole thing on a I write before I deliver it to my editor at the windows open in cassette and the last line would be your Harper Collins publishers.

Illustrations by Smith Robbie my car and it would fill grade. He’d take your piece apart, line So a nod to Sid for teaching me that it with water. I got all kinds by line, sentence by sentence, thought by may look like the most eloquent sentence, but of weird poison ivy-type thought, and so by the end of Buddy’s the proof is in whether it passes the Sid Test. reactions wandering around monologue, you were just shriveled, on Paynes Prairie, and even withered with fear. You were ecstatic to get Latest Novel: that was great. It was all evidence a B. It was inevitably brutal. A Death in Live Oak that was a new place. When you saw that cassette, it was like, (Harper) I had grown up in Southern literary Latest Novel: “Oh, God.” Your stomach culture because I learned how to write almost started hurting The World is a from reading Barthelme, Faulkner, right away. But he was a Narrow Bridge Flannery O’Connor and those guys. (Bloomsbury) great teacher. You had to But coming to Florida was the first time get to the point – clean, I’d ever seen slave cabins and sugarcane clear, crisp writing. He didn’t like any bologna. No tricks. Anyone who survived Bud Davis’ class was a better journalist Latest Novel: because of it. Squirm (Knopf)

36 | SPRING 2019 FLORIDA GATOR | 37 David Lawrence, Jr. Lisandro Perez During Lawrence’s (BSJ Born in Havana and ’63) tenure as publisher of raised in the United REDEFINING the Miami Herald (1989- States, Perez (MA ’73, 1999), the paper won five PhD ’74 Sociology) Pulitzer Prizes. Covering student protests is chair of the Department of Latin CONNECTION and desegregation at UF in the early ’60s American and Latina/o Studies at John was the ideal proving ground for a budding Jay School of Criminal Justice, in newspaperman. New York. UF CJC Online has just launched was at the University of Florida when n the fall of 1973, I took an online master’s degree with a Iits undergraduate division was just Imy exams for my Ph.D. in specialization in public interest desegregated in the fall of 1962. Half the sociology. First there was a communication, the country’s only campus thought, “This is a really good battery of written exams, and master’s program in this emerging field. idea in God’s world.” And the other half the feedback was not positive. thought that Satan had taken over. It was They said, “We’re going to allow a very tumultuous time, not a happy time, you to take the orals, but you need Online graduate students certainly, but a good time for a journalist. to do very well because your writtens will develop the skills, I was the first editor ever fired by the were not very good.” The day they wanted strategies, theory and college newspaper’s Board of Student to get together was Dec. 5. techniques required to Publications, which was faculty controlled. Well, Dec. 5 is the feast day of Saint build movements and I had run a letter to the editor – not from Barbara in the Catholic pantheon of the What is drive positive social me – praising free love. I didn’t even know saints, but it’s also the saint that’s syncretized YOUR favorite what it was – this was 1963. And I had the with the African orisha [god] Changó. In change using strategic temerity to do a weekly column from the Miami and Cuba, Dec. 5 is celebrated by UF story or communication. state NAACP; it was seen as a very radical those who follow the Afro-Cuban religions, experience? act. And there were other things involved. and you have to pay homage to the saint by Please submit your UF Learn more and apply at So ultimately, so many editors got fired, wearing red. I happened to mention this to a memory and photos onlinemasters.jou.ufl.edu/ which is how you got the Independent committee member, adding, “and I’ll be sure — subject line “My Old public-interest Florida Alligator. and wear red.” I met my wife there, incidentally, at the At the oral exam, all five committee School” — to: Alligator. That’s a lifelong blessing. We will members showed up wearing something red [email protected] have been married 55 years next month. – a red tie, a red shirt, something. That was a great support. I did very well on those exams. — or — Latest Book: Florida Gator Magazine A Dedicated Latest Book: P.O. Box 14425 Sugar, Cigars, Life: Journalism, Gainesville, FL 32604-2425 Choose from 8 master’s specializations and 4 graduate certificates that offer Justice and a and Revolution: unparalleled opportunities for professional growth and advancement. Chance for Every The Making of Photos can be scanned Child Cuban New York and returned upon (Mango) (NYU Press) request. Editors reserve Audience Analytics | Digital Strategy | Global Strategic Communication | Political Communication the right to edit for clarity Public Interest Communication | Public Relations | Social Media | Web Design | Media Sales or length. If your story is chosen, it will appear in an upcoming issue. onlinemasters.jou.ufl.edu

38 | SPRING 2019 two bits for... GRANT 40 |SPRING 2019 HOLLOWAY J WINS RACES HEARTS, HOLLOWAYHUMBLE athletes to ever compete in the sport, as Holloway has has Holloway as sport, the in compete to ever athletes unique theis most onehe of recognize fans field and track Dedicated Olympic gold medal. an of winning dream his to chase up football giving with started it all that and professional, turn than rather season junior for his Gainesville to he to return opted that seasons, two first his titles NCAA hurdles outdoor high and indoor the swept record, collegiate know a he holds They exploits. athletic “Wow.” was, response in muster could Anderson abewildered All in. joined audience the before own on his entirely amomentHolloway to laugh said. night,” Anderson end of the the at is about I notdon’t me. anything “This get adding him, quiz and script the flip for to Holloway offered Anderson. with interview an centerfor andfront men’scoming women’s and finalists three of the each and returning winners previous with individual honor. highest andfield’s track collegiate Bowerman, of The month’s presentation last at stage the shared they while guard off completely him caught Holloway Grant star Much of UF’s community is aware of Holloway’s aware is Much of UF’s community Holloway. Grant Classic leaving everyone, stunned joke self-deprecating The “I probably won’t either,” quipped. Holloway Anderson of questions, round initial his Following the Heisman Trophy, to parallels draws ceremony The ohn Anderson had no idea what to say. what no idea The had Anderson ohn ESPN personality (below, on right), known for (below, on right), known personality ESPN in the art of ad-libbing, but Florida’s of ad-libbing, do-it-all art the in versed anchor, well is aSportsCenter work as his ar I’ve Florida, at been make just charge able to take been He’sperson. always Holloway, Grant’s apeople mother. “He’s been always a with it doing all him, with smile w pictures the all and concluded ceremony the Even after award. the entir the him for clapping athlete, the hugged up and stood Holloway athletics. Gators of representative unofficial pow the have class and charisma his He night. end of the trophy the at him.” around everybody family backtoAlba ( he example, by lead and in to lock time it when comes reps, practice between clown-like borderline even loud, boisterous, often he is while And need. in for children socks and of shoes of pairs hundreds to purchase money donated uses that program along-running Tracks, Gators in part taking and students school elementary mentoring community, my that’s purpose what like feel world,” a and of achievements list any tr any lapel. to his Positivity.” Spread and Day a Great active He is phone: “Make on his set reminder a permanent here to do.” I’m that’s what like Ifeel smile, people making inspiring, l world-class a at executed alone let attempted, even rarely combination hurdler, elite long jumper, sprinter,proven an and to be a the than more be meaningful always will that him, ound those For room. Nation and won Gator Holloway the announced, was winner The moment Bowerman The the not He win did right. was Grant end, the In love“I just “It was a “It was “He’s a day. has He even every message his lives Holloway But ther twobelievetheycouldbedistantcousins,trac to speak wished who anyone with engaged fully and ophy. Holloway said through his glowing smile. “I smile. glowing his through said Holloway everybody appreciate him being there. Since he’s Since there. being him appreciate everybody signature his to wear continued Grant taken, ere Mike leader,” Coach tremendous Head said does so instantaneously. so does insane an more much than to Holloway e is very heartwarming experience,” said Tasha said experience,” heartwarming very evel. to accept onto stage the he walked as e time joy, the to spread love throughout spread ny, GA).“He’saguywholifts seen that grow 10 grow times. that seen myriad of trophies. myriad Gators pin squar pin Gators Motivating, life. in is did, how did, an him to make er — ZACH DIRLAM ever, show of a fastened ely in the in Today and room ing

INSPIRING, MAKING I FEELLIKETHAT’S WHAT I’MHERE PEOPLE SMILE, “MOTIVATING, — Grant Holloway TO DO.” TO FLORIDA GATOR | 41

2019 GATOR100 WINNERS GOING

1 Carroll Bradford, Inc. 51 Therigy LLC 2 Foundry Commercial 52 Front Street Commercial GAT RS GREATER 3 Greek House Real Estate 4 eco Construction 53 Activekidz and Adult Therapy WORKING IN THE WINGS GATOR CREATES 5 First Florida Constructors, LLC 54 Veteran Energy 6 United Energy Services 55 Jackson Orthodontics Over the last four years, Cecilee Fleming (BHS 11, PhD A CYCLE OF KINDNESS 7 OptinMonster 56 High Mark Construction 14) spent Christmas in Washington D.C., Independence Day 8 Passport 57 Abode Luxury Rentals in Boston and many other holidays in major cities from sea to ANOTHER MASS SHOOTING. COLLECTIVE 58 McKenzie Construction, LLC GRIEF, THEN FURY, THEN A NATIONAL UF alumni have created and guided 9 Red Team Software, LLC shining sea. Fleming merged her passion for the performing 59 Acumen Wealth Advisors CONVERSATION THAT QUICKLY TURNS some of the most innovative and 10 ACY Contractors, LLC arts, health care and travel into her career as a touring physical 60 SkyFrog Landscape LLC DIVISIVE AND THEN, TOO OFTEN, profitable businesses in the nation 11 Lap of Love Veterinary therapist who treats performers in national productions of Hospice 61 Walker Architects RESIGNATION. and the world. The UF Alumni Broadway hits. 12 Orangetheory Fitness 62 KAST Construction After all, what can Association, in partnership with the “I get to help other people live out their dreams, while I 13 Action Equipment 63 Study Edge one person do? UF Entrepreneurship & Innovation live out mine,” said Fleming. While her work focuses on health 14 P ower Production 64 Fusion CPA In the aftermath of Center, is privileged to recognize these Management, Inc. maintenance and injury prevention, her goal is to increase each 65 Frisco Family Vision the carnage at Marjory amazing entrepreneurs and honor the 15 Straughn Trout Architects athlete’s career longevity through exercises, stretching, strength 66 Capital Technology, Inc. Stoneman Douglas 100 fastest-growing Gator-owned or 16 Dome Headwear training and physical therapy. 67 Park and Eleazer High School, Robert Gator-led businesses. 17 Gast Construction Group Construction, LLC Fleming herself trained as a competitive dancer and singer Yormack 18 Embark Safety 68 Max Health for 15 years. As a child, she dreamed of performing on Broadway, (BSBA ’95) Gator100 companies have been in 19 Gr een Design Construction 69 AE Engineering, Inc. and now she has the chance to contribute behind the scenes. answered that question business for at least five years and and Development 70 JK2 Scenic “Every night I get to hear the show overhead, or I get to see it decisively. He couldn’t have annual revenues of $250,000 20  Avant Healthcare 71 Orchid Medical from the audience. It always feels special to me and I feel lucky to travel back to Feb. 14, or more. Entries are ranked by Professionals 72 Philotek be a part of it all,” Fleming said. 2018, and stop the Compound Annual Growth Rate, which 21 Construction Specialties & 73 Force Marketing teen from bringing an AR-15 to the Parkland campus and Design, LLC Today, Fleming is working with members of a smash hit is used to determine year-over-year 74 Current Builders killing 17 people. But Yormack and his family could very 22 KVC Constructors Broadway musical. Read her blog at https://www.neurotour.com/ growth over the past three years. 75 Rad Wear, Inc. deliberately resist the tug toward despair or indifference. 23 Paragon 28 blog/qa-life-as-a-touring-physical-therapist. CAGRs are determined by global 76 Southeast Veterinary They could, as Robert Yormack (pictured above with 24 Xcel Wealth Management Neurology — JULIE WALTER accounting firm Ernst & Young, which his family) put it, “just do something nice.” 25 Emerald C’s Development, Inc 77 Landmark Title ensures confidentially of financial That something nice — the Marjory Stoneman 26 Twinkle Toes Nanny Agency 78 Commercial Systems Group submissions and Gator100’s integrity. Douglas High School Scholarship in Memory of Scott 27 Ctrip 79  Diversified Realty 28 AIT Engineering Beigel — both honors a life lost and helps survivors and Congratulations, winners! Development Co. 29 J2 Solutions, Inc. 80 Optimum Healthcare IT future UF students find a way forward. 30 RVG & Company 81 Search Discovery Inc. Beigel, 35, was killed when he unlocked his classroom 31 Social News Desk 82 Friedland Vining door during the shooting to shelter students. The 32 Scorpio 83 Boggs Vickers Architechts geography teacher and cross-country coach had also spent 33 Chloe’s Fruit 84 Workwell Technologies 28 summers, first as a camper and then as a popular 34 Captozyme 85 JK2 Construction counselor, at Camp Starlight in Pennsylvania. Yormack’s 35 Macallan Real Estate 86 Kinetix Physical Therapy two teens were Camp Starlight regulars. 36 JAX Refrigeration, Inc. 87 Member Benefits The first recipients of the UF scholarship are expected 37 Orocon Construction, LLC 88 Capaz Law Firm, P.A. to be named in the spring. Hearing expert Dr. Marshall N’Guessan (center, orange shirt) 38 Global Trust 89 M iller Construction helps Côte d’Ivoire residents improve their hearing. “I think the whole thing is amazing,” said Beigel’s 39 PHOS Creative Management, Inc. (MCM) mother, Linda Beigel Schulman, who did not know 40 Protean Design Group, Inc. 90 We Insure Group Yormack until he approached her about the scholarship. 41 ROI Healthcare Solutions 91 First Green Bank A SOUND CALLING “He thought of something positive and he made it happen. 42 Worth Advertising Group 92 Parisleaf Marshall N’Guessan 43 Awesome Motive Inc. 93 Vector Firm Dr. (HHP 03) returned to his native I’m so thankful to him and to UF.” 44 Edge Construction USA, Inc. 94 Highland Homes country, Côte d’Ivoire in Africa, for a medical mission this Yormack is uncomfortable with accolades. “We’re 45 Amicon Management 95 D eAngelis Diamond fall. He conducted hearing screenings for almost 200 residents, being supportive,” he says, crediting his family with 46 AspirEDU 96 Marquis Latimer + Halback, Inc. of which about 30 percent had some form of hearing loss. He shaping the idea. “I don’t think people really know how 47 SKY Facial Plastic Surgery 97 Petersen Industries, Inc. is working to implement newborn hearing screenings, raise easy it is to be generous in some way.” 48 Medical Care Alert 98 Zinnia Wealth Management awareness about hearing loss prevention and help residents get “And maybe it allows those students to do something 49 Sarah Cain Design 99 Tropical Smoothie Cafe hearing aids. He plans to return in September to screen children for the next person.” 50 JWB Real Estate Companies 100 Blood Company before their school year begins. — NICOLE NEAL

42 | SPRING 2019 FLORIDA GATOR | 43 THE SIXTH ANNUAL ACADEMY OF GOLDEN GATORS IS A CELEBRATION OF GENEROSITY, VISION AND LEADERSHIP

By David Finnerty

On UF Involvement: On Giving to UF: Advice to Alumni: Role in UF’s Ascent: “We believe UF is solving significant “I hope Irene and I can play a “When the university asks, just say, “I’m just one small piece to a really big issues for people and our world. The small part in young men and ‘yes.’ Get involved, whatever you can puzzle. There are a lot of folks who Gator Nation always rises to lead the women attaining their goals and do. Give some money, whatever you have made [UF’s rise] possible.” way, and we are grateful to be on aspirations.” can afford. You’ll find you get more the voyage together.” out of it than you put into it.”

HAT DO A UF TRUSTEE, RACEHORSE BREEDERS, A FURNITURE STORE WFRANCHISE OWNER AND A MARRIED COUPLE WHO MET AT A CAMPUS TALENT SHOW HAVE IN COMMON?

All are the latest inductees into one of the YOUNG PHILANTHROPISTS AWARD LIFETIME PHILANTHROPY AWARD LIFETIME VOLUNTEER AWARD VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR AWARD

University of Florida’s most prestigious THE TALENT COUPLE THE RACEHORSE BREEDERS THE FRANCHISER THE TRUSTEE societies: the Academy of Golden Gators. The James (BSBA 91) & Don and Irene Dizney Keith Koenig (BSBA 73, MBA ’5) Rahul Patel (BA 94, JD 97) Elizabeth (BSA 92) Gadsby ost Gators recognize the Dizney or Koenig, his college choice was s a student, one of Patel’s activities academy honors Gators whose support and he Gadsbys met at a UF talent show Mname from the campus lacrosse Fnever a question. UF was where he Ainvolved working on UF’s Preview leadership are driving UF’s rise to the top of Tin 1989 and have been inseparable stadium that bears the family’s moniker. and his high school buddies had decided team to help incoming freshmen and since. Together, they share a commitment Owners of an Ocala horse breeding, to go, sight unseen. Five decades later he’s transfers navigate their new school. So the nation’s best universities. to improving the lives of others. Their boarding and training farm, their still committed to UF, where the now it made sense that he would continue alma mater is one of their favorite ways to contributions go far beyond the stadium, president of City Furniture has served on his goodwill toward The Gator Nation do that. The couple is especially generous however. The Dizneys — whose children an array of councils and boards, including after graduation. During Patel’s service when it comes to scholarships and David (84-85) and Danielle (MSNSG the presidential search team that brought to UF, he’s been president of the Alumni endowments for students and professors. 08) attended UF — support a long list of Kent Fuchs to Gainesville. Association and a university trustee. campus programs.

44 | SPRING 2019 FLORIDA GATOR | 45 TEACH • CONSULT • INSPIRE The choice is yours with a UF DBA

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BEST PLACE FOR GEAR! DR. WILLIAM SLATTERY III CAN NOW ADD ACTOR TO HIS EXTENSIVE RESUME. His film debut came after one of his patients, actor and director Bradley Cooper, sought his advice about noise-induced hearing loss and tinnitus for a subplot of his movie, “A Star is Born.” “[Cooper] wanted to get it right,” says Slattery, who thought nothing more of Cooper’s inquiry. A few weeks later, Cooper called Slattery again. This time, he asked his doctor to appear in the film as the main character’s ear doctor. “I said, ‘Bradley, I’m not an actor; I’m a surgeon.’” After Cooper assured him and suggested he “just be himself,” Slattery and his wife drove to Coachella, a few hours outside of Los Angeles, to film the segment. “It was an amazing experience,” Slattery says, adding that his 10-second clip took an hour and a half to shoot. Afterward, Slattery stayed to watch the filming of other scenes from the producer’s pit. An internationally recognized otologist who holds several board appointments, DR. WILLIAM SLATTERY honors, awards and seven patents for hearing-related devices and processes, Slattery (HS 92,HS 93) says it is unlikely he’ll appear on-screen again soon. President, House Clinic in Los Angeles; “When I think about it, I starred between one of Hollywood’s leading men and Physician and surgeon, House Ear Clinic; one of the world’s greatest singers [Lady Gaga] and I’m not sure that my acting Clinical professor of Otolaryngology at the University of Southern California Reitz Union - Museum Road career can go up from there,” says a lighthearted Slattery. “So, I’ll stick with my day UFloridaShop.com and UCLA; Cofounder and CEO of

352.392.0194 | PICTURES BROS. WARNER BY PROVIDED | ENOS CLAY BY PHOTO job as an ear surgeon for now.” O’Ray Pharma Inc. — RENEE ZEMANSKI

46 | SPRING 2019 FLORIDA GATOR | 47 UFAA NEWS UFAA NEWS GRAND GUARD REUNION 2018 THE UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA IN 1968 DIDN’T CLOSELY RESEMBLE UF TODAY: Female students followed strictly enforced curfews. Men and women alike were subject to dress codes. And almost none of the buildings on campus were air-conditioned. REUNION CHAIRS JANICE AND BILL CARR Despite its differences, one thing’s remained the same: UF students’ steadfast love and commitment to their university. At the 2018 Grand Guard Reunion, alumni celebrated the 50th anniversary of their graduation in a weekend hosted by the UF BLACK ALUMNI REUNION Alumni Association, complete with breakfast, TH behind-the-scenes tours and a tailgate before a Gator football victory. CELEBRATES 25 ANNIVERSARY At the Breakfast of Memories, alumni stood MORE THAN 175 UF ASSOCIATION OF BLACK Ian Green updated attendees on one of the and shared some of their favorite moments ALUMNI (ABA) MEMBERS RETURNED TO ABA’s goals: the creation of Bridges, UF Student from their time as undergraduates, while others GAINESVILLE Nov. 2-4 to celebrate at the organization’s Government’s minority outreach program to increase confessed to decades-old pranks. 25th annual reunion. The event was complete with a black student enrollment rates over the next decade. “Do you remember the dorms being toilet- business meeting, champagne Fort Lauderdale attorney papered? That was me!” joked Karen Koegel brunch and pre-game tailgate. Yolanda Cash Jackson urged (BAE 68) of Gainesville. Attendees included graduates members to support both the Grand Guard initiates were invited to tour from the early 1960s up through ABA and UF to further its goals. the Butterfly Rainforest housed at the Florida the class of 2018, who combined to Quentin Morgan, Richard Museum of Natural History, Hernandez Hall, make the reunion’s biggest tailgate Allen, Nicole Cuthbertson, the newly constructed chemistry research facility, attendance yet, said ABA President Staci Golden and Robyn or backstage at the Phillips Center. Yvonne Hinson (BAEd 71, MEd 72) Hankerson were recognized for At the Grand Guard induction ceremony, of Gainesville. their leadership, philanthropy President Kent Fuchs, joined by UF Alumni At the reunion, Vince and and achievement in their Association executive director Matt Hodge, Valerie Green, parents of UF communities. welcomed the alumni home and thanked Student Government President Ian Hinson said the 2019 reunion them for laying the groundwork for UF’s Green, presented the ABA with a plans have already begun. It current success. $100,000 scholarship endowment promises to be “even more “I hope that we preserve what you loved about and challenged alumni to pledge rewarding” with the grand this university, and I hope we’ve built on that,” nearly $50,000 more in donations. opening of the new Institute for Black Culture this fall, he told attendees. “We certainly wouldn’t have The ABA awarded scholarships — two at $1,000, as well as the new Green scholarship endowment, which been able to come this far without your support, one at $750 and one at $500 — to Nyla White, Romae “spurred a new movement of giving.” and without your loyalty, and without your love Morgan, Johann Carelus and Cy-Ann Small, respectively. — SCOTTIE ANDREW for this university.”

— SCOTTIE ANDREW MCCLENNY BRAD AND DAYE AARON BY PHOTOGRAPHY

48 | SPRING 2019 FLORIDA GATOR | 49 CLASS CONNECTIONS CLASS CONNECTIONS

THE GATOR CLUB® NETWORK

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(1) In conjunction with the Southeastern Conference, the (4) The Titletown Gator Club® in Gainesville hosted 150 (6) The Knoxville Gator Club® held their annual picnic (9) More than 70 St. Louis Gateway Gator Club® members DC Gator Club® provided gifts to Toys for Tots. Members are alumni and fans for an event with UF Ambassador Steve and cornhole tournament to raise funds for the club’s attended this fall’s opening football game watching party. pictured here delivering toys to their local Fire Station No. 1. Spurrier (BSPE ’81) in August. After the Head Ball Coach’s scholarship fund. (10) The Gotham Gators welcomed over 200 alumni for a (2) One of the DC Gator Club’s® speakers this year was presentation, the club recognized its 2018 scholarship (7) (L to R) Atlanta Gator Club® secretary Karrah Hammock pre-game happy before heading over to Madison Square (center) Kristen Berset-Harris (BSTEL 03), host of “Great Day winners. In October, Mark Wise (center), college basketball (BA 08), UF Alumni Association President Brian Burgoon Garden to cheer on the men’s basketball team in the Jimmy V Washington,” on CBS affiliate WUSA 9. Pictured with her are analyst for ESPN and the Gator Radio Network, visited. (BA 94, JD 97) and club vice president of outreach Allicia Classic vs West Virginia. From left to right (Chilka Patel, Scott club vice president Todd Thompson, club photographer April (5) Members of the Martin County, Treasure Coast, Space Salomon (BA 94) visited Mercedes Benz Stadium, home of Francis, Kimberly Schneider) Taylor and other club members. Coast and Palm Beach Gator Clubs® attended their first the Atlanta Falcons and Atlanta United stadium. (3) These DC Gator Club® officers, young alumni vice president Family Gator Night back in 2017 at First Data Field in Port St. (8) More than 50 members of the Southern California Gator Matthew Hoeck (BA 16) and vice president Todd Thompson Lucie. The group had fun cheering for Tim Tebow (BSA 09) Club® attended the Florida vs. Charleston Southern basketball (BA 01), joined a delegation of UF Student Government when he played for the St. Lucie Mets. game watching party this fall. The Gators won 76-46. representatives on their annual visit to Capitol Hill this fall.

50 | SPRING 2019 FLORIDA GATOR | 51 C CLASS NNECTIONS

MAKING HISTORY On Jan. 8, Nikki Fried (BA 98, MA 03, JD 03) of Miami became Florida’s first woman and first Jewish Agricultural Commissioner. As a special favor to Fried, UF’s Price Library of Judaica loaned her the first Hebrew Bible printed in America (Philadelphia, 1814) for her swearing- in ceremony. Fried replaces outgoing commissioner and fellow Gator (BS 95).

BULLARD LEADS BOWLS Tampa native and former Gator football star (1996- 2000) Thaddeus Bullard (BA 00), aka World Wrestling Entertainment star Titus O’Neil, served as chair of the 2018 Bad Boy Mowers Gasparilla Bowl executive committee. The Dec. 20 bowl game ended with a 38-20 victory for Marshall University over the University of Central Florida. The Gasparilla Bowl collaborated with Bullard’s Family Foundation and its Joy of Giving program to facilitate community initiatives in the Tampa Bay area prior to the bowl game. Bullard’s foundation strives to provide families and children everywhere with moments, programs and resources that help build character and improve outcomes. In addition to his role with the Gasparilla Bowl, Bullard was on hand for the Gators’ coin toss at the 2018 Peach Bowl in Atlanta’s Dome. As an honorary game captain, he accompanied senior Professional wrestler and former Gator football standout Thaddeus Bullard offensive lineman Martez Ivey (4 LAS) to centerfield. (BA 00) of Tampa participated in UF’s 2019 Peach Bowl pre-game activities.

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CITRUS INDUSTRY GATOR GOES NORTH THANKS GATOR Fewer than 40 people per year attempt the trans-Arctic ice crossing that Tim Hurner (HS 65, HS leads to the North Pole. Harvey E. Oyer III (BA 90, JD 98) joined that 76) of Seabring is the newest select group in 2018 when he cross-country skied there this year. member of the Florida Oyer, a partner in the legal firm Shutts & Bowen’s West Palm Beach Citrus Hall of Fame. The office, his four team members and a guide launched their adventure from former UF/IFAS extension agent Norway, flew to Russia’s Camp Barneo and then dropped from a helicopter for Highlands County spent decades as onto a moving ice sheet at approximately 89 degrees north latitude. Oyer director of the Citrus Institute at Florida admitted the trip was a “gamble.” Southern College and as the 4-H Youth “Because of the constantly moving ice sheets, open water and extreme Agent in that county. In the Lakeland weather, no matter how prepared you are, there is no guarantee that you will Ledger newspaper, Hurner said his make it,” he said. proudest accomplishment is “helping The team skied 12 hours-a-day while pulling a 100-pound supply sled educate students,” whether young in -40°F weather. Oyer says the movement of the floating ice cap played in schoolchildren, master’s or doctoral their favor. candidates. He is still a certified crop “We drifted a little closer to the pole every night,” Oyer said. “We made adviser and “continues to consult with the pole in seven days instead of the average of 12 days. growers on occasion.” “There is a lot of beauty, but there is also a barrenness to it,” Oyer recalls GATOR INVENTS of the northern landscape. “For miles, there were no animals, no movement MINOR LEAGUE SHOT and no color. Then suddenly you see a 25-foot glacier of the bluest blue.” NEW CONTACT LENS On April 20, after crossing pressure ridges, ice rubble and the open Sam Popwell (MS 09, PhD 12) and his scientist teammates received Sports Management alumna Claudia Arctic Ocean, the group reached 90 degrees north. While it was physically Johnson & Johnson’s highest corporate award, the Johnson Medal, Davis (BSSPM 18) has joined the and mentally demanding, Oyer says the trip was worth it to stand on the top in November for developing the ACUVUE OASYS 1-Day with Charleston, S.C., RiverDogs minor of our planet. HydraLuxe Technology contact lens. He lives in Jacksonville. league baseball team’s front office as a — RENEE ZEMANSKI box office sales rep. Her journey through the minor leagues already includes stints GATOR LEADS PRODUCE INDUSTRY with the Miami Marlins and St. Lucie Mets. She is from Orlando. Members of the Florida Fruit & Vegetable Association elected Mike Joyner (BSAg 86) president in October. His experience IN PURSUIT OF GUILT- is vast, having recently served for eight years as assistant commissioner of agriculture and chief of staff for Florida’s FREE SWEETS Adam Putnam (BSAg 95). Joyner also Triathlete and investment banker Todd worked in public affairs and environmental affairs posts for The Hoffman (BSBA 02, MS 03) believed so St. Joe Company, Progress Energy (now Duke Energy) and the much in his cousin’s concept to develop Florida Department of Environmental Protection. a naturally sweet ice pop that he joined “There are challenges ahead for agriculture, which means that advocacy is more the company in 2011 and became its important than ever,” Joyner said. CFO. What’s more, in 2018 Chloe’s Fruit pops earned a top 10 spot on the ALUMNA SET TO STUDY IN Gator 100 list, which honors the 100 fastest-growing Gator-owned or Gator- Lara Alqasem (BA 18, BA 18) made international led businesses in the world. The pops can news in October when she won an Israeli Supreme be found at Publix supermarkets and Court case allowing her to enter that country. Ben- other retailers. Gurion Airport security detained Alqasem upon 941-320-3113 her arrival in Tel Aviv Oct. 2 when officers learned through one of her social media accounts that she had once led a UF student club, Students for Justice in Palestine. Officers claimed her participation in the club precluded her admission to the country per a new Israeli law that bans leadership from organizations that promote Israeli- boycotting activities. High court members said they ruled in Alqasem’s favor for two reasons: the Israeli Consulate in Miami approved her student visa; and justices doubted her dedication to anti-Israel activities since she had come to attend Hebrew University.

54 | SPRING 2019 FLORIDA GATOR | 55 CLASS CONNECTIONS CLASS CONNECTIONS

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Kendra WilliamsAround (BA 10) chomps Orlando mayor Buddythe Dyer (JD 87) WorldBrett Amron (BSBA 95) and Steven 01 07 13 while vacationing and visiting family and St. Petersburg mayor Rick Rosenwasser (BSBA 95) display in Belize City, Belize. Kriseman (BSBR 84) share their their Gator flag atop Machu Picchu Gator spirit in a souk (market) in in Peru. Marrakech, Morocco. 02 Diane Alterman Hatcher (JM 73) showed her Gator pride while on her Bob Jaye (BA 83) admires the 14 10 trip to Iceland. Cliffs of Moher on Ireland’s 08 Vanessa Begat (BSE 09) chomps in front of the Franz Josef glacier in Atlantic coast. 8 9 03 This spring, Joan (BAE 64) and New Zealand. Chris Ptachik (BSEE 65) took their 15 Robert Dowd (BSBA 81) and his Gator flag down under to Ayers wife Maribeth Krupczak took an Eric Heinrich (BSCE 79) and his Rock in the Australian outback. 09 escorted 10-day tour of Morocco, wife, Karen, show their Gator pride including Rabat, Marrakech, Fes, in Murmansk, Russia, next to the first (L to R) Philip, Alexandra, Glennys Erfoud and Casablanca. 04 nuclear-powered icebreaker. (JD 01) and Stefan Rubin (BSAC 96, JD 99) traveled to Iceland to see 16 Adam Vosding (BA 01) chomps with Europe’s second-largest Adriana Reyes (BSA 11) traveled 10 Dos Equis’ front man, the most 11 glacier, Langjökull. among local wildlife in interesting man in the world, in Mfuwe, Zambia. Tampa, Florida. 05 Gator “wolf pack” Geoff (BS 90, MD 93, HS 96) and Laura Wolf (BS 90, In all kinds of weather, the Morrissey Tito Ronchetta (BABA 05) and his MD 93, HS 97) and their children 11 17 12 13 family stuck together in Loveland, wife, Valeria, visited the Isla Cies off Kyle, Emma, Sarah, Adam (1BA) and Colo. (L-R) John P. Morrissey the coast of Vigo, Spain. Rachel (4LAS) try to stay warm (BSBA 86), Ryan Morrissey in Iceland. (4PHHP), John M. Morrissey Southern California Gator Club 14 (4PHHP) and Deb-by Morrissey. 18 member Ryan Chernet (BSBA 03) 06 Gary and Jean Krupinski, proud parents of Gator Andrew Krupinski (BSA 17), went to 12 Scott (BA 78) and Maureen Dubrovnik, Croatia this spring and Pierce (BA 78) show their Gator showed their Gator pride at pride at the Cliffs of Moher on the Dubrovnik City walls. Ireland’s Atlantic coast.

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56 | SPRING 2019 FLORIDA GATOR | 57 Life Member Benefits: With a UFAA Life Membership, never pay dues again with a one-time, tax- deductible gift to UF; gain express entry into our Gator Nation Tailgates and enjoy added benefits throughout Welcome New Life Members! the year. The following list of Gators reflect new Life Members paid in full as of Feb. 15, 2019.

Atlanta Gator Club® Christopher L. Strojie Amber R. Duke 07 Knoxville Gator Club® Randall M. Shochet 86 Charles T. Kung 86 & Jeremy N. Selbst 02 & Treasure Coast Gator Club® Marissa B. Baron 03 Lawrence W. Tyree 66 & Matthew E. Edelman 75 Richard Sardo 76 Martin H. Stern 61 & Lisa M. Guerra Megan L. Selbst 00 Michael J. Garavaglia, III 18 Robert J. Beach 17 Kathleen A. Plinske 12 Michelle L. Freeman 92 Kathy Stern Scott G. Taylor Harry Schindehette, Jr. 66 Lake County Gator Club® Sarasota County Gator Club® Gary L. File 70 Nathan J. Weber 95 & Daniel C. Heckman, III 12 Patrick R. Thume & Robert P. Wolfson, Jr. 84 Andrew K. Treadwell 03 & Victoria E. Lucas 09 Jason A. Collier 00 & Abdul R. Ghalayini 88 Amy L. Weber 96 David Klusmeier Casey Thume John T. Wynn, II 11 Kathryn N. Treadwell 04 Richard D. Saporita 62 Mary T. Collier 00 Sue E. Haupert-Johnson Lauren R. Zika 15 Chrystal R. Lewos 95 Anthony R. Zaleski Matthew C. Utter David W. Elsheimer 02 Titletown Gator Club® 83 & Allen L. Johnson 85 Tyrone B. McCloud 98 Las Vegas Gator Club® Charlotte Gator Club® Pasco County Gator Club® Jonathan C. Gordon 66 Julie A. Berthy 01 & Triad Gator Club® James C. Hoover 59 Jessica N. Pelkowski 14 Robert C. Anderson 73 Peyton C. Kruger Brian J. Acosta 17 Alden J. Jones 15 Brent A. Berthy 87 Stan A. Shuman Chris D. Killingsworth 01 Jake Schickel 70 & Kelly Dunn Christopher K. Gordon 06 Mortimer M. Labes Sophia F. Bracken Jennifer S. Leak 90 Cincinnati Gator Club® Carol B. Schickel 70 Triangle Gator Club® Lone Star Gator Club® & Ashley K. Gordon 07 Robin O. Oegerle 73 & Gordon S. Burleson, Jr. 62 Marybeth Palmer Carol A. Sanger 70 Benjamin C. Smith 11 & Glen A. Watford 79 Andre R. Clark 16 Kevin C. Hilberth 05 & William R. Oegerle 72 & Janet V. Burleson Mark A. Popkin 78 Michele G. Smith 12 Citrus County Gator Club® Trent M. Fields 15 Jennifer L. Hilberth 06 Meredith F. Swift Michael B. Canlas 16 Upstate Gator Club® John J. Scroggin 74 & James E. Wilkerson, Jr. 94 Sydney A. Bennett Robert J. Pillmore 69 Judith A. Crews & Mary Jane Durrell 55 Lynn Geiger-Scroggin 75 Philadelphia Gator Club® Savannah Gator Club® John A. Colasanti, Jr. 09 Gator Club® of Miami Douglas B. Smith 61 Henry A. Crews Paula H. Hinger 76 Julia A. Collins M. Jill Lockwood 69 Baltimore Gator Club® John E. Marmish, Jr. 67 Maryam L. Borrego 09 Michele N. Dill William Southerland, Jr. 03 Manatee County Gator Club® Alexandra E. Stanton Mitchell B. Herbert 01 Joseph Mattingly & Ana M. Cantero 83 Kylie M. Marcinkiewicz Seattle Gator Club® Gene S. Elliott & & Meghan Southerland Jason R. Hsu 17 Linda Mattingly James C. Cunningham, Shelby J. Smith 17 Pinellas County Gator Club® Matthew C. Dubois 00 Sherry W. Elliott Volusia County Gator Club® Katrina G. Lopez 05 Abbagail D. Smith Jr. 76 Patricia M. Castellano 92 Harold R. Rubin Macey E. Entrekin Jeri L. Francoeur 86 Marion County Gator Club® John R. Cone, III 58 (PhD 56) Big Lake Gator Club® Clay County Gator Club® Clifford J. Dropkin 73 Southern California Filiz N. Erenguc 05 Mori Hosseini & (BA 05) ROBERT CRISAFI Laura K. Chappell Lauren R. Connors 15 JAMAL SOWELL Charles B. Syfrett 69 & James H. Davie, II 72 & Dori B. Foster-Morales 89 Gator Club® Richard S. Farwell 64 & Forough Hosseini Retired serial entrepreneur and Mark A. Jank & Michelle P. Curtis 87 Florida Secretary of Commerce and Linda T. Syfrett 70 Christine M. Davie & Jimmy L. Morales Sara Forouhar 07 Sybil M. Farwell 65 Matthew P. Klippel patient safety advocate Sharon Jank Daniel V. DiLoreto 66 & President/CEO, Enterprise Florida David K. Friedland 85 Deanna N. Shumaker 05 Michael F. Foley 70 & Emili P. Mellor Bluegrass Gator Club® Connecticut Gator Club® Elaine M. DiLoreto Joanna Garcia 06 Martin County Gator Club® April S. Worsdell 96 Suzette J. Foley Scott F. Weiss 72 & UF Student Body President, 2004-05 His career includes Vivian Ruth Sawyer & Elizabeth Hole 96 Guillermo T. Gonzalez 14 Maxmilian A. Koessick 04 Miranda D. Ferguson Antonio N. Garcia 95 & Karen Weiss UF Hall of Fame, 2005 Southwest Florida Tom Noland Dallas/Fort Worth Ronald N. Magill 80 & & Cassandrea M. Koessick Michael P. Halpin Lisa M. Garcia 95 numerous contributions Gator Club® Washington DC Gator Club® Broward County Gator Club® Gator Club® Rita Magill Teena-Louise M. White 10 Nikitas N. Manias 74 & Patricia A. Hamilton 99 & Erik W. Benson 96 Shaina O. Amienyi 08 “As a life member, I that reduced medication Dylan T. Abeles 17 Joan F. Carroll 92 & Benny William S. Moser 55 Aspasia Haskopoulos-Manias Andrew R. Hamilton Music City Gator Club® Corey J. Berner 14 Veronica Meinhard 93 Mark C. Brunt 99 & F. Vaughn 85 Erik L. Myers 94 & Connolly C. McArthur 96 & Lanie R. Hibbs contribute to the continued error rates in hospitals Rick Scarola 82 Stefanie W. Cutshall 94 & Joseph T. Palaganas 88 Tassia N. Brunt 98 Jana L. Myers 94 James C. McArthur Jaron L. Jones 15 Emerald Coast Gator Club® New England Gator Club® Paul L. Cutshall, Jr. 92 Benjamin J. Rosenbaum 05 growth and elevation of our nationwide, such as Judson Cone 92 Maria E. Perez-Zarraga 77 Diane H. Minnix 78 Nicky J. Jones 16 Donna M. Barton 79 & Robert C. Crisafi 56 Ben B. Korbly 68 & Thomas J. Street, Jr. 71 Stephanie A. Cruz 16 & Daniel F. Perez-Zarraga 75 Elizabeth A. Moraguez 14 & Cassandra P. Kuhn great university. My parents Douglas C. Barton Stephen O. Heard 84 Mary B. Korbly 70 Douglas J. White, Jr. 11 unit-dose cups for liquid Philip A. Duvalsaint 93 Victor R. Robles, Jr. 07 Michael R. Moraguez 14 Debra S. Logeson & Frank Sedmera, Jr. 66 Madison S. Wunderlich William A. Ziegler 92 Linda S. Schwartz 67 Matthew W. Orrell 96 Nathan W. Logeson are alumni contributors to UF medications and bar code Jennifer Y. Guerrant 06 Gerald R. Wolsfelt 65 Polk County Gator Club® John P. Holgerson 17 Scot Strems 03 New Orleans Gator Club® Katie A. May 10 Space Coast Gator Club® Marilyn E. Mahon Windy City Gator Club® Gateway Gator Club® Herbert F. Coard, IV 18 Linda E. Manning 70 Janelle F. Czapar 17 and I am equally passionate scanning at patients’ Sean P. Lorey 08 Gator Club® of Naples Michael D. Postoll 11 & Robert W. Sim 66 & William J. Newman 01 & Douglas L. Dial, Sr. 75 Michael T. Massengill 18 Santiago G. Marquez Jack I. Schechter 85 April B. Postoll Maureen M. Sim No Gator Club® Affiliation to continue their tradition” Brianne M. Newman bedsides. He founded Shawn T. Pariaug 01 Muthithar A. Vinson 97 Michelle J. Taunton 84 Elizabeth D. Dittmer Chelsea W. Maxwell 14 George Y. Antoniades 09 Gotham Gator Club® Kenneth A. Perkins 63 Gator Club® of Historic St. Deborah M. Lombard 84 Josiah McLaughlin Jason M. Brydges 95 & 12 successful healthcare Lauren K. Brown 16 North Florida Gator Club® Portland Gator Club® Enterprise Florida is a Lois B. Perkins 59 Augustine Cameron Matos Jonathan H. McWhorter Lisa G. Brydges Angela A. Buonocore 78 Deborah N. Eadie 79 Carley T. Fledell 01 companies and is a John F. Schmatz 74 Eugene J. Fraser 76 & Trinity A. Turinetti Richard G. Miller Mirta A. Carter 06 Lisa B. Davis 98 & Donna J. Ellerkamp 11 Adeline D. Fournet 16 & public-private partnership Richard A. Young, Jr. 94 & Danielle E. Fraser Kimberley B. Mowery 96 & Russell W. Winkel 15 Steel Gator Club® Robert M. Causey 95 & Paul A. Davis Northwest Florida Arthur J. Mowery, Jr. 91 fervent supporter of UF Jun W. Young Sharen W. Halsall 85 & Richard L. Boswell, II & Jonna W. Causey 95 between Florida’s business Adam G. Harpool 08 Gator Club® Putnam County Gator Club® Alexandra G. Mueller Capital Area Gator Club® Gerald H. Halsall 59 Regina A. Boswell Anne W. Fernandez 81 College of Pharmacy Peter Liao 96 David B. Aronson 52 Susan K. Chappell 95 & Savannah S. Patterson and government leaders, Gabrielle G. Cannella Kimberly R. Loferski 90 Albert L. Wright, Jr. 04 Mary V. Fisher 67 & George R. Noorigian 68 Danica M. Bardin 11 Thomas E. Chappell, Jr. Suzannah E. Patterson students, faculty and Glenn R. Hosken 69 Zachary T. Murta Allan R. Fisher Larry M. Bowyer 69 Tito S. Smith 72 Tampa Gator Club® Syleena A. Powell and the principal economic John P. Mahoney 70 & Rene K. Naughton 72 & Greater Richmond Karen W. Hodges 73 medication safety Bradley A. Leuchtman 13 Brianna R. Carlisle Yalu Qiao 17 Barbara P. Mahoney Peter H. Naughton Gator Club® Rocky Mountain Gator Club® Charles R. King 57 development organization Eric L. Schwartz 17 Julia H. Cogburn 96 & Joanne Rockwood & Tate C. Reed Elizabeth R. Krentzman 85 Charles T. Dwyer 90 & Ryan A. Loundy 09 programs. He also started Matthew R. Cogburn 99 Central Florida Gator Club® James R. Robbins Donald L. Rockwood for Florida. Its mission is to Hampton Roads Gator Club® Palm Beach County Mary E. Dwyer 89 Jeffrey T. Nkansah 06 Anne S. Abeel 71 Stephen A. Crane 71 & Krisanne Russell-Vann 95 & the Crisafi Challenge, an Emma Sims Gator Club® Robert J. Sabis 15 Sara S. Polisuk 03 Isabella K. Mock Nancy B. Crane expand and diversify the Kerrianne P. Arnold 14 William E. Snyder, Jr. 70 & Steven R. Vann 97 Michael A. Toone 94 Rachel H. Berg 97 Lindsay L. Schoettinger 03 Rachel P. Ray 93 Wendy M. Asher 90 & Thomas Elligett, Jr. 75 & Scott M. Ryals 13 & annual matching program Catherine H. Snyder 70 Marc V. Bongiovi 97 & Michael G. Sutherland 05 Spencer A. Rygas 95 state’s economy through Dean Asher Cheryl E. Elligett Sydney L. Van Dyke Houston Gator Club® Mollie J. Bongiovi 96 Sara R. Ryals 03 John B. Steele 01 & at UF Pharmacy to fund William P. Battaglia 72 Royal Dutch Gator Club® Sean L. Fillingham job creation. Its activities Allison P. Wenzel Mustapha Beydoun 92 Alisa B. Cohen 78 & Sally E. Ryden Heather Edwards-Steele 01 Lorena G. Dunlap 59 Margerit F. Bijsterbosch 02 Allison R. Fritz scholarships that recruit Kerry L. Whitaker 93 Drew C. Bulawa Richard Cohen Mary M. Saussy Gary L. Stone & Kristen J. Giambruno 13 Christopher Massengill champion Florida as the Stephen C. Wilkinson Elizabeth V. Eversole 17 Andrew R. Comiter 03 & Sacramento Gator Club® Charles B. Sewell 13 Lorraine M. French 81 LaShawnda K. Jackson 99 Domingo A. Mercado 17 the best and brightest Penelope E. Morrison 77 Pamela M. Comiter 07 Richard W. Dallas 71 Tabitha A. Sparks 09 & premier location for business Arthur W. Johnson 68 & Gator Club® of Jacksonville Christopher D. Mercer 98 James J. Sandy, III 80 & Kelsey R. Cote 17 Pamela A. Stone 92 & Jason F. Sparks students. Allison K. Archer 13 Ryan D. Murtagh 96 & Sandra H. Johnson Bobette B. Sandy Erik Wienert James R. Tyger 10 expansion and relocation. Jim Bentley 70 & Kenneth J. Folsom 72 Blake E. Johnson 13 Philip M. Tenenbaum 78 & Paige A. Murtagh 98 Karen J. Walker 92 & Carol H. Bentley Jordan K. Gableman 18 San Francisco Bay Area Beth G. King 80 Donna L. Tenenbaum 78 Carol B. Nordquist 93 & William H. Marquardt Valerie C. Bouchelle & Alex J. Hernicz 16 Gator Club® Noel Mier, Jr. 04 Bradley B. Nordquist John R. Wallace 15 Howard P. Bouchelle, Jr. Indy Gator Club® James A. Macaluso 89 James M. De Buizer 95 YOU CAN UPGRADE to Life Membership James L. Moore 99 Keely N. Orselli 14 Richard E. Weinstein 84 Lynda L. Hazlett 84 Gabriele Rossi Lemeni Fernando A. Nin & Michaele C. Bradford 07 Randall S. Glein 88 & Christine T. Panganiban 95 at connect.ufalumni.ufl.edu/membership/membership-types Makedon 17 Mary Wells-Prine 73 Poonam D. Patel 08 Patricia M. Calhoun 89 & Kansas City Gator Club® Sharon Glein & Rudolfo A. Panganiban, or call 352-392-1905. David L. Roth 68 & James F. Page, Jr. 72 Arthur Mosley Jodi P. Izzo 01 Arnold J. Goldberg 90 & Jr. 92 Paula Peterson-Roth Luke R. Pompos 18 Virginia E. Cooksey Lisa Goldberg

58 | SPRING 2019 FLORIDA GATOR | 59 THEN & NOW THE CARILLON TOLLS FOR THEE FROM THE TOP OF CENTURY TOWER OVERLOOKING CAMPUS, UF’s carillon tolls the hours, half hours and quarter hours. Its cast bells are also played by a handful of students on special occasions and holidays, such as this fall when one carillonneur treated listeners to select pieces from “Phantom of the Opera” during the lunch hour. This year marks the carillon’s 40th anniversary. The drawing below reflects an early tower design. However, a lack of funds led to today’s streamlined version. IMAGES COURTESY OF UF SPECIAL COLLECTIONS LIBRARY

INSTALLED: Nov. 3, 1956 IMPORTED: UF’s bells were forged in Asten, Netherlands, shipped to Charleston, S.C., by freighter and trucked to GIFT: A.D. Davis and J.E. Davis, two of the four sons who built Gainesville. UF President Robert Marsten and Student the successful Winn-Dixie Food Stores chain from their father’s Government championed the carillon’s renovation in 1977. company, paid for the original 47 cast bells ($199,545 in 1978) in honor of their parents Milton and Ethel Davis. PRACTICE: Student carillonneurs audition and practice on a 6 ½-foot long keyboard that is connected to xylophone bars. TOTAL BELLS: 61, the largest cast-bell carillon in Florida INSIDE: The carillon is the only finished portion of Century RANGE: Four octaves plus one note Tower. Original plans for the tower itself (not the larger concept HEIGHT: Bells hang about 157 feet above ground below) included seven floors of galleries, classrooms and a memorial room dedicated to fallen Gator soldiers. However, those LARGEST BELL: A sharp, almost 70 inches wide, 3 ½ tons areas remain incomplete. Even the elevator shaft stands empty. SMALLEST BELL: High C, 8 9/16 inches wide, 31 pounds CLASS DISMISSED: When the second set of INSCRIPTION: On the largest bell, “Call together carillon bells were dedicated on May 14, 1979, those who are studious of all good things both human UF released students from fourth and fifth period You didn’t and divine” classes so they could attend the ceremony, as their fees (pre-1979) were used to buy the additional bells. LIL’ DITTY: “Florida Chimes,” the 45-second, four- choose cancer. part melody tune played on the hour each day, was composed by Dr. Budd Udell, who served as music department chair 1977-85 and on UF’s music faculty But you can choose until 2002. He died in 2006. proton therapy.

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