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This work is brought to you for free and open access by the Special Collections and University Archives at FIU Digital Commons. It has been accepted for inclusion in FIU Magazine by an authorized administrator of FIU Digital Commons. For more information, please contact [email protected]. j FLORIDA INTERACTIONAL* UNIVERSITY ______WINTER 2006 M A G A Z I N E

RiversRESCUING THE FIU leads the way in an international water management project that is equal parts environmental and humanitarian relief.

Also in this issue: FIU brings business Donors honored at Baseball Coach Danny Price ’74 expertise to rural Fill’s first Torch Society secures his legend with farmers in Latin America Induction Ceremony 1,000th game win Are you a card carrying Member?

If not, you missed... • FREE game-day tickets to any Fill sporting event • FREE food & drink at Alumni Association pre-game tailgate parties A savings of up to 25% off major car rentals (Avis, Budget, National, Hertz, Alamo) A stay at the Biltmore Hotel at 45% off the rack room rate FREE admission to limited access events (Dalai Lama, Maya Angelou, Mayor Carlos Alvarez's State of the County Address) FREE annual social at the President's House • 25% off Grand Tasting Event at the annual SOBE Wine & Food festival FREE member-only ice cream social at Cold Stone Creamery Special discount rates on travel packages, theme parks, dry cleaning, restaurants, career counseling,Toshiba laptops, and much more.

ALUMNI ASSOCIATION

To take advantage of exclusive Panther Perks offered to Alumni Association card carrying members call the Office of Alumni Relations today at 305-348-3334 or e-mail [email protected]. Visit the Alumni Association Web site at www.fiualumni.com to sign up and view the complete listing of all Panther Perks. | las0 Feel the Pride and Carry the Card. It has its privileges. FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY WINTER 2006 MAGAZINEFIU

on the cover in this issue

03 Wertheim Bestows Historic Donation 28 Views on the News: The Florida Comprehensive 04 In Brief Assessment Test

06 Cultivating Farming Success 30 A Diamond Life: FIU joins $4.5 million USAID effort to provide Coach Danny Price ’74 marks milestone win. agricultural and business expertise to farmers in Central America. 32 FIU to face UM in 2006: The two universities will play at the On the cover: Rescuing the Rivers 09 Student Profile: Orange Bowl. The cover photo was taken on Brazil’s Maija Renko Amazon River by professor Michael McClain, who has won a $4.45 million 33 Alumni News: 16 Alumni Profile: USAID grant to develop water C.A.M.R 4 Justice Foundation endows management initiatives in South America, Billy Lane '97 new Alumni Association student Africa and Asia. The father and son in the scholarship program. cover photo are Caboclos, Brazilian river 23 FIU pioneers network / o people descended from indigenous and FIU wins $5 million NSF grant to lead colonist blood. The father is showing off a 38 Class Notes /??/ leopard catfish and his son is holding a technology initiative linking U.S. and Latin piranha. McClain will work with rural American researchers. 40 Donor Profile: people to help them manage natural The Pino family gift of $2 rpiljion will support fisheries more effectively. 24 Torch Society Gold Flame future generations of e^tfeprerfeurs. Induction F 5 FIU celebrates the philanthropy 41 VIP: of its top donors in unique Jose Valdes-Fauli ’75 1 / - / 3 convocation. TORCH Z 0 0 4 SOCIETY r r

in the next issue Eminent Scholar Robert Moses Legendary civil rights activist Robert Moses, founder of the Algebra Project and*MacArthur Genius Award recipient, recently joined FIU as an Eminent Scholar at the Center for Urban Education and Innovation. We followed Moses last spring as he Together As One Alumni Profile: began sharing his unique approach to Husband-and-wife professors Harvesting A Dream educational activism with South Eduardo del Valle ’76 and Women’s studies inspires Florida students and teachers. Moses Mirta Gomez ’76 are partners organic activisim for brought his high-school Math Literacy in the creation of their Rachael Middleton ’01 Workers from Jackson, Mississippi, to photographic artwork, now start changing the way math is taught represented at New York’s in our area schools. Museum of Modern Art. MAGAZINEFIU WINTER 2006 pJoiume 13 j FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY

from the Editor

Dear Readers, FIU Magazine Editorial FIU MAGAZINE Florida International This issue of FIU Magazine is about growth and Advisory Board Division of University University 2005-06 Alumni Patricia Alvarez Advancement Association Board Executive Committee fulfillment — personal, professional, local and global. In Director, Sponsored Research Howard Lipman and Training our cover story, writer Sara Lajeunesse brings us the story Vice President, Ty N. Javellana, CPA ’88, Margarita Barreto University Advancement MST ’98 of FIU scientist Michael McClain and his environmental Associate General Counsel, President Office of the General Counsel Terry Withered Associate Vice President, work in South America, Africa and Asia. “I was moved and inspired by Pietro Bonacossa William R. Trueba Jr. ’90 McClain’s vision of a healthy world population in which clean water is Associate Director, External Relations President Elect Credit Programs Bill Draughon Continuing and Professional George B. Brackett Jr. ’76 ’77 available to all,” Lajeunesse said. “He is just one of those people who will Associate Vice President, Studies Secretary Alumni Relations manage to make real the dream of a better and more peaceful planet.” Gisela Casines Jose M. Perez de Corcho ’93 Our feature on Eduardo del Valle ’76 and Mirta Gomez ’76 illuminates Associate Dean Karen Cochrane Treasurer College of Arts and Sciences Interim Director, Raymond del Rey, CBA '97 the rare harmony between this married couple that has produced a life’s Carol Damian Editorial Services Parliamentarian Chair and Professor, William Stahl work of photographs. We are delighted they have shared their artwork with Department of Art and Art Director of Publications Gayle Ann Bainbridge ’75 History and Chair, FIU Magazine. We also shine a spotlight on FIU baseball coach Danny Past President University-wide Arts Council Deborah O’Neil Price ’76, who quietly captured his 1,000th win in 2005. Writer and Sally Gallion Editor Members at large Assistant Dean of Marketing, Stewart L. Appelrouth MS ’80 baseball fan Manuel Roig-Franzia noted: “Some head coaches suck energy Communication and Aileen Sola Publications, College of Art Director Jorge Bofill ’78 and attention — think Tommy Lasorda of the Dodgers with his outsize Business Writers Jose C. Bofill, Esq. '90 personality and celebrity pals or Earl Weaver of the Orioles with his famous Lillian Kopenhaver Dean, School of Journalism Karen Cochrane Joseph L. Caruncho, Esq. '81 rants. But Danny Price blends in with his coaching staff, an example that and Mass Communication Sara Lajeunesse Jose Manuel Diaz ’86 Manuel Roig-Franzia leadership isn’t always about being the loudest.” Larry Lunsford Ralph A. Espinosa ’89, MBA '94, Assistant Vice President Adriana Pereira ’05 Past President The thread running through our features is entrepreneurship, a of Student Affairs Albert del Toral ’05 pioneering spirit and originality that moves people like alumnus Billy Lane University Ombudsman Alexandra Pecharich Joaquin “Jack” F. Gonzalez '98 John Stack Magazine Intern Carlos H. Hernandez ’97 ’97 to act on their dreams. Professor, College of Law and Department of Political Science Armando Gonzalez ’05 Samuel C. Jackson '97 Alumna Rachael Middleton ’01 is also living her dream by marrying FIU School of Journalism Director, Jack D. Gordon Michael R. Mendez ’03 institute for Public Policy and Designers activism, feminism and entrepreneurship at her Three Sisters Farm. Lisa Peniche ’90 Citizenship Studies Oscar Negret We highlight a USAID-funded program that bolsters the agricultural Raul Perez Ballaga ’97 William Trueba, Esq. ’90 Photographers President-Elect, FIU Alumni Justo Luis Pozo ’80 economies of Central America. We also share news of how FIU captured a Association Geoff Anderson Gloria O’Connell $5 million grant to build high-speed networks to Latin America. Genevieve Vidal Estelle Vera ’88 Michael Upright Director of Recruitment and Dr. Susan Webster ’87 Success is measured differently for each alumnus, faculty and staff Admission, College of Health George Valcarce member, yet they all serve as inspirations for their vision, dedication and and Urban Affairs Stephanie Strange creativity. As always, I welcome your feedback at [email protected]. Assistant Director, Recruitment & Retention College of Engineering Cheers, Bob Wolff Associate Dean, Deborah O ’Neil College of Education Editor

Write To Us: Send your letters via email to [email protected], fax to 305-348-3247 or mail to PC 515, Miami, FL 33199. Letters should refer to content in the magazine, and may be edited for publication. All letters must include writer’s full name and address. Alumni, please include degree and year of graduation.

FIU MAGAZINE is published by the Florida International University Division of University Advancement. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. Distributed free of charge to alumni, friends, faculty and staff of the University. Postmaster and others, please send change of address information to FIU Magazine,, Office of Alumni Relations. MARC 510, Miami, FL 33199.

Copyright ©2005, Florida International University * Equal Opportunity/Equal Access Employer and Institution. This document was produced at an annua! cost of $78,748 or $.66 per copy to inform the public about a university program. Qualified individuals with disabilities as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act who need special accommodations for any FlU-sponsored event can request assistance by calling the number listed in association with the function. The request must be made five working days before the scheduled starting time. TDD, via FRS 1-800-955-8771. WINTER 2006 FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY MAGAZINE

BESTOWS W ertheim HISTORIC DONATION patents, trademarks and copyrights in various scientific fields. He is the chairman and CEO of Miami and London-based Brain Power Inc., the world’s largest manufacturer of optical instruments and chemicals.

DR.ilt.kKm Nt« v*I K m; •. v , In 1988, Dr. Wertheim joined the FIU Foundation Board of Directors, and within , Florida International University $ 40.000,000 a few years became chairman of the Board. He chaired FIU’s first capital campaign Forty Million oo/ioo and in the early 1990s, he spearheaded planning for the medical school. He now serves as chairman of FIU’s Health and Medical Education Initiative. FIU President Modesto A. Maidique accepts the presentation of the Wertheim gift from Nicole and Dr. Herbert Wertheim. Over the years, the Wertheims have made important contributions to the The Wertheim Foundation gift will have an impact of university, leveraging approximately $ 18 $40 million for the FIU School of Medicine initiative million in academic support and facilities Trustee and benefactor Dr. remaining $20 million will funding. In 1991, the Wertheims donated Herbert Wertheim, chairman establish the Dr. Herbert to the construction of the Wertheim of the Dr. Herbert A. and Wertheim Medical Education Conservatory, used to study tropical plants Nicole Wertheim Family Endowment Fund for and photosynthesis. In 1993, Wertheim Foundation, has announced a scholarships, professorships, established a visiting professorship in the commitment of $20 million to lectures and residencies. College of Business Administration to bring the FIU School of Medicine. Wertheims “The idea of contributing to the to campus distinguished lecturers and cash donation, the largest in FIU education of doctors and other health experts in the field of entrepreneurship. history, is eligible to be matched by the care professionals who will improve Two years later, the family’s generosity state of Florida, making the impact of people’s lives is important to me and my extended to the fledgling performing arts the gift $40 million, one of the largest family. I hope that by making this program and provided the means to expand to a public university in Florida. donation we encourage others to facilities and recruit top students. The “Dr. Wertheim has a history of support South Florida’s first public Herbert and Nicole Wertheim Performing supporting FIU that goes back almost medical school,” said Wertheim. “In Arts Center is currently a signature building 20 years,” said FIU President Modesto time, everyone in South Florida used by students and the community alike. A. Maidique. “He cares deeply for this will be touched by the goodness and Wertheim made his first public pledge of institution and clearly understands that the wonder of our new medical school support for the medical school project in his support for the FIU School of and its faculty and graduates in one way the summer of2004, and issued a challenge Medicine will have a very high return on or another.” for other donations. investment in terms of the legacy he will Dr. Wertheim is an optometrist, The FIU School of Medicine proposal leave the South Florida community.” inventor, educator, scientist, clinician, is under consideration by the Board of Half of the $40 million gift will be entrepreneur, philanthropist and Governors, which oversees the State earmarked for construction and the community leader. He holds numerous University System. Florida’s public universities graduated more Business program ranks than 1,000 nurses during the past academic Berkman appointed seventh in nation year; 88 percent of them passed. new acting provost The FIU College of Business Administration FIU President Modesto A. moved up two spots in U.S. News and World The U.S. Dept, of Labor estimates that nearly Maidique named Ronald Reports annual ranking of best business schools one million additional nurses will be needed Berkman as acting provost and at colleges and universities across the nation. across the country by the year 2010. executive vice president in The College of Business Administration now November after Provost Mark ranks at No. 7, compared to last year’s standing Ronald Berkman Rosenberg was selected to be the at number nine, in undergraduate international FIU wins grant to train new chancellor of the State University System. business programs. U.S. intelligence analysts Berkman brings to the job 15 years of “A committed student body, talented faculty A consortium of intelligence-gathering agencies academic administrative experience, including and dedicated staff have made the College of in Washington, D.C., has selected FIU to lead positions at the City University of New York Business Administration what it is today, and in the development of academic programs that and FIU, most recently as the executive dean of we are thrilled to have raised the bar this year,” will produce well-trained and more diverse the College of Health and Urban Affairs. said FIU President Modesto A. Maidique. intelligence analysts. “Dr. Berkman’s track record as an FIU’s ranking among the nation’s Top 10 The program will be housed in FIU’s Jack D. administrator, his penetrating intellect and his undergraduate programs in international Gordon Institute for Public Policy and respect for the academy convinced me and business places the school in the company of: Citizenship Studies and utilize existing classes the University of South Carolina-Columbia, in political science, geography, statistical others that he is right person to lead us through New York University, the University of analysis and foreign languages and add others this transition,” said Maidique. Michigan-Ann Arbor, the University of to produce competitive graduates. The grant Berkman, who has a doctorate from Princeton, Pennsylvania, the University of California- gives FIU $750,000 for the 18-month pilot came to FIU in 1996 to head what was then Berkeley, the University of Southern California program, renewable over four years for up to the College of Urban and Public Affairs. Under and the University of Texas-Austin. $3 million. Initially the program will offer a Berkman, the college grew to include four certificate, but the goal is to develop a schools and developed an interdisciplinary graduate degree. approach that combines the strengths of the Nursing graduates lead FIU was one of only four universities selected four schools. He is actively involved in FIU’s state on licensing exam for the pilot phase of the U.S. Intelligence initiative to establish a medical school. The graduates of FIU’s School of Nursing led Community Centers of Academic Excellence Maidique praised Rosenberg’s many the state this fall with a 97 percent pass rate on program. The others were: Georgia Institute of contributions to the university. “Mark has the national licensing exam, among the top Technology (Georgia Tech) and Clark-Atlanta played an historic role in building FIU into a nationwide. The national pass rate on the University, which are participating as a top public research university,” Maidique said. National Council Licensure Exam for consortium; Tennessee State University; and “Just as he has been an outstanding provost, he Registered Nurses is 85 percent. Statewide, Trinity College in Washington, D.C. will be an outstanding chancellor.” Hi

ACCLAIMED STRING ENSEMBLE BRINGS EXCEPTIONAL MUSIC AND EXPERTISE TO FIU & COMMUNITY The Amernet String Quartet, FIU’s new Ensemble-ln- Residence, expands appreciation for chamber music through public performances and student education.

By Armando Gonzalez ’05 members in the School of Music, they hope to invigorate The award-winning Amernet FIU’s program and contribute to String Quartet has joined FIU as its growth and prominence. the newly appointed Ensemble- in-Residence. The musicians “ It strikes me that a really hot say they are excited to be part music program is necessary at of a university with such a a major university like FIU,” said diverse talent pool. As faculty violinist Marcia Littley, who, as a

The Amernet String Quartet from left; Violinist Misha Vitenson, Cellist Javier Arias, Violinist Marcia Littley and Violist Michael Klotz. WINTER 2006 FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY MAGAZINE

•-in brief “Madria Tiri,” a mural by Gundo Bermudez, will be placed in Puerto Rico.

President Maidique leads the ribbon cutting for the new nanofabrication facility. Engineering opens new nanotechnology facility Florida International University dedicated the new Motorola Nanofabrication Research FIU President Facility in a ceremony last March 28 with Gov. Modesto A. Maidique In a career that spans more than half a century, Jeb Bush. The $15 million, 10,000-square-foot and Cundo Bermudez Bermudez’s work has been prominently facility is one of only a handful of facilities in FIU honors Cuban artist displayed in museums and art galleries around the world where nano-scale technology can be the world. Two of his quintessential paintings, designed, engineered, fabricated and tested. Cundo Bermudez El Balcon (The Balcony, 1941) and La The facility is located at the Engineering Center FIU has honored world renowned and Barberia (The Barber Shop, 1942) are and is outfitted with equipment donated by legendary Cuban painter Cundo Bermudez permanently in the collections of the Museum Motorola, a leader in communications with an honorary degree to recognize his of Modern Art in New York. technology. It will facilitate the research of more contributions in modern art. The 90-year- Although in exile since the late 1960s, than a dozen scientists who are developing old painter was pleasantly surprised when his work remains innately Cuban. A carnival sophisticated and powerful devices that are too President Maidique made the of form and color, it portrays aspects of small to be seen by the naked eye. announcement in Spanish during the everyday life in colorful strokes, flat figures “This facility and the scientific team we have conferral ceremony at the President’s and distorted planes that manage not to assembled can make an important University House. overwhelm the eye. The tireless artist is contribution toward propelling our state into “We honor and salute you as a pioneer of currently working on a commissioned this critical field,” said FIU President modern art in Cuba and Latin America,” six-panel mural for a building in Modesto A. Maidique. said Maidique. Puerto Rico.

Julliard student, founded the of challenges and opportunities. Joseph Rohm, interim director, touching emotions that quartet in 1991 with her “There is so much potential School of Music. “They are otherwise would not be husband, cellist Javier Arias. here,” said Littley. “There is so exceptional musicians who not reached,” said Arias, for whom much going on that I am finding only bring their expertise but a The Amernet String Quartet being a cellist is not a hidden surprises of very high real interest in educating and quickly gained praise and level work that I had no idea was recruiting students.” profession, but a way of life. recognition after winning the going on.” gold medal at the 7th Tokyo The Amernet String Quartet’s Arias likens the decision of International Music Competition Since coming to FIU, the arrival to South Florida benefits what to play to planning a in 1992. Since, they have been musicians have taught master not only students but also dinner. The quartet combines resident artists at Cincinnati classes and been to several high classical music aficionados. music that everybody will like University and Kentucky school performances. In June, Recently, they played Ravel’s with lesser known works to Northern University where fellow they hosted an intensive string “ String Quartet in F Major” to a expand the audience’s palate. Julliard graduates, violinist Misha quartet festival for young, small and intimate audience at Vitenson and violist Michael talented musicians. Students the Wolfsonian Museum. A The richness and complexity of Klotz, joined the quartet. worked through a rigorous week precise and vibrant a classical score can be thought of personal coaching, lectures interpretation, they played provoking, but Vitenson, the The quartet has received several and concerts. harmoniously, barely looking at quartet’s first violinist, is quick music fellowships for artistic each other, as if only one hand excellence and performed all “The Amernet String Quartet is to point out: It can only happen played all four bows. over the world, but coming to the focal point of our string and if you allow yourself to be South Florida offered a new set orchestra program,” said “Music enriches your life by affected by the music. Hi 6 FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY MAGAZINE WINTER 2006 Cultivating Farming $Success FIU BOOSTS AGRICULTURAL ENTREPRENEURSHIP IN CENTRAL AMERICA WITH USAID GRANT

By Deborah O ’Neil The the campesinos who make up 52 they thrived, sprouting abundantly. Generations of wisdom inform the percent of Guatemala’s workforce are The farmers then faced a new seasonal rituals of planting and Farmer-to- being urged to diversify the crops if challenge: What to do with all these harvesting in Guatemala’s distinctive Farmer they want to survive. strange vegetables? coffee, sugar and banana fields. But, Program The message by economic Turning this experiment into a faced with falling prices and development experts is taking hold. sustainable farming success — one that increased competition, fulfills the One experiment supported by would reinforce the economic stability “global” Guatemala’s agriculture agency of this developing country — would mission of brought bok choi, hairy cucumbers, take expertise beyond the father-to-son the Pino Chinese eggplant, bagana, knowledge of the farmers. It would take cundeamor and Thai okra to their someone like Shalni Chandwani ‘05, Center. fields. The vegetables — normally then an FIU MBA student with a grown in Asia — didn’t just grow, background in international marketing. Chandwani brought her expertise to Guatemala in May 2004 through the John Ogonowski Farmer- to-Farmer Program, a 5-year project at FIU’s College of Business Administration working with support from the Eugenio Pino and Family Global Entrepreneurship Center. FIU is a partner with the non-profit organization Winrock International in a $4.5 million Farmer to Farmer grant funded by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). Farmer-to-Farmer links agriculture, business and marketing professionals on a volunteer basis with agricultural organizations in developing nations around the globe. Winrock sought FIU’s collaboration in the program because of the WINTER 2006 FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY MAGAZINE

University’s expertise in Latin America, motivated to improve their business the Ewing Marion Kauffman its distinguished international business practices,” Salinero said. “For me, it Foundation $3 million grant that programs and ties with South Florida’s was a tremendous experience.” today sustains its major initiatives. business community. Through FIU, South Florida Winrock International, which businessman Juan Rosado assisted a works with USAID in developing Real-World Results Guatemalan agricultural association “It is nations, wanted to partner with a So far, FIU has recruited 101 in securing a $200,000 bank loan for looking for major, minority-serving university to volunteers — local farmers and a much-needed irrigation system. opportunities, implement the Farmer-to-Farmer scientists, business professionals, FIU Rosado showed the farmers how Program in Central America. students and alumni — for their lettuce sells for 40 cents a figuring “It was the perfect fit,” Carsrud assignments in Guatemala, Honduras, pound in El Salvador; while they out how said. “They could have gone to dozens Nicaragua and El Salvador. FIU’s 60 receive only 16 cents a pound from to do and dozens of universities. For the completed projects in Central America their buyer in Guatemala. center, it was a vote of confidence in have been a quantifiable success. For Rosado’s assistance was eye opening something what we were trying to build here.” instance, the farmers in Guatemala for the growers. with The USAID grant became the first utilized the marketing plan “Although the plan Juan Rosado left nothing.” of three major endowments the Pino Chandwani created to successfully with us was designed to be Center has captured in just two years.

close a deal on Asian vegetables. Alan L. “This allowed me to apply my Carsrud, knowledge and education to a real-life executive director, situation and the experience taught me Eugenio Pino a great deal,” Chandwani said. “It was and Family really neat to merge these two worlds of Global Entrepreneurship knowledge to make it successful.” Center Farming, after all, is an entrepreneurial enterprise. Alan Carsrud, executive director of the Pino Center, likes to say whether you paint, Humaya Frutas Cooperative Member Gregorio Benitez, Farmer-to-Farmer staff members meet with local dairy grow, sell or build for a living, you on his mango farm in Honduras. farmers in Rio Undo, Honduras. need entrepreneurial skills to succeed. implemented in two years, we have The Kauffman grant followed and in “It is looking for opportunities, already implemented around 60 December 2004, South Florida figuring out how to do something percent of it,” said Mariano Canu, businessman Sergio Pino gave the with nothing,” he said. “It is going president of the Guatemalan center $2 million to be matched by where people don’t expect you to go association. “We are now considering the state for a total $4 million. (See and doing things differently.” selling directly to the markets in El story, page 40). FIU alumnus and Denver real estate Salvador and, therefore, generating a The USAID Farmer-to-Farmer developer Omar Salinero ’90 provided larger profit on our product.” Program is named for John financial consulting to 10 farming Ogonowski, the American Airlines cooperatives in Nicaragua and worked A Perfect Fit pilot on Flight 11 that crashed into with them to determine their credit In 2003, FIU’s Global the World Trade Center in 2001. worthiness. At the same time, Salinero Entrepreneurship Center was a great Ogonowski helped immigrant farmers was able to help the cooperatives find idea — a new hub for research and from Cambodia by donating land in additional sources of money. initiatives that foster entrepreneurship Massachusetts for a commercial “I believe that the cooperatives felt a — but it needed an endowment. At “mentor farm,” where he worked new sense of purpose and were the time, the Center had not received alongside the growers.

continues FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY MAGAZINE | WINTERW 2006

continued In that spirit, USAID awards grants Opening new markets Guatemala City has one of the highest every five years to select non-profit Chandwani had never been on a concentrations of Chinese restaurants organizations and universities working “As a farm, nor was she familiar with the in the world. to promote rural prosperity in business agriculture industry when she Even better for Chandwani’s developing nations. volunteered to go to Guatemala. The Farmers, the restaurants didn’t have “It is a pretty competitive process,” person, my then 24-year-old wasn’t sure how she viable access to real Asian vegetables. said Carmen Algeciras ’01, MIB ’03, view of the would market the Asian vegetables, The Chinese restaurateurs told her director of the FIU Farmer-to-Farmer world is which had yet to be harvested when importing vegetables from Asia was program and international business she arrived. too expensive, so they used substitutes. graduate. “USAID is looking for global — The best of the crops was earmarked They were thrilled by the possibility of minority institutions to play a greater we’re all for export. Still the growers were left a more cost effective — and authentic role in international development.” about with about 12 acres of vegetables — — alternative. “I got a resounding The economies of Latin America and connecting maybe not the prettiest, roundest or response that if there was a local the U.S. rely heavily on one another. In smoothest — but certainly marketable supply of Chinese vegetables, they 2004, the U.S. imported $98.7 billion worlds — locally. Chandwani’s challenge was to would buy it.” of goods from Latin America and FIU identify a local buyer for the vegetables. And that’s exactly what happened. (excluding Mexico) and exported $61.4 gets that.” “They didn’t know what they were Soon after Chandwani left, the billion to the region. South Florida is going to do. They just had these farmers in this country where 75 the gateway for a great deal of United Shalni vegetables,” she said. “When I got percent of the people live below the States and Latin American trade — in Chandwani there I had three weeks. I thought, poverty line — sold the bok choi, hairy fact, more than half of the state’s trade ’05 ‘Three weeks? I need three years. ” cucumbers, Chinese eggplant, bagana, Farmer-to- is with Latin America. Farmer Chandwani put her MBA education cundeamor and Thai okra that had When Chandwani signed up for volunteer to work. “The way you study at FIU nowhere to go when she arrived. Farmer to Farmer, she was aware of — a lot of case studies looking at the Their first sale netted $135,000. the important relationship between problems of a company and the T o learn more about the Latin America and Florida. available solutions — had prepared Farmer-to-Farmer Program “FIU is really smart to recognize that me,” she said. “FIU gave me the skills please contact (305) 348-0399. relationship and work to enhance it,” to figure out a way to delve into the she said. “That shows insight into the problem and find a way out.” way of the world. As a business person, Chandwani traveled around my view of the world is global — we’re Guatemala City talking to merchants all about connecting worlds — and and learning about local markets. She FIU gets that.” soon made a surprising discovery:

The in GuatemalaParaxaj Association is successfully , a farming growing cooperative fields of lettuce using a new irrigation system :udent Maija nrofile

RenkoFIU’s first doctoral student in entrepreneurship wins prestigious national fellowship

She has traveled through Finland, the Silicon Valley and South Florida doing research for the two — yes, two — Ph.D.s she is completing.

By Albert del Toral ’05 -- tjf iI Here is the surprising conclusion of “Not only is the Turku School of Economics and being here in South Florida today.” Maija Renko’s research on biotech firms she a Business Administration. With the Kauffman fellowship, Renko from Finland to Florida: There are no Her foray into global entrepreneurship hopes to expand her research into dealing big differences in the marketing wonderful began after she finished her master’s with larger high technology firms. So far, strategies country-to-country. The research degree and went to work at a research her research on biotech firms in Finland, industry truly is global. colleague, unit in Finland. There, Renko focused Sweden, Pennsylvania, Northern As both a researcher and student, but she’s also on international marketing and California and South Florida has yielded Renko is a star at FIU — the University’s one of the top management of biotechnology firms. some interesting findings. While trying first doctoral candidate at the Eugenio doctoral Initially, the firms seemed to be to understand the entrepreneurial Pino and Family Global operating around scientific and attitudes and market orientation in high Entrepreneurship Center and the students in technological issues while ignoring technology firms, Renko has found that recipient of a prestigious Kauffman the field fundamental marketing lessons. Trying changes in operations occur by industry, Foundation fellowship. She was one of worldwide.” to figure out how the companies survive not by country. only 10 students in the nation chosen for in a global marketplace intrigued Renko. No matter where she goes, all firms the $15,000 award from the Kauffman Alan L. As a visiting scholar at FIU in 2003, seem to be facing the same problems Foundation, which awarded the Carsrud, executive then, as an exchange student at Stanford and, regardless of their size, their Entrepreneurship Center $3 million in director, in 2004, Renko began broadening her long-range goals are to secure a place 2003 to support education and outreach Eugenio Pino and Family research to strategize ways to help the in the worldwide market. These small initiatives that promote entrepreneurship. Global small biotech firms successfully compete. firms, she discovered, pay much “Not only is she a wonderful research Entrepreneurship Along the way, Renko has captured attention to marketing, as well as colleague, but she’s also one of the top Center numerous awards. Along with the other facets of the industry, such as doctoral students in the field worldwide, as Kauffman fellowship, the most understanding future customers. recognized by the Kauffman Foundation distinguished have been two Academy of However, they do it in ways that differ of Kansas City,” said Pino Center Finland grants totaling $31,000. greatly from the mainstream. Executive Director Alan Carsrud, who Renko credits the innovation of the Renko expects to complete her FIU recruited Renko to FIU in 2003. “We’re Pino Center’s programs under Carsrud degree in 2006 or 2007. When all the exceptionally lucky to have her.” for luring her back to FIU in 2005. research is done, Renko hopes her Renko’s academic career and research “When they speak of the great faculty findings will have implications, not only have crisscrossed continents. At the here at FIU, Alan is one of those for theory, but for business managers moment, she is also pursuing another people,” Renko said. “He’s taught me a making decisions in the global Ph.D. in her home country of Finland at lot and is one of the main reasons for my marketplace of today and tomorrow. | FLORIDA I^ I^ M ^ ^ M ^ NIVERSITY MAGAZINE WINTER 2006______

RESCUING THE RIVERS

Environmental Studies Professor Michael McClain leads a USAID-funded project to find solutions to troubling water resource dilemmas in South America, Africa and Asia.

By Sara Lajeunesse itself and become globally recognized The Amazon River pulses through “This can as the go-to people for this kind of the tangled jungles of South America be the work,” said McClain. bringing vital water resources to the mechanism The project will be launched with indigenous people of nine countries. for FiU to three pilot studies — one in western FIU associate professor of distinguish India on the Wakel River, one on the environmental studies Michael itself and Pastaza River, a tributary of the McClain sees precious beauty here, in become Amazon, and another in Kenya and Tanzania on the Mara River, which is the tropical canopies, in the colorful globally creatures that inhabit this place, in the part of the larger Nile River Basin. recognized faces of the children who depend on FIU will provide special expertise in the rivers bounty. as the go-to the studies required to guide people for A biogeochemist - someone who A Candoshi girl cleaning agouti, a forest dwelling management plans and higher level this kind rodent, along the Pastaza River, Peru. The Candoshi government actions. These include studies how biology, geology and tribe of northeastern Peru's rainforest numbers about chemistry work together in the of work.” 2,000 and relies on the forest and river for sustenance. analyses of water resource quantity Earlier in the day, the girl and her father had come environment — with expertise in upon a group of 30 agouti crossing the river, and from and quality, assessments of their canoe they bludgeoned them all. FIU faculty and water resources management of Michael students are helping the Candoshi to sustainably institutional strengths and McClain, manage their resources.(Photo by Michael McClain) weaknesses, and trying to find developing countries, McClain also professor, sees danger. The life support this enviromental important aquatic ecosystem services economically viable ways of ensuring waterway provides is threatened by studies that sustain human communities. the preservation of the rivers. The over-fishing, by pollution from His goal is to design ways to program will work with individual sewage, by medical wastes and implement water resources communities to manage fisheries and petroleum spills. management plans that address the natural resources more effectively. It For McClain, saving the Amazon needs of a variety of interests- will also look at the special role and other rivers like it across the globe agricultural, environmental, women play in these societies and is as much a humanitarian quest as it economic, human health — in work with local communities and is environmental. He recently won a countries that differ drastically. decision-makers to influence water- $4.45 million grant from the United As director of the project — it’s related development efforts. States Agency for International called GLOWS, short for Global “In many societies, women have Development (USAID) to expand his Water for Sustainability — McClain the primary responsibility for water research to Africa and Asia where he hopes to establish FIU as an authority supply, sanitation and health at the will study a multitude of water-related in the area of integrated water household level,” said Elizabeth topics ranging from improved water resources management. “This can be Anderson, the technical supply and sanitation to protecting the mechanism for FIU to distinguish coordinator of GLOWS for FIU. ? ? fissm sanitation a global priority. a global sanitation adequate and water drinking safe of 2005-2015 the “Water for Life for “Water the 2005-2015 grow food for the family.” the for food grow or income generate children, for Decade,” which makes the provision theprovision makes which Decade,” more time to attend schools, care care schools, attend to time more them give will supply water reliable National Serengeti to water clean of flows adequate FIUfaculty other and McClain program. GLOWS the are working with partners in the Mara to ensure ensure to Mara the in partners with working are “Improving women’s access to a to access women’s “Improving McClain) Michael of courtesy Singler, Heather by (Photo Park. on the Mara River, Kenya/Tanzania. The Mara is a is Mara The Kenya/Tanzania. River, Mara the on FIU Professor Michael McClain beside a hippo pool pool hippo a beside McClain Michael Professor FIU headwater river to the Nile and a pilot basin within within basin pilot a and Nile the to river headwater Two young girls play in a tributary of the Amazon near their home in Puerto Bermudez, Peru, that is contaminated with raw sewage and medical wastes from the local hospital - a - hospital McClain) local the Michael by from (Photo wastes medical management. and sewage raw resources water with integrated on contaminated is research his that Peru, Bermudez, through Puerto prevent in to home hopes McClain their near Amazon the situation of tributary ain play girls young Two The United Nations has declared declared has Nations United The acceptance of water integrated of acceptance the in progress significant made fiveif,after years,success havewe management systems. management experience to apply workable apply to experience and knowledge thegenerally lack who the ground on managers development issues and resource and issues development oversee who policymakers GLOWS to bridge the gap between gap the bridge to GLOWS supporting is USAID actions. human and effective technology and natural water issues with appropriate appropriate issues with water natural of capable system management integrating scientific understanding of of understanding scientific integrating and governance a requires This needs. social and economic environment and other human human other and environment thebetween createharmony tois vision USAID’s ecosystems, many elements of human life and lifeand human of elements many “We will consider GLOWS a GLOWS will“We consider Because water resources touch so touch resourceswater Because environmental. humanitarian humanitarian rivers like it it like rivers globe is as is globe across the the across and other other and Amazon Amazon much a much asisit Saving quest the the I know of.” know I McClain. said world,” developing vehiclesallover theand people suddenly have a network of offices, of network havea suddenly “This is an opportunity like none that that none like opportunity an is “This in volunteers placing on focuses that non-profit a Amizade, and lakes; international work. international protect, to work who organizations and individuals 1600 than more of World Wildlife Fund, which works to works which Fund, Wildlife World organization; Lake Net, a consortium consortium a Net, Lake organization; a Vision, World worldwide; habitats and species endangered protect Christian relief and development development relief and Christian renewal, is a partnership with the with renewal,a partnership is for opportunity with agreement Murray. Sharon program USAID’s manager for the GLOWS GLOWS the for manager USAID’s said development,” of principle resource management as a first a as management resource “Through these collaborations, we thesecollaborations, “Through The project, which is a five-yeara is which project, The HARVESTINGBy Manuel Roig-Franzia A DREAM

FIU ALUMNA RACHAEL hree sisters farm glows in the gold of late afternoon. The sun’s rays, so warm and gentle, almost seem to play tricks on the eye. But MIDDLETON ’01 T what they illuminate is real. BLENDS FAMILY, The beans, green and dusty on any old farm down the road, are the deepest purple FEMINISM AND here. The hanging clump in the tree, surely a honey-combed beehive from a distance, FARMING, NATURALLY. is a lumpy jackfruit, dangling like the weird and wonderful centerpiece of an outer- WHETHER IT'S space holiday display. Under the tree, a Doula named Lula — this is not a nursery rhyme, but a childcare GROWING SPECIALTY model — cuddles an infant with a grownup sounding nickname: Gus. A smiling man TOMATOES OR MAKING with a fabulous wind-blown shag of a beard — a one-time Internet millionaire, turned THE WORLD A BETTER youthful grandfather and disciple of all things natural — bumps through the rows in a PLACE FOR WOMEN, green golf cart, calling it “the coolest vehicle ever made.” Mom makes bruschetta in the HER VISION IS FIRMLY motor home. ROOTED IN THE SOIL. It is a typical afternoon here in Homestead, on the most atypical of farms. Rachael Middleton ’01 has a way of gliding through the place, enviably tranquil on her carpet of green, zig-zagging gracefully below the ripening exotics, the carambolas, the sapodilla and the longans. The birds dive-bombing her fruit trees — an average farmer’s horror show — barely draw her attention. WINTER 2006 FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY MAGAZINE 13

“There’s enough fruit to go around,” she says in that quietly persuasive way of hers. And, who could argue? She patiently bobs her head while her father Cliff Middleton unwinds another of his pithy theorems about what is right in the world and what is wrong. The daughter, all of 24, but casting an older and wiser air, knows she will get her turn. It will come among the draped vines and the stumpy trees, scattered on about 5 acres that is more than a farm — it is an idea. A Big Idea about being small. The Middletons — two generations, with Rachael’s baby Gus embodying the hopes for a third — are revolutionaries of a sort. They believe in the promise of “A New Estate,” a social structure built around small plots of land, free from pesticides and fertilizer, that they hope can transform the way America eats, the way a nation of relentless mass consumption thinks about food. Their little batches of heirloom tomatoes and crinkly herbs already find their way north to swank restaurants and gourmet markets in Miami. But this, they hope, is just a beginning. Their big idea, the one they came here to realize, is equal parts Kumbaya and bottom-line economics: they want to do for healthy eating and organic vegetables what Domino’s did for pizza. They want to bring dinner — but the greenest and freshest of dinners — to the doors of Miami. They plan to launch an organic vegetable subscription delivery service, coupling their own crops with the output of other small organic farmers and, perhaps, even the stray homeowner who doesn’t know what to do with all those mangoes or avocadoes weighting down the backyard tree. Pay $40 a week, Middleton says, and one of her drivers will show up at the door with a basket of tomatoes and lettuce and whatever else happens to be snapping fresh at the moment. The ethic of her business model co-exists neatly with her philanthropy: the Plant a Thousand Gardens project that she and others have expanded to bring gardens to schools, churches and parks throughout South Florida; her immersion in a growing Slow Food movement that places value on knowing where food comes from and slowly savoring it, and her penchant for spreading around starter garden kits free-of-charge, ala Johnny Appleseed. But Middleton’s foray into the business world and her brand of sustainable agriculture will only work, she says, if it is economically sustainable, too. Translation: the sisters need to make a profit. Middleton — the youngest of the three — is here, in the quiet of a country road afternoon talking economics and environmentalism and food, because of something that happened on her first day of classes at Florida International University. But she had no Rachael Middleton, her father Cliff Middleton way of knowing what it meant at the time. and dogs Pink and Lucy bump along their 5-acre Homestead farm aboard the “little green workhorse" (their nickname for their ST 350 golf cart). iddleton and her family lived the epitome of an upper-middle-class ideal. Money. MNice house. All the trappings.

MIDDLETON HAD AN And they hated it. EPIPHANY: Her father, now 58, who tapped into the dot.com frenzy by forming a successful Internet company, had offices in Coconut Grove and Amsterdam. He lived in Miami 6 6 EVERYTHING I DO traffic when he wasn’t living in airports. Her mother, Jackie, now 58, battled the CAN BE A FEMINIST ACT commute from Cutler Ridge to downtown Miami. AND A FORM OF It wasn’t working. But it took a jolt for them to figure that out. The night before Middleton’s first day at FIU, her mother felt sick after dinner. She ACTIVISMAVE THAT was worse by morning and her father prepared to take her to the hospital, thinking it MINDSET WHEN I’M was a bad case of food poisoning. He told Middleton to go off to FIU, to start her DOING IT. 5 5 university career. Don’t worry. Yeah, right. When she got home that evening, her father tried to act like it was any other day. He tried to ask her about her classes, her new professors, the students. “Who cares?” Middleton remembers telling him. “What happened with mom?” Cliff Middleton, shredded by the emotions of the day, blurted out the news. “You’re mother is dying,” he said. “You’re going to lose your mother. I’m going to lose my wife. ” ackie Middleton, a health-conscious teetotaler, had been diagnosed implausibly with a Jterminally cirrhotic liver. Doctors said she would live eight months. That was more than six years ago. An intensive drug and healthy foods regimen and a liver transplant kept her from dying. But the family decided they all needed something more. They needed out of Cutler Ridge. Out of the highways. Out of the toxic sprawl. “That’s why we’re out of here,” Cliff Middleton recalled, “to live a more holistic life. It came from a sense that we had to do this to survive.” Three Sisters Farm — the idea, at least — was born, taking its name from Middleton and the sisters who would later share in the enterprise: Faith Dawson, now 33, and Kali Middleton, now 35. But Rachael had things to do first. She wanted to drop out of school to nurse her mother, but her mother said, “No.” The nursing would have to be a side thing. Her education, in English literature and women’s studies, could not be interrupted. In a feminist theory class one afternoon taught by visiting instructor Sarah Crawley, Middleton had an epiphany: “Everything I do can be a feminist act and a form of activism if I have that mindset when I’m doing it.” By the time she graduated and took a job as interim coordinator of the FIU Women’s Center, the idea of Three Sisters Farm had become a reality. And it was calling her. It made sense somehow to Middleton that her interests in feminism and environmental justice would take her to the farm. But she wasn’t sure what kind of reaction she would get as WINTER 2006 FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY MAGAZINE 15

Rachael sorts and packs hand-picked heirloom she left a promising academic career track. When her one-year contract to run the Womens tomatoes. Pictured here are Matt!s Wild Cherry, Sun Gold and Large Red Cherry tomatoes. Center ended in 2003, she sought out professor Suzanna Rose, a mentor of Middletons and the director of the FIU Women’s Studies department, and laid out her theory that the local Container gardens, like the Cut and Come Again lettuce bowls (pictured below), filled with realms of food production and environmentalism “needed a feminist voice.” Rose, to assorted greens and herbs, also grow in the Middleton’s surprise, was unhesitatingly enthusiastic. Middleton greenhouse. Others were just plain confused by her farming aspirations. “What?” her college friend Marcela asked. “It’s dirty!”

iddleton was onto something with this notion about knitting feminism and farming. MShe soon found out that two of the other leading organic farmers in the area are women. Her theories and her reality were coming together. “You don’t have to be in the good ’ol boy system of agribusiness,” she says. This was not something she could keep to herself. At a National Women’s Studies Association meeting in New Orleans, she reunited with Crawley, the instructor who so inspired her. This time, Middleton was doing the talking. The title of her speech to the association: “What to do with a degree in women’s studies.” “What my education did was give me the tools to make this happen,” she said, reflecting on nearly three years of organic farming. “Thinking outside of the box — this is ingrained in the business model.” And her life is ingrained in the business. The farm, where her parents have taken up residence in a motor home and plan to build a house, gave her a place where she could work and care for little Gus at the same time. For now, she commutes there from Broward 6 6 WHAT MY EDUCATION County, a split-the-difference living arrangement between her husband Eric Knudsen’s DID WAS GIVE ME THE job to the north and her passion to the south. Before then, the farm where Rachael TOOLS TO MAKE THIS eventually plans to make a permanent home gave her a place to get married, with the HAPPEN,” MIDDLETON guests using straw bales for seats and a reception under the longan tree. It also gave her a SAID, REFLECTING ON place to mourn. A pile of rocks, at the exact spot where she and Eric Knudsen said their NEARLY THREE YEARS OF vows, will be transformed into a memorial to a 22-year-old cousin who died too young ORGANIC FARMING. in a car crash. “THINKING OUTSIDE OF THE BOX—THIS IS INGRAINED IN THE BUSINESS MODEL. 5 5 iddleton, for all her successes turning earth and seed into dinner, has made mistakes. MShe planted sunflowers next to tomatoes, hoping they would make good companions, but the pairing was a bust. Blight has taken piles of her luscious little tomatoes with cool names like “Matt’s Wild Cherry.” The organic life isn’t always easy either. An “aspiring vegetarian,” she still has her cravings and she isn’t so militant about healthy eating that she won’t indulge herself occasionally, nibbling stuff that might make hard-line organic eating aficionados cringe. Little tempts her so much as McDonalds french fries, with barbeque sauce, no less. “I love it but I hate it,” she says, blushing ever so slightly. “I hate it because I love it... Wasn’t that a revelation?” But her eyes give her away. Even as she waxes longingly about her infrequent, greasy snacking, anyone can tell that it is the tomatoes and the beans that truly make her tingle. Smiling, she grabs a hanful of Sun Golds, the little orange gems that can make other tomatoes seem tepid and flavorless. “They are real sweet,” Middleton says. She nods her head there in the lengthening shadows of late afternoon, with her flats of goodness before her, and smiles that easy, contented smile. Its impossible not to believe her. 16 | FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY MAGAZINE WINTER 2006 Biker, Engineer & Artist

Billy Lane ’97 has become a celebrity doing what he loves: Building choppers

By Deborah O’Neil wonder at his larger-than-life success. In the Melbourne office of his His company, Choppers Inc., is among chopper empire, Billy Lane ’97 kicks the top in the motorcycle industry. back in a chair, his famed waist-long “I’m just an overpriced mechanic,” dreadlocks out of sight. He is he says. “I started doing this because I surrounded by a peculiar amalgam of love motorcycles.” rebel subculture, artistic whimsy and Old-school and curvy, with names good-boy achievement. like “Miss Behavin” and “Devil In a Poster-sized covers of Easyriders, Red Dress,” each chopper is built from The Horse, Ironworks— magazines scrap metal and used parts sculpted that have featured Lane’s custom built from Lane’s imagination. He put that choppers — cover one wall. Plastered engineering education to work when he everywhere are bikers’ credos: “What perfected the elusive hubless chopper, you see here, What you do here, earning the respect of a tough crowd. What you hear here, Let it stay here He patented nearly a dozen novel when you leave here.” Bold chopper inventions: rolled dice contemporary art punctuates the taillight, six-gun foot pegs, aluminum place. An FIU engineering degree shift knobs with .44 magnum bullets. hangs behind his desk, somewhere in Before long, the Discovery Channel’s the vicinity of a menacing gargoyle, a Biker Build-Off came a callin’ and Lane Harleys. Billy quickly learned bottle of Jack Daniels and a row of became a star. wrenching could make money. As calculus and physics books. Women swoon over his rock-star motorcycle repairs increasingly Lane is at home in this milieu of good looks. Wannabes copy his became a mainstay of his father’s apparent contradictions. ingenuity. The rich and famous seek business, Lane mastered the Ocassionally, though, he expresses out his impossibly cool bikes. Bel-Ray mechanics of building choppers. He Oil offered him an endorsement deal. appreciates their engineering He’s got his own line of signature boots simplicity and values the respect and and Choppers Inc. apparel. And he’s freedom they symbolize. written two books. “With choppers, it’s about being One day, a publisher called - they cool,” he said. “I rode one and I wanted a book on him. “I was like, was hooked.” ‘Whoa,’” Lane recalls. His Lane’s first bike is still one of his autobiography, “Chop Fiction,” came favorites — a 1950 Panhead he out in 2004. “How to Build Old picked up in Marianna for $2,700. School Choppers and Bobbers,” was Lane couldn’t afford new parts so he published in December. rebuilt it from throwaway items that he shaped and welded by hand. He afcout (icing cuul...n still does that. The warehouse in the Back when South Beach back of his showroom is filled with was evolving into a junk discarded by others. A Ford Euro-destination, truck grill, a sheet of metal that was Lane’s father restored once a hood, porcelain faucets, Corvettes and plumbing pieces — they all have « y . XX work in other people’s work all over over all work people’s other in work who shot Lane’s first first Lane’s shot who hit. a were the world.” the his see You imitated. and copied style,” own his into together areas combination of technical ability and and originality. ability artistic technical of Lane’s combination have builders few says spread, that sense of style. Now he is being being is he Now style. of sense have don’t that guys of “Alot said. Lichter a handful of new bikes each year. each bikes new of builds He handful a business. Lane’s of portion like gun barrels for his friends. They They friends. his for looked barrels gun that like caps oil made he broke, that.” for this for a made using of thing conceive cannot people parts. chopper Lane as lives second ‘found art,”’ Lane said. “A lot of of “Alot said. Lane art,”’ ‘found Photographer Michael Lichter, Lichter, Michael Photographer significant a remain parts Custom “Billy has really blended those two two those blended really has “Billy One Christmas when Lane was was Lane when Christmas One “Someone told me it’s called called it’s me told “Someone Easyriders

would crush him at 30 mph. 30 at him crush would marveling with each block. “Just to go to “Just block. each with marveling chopper. hubless first his Cadillac,” “PscyhoBilly on run test first his He took it real slow. He kept going, going, kept He slow. real it took He inertia rolling the knew he just wasn’t it If right, head. his in the mechanics through working year he a bike, spent hubless the for screwdriver He’s college. finished have wouldn’t I could do it,” he says. he if it,” see do to could I wanted just “I was functional. bike the so technology know-how Engineering did. he glad but no one had perfected the the perfected had while, one a no around but been had hub back possibilities. new conjured probably he says Lane parents, tn ijo rtlnm He remembers the anticipation of of anticipation the remembers He Before Lane ever twisted a twisted ever Lane Before a without bike a of idea The But for a promise he made to his his to made he promise a for But ib § t§ titb m want and not being controlled by by controlled being not and want twisting metal. twisting sissy and tanks gas out banging loves: bars, customizing exhaust systems, systems, exhaust customizing bars, he what doing fans captivated Lane stop, each At dirty. still are his fingernails but mega-star a is He Tour.” Gears and Sweat “Blood, Lane’s for 2005 people’s expectations.” people’s you how look want, you what do to it.” fulfill it, implement to able says. he innovator,” an and creator “My mind is always working and I’m and working always is mind “My a being is strength “My labels. people’s another. make won’t he says Lane of “aart.” work it deemed who an to collector art $140,000 for sold MoneyShot, down the street was amazing.” Today Today amazing.” was street the down “I don’t want to cheapen it,” he explains. he it,” cheapen to don’t“I want it. on miles 20,000 has PhyschoBilly Choppers Inc. went on the road in in road the on went Inc. Choppers He continues: “It’s about being able able being “It’sabout continues: He other are Those Artist. Engineer. His second and last hubless bike, bike, hubless last and second His 18 FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY MAGAZINE WINTER 2006 Togetheras

By Armando Gonzalez ’05 Now, their images will forever be some 25,000 of the best and most A Mayan priest, raising his hands grandest part of the canon of photography at original work of leading to the sun, stands on the flat top of honor for an the nation’s preeminent art photographers spanning the history a pyramid performing1 he photographs a sacrifice toof institution. One of their works of the medium. One artist in the husband-and-wifethe gods. Five hundred ait yearsprofessors later, a from the Yucatan Peninsula, “Three “The grandest honor for an artist tourist poses for a picture in the U.S. today Sections of Time,” has been selected in the U.S. today is to be same Eduardospot. Unknown del Valle’76 to both is andthe is to be for inclusion in the permanent represented in the collection of role theyMirta play inGomez the story ’76 of earnhow a represented photography collection of the MOMA,” said Department of Art the native peoplepermanent of Mexico’s home in Museum of Modern Art (MOMA) and Art History Chairperson Carol in New York City and was shown as Damian. “Their presence in the Yucatan Peninsula have had to collection transformNew and York’sadapt in prestigiousorder to part of MOMA’s inaugural collection is not only a validation of survive.Museum of Modern Art. of MOMA.” photography exhibit last year. their success as artists, it is an honor FIU photography professors Carol Damian The exhibition in the new Edward for FIU, especially the Art Eduardo del Valle ’76 and Mirta chairperson, Steichen Photography Galleries at Department, where they are not Department Gomez ’76 always have sought to of Art and Art MOMA feature a selection of works only teachers, but alumni.” take photographs that authentically History from 218 artists of photography. In the early 1970s, when the describe problems that cannot be Last February, del Valle and Gomez Cuban-born high school discerned with the naked eye. For were guest speakers at MOMA for sweethearts discovered the camera, years, the alumni team of husband the “Conversations with they were not seeking fame or and wife traveled to the Yucatan Contemporary Artists” lecture recognition, merely taking pictures Peninsula trying to capture images series. that could freeze a moment in time that would document the ongoing As part of MOMA’s permanent as if to show that although things struggle of the people. collection, the couple’s images join change, they still remain. At first, WINTER 2006 FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY MAGAZINE 19

Adjoining page: Photographers Eduardo del Valle and Mirta Gomez review their second book "Fried Waters" at the Chelsea Galleria in Miami, which represents their work. This page, from left: “ Labna, Yucatan, Mexico,” 1998, and “ Labna, Yucatan, Mexico," 1994, by Eduardo del Valie and Mirta Gomez.

they had to share the only camera problem you are trying to suggest. of a clear beginning and end. they could afford. Thus, they It is the photograph that counts.” “Together Suddenly, you realize that you are started the collaboration that has Such clarity is evident in their looking at a story that spans defined their artwork. first book, “From the Ground Up,” as one” is generations. In the photographs “It wasn’t a choice,” said Gomez. a compilation of the photographs time is flattened and like fossils in “The thing chose us.” taken in the Yucatan Peninsula that how they sedimentary rock, you find “Together as one” is how they has won critical praise. anachronistic shacks similar to the describe their partnership. They share “It’s beautifully made color describe ones the priest would have seen every aspect of the artistic process: photography and an achievement from the heights of the pyramid. photographing, developing, printing, of enormous richness,” said John their The shacks echo the ancient one- editing and even teaching. In 22 years Szarkowski, former chief curator of room, two-door design, but some of team teaching at FIU, they have photography at MOMA, in a partnership. have a trace of modernity: tin curated more than 100 exhibitions review of the book. “They have roofs, bottle caps as nails and rusty by established and emerging followed one thread with great metal signs as doors. The more photographers in “The Photography tenacity. I don’t know of any other luxurious ones are made of cinder Gallery,” which they opened in 1983 body of work quite like it. ” block, have glass windows and at the Biscayne Bay Campus. The book, divided in three parts, electric wiring. The pervasive Del Valle and Gomez have hides the faces of the people and impact of tourism on the Yucatan merged their artistic egos to find a instead tells their story through reveals itself subtly in the photos. clearer voice for their photographs. their houses. In each section, the The photographers, who both “What we do individually is not cycles of time are evident in the fled Cuba in 1961 as children, important,” said del Valle. “It is different seasons, the permanent understood the tensions at play in about the complexity of the sense of construction and the lack the Yucatan. “As first-generation continues

The second book, “Fried Waters,” by photographers Eduardo del Valle and Mirta Gomez, published in fall 2005, focuses on the transformation of water to salt at two ancient collection sites. "We were working in the Yucatan and stumbled on these ancient salt collection sites and it was just stunning,” said del Valle. Salt has been collected at these sites, one of which is shown in this photograph, since the Late Formative period of Mayan civilization, 300 to 50 B.C. This body of work constitutes the second of four photographic projects the couple is completing in Yucatan. The first. “From the Ground Up,” focuses on domestic architecture in Yucatan, as shown in the photographs of Mexican houses on pages 19 and 22. “Both bodies of work deal with transformation but of a different kind,” Gomez added.

“Fried Water,” Yucatan, Mexico 1998-2004 by Eduardo del Valle and Mirta Gomez 22 FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY MAGAZINE WINTER 2006

From left: “ Hunucma, Yucatan, Mexico,” 1994, and “Kambul, Yucatan, Mexico,” 1994, by Eduardo del Valle and Mirta Gomez

continued immigrants, we know you have to tradition and history that had toward the camera — a passerby — adapt, evolve and appropriate in “As first- never been given voice. seems unaware of the changes order to survive. If not, you could generation “There are no new ideas in the around it. Where the bushes stood become a dinosaur,” said del Valle. immigrants, world,” said Gomez, “only new there is now only a thin twig with a Guggenheim Fellowships we know technologies and interpretations.” few leaves. In the last photograph, awarded to each of them in 1997 you have to In “Three Sections of Time” at the house is completed. Wooden allowed del Valle and Gomez to MOMA, a series of three photographs poles — one next to the other — leave FIU for one year and move to adapt, of a house taken during different stages look more like a fence than walls. the Yucatan. Without a guide and evolve and of construction, the past and present This house is built from nature, carrying only their equipment, appropriate become one. The images are witnesses but nature is gone. Only the they roamed the villages where in order to to the forces of time, the inescapable pebbles, casting a five o’clock Spanish is a second language. survive.” cycles of growth and decay that the shadow, remain on the dirt road. The hardest part was telling world experiences. They also offer a Through a unique collaboration the people they wanted to Eduardo paradox: As the house grows, the and a persistent eye, del Valle del Valle, photograph only the houses. “The professor of landscape around it seems to perish. and Gomez make us part of a people came out and greeted us. Photography In the first photograph the story in which we all participate. They all wanted to be greens are lush. A tree behind the As the past and the present try to photographed,” said Gomez. wooden skeleton that will later be a coexist, we stand like the tourist Together, they photographed the house is blossoming in orange and the priest, transitory players in houses, looking for the perfect flowers. The second photograph is a story revealed not in the faces of angle, waiting for the exact light dominated by an almost completed the people, but in the houses that would reveal the stories of tin roof. A tiny chihuahua walking they’ve built through time. mamsmmi FIU PIONEERS INTERNATIONAL RESEARCH NETWORK

811 ' v - By Sara LaJeunesse vice president and chief information instruments available remotely to The Florida East Coast Railway officer for FIU’s Division of users in Latin America and the rolled into rural south Florida in Information Technology. Caribbean. “This improved network 1896, as the quintessence of progress, The NSF grant will be used to link opens up the doors for us to the rest generating growth, development and Miami to Sao Paulo, Brazil, via a 2.5 the evolution of a community. improved Gbps high speed network and to Physics professor Pete Markowitz Today, progress still hinges on network install a new fiber optic cable from wants to use the connections to connecting people. We now construct opens up San Diego to Tijuana, Mexico, collaborate with researchers in Latin transoceanic “railways” that link the doors beginning with a 1 Gbps link. A America. He plans to collide protons Florida and California to Latin for us to the collaborator with FIU on this project, in a particle accelerator in Geneva to America and New York to Europe. rest of the the Corporation for Education search for the theoretical Higgs These pathways — fiber-optic cables w orld.” Network Initiatives in California will particle, which is believed to control that run under the oceans — are oversee this network in coordination gravity. The undertaking will involve paving the way for international FIU professor with the CIARA team at FIU. 2,000 physicists from 183 countries communities of researchers to interact Gautam Sen, FIU was chosen because it has a — all of whom can work from their director, in a high-performance cyber world. Florida proven track record in information own universities, sharing data and FIU is a leader in this global Center for technology, said the NSF s Kevin information via fiber optic Analytical information exchange. With a new $5 Electron Thompson, program manager for the thoroughfares. million National Science Foundation Microscopy grant. The University’s proposal, he “The new networks are grant — won by the Center for said, demonstrated that FIU is the important,” he said, “because we will Internet Augmented Research and best institution for the project. be generating more data in these Assessment (CIARA) — FIU will “Julio and his team have collisions than has ever been improve network connectivity established and fostered very generated in pretty much the whole between the United States and productive relationships with of human history.” Latin America. Networks play colleagues and scientists in Scientists in Latin America also are a crucial role in building Latin America, and these excited about the grant. scientific communities, CIARA relationships are important “Researchers in Sao Paulo have an Research collaboration scholarship said Julio Ibarra, CIARA’s to successful activities and old, strong and fruitful collaboration executive director and collaborations moving with investigators in the U.S. in principal investigator for forward,” said Thompson. domains from the physical and the grant. FIU researchers will benefit biological sciences to the humanities,” The project provides FIU with tremendously from the new said Luis Lopez, a senior researcher “unprecedented opportunities over infrastructure. Professor of earth at the University of Sao Paulo the next five years to leverage high­ sciences Gautam Sen, director of the Medical School in Brazil. “The speed networks to advance its Florida Center for Analytical Electron grant will be a key component in research and educational Microscopy, intends to use the advancing this research collaboration initiatives,” said John McGowan, network to make FCAEM to its full potential.” FLORIDA INTERNATIONALNAL UNIVERSITY MGAZINE WINTER 2006 Celebrating Philanthropy

i,.S

FIU Inaugurates New Tradition By Deborah O ’Neil ceremony, FIU students, the true beneficiaries of the A group of FIU’s most generous benefactors — 24 of them, many philanthropy, would tell the story. And the donors would be whose names grace University buildings and programs — gathered in formally “inducted” into the Torch Society. a room at the Wertheim Performing Arts Center early last year. They The idea emerged: A philanthropic commencement. knew little, only that they were to be feted for their contributions. Two years of planning for this novel donor recognition came Excitement and a bit of uncertainty lingered as each donor donned together in 2005 with FIU’s first Torch Society Gold Flame academic regalia and lined up for a procession. In the concert hall, Induction Ceremony, an uplifting affair for FIU’s elite society for family and friends awaited, listening to the Amernet String Quartet. top donors. Established in 1989, the Torch Society is FIU’s The donors entered the concert hall heralded by live organ prestigious organization of the University’s most generous music and led by Torch Society banner marshals. They took their benefactors. Within the Torch Society are three society levels: Gold places on stage. FIU’s former Provost and Executive Vice President Flame for those who have given $ 1 million or more, the Silver Mark Rosenberg began: Flame for those who have donated $500,000 and the Bronze Flame

How c a n w e s a y "Th a n k you" t o THE PHILANTHROPISTS WHO HAVE HELPED bu ild th is U n iv e r s it y ?

“It is my distinct pleasure to initiate this ceremony, the beginning for those who have donated $100,000. of a tradition where knowledge, service and understanding are The induction ceremony — which now will be FIU’s signature honored and celebrated.” donor event — was staged for the Gold Flame members. In the future, FIU will hold induction ceremonies for the Silver Flame How can we say “Thank You” to the philanthropists who have Society and new members of the Gold Flame Society, as well as the helped build this University? Bronze Flame members. FIU Vice President of University Advancement Howard For the University, the Torch Society event marked an important Lipman had pondered that question for a long time. The usual turning point by establishing a new tradition. “Recognition answers — a fancy dinner, a black-tie reception, a swank gala ceremonies like FIU’s engage donors in the life of the institution — would not suffice. This event for members of FIU’s donor and let them see their gifts at work,” said John Lippincott, president organization, the Torch Society, had to convey much more. of the Council for the Advancement and Support of Education, the Lipman wanted the donors — many of whom have quietly world’s largest education association, of which FIU is a member. supported the University for decades — to understand, to feel, Personalized recognition, Lippincott added, sends an even more to really know how important their generosity has been to so important message: “That the university has taken the time to get to many in the community. So many students with dreams. So know them as individuals and values their personal commitment as many educators with a passion. So many pioneers with a vision. well as their philanthropy.” Lipman gathered a team of creative and energetic go-getters to make it happen. Soon, it became clear that the University Back in the concert hall, a symbolic ceremony unfolded with should do what it does best: celebrate in ceremony. In that the passing of the Torch of Knowledge, Service and

continues 1. FIU President Modesto A. Maidique; former Provost Mark Rosenberg, Board of Trustees former chairman Adolfo Henriques ‘76; Paul L. Cejas of the Cejas Family Foundation; Foundation Chairman Carlos Migoya ’74, Wachovia Bank president for Miami-Dade and Monroe counties and Vice President of University Advancement Howard Lipman. 2. Nicole and Herbert Wertheim of the Wertheim Family Foundation. 3. Michael Mendez ’03 of the Costa Foundation, and Carlos Migoya ’74, Wachovia Bank president for Miami-Dade and Monroe counties. 4. Pat Frost, Don Carlin, Phillip Frost and B. Carlin. 5. Louis Wolfson III, FIU President Modesto A. Maidique, Mitchell (Micky) Wolfson. 6. Brothers Carlos and Sergio Pino with their father Eugenio Pino (center). 7. Adolfo Henriquez ‘76; Billy Cypress, Chairman of the Miccosukee Tribe of Indians, Carlos Migoya ’74 and Howard Lipman. 8. Yvonne and Jorge de Cespedes, Carlos and Martha de Cespedes. 9. Dean Vishwanath Prasad, College of Engineering and Computing; Charu Prasad; Morgan Soumah; Martha Ware; Mark Edwards of the Ware Foundation; Martha Edwards and Harounah Soumah 10. Roz Kovens, Ednagene Schofman and Marguerite Collesano of the Statler Foundation. 11. Nick Stam of Blue Cross & Blu Shield and former Provost Mark Rosenberg. 12. Dean Linda Blanton of the College of Education, Dr. Sanford and Mrs. Dolores Ziff. 13. Rocco Angelo, associate dean of the School of Hospitality and Tourism Management; Steve O’Connor, Marriott Foundation and Denise Goldson Rau, director of development for the School of Hospitality and Tourism Management. FIU HONORS CONTRIBUTIONS OF TORCH SOCIETY GOLD FLAME DONORS

Understanding, a landmark dedicated on the first day of classes endowments for prestigious academic posts, launched research in 1972. The symbol of the Torch has been associated with FIU programs, provided student scholarships, and supported athletics, the since that day. fine arts and the performing arts. The lights went down. The main doors opened. “The profound impact you have had on this University and its Honors College senior Lindsay Rigby entered carrying the FIU students, faculty and alumni has created a ripple effect felt in every Torch, ablaze in the dim hall. The Torch was passed to former Board neighborhood in our community,” Lipman said. of Trustees Chairman Adolfo Henriques ’76, then to FIU Foundation There were more than a few teary eyes, smiles all around and a Board Chairperson Carlos Migoya ’74, who set the flaming torch on a palpable sense of unity. pedestal, lighting up the glass sculpture created for the Torch Society. “Spiritual,” is how longtime FIU supporter Herbert Wertheim “The Torch’s flame, forever embodied in this beautiful sculpture, is described the event. “It was the nicest thing the University has entrusted to you today in celebration of your generosity,” Rosenberg ever put on.” told the Torch Society Gold Flame members. FIU President Modesto A. Maidique lauded the Gold Flame The ceremony also told a story through words and images. As each Society members as “leaders who saw then what FIU could become member was inducted, a video clip was played that featured FIU today and see now what FIU will be tomorrow.” students sharing how the donor’s gift has made a difference. The gifts “All of you,” Maidique said, “serve as one of the essential of Gold Flame members have funded major facilities, established pillars upon which a great university stands.” Go ld Flam e INDUCTEES 2005 j Bank of America Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida, Inc. B. and Donald Carlin Symbolic Torch Society Cejas Family Foundation, Paul L. Cejas, President sculpture perfected * Cordis, a Johnson and Johnson Company through collaboration The Costa Foundation The Wallace H. Coulter Foundation By Armando Gonzalez ’05 levels of the Society: Gold wonderful creative Looking at the clear Flame, Silver Flame and collaboration,” said The de Cespedes/Pharmed Family Foundation, Inc. glass sculpture created Bronze Flame. Donor Relations Director for FIU’s Torch Society, The concept for the Laura Padron, who Patricia and Phillip Frost your first impression is artwork sprung from the headed the project. William R. Kenan, Jr. Charitable Trust the light and energy of the logo created for the “Hung beautifully Roz and Cal* Kovens crystal sphere that floats Society by FIU senior captured the essence of graphic designer Oscar design we were seeking. The J. Willard and Alice S. Marriott amid the flames. As your Foundation eyes move upward, Negret and the inspiration After that, the hardest part of University Advancement was keeping the secret Mentor Graphics Corporation naturally following the undulating lines, the Vice President Howard until the ceremony.” Miami-Dade County Fair & Exposition intertwining flames Lipman. The unique The first sculpture has Miccosukee Tribe of Indians of Florida appear in motion as they sculpture was created by two spiraling flames that Sergio and Carlos Pino overlap and envelop the Hung Nguyen, master stand alone as a single crystal globe. craftsman of Frabel Studio artwork. It will be given Ednagene Schofman and The Estate of Jordan Davidson This sense of in Atlanta, who has to Bronze Flame movement and worked with glass for members. At the Silver The Statler Foundation progression is evident not more than 20 years. Flame level, a third flame Ernest E. Stempel Foundation only in its shape, but also It took more than a year is added giving new Wachovia Bank its composition. The to find the final design for depth to the sculpture. In The Ware Foundation sculpture, commissioned the sculpture. After three the final sculpture given by FIU for the Torch conceptual schematics to Gold Flame members, Herbert and Nicole Wertheim Society, is designed in and many hours of a crystal sphere Mitchell Wolfson, Jr. three pieces, each brainstorming, the first symbolizing the world of Dr. Sanford and Dolores Ziff standing alone but prototype emerged. knowledge and “The final sculpture opportunity is added to *deceased building upon the other to represent the three giving came about through a the center of the flames. 28 FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY MAGAZINE WINTER 2006

views on the news The Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test FCAT sacrifices true skill development and understanding for test taking

By Linda Blanton whether a student will move from teachers often change, or are Dean, FIU College of Education “The one grade to the next, whether a required to change, their Those of us in education are well information student will graduate, and even instruction in response to high- acquainted with the value of tests, obtained how the school itself will be stakes tests like the FCAT. Most of including tests that are formal — with the evaluated under the state’s program us have seen firsthand how schools standardized to make comparisons to publicly post grades for schools “lock down” for a month or so to test cannot to the performance of others — based on how children perform on prepare for the upcoming FCAT. and tests that are informal — be used to the FCAT. What kind of instruction are teacher-made to monitor classroom make While most people with students receiving during this learning. We know that tests diagnostic knowledge of assessment would concentrated time of test provide essential information for agree that the FCAT is a good test, preparation? Is the focus on what helping a teacher instruct a child and it is limited by what it measures students should be learning or is appropriately, for helping school instructional and the purposes for which it the focus on simple test systems allocate resources, for decisions should be used. That is, the FCAT helping states understand the preparation that may reduce the about extent to which schools and school was developed to assess curriculum to what is believed to districts are meeting the standards individual achievement of broad standards help students pass the test? set for student performance in that children.” (i.e., the state’s Sunshine State Unfortunately, it is most likely state, or for showing how our Standards). Thus, the FCAT the latter. nation compares with other nations provides the user with information What should be happening? in subjects such as mathematics or about how students are performing First, it is critical to educate the science. What gets us into trouble on general standards such as public and policymakers about with tests, and what is so reading, writing, mathematics and testing, its uses, and the potential important to understand, is that a science. The user could make negative consequences of high test is usually developed for one policy decisions such as placing stakes testing. What we need to do purpose and a given test is limited more attention on reading, is support teachers to maintain a to the purpose for which it was allocating more funds for program of ongoing solid developed. instructional materials, or instruction that, if done well, will In recent years, with greater and recruiting special teachers. The lead to strong performance on a greater emphasis on accountability information obtained with the test test like FCAT. Most important, in our schools, tests administered cannot be used to make diagnostic we must put the focus on students’ to students have become high- and instructional decisions about mastery of skills and deep stakes because so much depends on individual children. understanding of subject matter them. For example, in our own So, what is the problem? The rather than on test taking and the state of Florida, the Florida real problem lies in the fact, potential for weak skill Comprehensive Assessment Test supported by research on the development and incomplete (FCAT) is used to determine impact of testing, that many knowledge. WINTER 2006 FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY MAGAZINE 29

FCAT provides a valuable snapshot of student performance, informs policy-makers

By Mark Shermis Florida Sunshine State Standards assumption now is that the teacher Associate Dean and Professor, which articulate a set of objectives “With bears a role in this outcome. This is FIU College of Education that professional educators, FCAT, a positive development. As another spring approaches, so business leaders, and other student Can the FCAT be transformed to does another FCAT. constituents have agreed are overcome some of the objections The cons regarding the outcomes important for students to master. raised above? I believe the answer is administration of the Florida have The tests have demonstrated “yes” . My own research area is on a Comprehensive Assessment Test are indices of validity and reliability, become a technology called automated essay well-known and are documented and have been used as models for scoring — it is the ability of a by my colleague (and boss) Linda shared other states in meeting the computer to evaluate written Blanton: valuable instructional responsibility assessment requirements for the English essays. The technology has time is lost preparing for the tests, with the tests have little diagnostic federal mandates of the Bush been quietly working in the teachers.” value, feedback from the test comes Administration’s No Child Left background for more than 30 years too late to be of any instructional Behind Act. and there is a burgeoning research use, the tests emphasize the 3 Rs to Are the test results valued? If you literature to show how very the detriment of other skill areas ask those with school-age children effective it is. A number o f vendors that society might value (for who have recently moved to Florida, have created writing programs that instance, fine art), a suspicion that they will tell you the first thing they allow students to write essays and the tests may be unfair to those did in deciding where to buy or rent receive immediate feedback on who are economically was to consult the school district their work — within 3 seconds or disadvantaged, and there seems to web site and the grades that were so. As a consequence, students can be a lack of symmetry between test listed for their schools. write many essays each year with results and what Florida is willing Are the test results used? School results that have national norms to invest to change the course of funding is contingent on how well associated with them. The feedback student learning. I am not sure I students perform and there are is diagnostic, timely, and is linked disagree with any of this. consequences for schools which have to instruction plans for each child. But it is important to keep in chronic performance problems. The once per year high-stakes test mind that the FCAT was Have the test results had an (in writing at least) would no implemented for a different impact on Florida’s education? Ten longer be required. purpose: It is a statewide years ago, if students performed The old saying goes, “You don’t accountability measure designed to poorly, it was because they did not fatten a pig by weighing it.” In the give politicians, administrators, study, came from broken homes, same vein, we will not improve and citizens of the state a snapshot were economically disadvantaged, student academic performance by o f how well students are etc. With FCAT, student outcomes simply measuring it. However, we performing in our schools. And in have become a shared responsibility still need to create a road map of that regard, it performs reasonably with teachers. If a class of students how to make improvements through well. The test is matched to the does not perform well, the working assessments like the FCAT. 1980 Joe Hughes Baltimore Orioles Dannv’s Bovs Tim Knight New York Yankees Rusty McNealy Seattle Mariners During the first 30 years of FIU baseball, Marc Serdar Houston Astros Pat Bone New York Yankees 118 Golden Panthers have signed Tom Corcoran Detroit Tigers professional contracts with 25 different Mike Reddish New York Yankees Rory Brown New York Yankees MLB organizations. The New York Ron Chapman Toronto Blue Jays Yankees have signed the most FIU Frank Contreras Miami Marlins (Independent) players (17), followed by the St. Louis Ben Donisi Milwaukee Brewers Jorge Llano Miami Marlins (Independent) Cardinals (16). This is a list of the players Pete Post New York Yankees who have signed professionally since Ric Strasser Houston Astros Doug Carpenter New York Yankees Danny Price became head coach in Jorge Miyar Los Angeles Dodgers 1980. Those marked with an asterisk* are Denny Murray Toronto Blue Jays Oriol Perez Seattle Mariners presently active in professional baseball. Ossie Alfonso Minnesota Twins Tony Arias Oakland Athletics A Diamond Life Danny Price ’74 secures his FIU baseball coaching legacy with 1,000th win

By Manuel Roig-Franzia only was going to college, but was the Danny Price went on to realize every little The big moment arrived without first person in his family to graduate Game-Winning leaguer’s dream, to become pretension. Just as anyone who from high school. Price banged FIU’s Milestones professional baseball players, to get understands Danny Price might have first hit on March 10, 1973. He No. 1 paid to play the game. Feb. 8, 1980 expected. notched his milestone coaching victory 20-3 vs. Florida Surely, they went off to bigger There, in the corner of the concrete 32 years to the day after his seminal Memorial diamonds with that voice of Price’s dugout he knows so well, Price sat on a hit, sealing the sweet, impossible No. 100 etched into their brains. Price, a simple plastic-backed chair, rubbing his perfection of his moment. March 21, 1982 father of three and grandfather with hands across his knees, rocking ever so In the years since Price punctuated 23-2 vs. Wesleyan the most infectious, gap-toothed the university’s entry into the world of No. 250 smile this side of David Letterman, slightly and staring intently at a field of March 13, 1986 green. Price chose the least conspicuous college baseball with a single swing of 11 -4 vs. retains a honeyed hint of his North spot possible to enter the rarified air of his bat, no one has been more Georgetown Carolina boyhood twang. It calls college baseballs coaching elite: the synonymous with FIU’s stake in the No. 500 out, a note of folksy encouragement, 1,000-game winners. nation’s game than Price. “They should April 12, 1992 night after night from his customary Almost no one in the stands could name the park after him,” an old 12-6 vs. Mercer perch at the back edge of the third No. 750 have seen him, tucked away there in friend idly mused in the stands. Jan. 29, 1999 base coaches’ box: “Get on tawp of the corner. Only the players — the After graduating in 1974, he 10-4 vs. Bethune it,” he urges the bruiser in blue and ones in the field and the ones on the returned to the University as a hitting Cookman gold at home plate. bench — witnessed his moment. instructor in 1976, and rose to head No. 800 Baseball, its connoisseurs know, is a Feb. 17, 2000 And, maybe, just maybe, that was coach in 1980. Countless players 12-7 vs. South testament to patient persistence, and the point. passed through his locker rooms: Florida the Danny Prices of the world — the

Baseball, perhaps more than any skinny kids who couldn’t get around on No. 900 survivors, the winners — often find a other game, seems to appreciate a fastball high and tight, long-limbed March 26, 2002 sweet spot of emotional containment. 7-6 vs. Ohio history, to comprehend the flow of fire-ballers, graceful defensive maestros. State Not too high, not too low. Their generations, to respect its elders. The Maybe that’s why Price, asked who he game unwinds with inscrutable, No. 1,000 boys out there on the field, wished could have been there March 10 March 10, 2005 deliciously slow tension. There is shimmering under the night-time when his team beat Quinnipiac 10-5 vs. always another game tomorrow. 1 ights, are the descendants of a family University 10-5 for win Number Quinnipiac When it was mercifully all over tree that indisputably leads back to a 1,000, could only shake his head. — when the scoreboard had guy named Danny Price. “There are just so many people,” he registered the final out of a jagged, A leaner, younger version of the man said, his big, brown eyes moistening. back-and-forth game, and the butt- on the plastic chair in the corner of the Everyone knows that Price slapping and the hugging had dugout was out there on the green tutored one of baseball’s best, the dissipated along the third base line — when Florida International University sublimely talented Mike Lowell of Price gathered his boys in left field. baseball was born. He was a the Boston Red Sox. But there are He did not say a word about 1,000. sharecroppers son, a North Carolina so many other sparks of lights in But he did tell them this: “We’ve got kid come to South Florida, who not Price’s family tree: 100 of his boys a big game... tomorrow.”

Rick Ames Milwaukee Brewers *Larry Stanford New York Yankees 'Jeff Keith San Francisco Giants 2000 James Filippi Chicago White Sox Jose Vazquez New York Yankees *Jason Moore Independent 'Gilbert Landestoy Anaheim Angels Alfred Perez St. Louis Cardinals Denny Wiseman St. Louis Cardinals *Jamie Emiliano Colorado Rockies *Eric Miller Montreal Expos Steve Petitt St. Louis Cardinals 1990 'Michael Lowell New York Yankees ‘ Mike Quintana Cleveland Indians Paul Steinert Seattle Mariners 'Fausto Tejero California Angels S ’ Munoz 'Willy Collazo Anaheim Angels Gary Truzzolino New York Yankees Qilberto Torres St. Louis Cardinals 'DoTan Soeed Chicaao Subs 'M att Huntingford San Francisco Giants Nestor Valiente Seattle Manners „D , . . c* . , uorian t>peea Ohicago Oubs 3 Mark Lee Kansas City Royals PaulAnderspn St. Louis Cardma s 'Paxton Stewart Toronto Blue Jays Barry Paulk New York Mets Alex Ojea St. Louis Cardinals p 8Vln 6r° I * ' Ln U'S ® ' Manny Vasquez Tampa Bay Devil Rays Raul PuJo1 Independent Tim Reker New York Yankees Gre9g Mucerino San Diego Padres Marc Rodriguez New York Mets Tino Burgos Independent Hernan Adamas Chicago White Sox i f ? | ant0S . f 1' L° UIS f ardinals 'Shawn Stutz Tampa Bay Devil Rays 'Tommy Duenas Anaheim Angels Ken Adderlev Baltimore Orioles Chris Sinacori Los Angeles Dodgers 'Evan Thomas Philadelphia Phillies 'Brad Eldred Pittsburgh Pirates Doug Ellis Pittsburgh Pirates i Ajston. Colorado Rockies 'Danny Alvarez Cleveland Indians 'Bernard Gonzalez Philadelphia Phillies Eddie Gonzalez Los Angeles Dodgers John Fantauzz, San Diego Padres 'Jose Rodriguez St. Louis Cardinals 'Ozzie Lugo Anaheim Angels ^ * 04. i ■ ^ j- r Efrain Ventura Chicago White Sox Francisco Lebron New York Mets T *. r.i , Mark Grater St. Louis Cardinals 'Michael Warner Atlanta Braves 'Sean Mahoney Tamoa Bav Devil Ravs Josh Banks Toronto Blue Jays Doug Messer San Francisco Giants 'Eric Alexander St. Louis Cardinals 'Jimmy Molina St. Louis Cardinals *Ricardo Nanita Chicago White Sox Mike Grayson Milwaukee Brewers Bryan Garrett Cleveland Indians 'Steve Kent Seattle Mariners 'Arthur Santos Boston Red Sox Nelson Caraballo Pittsburgh Pirates .Greg Keag|e San Djego pac|res Edwin Franco Kansas City Royals 'Fernando Alvarez Chicago White Sox Peter Gietzen New York Yankees * j jm Kester Houston Astros *Harold Eckert Los Angeles Dodgers *Derek DeCarlo Milwaukee Brewers Anthony Hioks St. Louis Cardinals Casey Mittauer New York Yankees Raul Garcia Kansas City Royals *Andrew Edwards New York Yankees 00 Louis Cardina,s Kevin Wehn Colorado Rockies Jeff Rodriguez Atlanta Braves *Mark Worrell St. Louis Cardinals /. \ _ G O L D E N V rntm erS in 2006 & 2007 I at the Orange Bowl j* r

| o Florida International significantly enhanced by playing UM has played Florida A&M many / University’s Golden Panthers the five-time national champion in times over the years and this year j / will face the nationally our hometown.” played the University of South I / recognized University of Miami Mello expressed appreciation to Florida. Games against Central II Hurricanes for football games UM Athletic Director Paul Dee and Florida are scheduled between 2008- m I at the Orange Bowl in each of Head Coach Larry Coker. “From this 2010. “All of these schools play really ? 11 the next two years. day forward, our University will make good football. It's important that we I The games will be played on every effort to ensure these two all play locally,” Dee said. I October 14, 2006 and October 6, games are a win-win situation for FIU football coach Don Strock j 2007. They will be the first both programs,” Mello said. called the UM match-ups “a great gridiron meetings between the “We’re very pleased to play opportunity for a young program” two Miami-based schools, which Florida International University,” Dee and thanked Dee and Coker for are\located only 11 miles apart. said. “As we looked around the giving FIU this opportunity. “From every measurable country for Division l-A teams, it “Being that we are neighboring stanaard, these games will have became clear that Florida schools,” Strock said, “I’m sure this a tremendous impact on our International University was a very will be a draw for a lot of fans from both program,” said FIU athletic viable candidate as an opponent.” universities and hopefully, become the director Rick Mello. “ Recruiting, Now that UM will play 12 games start of a rivalry that will continue for 1 ticket sales, media exposure, every year, Dee said, the university many more years to come.” B alumni outreach, marketing wants to play seven home games, if The Orange Bowl games will be || | and abo\te all, exposure in our possible, to increase revenue and good for both schools, added Coker. J I own comtViunity will be fan support. “It’ll be a special game and a fun game,” he said. “I think our fans like

2006 FOOTBALL SCHEDULE to see local teams, since they know Sept. 9 at South Florida Oct. 28 at Alabama the players, and the players will know Sept. 16 BOWLING GREEN Nov. 4 LOUISIANA-MONROE each other, too. FIU will give our fans Sept. 23 at Maryland Nov. 11 Bye a reason to come, and it will draw FIU Sept. 30 ARKANSAS STATE Nov. 18 LOUISIANA-LAFAYETTE fans, too.” m Oct. 7 at Middle Tennessee Nov. 25 at Florida Atlantic Oct. 14 at Miami (Orange Bowl) Dec. 2 TROY Oct. 21 at North Texas WINTER 2006 | FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY MAGAZINE ] 33 |

From left: Jose Perez de Corcho, Michael Mendez, Estelle Vera, Samuel Jackson, Gayle Bainbridge, Raymond del Rey, Ty Javellana, FIU President Modesto Maidique, Alumni Relations Bill Draughon Associate Vice President Bill Draughon, George Brackett, Lisa Associate Vice President Alumni Relations Peniche, Will Trueba, Jose Diaz and Susan Webster.

Message from Alumni pledge to build FIU Alumni Relations Associate VP FIU family in 2005-’06 Dear Alumni, By Adriana Pereira This is an exciting time to be a Golden Panther. Every day brings news of another Florida Ty Javellana 88, MST ’98 set the tone for his International University triumph, all of which bring honor to the community we serve. second term as president of the Alumni As the good news of our accomplishments reaches the alumni, we are increasingly Association Board of Directors at the recent annual engaging the Golden Panther community. meeting by vowing to “Build the FIU family.” For the first time in the university’s history, we now have more than 5,000 paid More than 200 alumni came together at the memberships. Lifetime memberships in the Alumni Association have increased 75 percent event in May with administration, faculty, staff, in the past two years. I am particularly pleased to see the growth of our Student Alumni students and friends of the university to celebrate Association where membership grew a remarkable 172 percent, making it the largest yet another successful year. In the spirit of blue student group on campus. Through the SAA we are building traditions and a base of loyal and gold, University House was adorned with supporters who will carry the FIU banner when they graduate. yellow roses and blue tablecloths for the cocktail In 2005, more than 160 golfers tried their luck at the Alumni Association Golf reception. The art housed in the corridors and Tournament, and 35 boats entered the Fishing Tournament. While networking and visiting parlor served as backdrop to the vibrant crowd with old friends (as well as making some new ones), sponsors and attendees raised reuniting with old friends and memories. thousands of dollars for student scholarships through their participation. Additionally in To emphasize his theme, Javellena pointed out late July, nearly 200 members of the Alumni Association came together for a successful that alumni sit at the center of the FIU family, annual meeting. And in September, the Alumni Association joined forces with FIU Career surrounded by students, faculty, donors and Services to stage the Alumni Career Fair with 50 employers from around the nation. More others. “It is our role to ensure that the whole than 400 alumni were able to meet with top employers such as Burger King Corp., Carnival family feels connected to us and manifests pride Cruise Lines, IBM Corp. and American Express. in FIU,” said Javellana. Right around the corner is the Alumni Association Torch Awards Gala on Feb. 11 when He also praised the efforts of his fellow we will pay tribute to our outstanding graduates. The event, originally scheduled for alumni and urged them to continue their October 2005, was postponed because of Hurricane Wilma. We are pleased that the new involvement. “I look forward to the excitement date is allowing for expansion of the Torch Award Gala, so tickets are now available for the of this next year, to working with you, and to previously sold-out event. Anyone interested in reserving individual tickets or a table should celebrating our success as the inevitable reward contact Randi West, the assistant director of outreach and special events for Alumni of our shared commitment,” he said. “A strong Relations, at 305-348-1009. alumni association can make for a stronger We are having a great time building the Golden Panther community. I hope you will university.” Among Javellanas other goals for the join us and discover all the benefits of membership. I look forward to meeting you at a coming year is maintaining clear communication future event. between the alumni and university administration. He also wants to gear the In the spirit of Blue and Gold, associations efforts toward students and teaching by creating more scholarship opportunities. Bill Draughon, associate vice president of Alumni Relations, opened the evening with Associate Vice President news of a record-breaking year as the Alumni Alumni Relations Association reached the 5,000-member mark and the Student Alumni Association became the largest student group on campus with a 172 percent increase in membership. 34 FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY MAGAZINE WINTER 2006

ALUMNIAlumni Relations AVP Bill Draughon and Association President Presenting Sponsor Ramon Ferran ’79 of TotalBank, left, and Alumni Association Board member Jose M. Diaz, his brother- Ty Javellana ’88, MST ’98 recognize outgoing member and FIU Alumni Relations Associate Vice President Bill Draughon present in-law Luis Perez, Alumni Association President-elect professor Irma Becerra-Fernandez Ph,D.’94, a scholarship check to SGA President Alex Prado, center. Will Trueba and Paul Baumann of Swiss Chalet Fine Foods.

FIU President Modesto A. Maidique referred to tournament also featured a raffle and plenty the success of FIU’s alumni as “clearest proof of Fishing tournament benefits of prizes, which were handed out with the our academic excellence.” student scholarship fund assistance of Miss FIU, Megan Alonge. “With the terrific leadership of our Alumni Dozens of alumni, their family members FIU alumnus Ramon Ferran ’79 represented Relations team, I know FIU’s alumni base is and friends enjoyed a great day of fishing, TotalBank, presenting sponsor of the growing stronger every day,” Maidique said. food and prizes, all for the benefit of FIU tournament. The Pride Presenting Sponsor “As an institution, we are committed to students at the Annual Alumni Association was Preferred Care Partners/PSO Health reaching out and fostering lifelong Fishing Tournament in June. The South Plans; The Gold Sponsor, WIND- Neo- relationships with our graduates.” Beach event raises money for the Alumni Vertika; and Blue Sponsors included Bofill Association Scholarship Fund and this year, & Vilar Attorney’s at Law, CyberAngler, Maidique and Javellana paid tribute to two two scholarships were awarded during the Financial Insurance Brokers Incorporated, outgoing members of the board. Sergio Abreu awards presentation. ’94 and FIU professor Irma Becerra-Fernandez Marine Max, Solo Printing Incorporated, ’94, have given almost 20 years of combined The first recipient was Christine Denton, a Star Imaging, Thomas Ruff Interiors, service to the Alumni Association. senior majoring in psychology who intends to Southern Wines and Spirits, Tigress complete her master’s degree in health service Outrigging and Gear, and Angostura Rum. Abreu is the manager of Government and administration at FIU after her Spring 2006 Artist J. Mesa created the colorful dolphin Community Relations for TECO People’s Gas graduation. She is a member of the Student artwork used to grace the back of the and Becerra-Fernandez is a graduate professor in Government Association and is a second- tournament tee shirts and tournament the College of Business Administration. She is generation alumna. When Denton was a also the founder and director of the Knowledge child, her mother would take her along to her Management Lab. Last year, the Alumni classes at FIU. This early exposure to the 2005 Alumni Association Association honored her with a prestigious University helped Denton feel at home at FIU. Fishing Tournament Winners Torch Award for Outstanding Faculty. The second scholarship recipient was Alex ■ Most Aggregate Dolphin Weight: “The board is positioned at a breakthrough Prado, a junior majoring in international Jim Borelli, $2,500 Boat: Tai Pan II because what we can accomplish now is a lot business and president of the Student ■ Largest Dolphin: Eddie Pino, $1,000 greater than what we were able to do a few years Government Association. After Prado was Boat: Manic C’s ago,” said Becerra-Fernandez. “It’s been born in South Miami Hospital, his family ■ 2nd Place Most Aggregate Dolphin interesting for me to be able to witness that moved north and he was raised in Fairfax, Weight: James Rivera, $500 change and maturity.” Virginia. He often came to Miami as a young Boat: FreeJumper During her time on the board, she also took child to visit family. When his older sister ■ 2nd Place Largest Dolphin: Jim Borrelli, the initiative to begin the FIU Book Awards, began attending FIU, it was her enthusiasm $250 Boat: Tai Pan II presented each year to outstanding high and love for the University, which helped to ■ First Place Largest Junior: Travis West school students. “What a wonderful influence Alex in his formative years. His $100 gift certificate to Dave and Busters opportunity to highlight FIU and its progress. visits to the campus and informal tours given ■ Second Place Junior: Mandy Camejo, Jr. People don’t realize the transformation that by his sister helped Alex make an easy $50 gift certificate to Dave and Busters ■ First Fish on Board: Howard Blitz FIU has gone through and this program is a decision on what college to attend. He says $100 gift certificate to Neomi’s Restaurant, great opportunity to show that to the FIU’s ranking as a top College of Business Trump Sonesta Resort community,” said Becerra-Fernandez. helped to seal the deal. ■ Largest Ladies: Christina Ledo, $500 Draughon said the meeting served as testimony When lines were in around 3 p.m., Team Marine Max to the ongoing dedication and support of the Weighmasters Richard Brinn and Clayton ■ Largest Kingfish: Pamela Mullins, $250 alumni. “Because of their loyalty,” he said, “we Williams from the Department of Marine Boat: Pick Up Line continue to succeed in everything we do, not Biology helped to create a truly professional only as an association, but as a university.” Ml competition at the weigh station. The fishing WINTER 2006 ! FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY MAGAZINE 35

tlv e / i P i l d e / !

Former Alumni Association President Gayle Bainbridge ’75 From left are Association President Ty Javellana, Carlos Costa’s mother socializes at the fishing tournament with Alumni Relations Associate Mirta Costa, his nephew Michael R. Mendez '03, his father Osvaldo VP Bill Draughon and tournament co-chair Jose Perez de Corcho '93. Team Marine Max heads out for a day of fishing. Costa and Alumni Relations Associate Vice President Bill Draughon.

plaques. And artist Gary Traczyk generously Advancement Howard Lipman, Associate The C.A.M.P. 4 Justice Foundation Human donated the stunning kinetic sculpture given Vice President of Alumni Relations Bill Rights Scholarship program will support to the top-place winner. Draughon, Alumni Relations Assistant full-time, degree-seeking students who are Co-chairs for this years tournament were Jose Director of Outreach and Special Events committed to furthering the cause of Perez de Corcho ’93 and Jose Bofill ’90, and Randi N. West and committee members human rights. The scholarship memorializes the committee included Gabriel Albelo ’93, Stewart Appelrouth MS ’80, Joe Caruncho Carlos Costa, Armando Alejandre Jr., Mario Joe Caruncho ’81, Jose M. Diaz ’86, Ramon ’81, Joe Gill, Jack Gonzalez ’98, Michael de la Pena and Pablo Morales, who Ferran ’79, Ray del Rey ’97, Estelle Vera ’88, Mendez ’03, Dave Pezzino and Justo Pozo ’80 sacrificed their lives in defense of that cause. Dean Joseph West of the School of of the Alumni Association Board of Directors. C.A.M.P. is an acronym standing for the Hospitality and Tourism Management and Gold Sponsors for this year’s tournament first names of the victims. Randi N. West. Tournament Director was included Baptist Health South Florida, “This is a milestone in the history of the FIU Patrick Calvo. Centex Construction, Preferred Care Alumni Association,” said Associate Vice Partners/PSO Health Plan, Stanford President for Alumni Relations Bill Financial Group, and Turner. Panther Draughon. “These scholarships will have a Golf Tournament expands Sponsors included BCM Higher Education lasting impact on the lives of our students in sponsors and participants Management Group, Carlton Fields, P.A., and serve as a fitting legacy to Carlos, This year’s Alumni Association Annual Golf Fox Pan Am Sports, Gables Financial Group, Armando, Mario and Pablo.” Tournament at the Doral Golf Resort and Nextream, and the FIU Bookstore. Under current guidelines, the gift will qualify Spa was the biggest ever, drawing more than Support for the Tournament by Corporate for $50,000 in state matching funds. 160 golfers, 40 percent more than last year. Foursomes included Appelrouth, Farah and The tournament’s rising success over the Company, Beach Bank, Berman, Kean and Riguera, P.A., Colonial Bank, Alumnus earns full years, with more participation and more Commercebank, Gibraltar Bank, Mallah sponsors, directly benefits the FIU doctoral fellowship Furman, Ryder Systems, Thomas Ruff Alumnus Gustavo de las community. It is a key event for raising Interiors, TraveLeaders, and Urosouth. money for student scholarships awarded by Casas 00, MA ’03 has won a If you are interested in sponsoring or full doctoral fellowship to the Alumni Association. participating in the 2006 FIU Alumni Columbia University’s The awards luncheon at this year’s Association Golf Tournament as we start political science program, tournament began with the presentation of planning for next year, please contact Randi N. ranked No. 1 in the world. The program two scholarships to students Aurelio (P.J.) West, CMP, in the Alumni Relations office at earned its ranking in a study by the London Rivera and Carolina Benitez. The golfers [email protected] or at 305-348-1009. School of Economics published in Political enthusiastically applauded the two students. Studies Review. The association held a live auction and more Foundation gift endows At FIU, de las Casas earned a bachelor’s than 30 raffle prizes were given away as part degree in international business and a of the festivities. student scholarships master’s in international relations, where he A host of individuals worked hard to bring The C.A.M.P 4 Justice Foundation, an worked with professors Felix Martin and about the success of the May 2005 organization created to honor the memory of Paul Kowert. Among the achievements that tournament. Co-chairs for the event were the four Brothers to the Rescue volunteers who captured Columbia’s attention, the alumnus William R. Trueba ’88, president-elect of the died when their planes were shot down by graduated from the master’s program with a Alumni Association, and Jose M. Diaz ’86, of Cuban fighter jets in 1996, has made a perfect 4.00 grade point average, and the Alumni Association Board of Directors; $100,000 donation to establish and endow an presented a paper on interstate bargaining at Alumni Association President Ty Javellana ’88 Alumni Association scholarship program for the 2004 Annual Meeting of the American MST ’98, Vice President for University FIU students. Political Science Association in Chicago. 36 FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY MAGAZINE WINTER 2006 ALUMNI Dr, Jeffrey Horstmyer and his wife FIU instructor Tillie Fox, third and fourth from left, hosted Dinner With 12 Strangers at Joe’s The FIU cheerleaders performed impressive feats at the Trail of Torch before an audience of more than 500 students who turned out Stone Crab. for the Student Alumni Association event.

He also contributed a chapter about Spanish Organized by the FIU Student Alumni A founding faculty member of the investment in the Latin American energy Association, “Dinner with 12 Strangers” university, Fox has witnessed FIU’s dynamic sector in the upcoming book “Latin brings professionals and alumni together growth and is excited at the prospect of America’s Quest for Globalization: the Role and gives students a chance to get to know having a public medical school to alleviate of Spanish Firms,” edited by Professor experienced leaders in their field of study. the shortage of doctors and medical Martin and FIU alumnus Pablo Toral Cueto The concept behind the Dinner with 12 professionals in South Florida. MA ’97, Ph.D. ’03. De las Casas’ research Strangers program is to build and For the students, it was a face-to-face focuses on bargaining dynamics among strengthen the FIU community by creating encounter with the real world and a different actors, or as he explains, “what it an informal environment for FIU alumni to tremendous networking opportunity. For takes — and doesn’t take — for states, firms, make connections. the professionals, it was a way to give back or people to accept deals.” In addition, de las Jeffrey Horstmyer, M.D., chief of neurology to the university and help others achieve Casas studies Mandarin and has an interest at Mercy Hospital and a key supporter of their goals — all the while perpetuating in Chinese foreign policy FIU’s medical school initiative, and his wife, FIU’s tradition of success. The Columbia program is among the most longtime FIU professor Tilly Fox, hosted the exclusive in the country, accepting only 18 March dinner and were joined by of the more than 600 students who apply representatives from various pharmaceutical Trail of Torch event each year. companies, along with neurologist Rachel wins highest honor "The acceptance of Gustavo de las Casas Lopez and Dr. Javier Anton. The Trail of the Torch, the jubilant Student into the Columbia University Ph.D. “This is an opportunity for students to pick Alumni Association event that kicks off the program is a wonderful achievement for him the brains of people who have been through it school year, has captured a Gold Medal for and for our department,” said International all and get a true perspective,” said Horstmyer, Excellence in student programs from the Relations chairman John Clark. “This a lifetime member of the Alumni Association, Council for the Advancement and Support achievement is a recognition for Gustavo’s who has hosted the event twice before. of Education. ‘intellectual’ potential and the hard work Amid the rumbling buzz inside the crowded The Council, or CASE as it is known, that he put into his master’s work with us. It announced the award last April as part of its also reflects the diligence and careful restaurant, the group of 12 strangers 2005 Circle of Excellence awards given each mentoring of his faculty advisors, Professors acquainted themselves with each other. Jaciel year in a variety of categories related to Felix Martin and Paul Kowert.” Piloto, a biology and international relations university events, publications and student, learned how the medical and the programs for alumni and donor relations. business aspects of the field affect each other. CASE, headquartered in Washington, D.C., Dinner With 12 Strangers He was grateful that the professionals took is the largest nonprofit education offers night of networking time to mentor the younger generations. association with memberships representing By Armando Gonzalez ’05 “It’s important that alumni give back to more than 3,000 colleges, universities and Wearing their most elegant outfits and sitting FIU,” he said. independent schools around the world. The in front of the table with paper napkins But it was not only business at the restaurant. annual awards are both highly competitive hanging on their chests, a group of FIU The engaging and charismatic Fox, a and prestigious. premed students enjoyed a juicy selection of childhood friend of President Maidique, The Trail of the Torch was organized by the crab, shrimp and lobster at Joe’s Stone Crabs. delighted all with her stories. She laughed as Student Alumni Association (SAA) with However, the highlight of the evening was she remembered when, at his 16th birthday funding assistance from the Student not just the delicious seafood, but also the party, Maidique danced the whole night long Government Association, to welcome opportunity to meet and share time with a and proclaimed he wanted to be a incoming freshmen. It came about when the group of professionals in the medical field. professional dancer. SAA learned that FIU’s icon, the Torch of Jennifer Castillo, SAA president; Jessica Franchi-Alfaro, 2004 FIU student Bryon Tompkins, Gonzalo Acevedo ’91, Ana Maria Homecoming Queen; Bryon Tompkins; Ray Morgan, 2004 Homecoming FIU students had a great time at the 2005 Polo ’84, Carlos Becerra ’98, MPA '01 and student Elizabeth Procet display their Panther Pride

Knowledge, Service and Understanding, management, volunteer recruitment, traffic which is traditionally lit for school’s management and health and safety. opening day, would remain extinguished Panther Perks because of budget cuts. With the guidance “The results were more than we could of Alumni Relations Assistant Director Sean have hoped for,” Kramer said. “Turnout Kramer ’95, the students worked to ensure was unbelievable and everyone had an that the torch would be lit for at least one amazing time.” H week every year, during FIU’s Welcome Leader Frames Week in the fall semester. The Trail of the Arts & Sciences alumni Torch is now an annual tradition. PANTHER PARTNER: As a recent graduate share career experiences or a current alumnus you have the opportunity More than 500 students gathered at the Three prominent alumni from the College University Park campus for the 2005 Trail of Arts and Sciences took part in a special to enjoy and benefit from the many services of the Torch. It began with a lighting of the panel discussion for students in April to offered through your Alumni Association. One of processional torch at "The Cage,” FIU’s discuss their career experiences. The panel, these services is a custom diploma or photo football stadium. Students then wound their “Find Out What a Degree in Arts & frame for your FIU diploma and photos. Leader way across campus on a two-mile trek Sciences Can Do For You,” included Frames is a leader in the framing industry and through residence halls, to buildings and attorney Ana Maria Polo ’84, banker provides all its clients with the highest quality finally to the center of campus where the Gonzalo Acevedo ’91 and Carlos Becerra products and services at affordable prices, Torch of Knowledge, Service and ’98, MPA ’01, executive assistant to Frank including reliable life-long service that Understanding stands. The entire time, Bolanos ’78, a member of the Miami-Dade guarantees customer satisfaction. students chanted and sang FIU cheers. County Public School Board. There was a palpable unity in the air and a PANTHER PERK: The frames are exquisite collective roar came from the crowd as the Polo, a 2004 Torch Award winner, discussed and will showcase and preserve your diploma Torch of Knowledge, Service and how her Arts & Sciences degree afforded her or photos for years to come. These frames are Understanding was lit by students. The the opportunity to attend law school and exclusive to the Alumni Association and not event ended with a festive party. launch a successful career. She is the well- available through the bookstore. A portion of known star of a Telemundo television show “I am really proud of the students and which centers around the practice of law, each purchase is donated back to the FIU excited Trail of the Torch got the recognition and brings real-life issues and solutions into Alumni Association to support your it deserved,” Kramer said. ““It was a great association funding, services and programs. program and it was a lot of hard work put in the homes of viewers. by the Student Alumni Association.” Acevedo, vice president of The Private Bank HOW TO TAKE ADVANTAGE: If you are a of America, focused on the relationship current member of the FIU Alumni A total of 70 student volunteers worked Association: together on Trail of the Torch - 20 in the between private industry and education — pre-event planning and 50 more on the day one cannot exist without the other — and • Visit the Leader Frame table during the of the event. A student-run marketing sub­ the importance of this enduring relationship. convocation periods; committee coordinated all campus publicity, Acevedo serves on the College of Arts and • Order on-line at www.degreeframes.com or promotion and presentations. The budget Sciences Dean’s Board of Advisors. www.fiu.edu/alumni; sub-committee was responsible for the Becerra, former president of FIU’s Student • Telephone 1 -800-884-3199 or development, fund-raising and management Government Association and a member of of the overall budget for the program. The the Dean’s Board of Advisors, addressed how fax 1-416-497-7518 and place your order; logistics sub-committee handled all of the Arts & Sciences degrees can be the keystone • Or complete the flyer that comes with your diploma and mail it in. on-campus issues, including event in successful civil service careers. HR 38 FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY MAGAZINE WINTER 2006 ALUMNI

CLASS NOTES Dorothy S. Stahr ’82 a ceramist and William W. Gardner, Jr. ’89 recently mixed media artist, shows room-sized became the Democratic County 1970s installations in functional fine art Executive Committeeman representing Tony Argiz ’74 of Morrison, Brown, Argiz and Farra, a dinnerware and sculpture. Her first precinct 590, an elected office in the city of Miami. He is also an image Miami-based accounting and management consulting production was Transformations Dinner consultant and has been a Miami-Dade firm, was a speaker at the annual National Automobile Theater, featuring Raven creation citizen for the past 26 years. Dealers Association Convention & Exposition held in New stories, with two summer seasons of performances in Orleans last January. Argiz is the co-author of the Sitka, Alaska, and a tour of Japan in 1998. She holds a Dr. Jason S. Hamilton ’89, MS ’92 defended his dissertation “Clinical Psychologist Treatment of American Institute of Public Accountants Auto Dealership B.S. in design. Homeless Adolescents in Jamaica” in 2003. He is the Engagement Manual and a guest columnist with the Cynthia J. Dienstag, Esq. ’83 is the principal of recipient of the Carlin Foundation Humanitarian Award monthly trade publication “Professional Auto News.” Cynthia J. Dienstag, P.A., focusing on marital and from the Coconut Grove Playhouse. He became the Kathleen A. Cegles ’76 relocated from San Angelo, family law litigation. She is a certified family court faculty advisor to his fraternity, Omega Psi Phi, at FIU and coordinated a community service project with the Texas, where she was department head and physical mediator and was appointed as a mentor by the Chief Caribbean Students Association and the Judge of the 11th Judicial Circuit. Her memberships therapy program director at Angelo State University undergraduate chapter of Omega Psi Phi to benefit a since 1999. She has accepted a position at the include: Honorary Society of First Family Law Inns of young Jamaican boy diagnosed with bone cancer. Medical University of South Carolina as Physical Court, Dade County Bar Family Law Section, Florida Therapy Educational Program director in the College Bar, Support Issues and General Masters Committees. of Health Professions. She recently opened an office in Weston. 1990s Adolfo Henriques ’76, a member of the FIU Board of Alan J. Schuh ’85 is a well-known Howard Mark Shore ’91, partner of Elite Advisory Group, Inc., has joined The College of Business Trustees, is the new president of Florida East Coast financial educator in South Florida. For Alumni Circle, a group of senior-level alumni who Industries. more than 19 years, Mr. Schuh has been teaching investors over age 60 work closely with CBA administrators and deans to Carlos L. Fernandez, Esq. ’78 was recently appointed as develop programs and initiatives to achieve the howto preserve their assests, increase a general magistrate in the Family Division of the Circuit College’s goals. their income as much as 30 percent and Courts for the 11th Judicial Court in Miami-Dade County. reduce income taxes up to 50 percent. He is one of Pedro De Armas ’92, MAcc. 00 has 8,000 Certified Senior Advisors in the U.S. To become recently become a named partner of the CPA firm now known as Verdeja, a CSA, he successfully completed a 20-part program 1980s Gravier & De Armas, one of the largest proving his expertise in many areas including senior Hispanic CPA firms in Florida. With Eileen R. Kott ’80 was hired as a math teacher at housing, health issues, and senior finances. more than 10 years of public and Miami Southridge Senior High School after graduation. Lynn W. Sexton ’88 was recently promoted to Chief private accounting experience, de Armas now During her 23 years there she was voted Teacher of the oversees the audit team and maintains the firm’s Financial Officer of the Dade County Federal Credit Year in 1988 and acheived National Board Certification quality standards in each engagement. Union in Miami. She has been working at Dade County in 2001. She participated in NASA’s Educational Work Federal since June 2003. She oversees a $400 million Rick Escudero ’92, MAcc. ’93, executive vice Shop for Math, Science, and Technology in the Space budget for the credit union and supervises accounting president and CFO of Kramer Laboratories, Inc., has Telescope Institute at Johns Hopkins University. She joined The College of Business Alumni Circle, a group and finance departments. moved to Robert Morgan Education Center as the math of senior-level alumni who work closely with CBA department chairperson last year. Peter Dubowsky, Esq. ’89 has been practicing law in administrators and deans to develop programs and Las Vegas, Nevada, since 1993. Last year he initiatives to achieve the College's goals. Ronald Schechter ’80 graduated from the Executive established the Dubowsky Law Office focusing on MBA Program at New Jersey Institute of Technology Ted A. Berger, D.C. ’94 attended chiropractic college judgment enforcement, collections and commercial in May of 2004. in Marietta, GA, and currently has an office located in litigation. Dubowsky is an adjunct faculty member at Broward County. Stephen Waters III ’82 recently accepted the the Community College of Southern Nevada and a Julian Acosta ’95, formerly known as Jose Antonio position of Career Development Supervisor at LINQ Small Claims Judge for the Las Vegas Township. He Lopez, was seen on ABC’s Spring series, “The Job.” Financial Group, a General Agency for Guardian Life lives in Las Vegas with his wife, Donna, and their He attended the highly regarded Mason Gross Insurance Company. children, Moriah, Eliza and Asher. School of the Arts at Rutgers University. He was KEYLA HECHAVARRIA-GONZALEZ ’98 Alumna gives thanks to FIU for giving the opportunity to succeed

Editor’s Note: This alumni profile her letter hangs in more than comes to you in the form of a one office at FIU. We thought letter, a bit different than others about writing a more traditional typically featured. We think you story about Key la’s journey; but will understand why. Keyla the truth is, no one can tell Hechavarria-Gonzalez 98 Keyla’s story better than she recently sent this powerful and can. So we are bringing you her poignant letter about her life letter, ju s t as she wrote it, and her FIU education to the because it has touched so College of Education. It made many of us. We know Keyla its way to Alumni Relations and speaks for many of our alumni eventually into the hands of the whose lives were transformed individuals who are charged by Florida International with advancing our university. University. She is an inspiration She might be surprised to know to us all. WINTER 2006 FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY MAGAZINE 39

chosen to work with the Guthrie Theatre where he Justin R. Routt ’98 is an master’s degree in accounting from FIU and his performed in several productions, including “Kiss of independent filmmaker and recently undergraduate degree in accounting from the the Spider Woman,” “The Grapes of Wrath” and celebrated the pre-production of a University of the West Indies. Formerly with “Cloud Tectonics.” He also appeared in “Piano” at full-length feature he is filming in ARCAccounting & Business Solutions, Inc. as a senior IACD/ART in Cambridge, written and co-directed by Miami with one name talent. accountant, Mr. Holder has experience in tax Anna Deavere Smith. compliance, accounting, and Sarbanes Oxley internal controls documentation and testing. Dawn Plummer ’95 performed at the Taproot Theatre Sara L. Lewis ’99, MS’01 was in Seattle from 1998 to 2001 and Intiman Theatre in awarded “Manager of the Fourth Melissa Viana ’01 currently works as a media buyer Seattle from 2001-2003. Quarter 2004” and “Manager of the for Planning Group International, an interactive Jeanie Kiamm Wilby ’95 teaches Year 2004” by Wyndham Miami advertising agency. special education kindergarten at Airport Hotel Nelson Castillo ’02 president of Castle Financial Freedom Elementary in DeLand. She Group, Inc. and current mentor for the College of has written a book, “Decorative France-Luce Benson ’99 has a written a play, Business Administration, appeared for three weeks on American Pottery & Whiteware,” “Ascencion,” which was recently represented in published through Collector Books AM radio station The Word 1550 AM to discuss “Going to the River,” a celebration of African-American that features 287 color pages of pottery common in aspects of the mortgage business. Women Playwrights, performed at the Ensemble American homes in the early part of the 20th Studio Theatre in New York. Miguel A. Horvath, Jr. ’02 financial advisor for century. The book is an identification and value American Express Financial Advisors, has joined The guide for decorative American pottery and shows Charles J. McRay ’99 was named Miami-Dade College of Business Alumni Circle, a group of senior- readers how to identify and care for their pieces. County’s “top corrections officer” and he oversees the level alumni who work closely with CBA nation’s sixth largest jail system. Fabio Estrada ’97 has joined Total Bank as assistant administrators and deans to develop programs and vice president/corporate lender at the bank’s Coral initiatives to achieve the College’s goals. Way branch. Raquel Schwarz ’02 was promoted to sales Adriana Gaviria ’97 has been playing Conchita in Joan D. Casanova ’00 and Alexander manager in the Hispanic market for Molson Coors Regional Theatre Companies of Anna in the Tropics by Gonzalez were married on New Year’s Brewing Company. Nilo Cruz. She has numerous other New York theater Day 2005 in University Christian Luz U. Weinberg ’02 was recently elected to the credits. After receiving her Bachelor’s Degree in Fine Church. Aventura City Commission. She was sworn in at a Arts at FIU, she earned a Master’s Degree in Fine Arts ceremony in City Hall on March 17. at the Yale School of Drama. Lance Benson ’03 office broker for Cushman & Lilly Bernal Pino ’97 received her Luis A. Gazitua ’00 has been appointed Wakefield, has joined The College of Business Alumni master’s degree from New York senior advisor in the Office of Miami- Circle, a group of senior-level alumni who work closely University in 2000. She has performed Dade Mayor Carlos Alvarez. Gazitua was with CBA administrators and deans to develop at the Mark Taper Forum in LA, the Intar the founding partner of the law firm of programs and initiatives to achieve the College’s goals. Theatre in New York, and the National Gazitua Letelier, P.A., specializing in offshore asset protection and business Theatre in 2000. She is married to Ivan Lopez ’03 played Austin in “The Big Funk” for development. He previously worked for Robert television and theatre actor Danny Pino ’96. The Madman Experiment in June 2004. He is currently Josefsberg of Podhurst Orseck, PA. where he was working on his master’s in fine arts at the National Barbara Safille ’97 currently is finishing a Ph.D. at FIU. involved in terrorist litigation and international law. A resident of South Miami, Gazitua received a law Theatre Conservatory in Denver where he has Sonja P. Permenter ’98 serves as an assistant pricipal degree from St. Thomas University. performed in “Much Ado About Nothing.” at Thomas Jefferson Middle School. She formerly Yamil Piedra ’03 is an actor and taught students at Jan Mann Opportunity School and Allan S. Holder ’00 has joined appeared on ABC’s “Boston Legal” Miami Carol City Senior High School. She continued Berkowitz Dick Pollack & Brant Certified Public Accountants & Consultants, LLP on February 13, 2005. He also her education at Nova Southeastern where she as a staff accountant in the Tax Services appears in the 2005 romantic received both a master’s degree in varying Department. Holder obtained his comedy film “Fingers Walking.” exceptionalities and an EDS in educational leadership.

To whom it may concern in the thank the Ten Percent give up and I found out about the best of their opportunities to Florida International University Undergraduate Admission Ten Percent Waiver Admission become successful individuals, College of Education, Committee even more, because Committee. I knew that this way further their education and strive without them, I would not be was the only way in and I was to become lifelong learners My name is Keyla Hechavarria- where I am today, a successful determined to get accepted. I did themselves. Gonzalez and I graduated from teacher. get accepted a year later, and I 0 , , , . . . FIU back in April of 1998.1 am want you to know that it was not a Before closing this letter I want writing this overdue thank you I want to tell you a bit of my mista' 0 That dedsion chg d you to know that I was selected letter once again to everyone that journey in order for you to see the direction of my |ife comp|etely. Pi ??? Teac£ fr of Year ,or assisted me in realizing my dream how amazing it is. First of all, I John G. Dupuis Elementary of becoming the elementary was a young wife and mother I have to admit there were times School. This is just one reward of educator I am today. when I started FIU. I lived in a that were so challenging and countless others I receive on a Hialeah Housing Authority seemingly overwhelming that I daily basis as a teacher. Thank It has been an unbelievable apartment. Everything around me thought about giving up. you so much for your acceptance journey for me, but one that I am pointed to no way out, but I was Nevertheless, I had to be the one and just remember that there are so glad for. I want to thank all of determined to succeed. I still to break the cycle in my family of many others like me who just my professors at the University recall the day I received my first not entering and completing need an opportunity, and so many other countless letter from FIU stating that I was college. I am the only member of Fternallv arateful individuals who, without even not admitted to the College of my family to earn a college degree ’ ® knowing it, helped me succeed in Education basically due to my low and I will guide and challenge my Mrs. Keyla Hechavarria- life. Also, I want to especially SAT scores. However, I did not children and students to make the Gonzalez ’98 B i 40 FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY MAGAZINE WINTER 2006 donor profile Sergio Pino, Pino Center Director Alan Carsrud, FIU President Modesto A, Maidique, Eugenio Pino, Gov. Jeb Bush and Carlos Pino at the naming dedication of the Eugenio Pino and Family Global Entrepreneurship Center. Pino

Family gift supports future generations of entrepreneurs Eager to encourage future “Eugenio, Sergio and Carlos are a “Here we have successful businesspeople — and to pay tribute to living example of what we hope this entrepreneurs leading the way for the the father who guided them to success center will help entrepreneurs next generation,” Carsrud said. “It is — South Florida businessmen Sergio accomplish,” said FIU President our hope that others will feel motivated and Carlos Pino has made a lead gift to Modesto A. Maidique, himself a and come forward to contribute to this FIU’s small business incubator. professor of management, the co­ dynamic entrepreneurial environment.” The renamed Eugenio Pino and founder of a Fortune 1000 company The center’s four institutes focus on Family Global Entrepreneurship Center Sergio Pino and a former partner at Hambrecht & research, community innovation, bears the moniker of the 75-year-old Quist Venture Partners, a venture technology innovation and family family patriarch who in 1969, with his capital firm. business. Within the community, the wife Helia and two young sons, boarded a “Eugenio, The naming of the center in Pino Center helps family firms by Freedom Flight to the United States from Sergio and Eugenio’s name was kept secret from providing expert advise, making available Cuba. In his homeland, Eugenio Pino, a the family patriarch until the networking and learning opportunities former grocery store owner, had seen his Carlos are a ceremony. The naming both surprised and fostering the growth of new ventures property confiscated and was made to living and delighted him. “Everyone who that will make South Florida companies harvest sugarcane. Once in this country, comes to this country can accomplish more competitive in the marketplace. In his natural entrepreneurship gave him the example of what they want to accomplish,” said addition, it provides educational determination and savvy to propel what we Eugenio. “This is a great country and I opportunities for FIU students and quickly from a plumber’s assistant to the hope this truly believe in the American dream.” researchers specializing in the fast growing proprietor of a plumbing company. The Pino $2 million gift qualifies for field of entrepreneurship. Son Sergio, who throughout his teens center will an equal share of state matching funds, “Nothing I can build, no investment I worked in a variety of jobs, observed his help bringing the total value of the can make, will last longer than the father’s drive and at age 20 knew enough contribution to $4 million. A seed legacy of this budding entrepreneurship to work alongside his father and start a entrepreneurs grant from the Kauffman Foundation center,” Pino said. lucrative, still-thriving plumbing accomplish.” of Kansas City positioned the center, A member of FIU’s Board of Trustees, wholesale business. founded in 2003, to become a Sergio Pino has earned the respect of “My father gave me the tools to President recognized international leader in many for both his achievements in the succeed in business and inspired me to Modesto A. entrepreneurship research, education business world and his support of various fulfill my potential,” said Sergio Pino. Maidique and outreach. charities. Gov. Jeb Bush, who has known The two sons today are the epitome of The Pino gift to FIU will have an the Pino family for years, spoke at the successful CEOs and community leaders. impact on students majoring in a on-campus reception at which the gift was Sergio went on to found and head variety of disciplines, as well as on local announced. Century Homebuilders, one of the individuals seeking assistance to start “Eugenio has led his family to largest builders of residential property in or expand a business venture. achieve the American Dream within Miami-Dade County. Son Carlos leads Alan Carsrud, executive director of one generation,” Bush said during the the company founded by his father, the center, said the Pino gift is a celebration. “It’s a pleasure for me to Century Plumbing Wholesale, the largest positive sign of the health and vitality share this day with people who have plumbing wholesaler in Florida, with of the entrepreneurial community in worked so hard and now are giving sales of more than $20 million a year. South Florida. back to fellow Floridians.” lose Valdes-Fauli 75 FIU Alumni Association Lifetime Member Profession Very Impotant Person President and CEO of Beach Bank FIU Affiliations Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, 1975 FIU Foundation Board of Directors FIU Foundation Nominating and Membership Committee Wolfsonian-FIU Advisory Board FIU 2003 Torch Award for Community Leadership

How has your FIU education helped you professionally? My education taught me to think things through and gave me the base of knowledge to move forward in my profession.

What is your favorite memory of your time at FIU? My best memories are all about the friends I met while I was a student.

Why have you chosen to be an Alumni Association Lifetime Member? I believe it is important to give back to the University and stay involved.

What do you see for the future of FIU? I am looking forward to all the excitement of the new medical school. I also see us continuing to bring affordable education to all.

What is your proudest accomplishment? I am very proud of my involvement on the FIU Foundation Board of Directors. 800-FIU-ALUM - 305-348-3334 - www.fiualumni.com ragf 42005 W M W m We’ve rescheduled and you’re re-invited TORCHAwards The 2005 Gala Torch^ is j still lit. NEW DATE: Saturday, February 11, 2006 Time: 6:30 p.m. Cocktail Reception 7:30 p.m. Gala & Ceremony Place: Parrot Jungle, Watson Island, Miami Beach FEATURING: FIU’s own Nadia Turner, American Idol finalist Tickets: Randi N. West at 305-348-1009

Due to hurricane Wilma

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