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Faculty Awards & Advancements
We want to share news of your new degrees, awards and other recognition. Email details to cte@easternflorida.edu.
EMS Instructor Earns Bachelor of Applied Science
April 2021: Roy Gainer, an Emergency Medical Services instructor who teaches in the
EMT and Paramedic programs, earned his BAS in Applied Health Sciences from EFSC with
a Healthcare Management specialization in December 2020. Gainer started at EFSC in
2014 as an EMS adjunct and became full time in 2018. He teaches a variety of classes
and appreciates how advancements in simulating real-life medical emergencies have
enhanced the students' learning experience, especially during field clinicals. As
a teenager, he was already interested in becoming a volunteer fire fighter, a path
his brothers had also chosen, but it was witnessing a traffic accident at the age
of 18 that truly inspired him. He recalls the patient care provided by the EMS/fire
crews as “mind blowing.” After previously working as a paramedic and at a cardiac
catheterization lab, he says the move to educator provides “the feeling of making
a bigger difference in the community.” He enjoys knowing that students are working
in the community using the skills he's taught them and he finds it rewarding when
students return from clinicals eager to learn more. Gainer plans to begin the journey
toward his master's degree in 2022.
EFSC Nursing Professor Adds Doctorate to Credentials
September 2020: Kimberly Scalise, an Assistant Professor in EFSC's Nursing program,
has earned her Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree in Educational Leadership from
The American Sentinel University at Colorado. Scalise started teaching at EFSC in
August 2015, and teaches courses in both the Associate Degree Nursing program and
the online RN to BSN program. Already having completed her Master's in Nursing Informatics,
she recently become a Certified Healthcare Simulation Educator (CHSE) and she teaches
numerous courses that involve the high-tech patient simulators. Her doctoral research
project focused on Nursing Simulation and the Pre-briefing Process and she was able
to conduct it at EFSC with her nursing students. The goal was to improve the use of
simulation and enhance student learning outcomes, while also improving patient care.
"I think everyone is drawn to nursing because they had a personal experience in which
they wanted to help someone or make a difference," said Scalise. "I also wanted to
do something that was challenging, interesting, and makes a difference in people’s
live, so whether at the bedside or the podium, I can still do that."
Congratulations 2019-20 Academic Discipline Peer Honorees
April 2020: Full-time faculty in various disciplines have been recognized as Academic Discipline Peer Award (ADPA) winners for the 2019-20 academic year at Eastern Florida State College. The honor is presented in appreciation of their dedication, patience, enthusiasm and concern for students, the College and the community. View the list of ADPA winners.
Health Science Instructor Earns Master's Degree
March 2020: Tim Sears, Radiography Program Clinical Coordinator & Instructor, has
earned his Masters in Health Informatics from The University of Illinois at Chicago. Sears
joined EFSC in Fall of 2018 as a Radiography Program Instructor. As the Radiography
Program Clinical Coordinator & Instructor, he teaches courses related to digital image
production, acquisition and processing, plus oversees the clinical assignments and
scheduling. For his Master’s research project, Sears created a mobile cancer screening
framework that would utilize mobile sonography equipment along with artificial intelligence
software to help increase screening rates for underserved populations. Earning his
degree was a huge time commitment, but he was determined and believes one should,
“take things one step at a time, no matter the endeavor, because it is the journey
that is the reward.” Sears is extremely excited about the future of the EFSC Radiography
program and its graduates, and plans to add more clinical sites to better serve specific
student needs. He enjoys being part of the bigger picture for healthcare: "The best
part about educating, especially within my field, is the idea that the things I instruct
will be directly used to help influence and enhance the quality of patient care seen
in our local communities."
Biology Instructor Adds Second Master's Degree
October 2019: Ron Vanderveer, who teaches biology courses for both science majors
and non-majors on the Melbourne Campus and online, has earned a Master of Science
in General Biology from Mississippi State University. Vanderveer also has a master's
in educational technology from Florida Tech and a bachelor's in marine biology. Vanderveer
first taught oceanography at Melbourne High School and then worked as a trainer at
a local company before coming to the College, first as an adjunct, then as a full-time
biology instructor since 2013. Inspiring students to consider a science career is
rewarding but he says he never loses sight of the non-science major who's just checking
off a box on their degree requirements. "I'm not trying to make them scientists. I'm
trying to make them functionally literate in the field of science so in 10 years when
a family member gets sick or they run into a scientific issue at work they can think
back and evoke what I taught them and go through their steps to figure out the issue."
READ MORE ABOUT RON VANDERVEER
English and Psychology Professor Earns Doctorate Degree
July 2019: Maureen Groome, who teaches English and Psychology courses on EFSC's Melbourne
campus, has earned a Ph.D. in Industrial and Organizational Psychology from Grand
Canyon University. Dr. Groome has taught at the College since 2000, first as an adjunct
and full time since 2010. Her dissertation was a qualitative study on how millennials
with MBA degrees perceived psychological services contracts as influencing their choice
of an employer. "Any degree in psychology will help tremendously in teaching and I
also wanted to expand by teaching opportunities in the psychology department," said
Groome. "The classes I took have helped me to gain a better understanding of my students
and myself. Also, being a student as well as a teacher has provided me many learning
experiences, particularly with the LMS (online Learning Management System)." Groome
says the online doctoral program provided greater flexibility and allowed her to build
a support group among her fellow classmates around the country. The program also interested
Groome because she is a consultant with a full-service strategic planning, HR, training,
talent management and organizational development company. She plans to incorporate
new uses of technology in her classes. "I have been teaching for over 25 years. The
most rewarding part for me is when I get a letter or email from a former student letting
me know where he or she is and thanking me for teaching him or her."
Health Sciences Professor Adds Counseling Degree
April 2019: Kristie Fuller, Assistant Professor of Health Sciences and Phlebotomy
Program Manager, has earned her Masters in Counseling in the Clinical Mental Health
Counseling track from Wake Forest University. Her master's program included four intense
internships, including one in Equine Facilitated Therapy for young adults diagnosed
with Autism Spectrum Disorder and veterans dealing with PTSD and substance use disorder
at Eye of a Horse in St. Cloud, where she continues to volunteer as she works toward
full licensure. "My degree in counseling has enabled me to bring to the classroom
a greater understanding and ability to communicate with and empower my students,"
said Fuller. "Outside of the college, I am able to focus solely on empowering individuals
and small groups to learn more about themselves and gain the skills to be successful
in whatever ways they define success." She started at the college in 2009 as an adjunct
professor and took on the role of Phlebotomy program manager in 2010, which is taught
year-round at EFSC with cohorts on the Cocoa and Palm Bay campuses.
Business Professor Earns EdD Credential
February 2019: Deana Looney, Assistant Professor of Business and Program Manager of
EFSC's Transportation and Logistics program, has earned her Doctorate of Education from
Nova Southeastern University. She joined the College in 2006 as an adjunct instructor,
and moved to full time on the Titusville Campus in 2011. Her doctorate specialized
in Instructional Technology and Design with a minor in Higher Education. Looney's
dissertation focused on understanding student success from an instructor's perspective
when a course is offered in a variety of modalities. Looney credits her family's support
for this accomplishment, achieved while she and her husband are also raising two active
young sons. "When I was a kid running track, my father once said, 'You are not a quitter.
You cannot give up when times get tough.' His words always ring in the back of my
mind," said Looney. As an educator she most enjoys her role in motivating and engaging
her students, especially returning students who have been away from college for a
few years.
Carrie Wells is 2019 Distinguished Educator; D'Altilio Earns Mentoring Award
January 2019: Carrie Wells, an Assistant Professor of English on the Palm Bay campus, has
been honored as the 2019 Distinguished Educator Award, and Marianne D’Altilio, an
Assistant Professor of Veterinary Technology on the Cocoa campus, has received the
2019 Excellence in Faculty Mentoring Award. Dr. Linda Miedema, EFSC Vice President
for Academic and Student Affairs and Chief Learning Officer, presented the awards
during the annual faculty Welcome Back meeting to mark the start of the Spring Term.
Read More About the Awards
English Professor Cheryl Renee Adds Ph.D.
November 2018: Cheryl Renee, Ph.D., an English Professor teaching composition courses
on EFSC's Melbourne Campus, has earned a doctorate in General Psychology from Grand
Canyon University with an emphasis on Cognition and Instruction in higher education.
"I have always been fascinated by the human brain, how we think, learn, remember,
and apply new knowledge,” says Renee, who adds the new degree is helping her improve
teaching strategies to promote student learning and retention of course materials.
Renee joined the College in 1998 as a part-time instructor in composition, humanities
and world religions. She pursued the doctorate because as a life-long learner she
is always seeking to embrace new knowledge. “Perseverance leads to success. Even if
you become frustrated or disheartened with the process, do not give up!”
Communications Professor Roland Chambers Earns Doctorate
October 2018: Roland Chambers, Ed.D., an Associate Professor teaching communications
courses on the Melbourne Campus, has earned a Doctorate in Education from Walden University,
with a specialization in Higher Educational Leadership. Chambers began teaching at
the College in 2008, was hired full time in 2009 and currently serves as the Communications
and Foreign/World Language Cluster Chair for EFSC's Academic Affairs Council. His
dissertation focused on “Academic Entitlement and the Decision-Making of Tenured Professors.”
Chambers says he was inspired to get his doctorate, which was conferred in February 2018,
because, “I am a life-long learner.” When asked to reflect on why he enjoys teaching,
he says, “There are many things, but being in an environment where the exchange of
ideas and new learning exists may be the most enjoyable.”
EFSC Professor John Hilston Earns National Education Award
June 2018: Eastern Florida State College Professor John Hilston, who teaches Economics
and American History on the Palm Bay Campus, has been chosen as one of eight recipients
of the 41st Annual Leavey Awards for Excellence in Private Enterprise Education, an
honor that includes a $7,500 cash award. Hilston was selected based on four initiatives
he developed to use American History and hands-on learning to enhance the teaching
of Economics. The Leavey Awards recognize educators for innovative and effective techniques
in teaching entrepreneurship and free enterprise education. Read More About Hilston's Award
Congratulations 2017-18 Academic Peer Discipline Honorees
Full-time faculty in a variety of disciplines have been recognized as Academic Peer Discipline Award (ADPA) winners for the 2017-18 academic year at Eastern Floida State College. The honor is in appreciation of their dedication, patience, enthusiasm and concern for students, the College and the community. View the list of ADPA winners.
Susan Houts Honored as EFSC's 2018 Distinguished Educator
January 2018: Associate Professor Susan Houts has received the prestigious Distinguished
Educator Recognition Award for 2018 from Eastern Florida State College. Houts, who
teaches Speech and Communications on the Palm Bay campus, was selected for her work
in bringing students, faculty and staff together to improve student success. She received
the award January 4 during the college’s superhero-themed Welcome Back program for
faculty to mark the start of the 2018 Spring Term. Read More About the Award
Dental Hygiene Program Manager Awarded Doctorate Degree
November 2017: Jennifer McCann, DHSc, Dental Hygiene Program Manager on the Cocoa
Campus, has earned a Doctor of Health Science degree from Nova Southeastern University.
McCann, who has been working at EFSC since Fall of 2014, also holds an A.S. in Dental
Hygiene, a BAS in Dental Hygiene and a Master of Health Science degree with a concentration
in Higher Education. "I love being an educator," said McCann. "Every day I hope to
teach my students something new, and more often than not, they teach me something
in return. The field of Dental Hygiene is one that has such an opportunity to grow.
I am lucky to be in this field and program as we continue to broaden our scope of
practice to reach those areas in need of preventive oral health care."
Cocoa Instructor Honored with Lifetime Achievement Award
September 2017: Professor Ted Hartselle, who formerly worked on the Space Shuttle
program, has been recognized by the National Space Club Florida Committee for lifelong
achievement and contributions to the U.S. space program. Hartselle, who started at
EFSC as an adjunct in December 2012 and was hired full-time in August 2016, currently
teaches classes in Aerospace, Engineering and Industrial Management Technology at
Eastern Florida State College. He is also a two-term councilman for the City of Rockledge,
and the new Lt. Governor for the seven Kiwanis Clubs of Brevard County. "Fifty-eight
times I was lead launch engineer for the Space Shuttle External Tank and Main Propulsion
Oxygen Systems Console in the Launch Control Center. I got to push 'the button.'
Now I open new horizons for my students to explore," said Hartselle. "I am convinced
that you can change the world through your own efforts. Just find where to push!"
Melbourne Mathematics Instructor Earns Doctorate
June 2017: Jeremy Mandelkern, PhD, a Mathematics Instructor on the Melbourne Campus,
has earned a Doctorate degree in Mathematics from Florida Institute of Technology,
with a primary area of focus in Ordinary Differential Equations. Mandelkern also earned
his Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Applied Mathematics from FIT in 2003 and 2004,
and has been teaching at Eastern Florida since 2006. His doctoral dissertation explored
"Sturm-Liouville Equations with Singular Endpoints of Poincaré Rank Zero and One."
"Along this journey, I've been privileged to be able to share with my EFSC students
my experiences, and I hope that as a result my students are better informed as to
whether pursuing a PhD is something they may be interested in themselves," said Mandelkern.
"Never stop pushing yourself to learn and achieve. This is the surest path to a fulfilling
life."
Dental Assisting Instructor Earns Masters in Higher Education
May 2017: Jessica Milford, M.S., Dental Assisting Instructor on the Cocoa Campus,
has earned a Master of Science in Higher Education degree from Capella University.
Milford Joined Eastern Florida as an adjunct in 2006 and became full time in 2010.
The focus of her new degree is Community College Leadership, which she now applies
to her role as program manager, enhancing her knowledge of college operations and
her qualifications to possibly hold a future administrative position. “This degree
gave me more insight into the issues and trends facing higher education and how to
respond to ensure the students’ continued success,” said Milford. “I enjoy teaching
the students and seeing them learn, grow, and apply their critical thinking skills
when treating patients. I try to share real-world or life experiences to help them
understand concepts and how they apply to everyday life.”
EFSC Instructor Earns Mathematics Doctorate
April 2017: Holly Wendel, PhD, a Mathematics Instructor on the Melbourne Campus and
online with eLearning, has earned a Doctorate degree in Mathematics Education from
Florida Institute of Technology. Wendel is in her fourth year of teaching at EFSC
and serves as the Program Coordinator for Developmental Mathematics on the Melbourne
campus. In addition to a broad range of Math classes, from Developmental I to Essentials
of Calculus, she also teaches Math for Liberal Arts. Her dissertation focused on the
“Effects of Intelligent Computer-Generated Interactive Mathematics Programs on Students’
Achievement and Affective Domain.” "While working on my doctorate, I have enjoyed
speaking with my students about the process and how they too can achieve anything
they put their mind to,” said Wendel.
Palm Bay Mathematics Instructor Receives Doctorate in Operations Research
March 2017: Kenneth Iwezulu, PhD, Mathematics Instructor on the Palm Bay Campus, has
earned a Doctorate degree from Florida Tech in Operations Research, with a specialization
in Stochastic Games (a Stochastic game is a dynamic game with probabilistic transitions).
Iwezulu earned his Bachelor and Master of Science in Mathematics from the University
of Ibadan, Nigeria. He joined EFSC in 2012 as an adjunct instructor on the Melbourne
Campus and became full-time on the Palm Bay Campus in 2013. “We all engage in some
kind of operations research, which could be seen as a quest for the best possible
way of doing things,” he said. “For me, I believe mathematics is life, and operations
research completes the life in mathematics. Quite a number of people do not like mathematics,
but the truth is: The only way to learn mathematics is to practice and do mathematics.
I had quite a challenge in mathematics during high school, but determined to excel
in it, like my friend who encouraged me.”
Melbourne Nursing Instructor Earns Doctorate
February 2017: Patricia Hurley, RN, MSN, DNP, Nursing instructor on the Melbourne
Campus, has earned a Doctorate of Nursing Practice degree from Samford University,
in Birmingham, Alabama. She joined the EFSC Nursing faculty in 2010 on the Cocoa Campus
and moved to the Melbourne Campus in January 2017. Hurley holds a Master of Science
in Nursing (MSN) with a focus on Administration; a B.S. in Nursing and a Bachelor
of Theology degree. Her doctoral area of focus was the care of the elderly post hospitalization
by working through faith-based communities. “I started a program at a large congregation
in Titusville focusing on visiting those discharged from the hospital every week for
four weeks to review discharge instructions and offer spiritual support in an effort
to prevent re-admissions to the hospital within 30 days,” said Hurley. “This program
is supporting primarily elderly in our community of Titusville. The project is also
a collaboration between the faith-based community and the local hospital. So far only
one we have visited has been readmitted. The project also included education and training
of volunteers,” she said. “I love nursing and really enjoy the students. My role
is to teach, guide and help them develop into nurses who maintain the standards of
the profession and to provide excellent care for the sick and those in need of health
care.”
EMS Instructor Earns B.S. in Industry Training and Technical Education
November 2016: Jeff Touro, Instructor of Emergency Medical Services on the Melbourne
Campus, has earned a Bachelor of Science in Industry Training and Technical Education
from the University of Central Florida. He also holds an Associate in Arts degree
and an Associate in Science degree in Emergency Medical Services. He has been a full-time
faculty member at EFSC since 2012, teaching Emergency Medical Services within the
Public Safety Institute on the Melbourne Campus. “My degree in education has provided
me with necessary tools to better reach my students,” said Touro. “It is incredibly
rewarding to be able to apply classroom lessons learned at UCF to my own classrooms
here at EFSC and see immediate improvement in student success.”
Titusville Patient Care Instructor Earns Doctorate
September 2016: Susan Campbell, EdD, Patient Care instructor on the Titusville Campus,
has earned a Doctorate of Education with a Specialization in Educational Leadership
and Management from Capella University. She has been teaching full time at EFSC since
1998 and is an RN/paramedic with flight certification. She holds an A.S. in Emergency
Medical Services, a B.S. in Healthcare Administration and an M.S. in Healthcare Administration
with a focus in Education. Her dissertation research focused on the integration of
critical thinking skills across curriculum. “I love teaching entry-level students
in the healthcare field,” she said. “These students are the future caregivers and
need a solid foundation for lifelong learning. In today’s world, problem solving and
critical thinking are necessary skills in all areas of life. As educators, we need
to help our students develop these skills throughout their educational experience.”
Palm Bay Mathematics Chair Earns Doctorate
June 2016: Dustin Files, PhD, Assistant Professor of Mathematics and Mathematics Department
Chair on the Palm Bay Campus, has earned a Doctorate of Philosophy in Mathematics
Education from the Florida Institute of Technology. He joined EFSC in 2007 with a
Master of Science Degree in Applied Mathematics from the FIT. His dissertation, “Instructional
Approach and Mathematics Achievement: An Investigation of Traditional, Online, and
Flipped Classrooms in College Algebra” focused on constructivism and mathematics self-efficacy.
“I found that students have higher achievement when they are given the opportunity
to be guided by more hands-on practice with the concepts,” said Files. He plans to
incorporate more activities along with his lectures. “I'm going to take a more blended
approach, sort of a mix of the traditional and flipped classroom.”
Participants Selected for 2016-2017 Administrative Leadership Internship Program
May 2016: Ten faculty and staff members have been selected for the Administrative Leadership Internship Program (ALIP). This intensive, year-long program empowers participants to develop the skills necessary to achieve their goals in higher education. Interns will work side-by-side with top-level administrators, faculty and staff to improve leadership strategies and enhance operational knowledge of the College. The 2016-2017 participants are: Wayne Brown, Sharon Cronk-Raby, Dr. Ramona Smith, Dr. Cathy Cady, Jacinta Dawson, Stephanie Goins, Dayla Nolis, Marian Shelpman, Dr. Laura Sidoran and Milli Torres. Learn more about ALIP and what’s in store for this year’s participants.
Nursing Instructor Earns Master's Degree
May 2016: Karen Spurlock, Instructor of Nursing on the Titusville Campus, has earned
a Master’s degree in Nursing, MSN, with a specialty in Education from Capella University.
She has been employed with EFSC full time for five years and works in the Associate
Degree Nursing, ADN, program. Formerly, she worked as an RN in patient care and management
and spent much time volunteering in her community for various churches, health events,
the NAACP and Red Cross. While teaching a nursing assistant class for the Red Cross,
she discovered her passion for teaching and joined EFSC where she has instructed PCA,
LPN and now RN students. “Each student that I can connect with and inspire will then
connect with their patients in a compassionate, competent way without judgment, ridicule,
or prejudice,” said Spurlock. “Many may feel that it is their job to simply provide
the information and the job of the recipient is to learn. My belief is that you must
strive to connect to your students and inspire them to want to learn. We are teaching
to help them grow. There is no greater honor.”
Faculty Members Honored with Academic Discipline Peer Awards
April 2016: Almost three-dozen full time faculty members have been selected as winners of the 2016 Academic Discipline Peer Awards. These outstanding educators were chosen based on their contributions to students, EFSC and the greater community. Winners represent the following disciplines: Science and Engineering, Music/Fine Arts, English, Speech/Foreign Language, Social and Behavioral Sciences, Mathematics, Health Sciences, Humanities, Computer Applications/Science, Education, and Career and Technical Programs. View the complete list of honorees. Congratulations to the recipients and thank you to their colleagues who recognized their achievements.
Clinical Instructor Earns MBA in Healthcare Management
April 2016: Daniel Clancy, MBA, RDMS, Clinical Coordinator/Instructor for the Diagnostic
Medical Sonography Program on the Cocoa Campus, has earned a Master of Business Administration,
majoring in Healthcare Management, from Western Governors University. He joined EFSC
in August 2015 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Healthcare Management from Indian
River State College. Clancy is registered in OB/GYN and Abdominal Ultrasound and is
a member of the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonography. He pursued an
MBA to help provide his students with the information they will need to be successful
in the Healthcare industry. “The bridge between clinical and administrative responsibilities
is very different but each side needs to know what the other is doing and why,” said
Clancy. “I love teaching Sonography, and I feel extremely lucky to be teaching at
EFSC.”
Accounting Instructor Earns Second Master's Degree
March 2016: Patricia S. Harmon, Instructor of Accounting on the Cocoa Campus, has
earned her second Master’s degree - a Master of Accounting degree from the American
Public University System. She previously earned a Master of Science in Business Education
from Southern New Hampshire University. She has been a full time EFSC instructor
since 2014, following her work as an adjunct on the Cocoa and Melbourne campuses.
Before joining EFSC, she was employed with the New Hampshire public school system,
the private sector within the legal community, the Brevard County Court system and
as a free-lance writer. She also serves as a Notary Public at large for the community.
“My goal has always been to bring real-world experiences into the classroom and to
encourage students to seek their true potential,” said Harmon. “Thankfully, I have
been blessed with the opportunity to serve in such a position at Eastern Florida State
College.”
EMS Instructor Earns BAS in Healthcare Management
February 2016: Nikolas Koukos, RN, Emergency Medical Services (EMS) instructor on
the Melbourne Campus, has earned a Bachelor of Applied Science in Healthcare Management
from EFSC. He also holds Associate in Science degrees in EMS and Nursing as well as
current Florida paramedic and RN certifications. Koukos is the Lead EMS instructor
and EMS Department Chair in the EFSC Public Safety Institute. He began his career
with the College in 2006 and pursued a management degree to broaden his perspective
of the healthcare field. “I have been in healthcare for 17 years, but always at the
patient’s side,” said Koukos. “I thought it would be beneficial to see how the administrative
side functioned." With several family members in the field, Koukos has been passionate
about EMS since high school. “I loved showing up at a person’s most vulnerable time
and being able to help them, either physically or emotionally. I take great pride,
now, in training others to be a ‘hero’ when one is needed most."
World Religions Instructor Awarded Doctorate Degree
October 2015: Alicia Spring, Ph.D., World Religions instructor on the Melbourne Campus,
has earned a Doctor of Ministry Degree from Eden Theological Seminary in St. Louis.
Dr. Spring is also an ordained clergy in the United Church of Christ. An EFSC faculty
member since 2010, Dr. Spring teaches World Religions on campus and online and also
teaches Community Involvement. Her dissertation focused on using contemplative pedagogy
in the college classroom to help students integrate academic study with personal meaning.
“Service learning here at EFSC is a good example of a contemplative pedagogy,” said
Dr. Spring. “Other activities I’ve used in the classroom are meditation, designing
a personal mandala and practicing a day of Sabbath (24 hours without electronics and
technology). Contemplative practices are believed to build student attention and comprehension,
making the class material more relevant and practical to real life experience. Completing
my dissertation was as difficult as I anticipated, but I learned so much in the process.”
Nursing Instructor Earns Doctorate
September 2015: Annmarie Waite, PhD, ARNP, Instructor of Nursing on the Palm Bay Campus,
has earned a Doctorate of Nursing degree from Barry University. Her dissertation focused
on the independent practice of nurse practitioners. Waite joined EFSC in 2014, following
a career as a registered nurse in Pediatrics and as an Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner.
She has worked in several areas of nursing, in both the private and public sector,
and pursued a doctorate to expand her knowledge of education, research and women’s
health. With her new education, Waite plans to help her students use critical thinking
skills in support of quality healthcare practices. “I hope to provide an interactive
environment that encourages the future leaders of our profession to think of innovative
solutions to solving some of our country's most complex health care issues,” said
Waite.
Dental Hygiene Program Manager Earns M.A. Degree
June 2015: Jeanie Dent, CRDH, Program Manager and faculty member of the Dental Hygiene
Program on the Cocoa Campus, has earned a Master of Arts in Education degree from
the University of Central Florida. Her degree work emphasized leadership, administration
and education skills with a minor in career and technical education. Dent joined then-BCC
in 1999 as an adjunct clinical instructor. She was promoted to full-time faculty and
co-program manager of the dental hygiene program in 2006. In the last nine years she
has been a major part of two successful accreditations of the dental programs and
an integral part of curriculum changes, technology advancements and revisions within
the dental hygiene program. Dent takes great pride in hearing from private-practice
dentists that EFSC dental hygiene graduates are the best to hire. “I really love seeing
new students come into our program with no prior dental experience and exit as some
of the smartest, well trained and skilled clinicians within our area.”
Education Instructor Awarded Doctorate Degree
June 2015: Holly McKnight, Ph.D., Education Instructor on the Palm Bay Campus, has
earned a Doctorate of Science Education in the area of Biology from Florida Institute
of Technology. Her dissertation focused on the Effects of Peer Instruction on State
College Student Achievement in an Introductory Biology Unit in Genetics. Dr. McKnight
joined EFSC in 2001 as an adjunct instructor and became full time in 2010. In the
2015 fall term, she becomes the new Department Chair of Computer Technology, Business,
Education and Engineering Technology on the Palm Bay campus. Although she teaches
full-time in the Education Department, she is also credentialed to teach both Biology
and Success Strategies courses and enjoys the variety because it “keeps life interesting,”
she said. Dr. McKnight hopes to use her expanded knowledge to help the Palm Bay Campus
offer secondary education programs to EFSC students. “Creating a way for secondary
education students to stay in Brevard is an ambition I've had for many years.”
Computer Science Professor Earns Doctorate
February 2015: Steve Johnson, PhD, Professor of Computer Science on the Palm Bay Campus
and Department Chair of Computer Technology, Business, Education, & Engineering Technology,
has earned a Doctorate of Computer Science from the Florida Institute of Technology.
His research area was bioinformatics, which refers to the application of computer
algorithms to solve complex biological problems. He expects his gained knowledge in
this field will benefit the college’s new Bachelor of Applied Science program in Computer
Information Systems Technology. Dr. Johnson teaches Computer Applications, Computer
Programming and also Database Administration. He began his career at the College in
1994, as an adjunct instructor, hired to teach Pascal Programming to a group of Harris
engineers. Dr. Johnson said his current interests include “publishing in research
journals and possibly infusing computer security technologies in the health field,
specifically with patient information security.”
Spanish Instructor Awarded Most Valuable Teacher of the Year
January 2015: Concepcion Cranston, Spanish instructor on the Titusville Campus, received
the Florida Foreign Language Association’s (FFLA) 2014 Most Valuable Teacher of the
Year Award, during the FFLA’s 45th annual conference, held in Miami, Oct. 14-16. The
FFLA is a non-profit organization dedicated to the study and teaching of languages
and cultures. A native of Spain, Cranston attends the conference every year for professional
development. This is the first year she attended as a presenter, and was not expecting
to receive an award. “I was absolutely surprised and honored,” said Cranston, who
began her career with EFSC in 2007. Titusville Department Chair of Liberal Arts/Communications
Robin Campbell believes this honor is well justified. “I cannot think of a more deserving
recipient than Professor Cranston. She teaches Spanish with exceptional knowledge
and passion and consistently dedicates herself to academic excellence. Her willingness
to keep expanding her knowledge of the study of Spanish via professional development
is just one of the many avenues she pursues which enhances her professionalism and
makes her such a fine academician.”
Aerospace Technology Professor Earns M.S. Degree
William Fletcher, Associate Professor of Aerospace Technology on the Cocoa Campus,
earned a Master of Science in Education with a specialization in Professional Studies
in Education, from Capella University, Minneapolis, MN. Fletcher began his career
with EFSC in 2004, following a 35-year career with NASA’s Launch Site Program. At
the end of his career as Associate Program Manager for the NASA Services Program,
he was involved with purchasing commercial expendable launch vehicles for unmanned
satellite projects, such as weather satellites and missions to Mars. “My work at NASA
frequently involved developing ways to perform certain tasks and then teaching others,”
said Fletcher. “Thus, I have been in the education field my whole career. As with
NASA, there is a certain language to learn in the academic world, and techniques and
theories to be employed. Helping my students understand what they need to know to
be successful is my current career goal and purpose.”
Psychology Instructor Awarded EdD
October 2014: Melissa Patton, Instructor of General Psychology and Developmental Psychology
on the Cocoa Campus, has earned a Doctorate in Higher Education and Organizational
Change. Dr. Patton has been teaching for 8 years, the last three of which have been
at EFSC. Her employment history includes Administration, Enrollment Management, Academic
Advising, Judicial Consulting and Interim Associate Provost. She pursued a doctorate
degree to gain a deeper understanding of the collegiate system, particularly the administrative
departments, in order to more comprehensively help her students. Dr. Patton plans
to integrate her role as teacher with her ability to lead and develop programs within
the EFSC system. “I would also like to develop a deeper presence within EFSC as it
pertains to students, faculty and administrators,” said Patton.
Nursing Professor Earns Doctorate
September 2014: Elinda Steury, PhD, RN, Associate Professor of Nursing on the Palm
Bay Campus and online Professor in the Allied Health Bachelor’s Program, has earned
a Doctor of Nursing degree. Her dissertation focused on “Using mobile phone technology
to improve pharmacoadherence in Zambia,” from where she is currently teaching online
classes. “I believe that the technology currently available in developing nations,
specifically Zambia, has the potential to positively impact the health of the individual,
contributing to improving the health of the nation,” said Steury. “I love being a
part of EFSC and look forward to broadening students’ perspectives on global healthcare
through study abroad opportunities in the near future.”
Interior Design Faculty Member Earns M.S. in Architecture
September 2014: Lesa Lorusso, Program Manager for the Interior Design Technology program
on the Melbourne Campus, has earned a Master of Science degree in Architecture with
an Interior Design Specialization from the University of Nebraska. Using her new knowledge,
she led students in the Commercial Interior Design 2 class to renovate the Rockledge
branch of Bridges, a non-profit day facility supporting children and adults with disabilities.
“I love working with design students to inspire their creativity and passion for interior
design and architecture,” said Lorusso. Now in her seventh year teaching at EFSC,
Lorusso is pursuing her Doctorate within the University of Florida’s College of Design
Construction and Planning. “My goal for my doctoral studies is to foster advancement
and growth of the Interior Design program at Eastern Florida State College.”
2014 Peer Awards Announced
Congratulations to the 2014 Academic Discipline Peer Award (ADPA) winners for 2014. View the complete list of honorees chosen by their peers. Your dedication, patience, enthusiasm, and concern for the students, college and the community is very much appreciated.
Phlebotomy Program Manager Earns New Degree
Kristie Rose has been awarded a Master's Degree in General Psychology from American
Public University. Rose is the instructor and program manager for EFSC's phlebotomy
program. "In a broad sense, psychology is related to everything we do since we do
not exist in a vacuum," says Rose. "I am able to use my understanding of psychology
to help the students understand physiologically and psychologically what is happening
in the lab, both for them and for the patient. I can use that understanding to help
the student learn methods they can use to make them a better phlebotomist and to help
them help their patients have a more positive experience." Rose goes on to say, "I
am a mother to one beautiful and intelligent son, four neurotic cats, three mischievous
ferrets and two nutty dogs." She married her husband on the Big Island of Hawaii in
October 2013. Reading is her favorite hobby, with horseback riding a close second.
"I am a lifelong learner and plan to continue my education indefinitely and absolutely
love teaching. I have the greatest job and the best students."
Patient Care Instructor Awarded Degree
Karen Spurlock, a full-time Patient Care Technician Instructor in the Institute of Nursing on the Titusville Campus, was awarded her Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from Kaplan University on November 16, 2013. The program features a strong focus on professional leadership with courses in management, informatics, research, emerging trends in health care therapies, health assessment and community nursing.
EFSC Adjunct Earns Degree
Dr. Janet M. Sikora Amendola, a Chiropractic Physician and adjunct faculty member who teaches Anatomy & Physiology on the Melbourne campus, has earned her Masters of Science in Human Anatomy & Physiology Instruction (MSHAPI) from New York Chiropractic Colleges' post graduate department. She graduated Dec. 20, 2013, with honors. MSHAPI is a multidisciplinary science/pedagogy program that fuses anatomy and physiology content expertise with graduate pedagogy training to develop a highly effective educator focused on undergraduate A&P instruction.

Nursing Faculty Member Receives Doctorate
Paulette Howell, an Associate Professor and Level Coordinator of Nursing on the Palm Bay Campus, has earned a Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Educational Leadership/Educational Technology from the University of Phoenix. Dr. Howell received her BSN from Adelphi University in Garden City, New York and after working in various areas of the healthcare field she returned to school for a Masters of Science in Nursing. Howell says, " I love teaching and being a role model for future healthcare professionals."
English Professor Earns Doctorate
Warren Jones, an English professor on the Titusville Campus, earned his Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) on December 13, 2013 from the University of Central Florida. Dr. Jones' doctoral studies focused on texts and technology through UCF's English department. In addition to teaching Communications courses at EFSC, Jones is a popular humanities instructor, including special topics that have ranged from the cultural impact of the zombie craze to the impact of changing technology. Dr. Jones' website is http://inverseintuition.org/

Radiography Instructor Receives Advanced Degree
Sandi Lanza, an assistant professor who teaches radiography courses in the Health Sciences Institute, has received a Master of Educational Technology degree from Webster University. The degree allows graduates to develop multiple literacies and to foster creative thinking using technology and multimedia.
EFSC Professor Earns Leadership Award
Eastern Florida State College professor Dr. Carol Bourke received the 2013 Outstanding Leadership Award by the Southern Business Education Association (SBEA). The honor is bestowed annually on an SBEA member engaged in business education as a classroom teacher, administrator and/or supervisor at the secondary, postsecondary (two-year), collegiate (senior college or university) or administration/supervision level. READ MORE
eLearning's Dr. Cobb Receives Excellence in Education Award
Dr. Kathy Cobb, the eLearning Provost at Eastern Florida State College, has received the Thomas E. Gamble Excellence in Education for Economic Development Award for her work in the rapidly growing field of online studies. The award is presented by the Economic Development Commission of Florida’s Space Coast to honor educators for their dedication and innovation in serving students and promoting economic growth. READ MORE

Cardinale Receives Doctorate Degree
Nelly Cardinale, an Associate Professor of Computer Science on the Melbourne campus, received her Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) degree in International Higher Education from Northeastern University on Sept 21, 2013. Dr. Cardinale's dissertation was titled, "Examining the transition to a four-day school week and investigating post-change faculty/staff work-life balance: A community college case study."