The Northwest Florida State College Foundation hosted its Annual Board Installation and Recognition Reception on August 24, 2023. 

The event provided a platform to welcome new Foundation directors, honor outgoing members, introduce fresh leadership, and celebrate the remarkable accomplishments of the past year.

As the event commenced, Dr. Bo Arnold, who served as the 2022-23 Foundation Board Chair, took the stage to commend the six departing board members: Ken Wampler of Newman-Daily Resorts; JD Peacock, Okaloosa County Clerk of Court; Dave Jefferson; Michelle Freeman of Fleet & Smith, P.A.; Rhonda Skipper, Walton County Tax Collector; and Kim Kirby of the Walton County School Board.

Ken Wampler received the prestigious Chairman’s Award. The accolade recognizes an exceptional Foundation Board member who has led through exemplary actions and substantially uplifted the organization. With over three decades of expertise in the tourism industry, Wampler brought a unique perspective to the board. His tenure witnessed crucial decisions, including steering through the challenges posed by the pandemic, the sale of College Courtyard Apartments, the divestment of some timber property, and overseeing the hiring of Chris Stowers as the new Executive Director.

Highlighting the financial accomplishments of the past fiscal year, Dr. Arnold announced that the Foundation had successfully raised more than $1.23 million. The endowed funds administered by the Foundation translated into over $650,000 in scholarships awarded and a substantial $1.3 million contribution to Northwest Florida State College. These funds were instrumental in enhancing programs and services, with a noteworthy mention of the financing support provided for the on-campus student housing project, Raider Village.

Alan Wood, of CCB Community Bank took over leadership duties from Wampleras the 2023-24 Foundation Chair, lauded Dr. Arnold’s tenure and presented him with a crystal gavel as a token of appreciation. Wood introduced the fresh faces joining the Foundation Board: Brig. Gen. USAF, Ret. Fran Hendricks; Tim McCool of 3rd Planet Brewing and Crumbl Cookies; Wendy McAdams Dorr; Zach McCluskey; and Neko Stubblefield. He also unveiled the 2023-24 Executive Committee, including Vice Chair Jonathan Ochs, Treasurer Cindy Frakes, Past Chair Bo Arnold, Secretary Chris Stowers, and Executive Director of the Foundation, with the NWFSC President, Dr. Devin Stephenson, Trustee Liaison Don Litke. 

Wood concluded his address by outlining upcoming initiatives, including a Raider Athletics campaign, expansion of the President’s Circle program, and an emphasis on achieving 100% board participation in annual fundraising.

Dr. Devin Stephenson, the President of Northwest Florida State College, brought the event to a stirring close. He urged the foundation board members to leverage their collective energies and influence for the institution’s betterment, emphasizing that their efforts could shape a transformational narrative for future generations.