A national academic organization characterized the evolution of New College of Florida as a threat on high education as a whole. But the Sarasota university’s administration said the school needed to change to avoid complete insolvency.

The American Association of University Professors released a report last week criticizing state leadership in Florida. The report said Florida has led the way in politically motivated attacks on higher education, and that an “unprecedented takeover of New College” serves as a prime example. The report quotes former professors from New College who view the naming of new trustees, firing of former College President Patricia Okker and hiring of current New College President Richard Corcoran as part of a larger, nefarious plan.

“This is a test case for a conservative overhaul of higher education—and it isn’t going to stay isolated to New College or Florida,” said Nicholas Clarkson, an assistant professor of Gender Studies who resigned from New College in August.

The report notes a decision to deny tenure for five faculty members applying in their fifth year who had been approved by a faculty review committee, but were ultimately denied tenure. Authors of the report also suggested angst over coming shifts in curriculum for the school.

“While the content of the proposed new curriculum remains uncertain, it is increasingly clear that some subjects can no longer be taught at New College,” the report states.

Corcoran released an extensive response to the report, acknowledging differences in opinion about the direction New College should take by stressing the school needed a shift in direction.

“What many do not know is that for many decades New College has faced significant challenges including deteriorating facilities and declining enrollment,” he said. “It became imperative to develop a plan for growth before the school went insolvent, even if not all decisions during the transition were universally embraced.”

He said the report does not align with the administration’s vision for New College, and suggested it also isn’t an assessment shared by current faculty and student. Rather, it shows an increasingly polarized academic environment across the country.

“Florida has always valued educational choice and freedom, principles we proudly espouse. Reports such as the AAUP’s shed extreme light on the polarized landscape taking place in higher education, and our position on classic liberal arts and educational freedom is a stance on which we will not yield,” Corcoran said.

“New College's focus lies in the incredible opportunities ahead for our growing student body, faculty, and staff, and we remain diligently committed to this. As we go forward into 2024, I look forward to coming together as a collective community of educators, faculty, and students who have traversed beyond the sensational press, and focus our inspiration on the rich history of excellence that has always been the baseline of New College.” 

Jeff Jackson, President and CEO of PGT Innovations, Inc. (NYSE: PGTI), a national brand and innovation leader in the fenestration and garage door industries, was recently named to Florida Trend’s Florida 500 list, an annual section that highlights Florida’s most influential business leaders. This is the second year that Jackson has been chosen for the highly selective guide. Spanning across 60 categories, the selection of the 500 executives was based on extensive contacts in regional business circles, hundreds of interviews, and months of research, culminating in a highly selective biographical guide to the people who really run Florida. The manufacturing category in the guide included 12 individuals. Jackson joined PGT Innovations in 2005 as the company’s Vice President and Chief Financial Officer and was instrumental in taking the PGT Innovations’ stock public through the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) in 2016. In 2018, he was promoted to President and Chief Executive Officer of PGT Innovations, and since then, he has continued to focus on the company’s legacy of creating deep customer relationships and accelerating the innovation that PGT Innovations’ customers need and expect. Throughout his 18-year tenure with the company, he has continued to foster a culture that thrives on inventing, building, and delivering solutions to enhance people’s lives. Under Jackson’s leadership, the manufacturer has experienced significant growth, including acquiring five companies in four states over five years; expanding existing operations with two new facilities; and opening nine new retail stores in five states over three years. The acquisitions have successfully moved PGT Innovations into new market segments, distribution channels, geographic locations, and a new industry category, as well as added products to its portfolio, strengthened its supply chain for glass, and created relationships with new dealers. PGT Innovations achieved $1.5 billion in total sales over the last four quarters and is the largest manufacturer of impact resistant windows and doors in the U.S. It currently employs more than 5,500 team members across its family of brands. 

Christopher Alan Homes has promoted Mike Meeks from senior vice president of construction to executive vice president and Southwest Florida division president. In his new role, Meeks leads each of the division’s teams to establish consistent, clean and effective processes for use in all markets. With over 35 years of experience, Meeks is a results-oriented leader and mentor within the real estate and construction industries. Meeks specialized in construction operations, including product development, purchasing and customer service. Previously, Meeks co-founded and co-owned various building companies. He has also managed multiple teams at top national homebuilding and development companies. A certified general contractor, Meeks holds a bachelor’s degree in construction management from Florida International University and a Master of Business Administration from the University of Florida. 

Fifth Third is proud to announce it has been named “Bank of the Year” for the U.S. 2023 by The Banker. This annual award program recognizes industry-wide excellence within the global banking community. “Congratulations to Fifth Third Bank for outshining the competition to win the Bank of the Year award for the U.S.,” said Joy Macknight, editor of The Banker. “The judges were impressed by Fifth Third’s commitment to leveraging technology and innovation to serve its customers. Major achievements include the strengthening of its embedded payments offering and of its private bank’s Business Transition Advisory Team (BTAT), dedicated to preparing business owners for their succession planning.” In May 2023, Fifth Third announced the acquisition of Rize Money, Inc., an embedded payments platform that provides payment infrastructure and risk management capabilities to fintechs and other technology companies that want to offer innovative financial products through a single application programming interface. Fifth Third’s win is also attributed to the evolution of its mobile app virtual assistant Jeanie. “I believe great banks stand apart from the rest by how they navigate challenging environments and deliver for their customers,” said Tim Spence, Fifth Third’s president and CEO. “That is when customers need our advice and support most, and when we can generate outperformance for shareholders. I want to thank our employees for everything they’ve done to earn this honor.” Judges select winning banks based on performance, innovation, adding customer value and leadership in society. The Banker selects one winning bank for each of the 120 countries judged.

Lakespur, one of Wellen Park’s newest neighborhoods, now has two new model homes by Pulte Homes open to the public. Pulte is offering its signature consumer inspired-homes on 68 sites, with one- and two-story floor plans featuring open-concept designs creating large main living areas and built-in flexibility for families of all sizes. Featuring homesites nestled along lakes, heavily forested preserves and wetlands, Lakespur represents the second neighborhood within Wellen Park for Pulte Homes, one of the nation’s most recognized and trusted brands in homebuilding for over 70 years. IslandWalk, Pulte’s first neighborhood within Wellen Park, was a huge success and inspired Pulte to continue developing in Wellen Park. With the convenience of a future walkable school campus, its emphasis on community connections and outdoor recreation, and proximity to Gulf of Mexico beaches and youth activities, Lakespur is the ideal multigenerational neighborhood.  Lakespur’s resident-only amenities are also designed for all ages, with play areas for children and dogs, event and game lawns, and special fireside destinations. Accented with shiplap siding, timber beams and a metal roof, its coastal-inspired cabana building recalls nearby beaches and offers a party kitchen, restrooms and a variety of under-roof and open-air gathering venues, including an outdoor living room poised to a fireplace and terraces with tables and chairs. Featuring a large lake with a fountain welcoming residents home, Lakespur connects to Wellen Park’s growing network of parks and trails, including the future Oakheart Nature Trail, and is close to Atlanta Braves spring training and family friendly events at CoolToday Park. Also nearby is Downtown Wellen, offering on-site dining, shopping, entertainment and outdoor recreation, including kayaking and fishing the 80-acre Grand Lake, bicycle and e-bike rentals, a nature-inspired playground and splashpad and fountain. Three new schools accommodating 4,400 K-12 grade students are coming soon to Wellen Park. Separated by a nature preserve, Lakespur is within walking distance of Sarasota County Schools’ 2,100-student high school projected to open for the 2025-26 school year and a 1,500-student K-8 school opening a year later on an adjacent property. The College Preparatory Academy at Wellen Park, a K-8 tuition-free charter school, opened in August 2023 to kindergarten through sixth grade and will add seventh and eighth grades in subsequent years for a total enrollment of 800. Located off South River Road, Lakespur’s first phase offers 138 single-family homes from Lennar and Pulte Homes. Additional phases will include both single- and multi-family product types. For more information about Wellen Park’s Lakespur neighborhood, visit wellenpark.com/neighborhood/lakespur. 

The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota, the area’s premier luxury resort and iconic landmark on Florida's Gulf Coast is pleased to announce the phase one renovation completion and opening of its 20,000 square foot luxury spa. During this phase, the project focused on a floor-to-ceiling redesign of all 17 treatment rooms, a reimagined guest entrance and reception area and state-of-the-art ladies and gentlemen’s locker room and lounges. Bringing an elevated wellness experience to the region, The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Sarasota offers guests rejuvenation and relaxation in a tranquil setting, with design and treatments inspired by the coastal charm, artistic vibrancy, and rich heritage of Sarasota.At the helm of the renovation project, is Dallas-based design firm Premier. With more than 25 years of expertise in luxury resort projects, Premier's seasoned team has meticulously transformed The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Sarasota into a serene and modern coastal sanctuary. The redesign showcases exquisite and locally inspired design motifs, injecting a breath of fresh air and contemporary luxury into the guest experience. The striking new design seamlessly blends modern sophistication with luxurious tranquility. The spa exudes an air of opulence via its enchanting entrance, beckoning guests with a captivating, floating sculpture delicately suspended from a mirror-framed oval enclave. This eye-catching masterpiece showcases individual micro-pendant, gold-plated ripple fixtures, artfully embodying the ebb and flow of the nearby ocean waves, while evoking a serene and inviting radiance throughout the spa. Elevating its elegance, the spa boasts modern, marble flooring adorned with chic geometric tiles, creating a sophisticated pathway to guide guests through the tranquil oasis. The spa's ambiance is further enhanced by a series of thoughtfully placed pendant lights and sconces, providing a gentle illumination. Hallway and treatment room walls are adorned with abstract art pieces, creating a dynamic visual contrast against textured wallpaper in shades of grey and dark blue. Intricate millwork adds a touch of timeless elegance. In addition, each of the 17 treatment rooms are named after flora and plant species native to Florida, evoking a sense of connection to the local environment. The concept embodies decadence and a harmonious design, where guests can indulge in a sensory journey that transcends time and place. The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Sarasota’s treatment menu incorporates locally sourced ingredients and innovative techniques into its expansive list of more than 45 curated services including hydrating facials, anti-aging treatments, massages, nail and makeup services, and rituals designed specifically for men. Alongside the renovation, all-new 100-minute services have been introduced, encouraging guests to slow down and escape from the relentless fast pace of modern life. In partnership with LaFlore and Osmosis Beauty, the spa will also be offering two new facial experiences, complementing the spa’s most popular HydraFacial service and core line of ESPA products. Timely for the holiday season, The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Sarasota, will celebrate its opening with a selection of festive themed treatments and services. These offerings were meticulously crafted to evoke holiday joy while concurrently promoting indulgence and repose amidst the seasonal tumult. Noteworthy treatments encompass the Peppermint Mocha Pedicure, featuring a CBD-infused coffee exfoliation, a refreshing peppermint oil massage, and marshmallow cream application for soothing and hydrating effects. Additionally, the comprehensive Winter Wonderland Massage, inclusive of a dry brush treatment for enhanced circulation and stimulation of the lymphatic system, provides a full-body retreat into tranquility. The second and final phase of The Ritz-Carlton, Spa Sarasota’s renovation, encompassing its renovated healing waters room, sauna, steam room, outdoor relaxation terrace, and brand-new vitality pool will unveil in the first quarter of 2024. 

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CR Fitness Holdings, the leading franchisee of Crunch Fitness, proudly announces the promotion of Kendall Lanese to the position of Chief Marketing Officer (CMO). Lanese, a native of Venice, Florida, began her remarkable journey within the company in 2017, initially serving on the Crunch Fitness presales street team. Lanese’s outstanding achievements are highlighted by numerous accolades, particularly for her instrumental role in driving membership growth during the presale phase. Lanese’s strategic vision and innovative approaches have consistently set new benchmarks in marketing effectiveness. Her ascent through various marketing roles, including Presale Marketing Manager, Senior Director of Marketing, and VP of Marketing, showcases her exceptional dedication and expertise. In her new role as CMO, Lanese will spearhead all marketing initiatives for CR Fitness Holdings, overseeing both the 58 open Crunch Fitness clubs and the pre-sale new club openings. From the inception of a new club pre-sale to the grand opening, Lanese will continue to play a pivotal role in shaping and executing marketing strategies. "Kendall's journey from the presales street team to Chief Marketing Officer is a testament to her exceptional talent and commitment. Her contributions have been invaluable in driving our marketing success, and I am confident that, in her new role, Kendall will continue to elevate our brand and bring innovative ideas to the forefront of our marketing initiatives," said CR Fitness Holdings Chief Operating Officer Pete Cosentino. CR Fitness Holdings LLC. is led by veteran industry leaders Vince Julien, Geoff Dyer, Tony Scrimale, and Jeff Dotson, who combined have more than 150 years of experience in the fitness industry. The CR Fitness Holdings team operates 58 locations in Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, and Texas and continues to prioritize internal talent development. Lanese’s promotion reflects the company's commitment to recognizing and nurturing exceptional individuals within its ranks. 

35 UNDER 35 | Recognizing 35 Young Professionals Under 35 on the Gulf Coast, December 2023. 

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Join us for the inspiring stories of philanthropic work by our Sarasota and Bradenton Area's nonprofit organizations as we celebrate the season of giving. Explore ways you can make an impact through the programs of 13 of this year's SRQ Giving Champions.

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We all look forward to the holidays: the gatherings with friends and loved ones, and delicious meals featuring our holiday favorites. But with the high cost of groceries and other essentials, more of our neighbors are turning to the food bank for help. For many years, All Faiths has worked to ensure that EVERYONE can feel the joy of the season. Gifts to the ThankFULL campaign support efforts to bring delicious food and joy to households where they may, otherwise, be in short supply. This year, our goal is to distribute 13,000 turkeys and 3.6 million holiday meals. You can help showcase the true meaning of the season, so that everyone can be ThankFULL this holiday. Please consider making a gift to the ThankFULL campaign today. 

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