Your Impact

NATHAN M. BISK COLLEGE OF BUSINESS

Investing in Transformational Experiences

The generosity of Florida Tech supporters continues to create meaningful opportunities for Nathan M. Bisk College of Business students. After more than 30 years of service to the university, Vicky Knerly has established an endowed scholarship and included a planned gift to ensure future generations of students can benefit from a Florida Tech education. Additionally, Michael ’70 and Carol Ann Gaich have provided scholarship support for the College of Business’s new Global Experience Program, helping students gain handson international business experience through travel, consulting projects and engagement with industry leaders. Together, these investments are expanding access to transformational experiences and helping students prepare for success in a global workforce.

COLLEGE OF AERONAUTICS

Future Aviator Earns Wings Scholar Honor

Florida Tech aviation management student Alex Demko was recognized as a Wings Club Foundation Scholar at the prestigious Wings Club Gala, joining students from leading institutions, such as MIT, Stanford, Purdue, Embry-Riddle and Texas A&M. His achievement reflects the strength of Florida Tech’s College of Aeronautics and its growing national reputation. The honor is especially meaningful given the involvement of Florida Tech alumnus Huntley A. Lawrence ’85, an aviation management graduate, former COO of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, and now CEO and Managing Partner of HAL Strategy Group. Together, Demko’s scholarship and Lawrence’s distinguished career highlight the college’s legacy of developing aviation leaders who make an impact across the industry.

COLLEGE OF PSYCHOLOGY AND LIBERAL ARTS

An Evening of Hope: Transforming Lives Through Compassion and Generosity

This year’s An Evening of Hope raised more than $210,000 to support The Scott Center for Autism Treatment and WISH scholarships. The event served as a reminder of what can be accomplished when donors, community partners, families and advocates unite around a common purpose: creating brighter futures for children and families in our region.

Proceeds from the event support The Scott Center’s mission to improve the function and quality of life for children with autism spectrum disorders and related disabilities throughout Central Florida. Beyond the dollars raised, An Evening of Hope celebrated resilience, progress and possibility. It highlighted the transformative impact of philanthropy and showcased the difference that donors can make when they invest in causes that matter. The momentum generated during the event will continue long after the evening concluded, helping more children access care, empowering families with essential resources and ensuring that hope remains within reach for those who need it most.

COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING AND SCIENCE

Honoring a Legacy: Robert Sarkissian Rising Innovators Scholarship

The College of Engineering and Science celebrated the life and lasting impact of Robert Sarkissian ’78, a proud Florida Tech alumnus, dedicated supporter and valued member of the College of Engineering and Science Advisory Board. To honor his memory and ensure his passion for education continues to make a difference, an endowed scholarship was established in his name. The scholarship will provide long-term support for future Florida Tech students, helping aspiring engineers and scientists pursue their educational goals and prepare for meaningful careers.

The effort was made possible through the remarkable generosity of Robert’s employer, Cadence, whose colleagues and leadership rallied around the initiative. Through employee contributions, corporate matching gifts, a significant company commitment and support from the Cadence Foundation, the scholarship quickly gained momentum and demonstrated the profound impact one individual can have on an entire community.

The establishment of the Robert Sarkissian Rising Innovators Scholarship stands as a testament to a life well lived and a community united in honoring a respected leader whose commitment to education, innovation and service will leave an enduring impact on Florida Tech and its students.

NCAA COLLEGIATE SPORTS

Women’s Soccer Earns First National Championship

It is the single most coveted title in college athletics: national champion. And Dec. 13, 2025, at the conclusion of the team’s 22nd season, Florida Tech women’s soccer claimed it. Defeating Franklin Pierce, 3-0 in Colorado Springs, Colorado, the team earned the program’s first-ever national championship.