Sleeves Up for Students Day Produces Tropical Oasis
The event, introduced by Provost Rose Bellanca, included honorary guest Dr. Maureen Smith, a Board of Trustee member and Florida friend, who funded construction of the complex in 1991.
In a demonstration of dedication and support, Northwood University Florida Campus faculty and staff recently left their offices and classrooms to pick up shovels and paint brushes.
The effort, known at the first ever "Sleeves Up for Students Day," was to beautify the Smith Family Recreation Complex. The group was joined by Cellular One co-founder and long-time supporter Dr. Maureen Smith, who along with her late husband David, funded construction of the facility which was dedicated November 1991 in remembrance of their deceased son Steven Smith.
"It was very heartwarming to see our dedicated team of administrators and academic staff in a completely different setting as they all contributed toward making the complex a paradise for students to enjoy," said Dr. Bellanca. "I didn't realize we had so many employees that were talented painters, floor installers, and gardeners," she laughed.
Introduced by Dr. Rose Bellanca, the project included gardening, painting, and other refurbishing efforts to beautify the student facility which includes a pool, handball and tennis courts, a sand volleyball court, and administrative offices.
The project, which included several teams of workers who enjoyed music, hot dogs, and hamburgers throughout the afternoon, also included the creation of a tropical mural.
In 1982 Maureen Smith, along with her husband David, partnered with The Washington Post to found Cellular One. An active volunteer leader, Smith has been a major force in the development of Northwood University's Florida Campus, serving on its Board of Governors and as the longâ€time Chair of the Ft. Lauderdale chapter of Northwood
National Women's Board & Friends. She also has established the Stephen Smith Endowed Scholarship at Northwood in memory of her son. Smith received an honorary doctorate degree from Northwood University in 1991 and the Distinguished Women's Award in 1996.
Susan McCreery
