Two students recognized for volunteer efforts

JACKSONVILLE -- Two University of North Florida students were honored recently for their tireless volunteer efforts on behalf of the University and the community.

At a luncheon at Epping Forest, UNF officials announced that Michael Cochran of Jacksonville is the recipient of this year’s Albert D. Ernest Jr. Caring Award and Amanda Watson, also of Jacksonville, is this year’s recipient of a scholarship at the Heart of America Foundation in Washington, D.C.

Cochran, who is a graduate student seeking a master’s degree in Public Health, has been involved in the revival of the University’s chapter of Eta Sigma Gamma, the National Health Science Honorary and has served as president of the group for the last four semesters. During this time, he helped design and present a series of health education classes at San Pablo Elementary School, speaking to numerous classes. Cochran received his bachelor’s degree in health science from UNF in 2000. As an undergraduate, he participated in many Club Alliance meetings and events representing the organization.

In addition to his on-campus activities, Cochran served as a Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office volunteer for the last three years where he is an addictions group moderator in the Substance Abuse Treatment program. Cochran also has participated in Kairos, a Christian prison ministries. In the last six months, Cochran also has organized a non-profit group composed of ex-offenders. The group serves to mentor ex-offenders upon their release from correctional facilities.

Through his church, Cochran applied for a City of Jacksonville Neighborhood Grant to establish a playground in a low-income community. The playground is under construction and is expected to be finished in July.

Married and a father of two daughters, Cochran is employed full time in the Ryan White HIV Care program with the City of Jacksonville. He was nominated for the award by Dr. Andrea Davis who is a UNF employee under contract to the Metropolitan Jacksonville Area HIV Health Services Planning Council.

Cochran received a bronze sculpture created by nationally known sculptor Frank Eliscu, designer of the Heisman Trophy. He also received a cash award for the charity of his choice.

Watson has coordinated the SERVE (Students Engaged in Reflective Volunteer Experiences) Team. The goal of the club is to provide students with meaningful services projects. The group has participated in Habitat for Humanity, Greenscape, literacy training and a neighborhood book drive.. She also has been a mentor for the Community Scholars Program and has participated on the Youth Advisory Council for the Florida Commission on Community Service. The council, with representatives from colleges around the state, is working to promote volunteerism among Florida’s youth.

Watson, a junior majoring in English and sociology, will travel to the Heart of America Foundation in Washington, D.C., for a six-to-10 week stay. The scholarship
includes transportation and housing as well as a stipend to cover living expenses. During the course of the scholarship, participants are involved in a variety of civic projects sponsored by the Foundation.

The scholarship program was created in 1994 through a $50,000 contribution from UNF Trustee Emeritus Hugh H. Jones Jr. With that gift, the Bill and Angie Halamandaris Endowment was established.

The Heart of America Foundation was established to promote selflessness and public service. Its goals include identifying the most caring men and women in America through the National Caring Awards. Outstanding young adults who have displayed compassion and caring also are honored.

The Albert D. Ernest Jr. Caring Award was established in 1992 by the friends of Albert Ernest and Barnett Bank of Jacksonville, N.A. It is awarded each year as a tribute to a UNF student who demonstrates the spirit of caring, humanitarianism and volunteerism exemplified by Ernest, a prominent Jacksonville businessman and civic activist. Ernest was president and chief executive officer of Barnett Bank of Jacksonville and later vice chairman of Barnett Banks Inc. Retiring from banking in 1990, he then began a third career, forming Albert Ernest Enterprises to engage in investment and general consulting.

-30-

NOTE: Photos of both students may be obtained by calling the Office of News&Publications by calling 620-2140.