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A Class Act Dr. J.R. Harding has made a gift to the College of Education to establish the James Raymond Harding II Endowed Scholarship Fund. When fully funded, this gift will be at the $100,000 level. It will establish scholarships for graduate students in the Higher Education Program of the Department of Educational Leadership, and for undergraduate students who have been accepted into any Teacher Education program at the College. Dr. Harding is 34 years old and a recent graduate of the Higher Education Program. He presently serves as Communications Operations Manager of the Department of education’s Occupational Access and Opportunity Commission. As such, he assists in carrying out the agency’s mission to improve Florida’s delivery of vocational rehabilitation services to its disabled citizens. Dr. Harding served as student representative to the Florida Board of Regents for two terms. An advocate and role model for people with disabilities, he describes himself as a two-time Quadriplegic. He was first injured at 17 years of age and then again just a few years ago while completing his dissertation. He credits the College of Education faculty, particularly of the Higher Education program, for the support, guidance, and belief in his abilities that made it possible for him to complete his education. “I had less than meritorious academic skills and achievements when I came to the College. They saw my potential and gave me the opportunity I wanted so that I could prepare myself for the future,” Harding states. “The people there helped me discover who I am and what I can do. I am living proof that educators make a difference.” Dr. Harding believes that lack of financial resources prevents many people from attending college, that indeed, this may be the greatest academic challenge. He feels strongly about the value of the education profession, and has established this fund to help solve these financial burdens by providing scholarship support for students of the College. “Education affects more areas of life than any other profession,” says Harding. “The issues of the world are debated in the classroom and our future leaders are made there. Preparing the next generation of educators is an investment in Florida and America.” Dr. Joseph Beckham, Chair of the Department of Educational Leadership, welcomes this significant gift to the College. “J.R.’s contribution demonstrates his commitment to the values that have guided the Higher Education program from its inception. The program has always emphasized a learning community in which the personal and professional development of every student has been central. J.R.’s gift reflects his belief in maintaining that community and his acknowledgement of the importance that community played in his own growth.” Dr. Harding invites you to contact him at jrfsu@comcast.net.
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