DONORS IN THE SPOTLIGHT
Investing in Students’ futures
Creating Pathways to Academic and Career Success
TODD AND MEREDITH CHRISTIE
For Todd and Meredith Christie, investing in students’ education is about fostering their sense of self-discovery, removing barriers, and helping them find professional success. That investment took the form of a $ 60,000 gift to the EFSC Foundation that will support two endowed scholarships: the Christie Family Academic Scholarship, dedicated to students pursuing an Associate in Arts degree, and the Christie Family Technical Scholarship, which supports students enrolled in Career and Technical Education programs, including dental assisting, welding, HVAC, and other workforce-focused fields.
“ Helping to promote EFSC and state colleges more broadly is a priority for me,” said Dr. Todd Christie.“ They provide accessible, high-quality pathways for students and families.”
This impactful donation supports EFSC students as they explore career pathways and work toward stable, rewarding careers. The scholarships take inspiration from Dr. Christie’ s own academic journey, which included attending a local college for prerequisite courses, transferring to a university, continuing on to dental school, and eventually founding Dental Partners.
“ Taking those prerequisites meant I went to university well-prepared,” said Dr. Christie.“ Similarly, I hope people will see Eastern Florida as a first option.”
Dr. Christie views the undergraduate experience as a critical time for students to explore their options, identify their strengths, and ultimately pursue their educational and career goals. At the same time, the family’ s generous gift provides financial support to students preparing to enter high-demand workforce fields.
“ People want jobs they can be proud of,” said Dr. Christie.“ There are all kinds of jobs that I don’ t think most high school students even know exist. Through these scholarships, we want to give students an opportunity to explore and pursue those options.”
The Christies’ support reflects their longstanding commitment to helping EFSC students succeed throughout their academic journeys, whether transferring to a university or pursuing workforce training at the College. Their generous gift helps remove financial barriers while empowering students to discover careers that align with their interests, skills, and goals.“ We’ ll continue to support EFSC because it’ s great for the community,” said Christie.“ We want to be open to other areas of need and opportunity, and help students build successful futures.”
“ Todd and Meredith Christie understand that education transforms lives,” said College President Dr. Jim Richey.“ Their generous support of EFSC students reflects a shared belief that every student deserves the opportunity to discover their potential, pursue their ambitions, and prepare for a successful future. We are deeply grateful for their partnership and their continued investment in EFSC and our students.”
CREATING A BETTER FUTURE IS EASIER THAN YOU THINK.
Through proper gift planning, donors can make gifts of cash or other assets while receiving tax and estate planning benefits. Tax laws actually encourage the support of charitable organizations such as the EFSC Foundation. Check out the options available and consult your financial professionals. Find out more by calling us at 321-433-7055 or emailing foundation @ easternflorida. edu
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