EFSConnections Fall 2026 | Page 6

continued from page 5 support colleagues, and champion students through both challenges and opportunities. Her influence can be found in countless academic programs, institutional initiatives, and student success stories spanning generations. Her commitment to service extends well beyond campus boundaries. Over the years, Dr. Handfield has contributed her time and expertise to numerous community organizations, serving on boards that include United Way of Brevard, the Space Coast Chamber of Commerce, Florida Institute of Technology’ s weVENTURE program, and CareerSource Brevard / Volusia / Flager. Through these efforts, she has strengthened connections between the College and the broader community while helping advance initiatives that

support economic growth, leadership development, and educational opportunities.

More recently, Dr. Handfield and her husband, Don, chose to invest directly in future generations of Titans by establishing the Handfield Family Scholarship through the EFSC Foundation in 2024. The scholarship was awarded for the first time during this year’ s scholarship reception, creating a full-circle moment for a woman whose own journey began as a student seeking opportunity.

“ When I began as a student worker at EFSC in 1971, I never could have imagined the journey ahead,” said Dr. Handfield.“ This College opened doors for me, challenged me to grow, and gave me opportunities to serve others. To receive this honor from the institution that has meant so much to me is both humbling and deeply gratifying. I hope my story reminds students that the opportunities they find here today can shape the course of their lives for years to come.”

For EFSC Foundation Interim Executive Director Victoria Jones, the Distinguished Alumna honor recognizes both achievement and enduring impact.“ Sandy was the perfect choice for this honor,” Jones said.“ This recognition highlights not only her professional accomplishments, but also her lasting legacy at EFSC and the broader community we serve.”

Today, Dr. Handfield’ s legacy can be measured not only by the titles she has held or the programs she has helped build, but by the thousands of students whose educational journeys have been enriched through her leadership and advocacy.

From student worker to one of Eastern Florida State College’ s most respected leaders, her path reflects the transformative power of education and service. As the EFSC Foundation’ s 2026 Distinguished Alumna, Dr. Sandy Handfield stands as a testament to what is possible when a passion for learning evolves into a lifelong commitment to helping others succeed.

Faculty Honors 2026 Distinguished Educator Award 2026 Endowed Faculty Chair Awards

EFSC Associate Professor of Business and Applied Technology Steven Barber was named this year’ s recipient. Recognized for his professionalism, expertise, and genuine dedication to student learning, Barber teaches courses in EFSC’ s Bachelor of Applied Science in Organizational Management program within the Human Resource Management specialization, aligning industry standards with curriculum.

Nominations for the Distinguished Educator Award are submitted annually by EFSC faculty, staff, and currently enrolled students. The award includes a $ 1,500 honorarium provided by the EFSC Foundation.

EFSC has named Dorothy McCalla, Julie Manuel, and Maria Strawn as this year’ s recipients. This distinguished recognition honors full-time faculty who demonstrate exceptional teaching excellence, innovation, and commitment to student success. The program celebrates faculty whose work reflects the highest standard of instructional quality and advances the College’ s mission.

Funded by the EFSC Foundation, each award recognizes the development of a high-impact, innovative project designed to enhance student learning. As part of the award, recipients receive a stipend along with dedicated funding to support the implementation of their proposed projects, further contributing to the advancement of instructional practices and student outcomes.

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