Sarasota
48 FLORIDA STATE UNIVERSITY / COLLEGE OF MEDICINE
Sarasota
Nicole Bentze, D. O. Dean, Sarasota Regional Campus
An anniversary worth celebrating
Community service
On Oct. 25, 2025, the FSU College of Medicine Sarasota Regional Campus commemorated its 20th anniversary.
Regional Campus Dean Nicole Bentze, D. O., welcomed College of Medicine Dean Alma Littles, M. D., and founding regional dean, Bruce Berg, M. D., to offer reflections on the campus’ s achievements. The campus recognized its longest-serving employee, Clinical Coordinator Jean Louise Caldwell, who has been with the college since the establishment of the Sarasota campus.
Donors and board members were honored, including Adam Bright, M. D., who has served on the Community Advisory Board since 2005. Gratitude was extended to Taylor Collins and Jim Tollerton of Professional Benefits, Inc., for their enduring financial and steadfast support of all facets of the campus. Carlos Rodriguez, M. D. was awarded the 2025 Guardian of the Mission teaching award. Tony Kilts, D. O., and Beverly Long, M. D., were awarded the 2025 Mission Model Award.
Sarasota students actively participated in community outreach, volunteering for the Community Screenings and Health Fair in Sarasota and contributing to Meals on Wheels during the holidays.
Recognized by AMWA
Several members of the campus have been recognized by the American Medical Women’ s Association( AMWA). Nicole Bentze, D. O., regional campus dean, received the 2025 Exceptional Mentor Award; Kathleen Kennedy, M. D., clerkship director for Internal Medicine, was awarded the 2025 INSPIRE award; an d Cynthia Samra, M. D., clerkship director for Informatics, was honored with the 2026 Exceptional Mentor Award.
Nicole Bentze, D. O., pictured with Taylor Collins of Professional Benefits, Inc.
Nicole Bentze, D. O., recognized by AMWA
Jean Louise Caldwell, right, clinical coordinator, is recognized by Nicole Bentze for her years of service.