Pasco-Hernando State College Volume XV, Issue I SPRING 2021 | Page 6

FOUNDATION
NEWS
ASHLEY POLICASTRI — NEW BOARD
LEADERSHIP Why did you decide to join the PHSC Foundation Board ?
Ashley Policastri , New Business Development Manager , Walbridge
The PHSC Foundation Board has an amazing reputation in the community . I admire their mission to empower local students and elevate others to achieve their highest potential . I am privileged to be a part of the PHSC Board and to have the ability to utilize Walbridge ’ s years of industry experience to support the Foundation ’ s mission , all while building relationships with outstanding individuals who I look up to .
As you begin your service on the Foundation Board , what are you most excited about ?

FOUNDATION BOARD M

What is one message that you would want to share with our community of supporters who will be reading this ?
I would encourage new and recurring supporters to show up and support in any way that you can . Every little bit makes a huge difference ! We would love for you to become involved .
FUNDING STUDENT GROWTH OPPORTUNITIES Annually , more than 2,000 PHSC students are invited for induction into Phi Theta Kappa ( PTK ), an international honor society that recognizes collegiate student academic achievement and provides opportunities for growth as scholars and leaders . Although PHSC offers one of the lowest membership fees in Florida , affordability remains a barrier . Only 20 percent of eligible students accept the honor society invitation .
It is difficult to pick one thing that I am most excited about , but I would have to say that I am thrilled to be leading the 2021 Golf Tournament Task Force . The net proceeds raised from this incredible event will support the Friends of the Foundation Fund which is vital to supporting the operations of the Foundation and addressing the most pressing needs of the College . With everything 2020 has brought this year , the importance of this event and the lives it will positively impact is needed now more than ever .
What drew you to leading the golf tournament fundraiser task force ?
I knew I wanted to contribute in a leadership role for the event because of the impact it will have on the students and their lives . In addition , I am looking forward to building camaraderie and ongoing relationships with my new task force . It is an honor to help put together a wonderful event for people to enjoy while giving back .
Fall 2020 virtual Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society Induction Ceremony
Thanks to PHSC Vice President of Instruction / Provost Emeritus and former Foundation Board Member , Burt Harres Jr ., Ph . D . and the Harres Family Fund , more students now can experience the benefits of PTK membership . “ PTK is an outstanding organization . It provides its members with excellent leadership , scholarship , and community service opportunities . I am very pleased that the Harres Family Fund is able to provide support to applicants who are eligible for membership in PTK but need financial assistance to cover their membership fees ,” said Dr . Harres .
To support the PTK Angel Fund , please contact the PHSC Foundation at foundation @ phsc . edu or 727.816.3410 .
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