Pasco native fulfilling his dream
Pasco County native and first-generation student Jacob Browne has graduated in three years from Florida Atlantic University’s (FAU) Kelly/Strul Emerging Scholars Program, according to a news release.
At 9 years old, Browne knew exactly what he wanted to become – a broadcaster, and was inspired by Joe Buck’s play-by-play of the 2009 World Series, the release says.
As a member of the Emerging Scholars Program, Browne earned a Bachelor of Arts in multimedia studies, and served as the voice of FAU baseball and football, eventually becoming the sports director for the station.
Browne also had the opportunity to work in NFL Super Bowl Radio Row in Miami in 2020 and in Tampa in 2021, interviewing players and media sportscasters.
He also launched his own show, Strictly Sports on Owl Radio, and interned at SiriusXM PGA Tour Sports Programming.
Browne now is the play-by-play broadcaster for the Forest City Owls in Forest City, North Carolina, where he announces every baseball game, hosts the pre- and post-game shows, and conducts interviews with players and coaches.
New staff member
Victory High School in Pasco County has welcomed a new teacher, Melissa Curtis, to its team.
Curtis is a Tampa native who relocated to Pasco County a year ago.
She received her Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of South Florida and has completed graduate coursework toward obtaining a master’s degree in English education.
Curtis’ favorite subjects to teach are English and culinary.
She also volunteers in the community for Meals on Wheels.
Dental office looking for students in need
Navarro Orthodontics in Land O’ Lakes is asking local schools to participate in its quest to commit $50,000 of orthodontic treatment to students in need.
Teachers can help to identify students in need of orthodontic care, who may not otherwise be able to afford or have access to treatment.
Once candidates are identified, the student must write an essay stating who they are, what their dreams are, how they will contribute to the community in the future, and why they need or want orthodontic treatment. Written consent from the parent of the student will be required, too.
For information and questions, email , or call 813-321-0084.
New board member
The Florida Recovery Schools of Tampa Bay Inc. Board of Directors has welcomed Victor Lupis, owner and CEO of Dynasty Building Solutions, as a new board member.
When Lupis is not working, he spends time with his family and friends, on his boat fishing in the Gulf, or at church.
“The way to success is not by material, not by money, but making the people around you achieve their goals and ambitions,” said Lupis in a news release.
Fee adjustment meeting
The Pasco-Hernando State College’s District Board of Trustees (DBOT) will consider approving proposed adjusted course-related fees at its Jan. 18 board meeting.
Fee adjustment proposals are reviewed and approved for DBOT consideration by PHSC’s Council of Academic Affairs, a committee that includes representation by administrators, deans, academic department chairs, program directors, faculty and staff.
Many fee adjustments relate to vendor increases for workforce courses, laboratories, and program testing.
Some fees may be covered by financial aid, scholarships and grants.
For details regarding proposed fee adjustments, justification for the fees and fee implementation details, visit Policies.phsc.edu, and click on Policies and Procedures, Public Disclosure.
