News
Anchin Center Celebrates SCATT Program with End-of-Year Banquet
April 28, 2024
The David C. Anchin Center for the Advancement of Teaching hosted a memorable end-of-year banquet and celebration for the Suncoast Area Teacher Training (SCATT)/Leaders in Education Program on Saturday, April 27, 2024. The evening was filled with celebration and reflection, marking the many successes of the SCATT program during the 2023-2024 school year.
The event began with an hour of mingling and networking, where guests enjoyed a variety of heavy appetizers. This provided an excellent opportunity for former SCATT members, alumni, current USF students, SCATT members, University of South Florida faculty, and college leadership to connect and share experiences.
Outgoing SCATT President, Trayana Small, reflects on the 2023-2024 academic year.
Following the networking session, a 1.5-hour program highlighted the year's achievements. Outgoing SCATT President, USF student Trayana Small (Class of 2024), delivered a heartfelt reflection on the growth and accomplishments of the program over the past year. Her remarks underscored the dedication and hard work of all those involved in SCATT.
One of the evening's highlights was the presentation of the First Annual Joyce Swarzman Leadership Award to incoming SCATT President, Reese Kantrowitz. The award honors Dr. Joyce Swarzman, the former leader of the SCATT program, who was remembered fondly for her passion for education, boundless energy, and commitment to nurturing the next generation of excellent teachers. The impact Dr. Swarzman had on her students and colleagues was evident as her former students and her daughter shared moving testimonials about her legacy.
The Joyce Swarzman Leadership Award will be given annually to a SCATT student who exemplifies leadership and excellence in teaching, embodying the principles that Dr. Swarzman championed throughout her career.
SCATT alums and generous donors, Shawn and Kerry Cerra
The banquet also provided an opportunity for USF and the College of Education to thank generous donors to the SCATT program, notably Kerry and Shawn Cerra, who are both SCATT alumni and who sponsored a matching program in the 2024 Giving Week. Their financial support and continuing dedication to the SCATT program will have a profound impact on the students engaged in SCATT.
The evening was expertly moderated by SCATT Coordinator, Ms. Jessica Beagle, who ensured the program ran smoothly and highlighted the collective achievements of the SCATT community.
The banquet was a fitting end to a successful year, celebrating the SCATT program's dedication to fostering educational excellence. The Anchin Center looks forward to continuing its support for this vital program and its contribution to developing future leaders in education.
For more information on upcoming events and the SCATT program, please visit the Anchin Center’s website.