In November 1997, the BCC Foundation honored former United States Sen. George Smathers, left, and Rep. Paul Rogers with a plaque commemorating their efforts in obtaining land on which to build Central Campus. The plaque is permanently mounted on a pedestal in the garden at Joe B. Rushing Hall.
Irene Fischley, benefactor for BCC's health sciences programs, proudly stands at dedication ceremonies for the Health Science Center II in February 1997. Also pictured are trustees Katharine Barry, Jan Cummings, Leon Watts, Frank Ortis, Mario Cartaya, Dr. Holcombe, North Campus Provost Dr. Larry McFarlane, and Dr. Wanda Thomas.
Kimara March, who had been home-schooled until she began classes at BCC, was named Florida Community College Student of the Year by Florida Leader magazine in 1997. Also a member of the USA Today All-America Academic Team, March went on to the University of Florida, then to medical school at Georgetown University.
Two-term Maryland governor Parris Glendening was named one the AACC's Outstanding Alumni Award winners for 1997. Glendening was a member of BCC's first graduating class and the youngest student in Florida State history to receive a doctorate in political science. In this picture, he receives his AACC award from Dr. Holcombe in Maryland.