The Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare Foundation along with the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) Big Bend Chapter celebrated National Philanthropy Day on Thursday, February 22nd at the FSU University Club.

Each year, Philanthropy Day pays tribute to the generous contributions philanthropists and those active in the charitable sector have made in the Big Bend area and their communities.

“The things that go unseen in this community don’t need to be secrets. There are people doing amazing work and any time you can highlight someone whether they’re giving their time or talents or their funds to support something, you have to recognize them,” said Charlie Adams, president for the AFP Big Bend Chapter. “Most of them would never ask for it, but it’s a worthwhile venture.”

At this year’s celebration, AFP presented several awards to some of the remarkable philanthropists in the local community. Award recipients included:

• Grace Dansby, Lifetime Achievement Award
• Virginia Glass, Philanthropist of the Year
• Colette Podgorski, Fundraiser of the Year
• FSU Dance Marathon, Community Group
• Margaret Fowler, Youth in Philanthropy
• BowStern, Media Partner of the Year

Colette Podgorski was honored as Fundraiser of the Year for her role as Development Director of the FSU College of Social Work and University Initiatives. In the last year, Colette raised more than $11 million for the University. Podgorski is also the past-president of the AFP Big Bend Chapter and has received recognition throughout the Tallahassee community for her extraordinary dedication to philanthropy. The Tallahassee Network of Young Professionals also recognized her with a Golden A.C.E. Award in 2016 for non-profit leadership.

“This event acknowledges the entire spectrum of services provided by the Big Bend nonprofit community and recognizes the profound impact that philanthropy has on society. I truly believe philanthropy changes lives,” emphasized Podgorski.

Dean and Professor Emeritus Nicholas (Nick) Mazza was also acknowledged at the Philanthropy Day event. Mazza was commended for his lifelong philanthropic efforts and contributions and received this year’s Heart of Gold Award from the College. He served as the Dean of the FSU College of Social Work from 2008 until 2015. He preserved the College of Social Work as a freestanding academic unit during a time of university reorganization from 2008 through 2010. He oversaw a period of major growth in programs, fundraising, diversity, and initiatives within the College. Among these include the establishment of the Florida Institute for Child Welfare and the Operation Family Caregiver Program. Mazza also established the CSW Arts & Athletics Camp for local youths now in its seventh year.

Attendees also had the opportunity to listen to keynote speaker Kelly Otte, executive director at the PACE Center for Girls. Otte is also the founder of the Oasis for Women and Girls and served as executive director of Refuge House.