After almost thirty years, I am retiring from the FSU College of Social Work this summer. I’m looking forward to more personal and family time, not to mention time with my dogs, novels, garden, and friends!  As I think back over my career at the College of Social Work, I have many great memories of students, staff, faculty, and friends in the community who’ve contributed so much to MY education and to my personal development over the years.  In addition to teaching more than three hundred classes and over four thousand students, I’ve also served as Director of Field Instruction, Director of Off-Campus MSW Programs, and Director of the BSW Program.    

But none of this would be possible without the instrumental role of one key person – Patricia V. Vance, MSW. “Pat” (as she was better known to most of us) recruited me to come and teach my first class ‘way back in 1984. She was our Associate Dean at the time, and she provided me with a tremendous level of support to learn how to teach that course and many others.  Her gentle and thoughtful counsel benefited me greatly, as well as scores of students and other faculty members over the years.     

Pat Vance served on the faculty from 1966 to 1986, and she worked unstintingly to promote the profession of social work through her service and teaching.  Her intellect and character made her one of the most valuable role models that any student or colleague could have.

A few years ago, a student scholarship fund was established by the Vance children – James, Ellen, and Steve – in memory of their parents.  Although Pat and Maurie died some years ago, the Vance Scholarship lives on.  And as I myself retire, I would like to honor her memory by asking you to make a contribution to this fund that supports students who are pursuing their social work degrees.  I have known personally many of these students who have said that this scholarship enabled them to stay in school and to achieve their goals.

To Contribute to the Patricia V. Vance Scholarship:

Online:

1. Click Here
2. Enter the amount you would like to donate

Mail:

Print this letter and send in the filled out form and donation to:

• FSU Foundation
  2010 Levy Avenue
  Tallahassee, FL 32306 

I appreciate the opportunity to have been a part of the College of Social Work and I am proud to have participated in the education of future social workers.  I would consider it a personal favor if you can join me in making a contribution to the Maurice and Patricia Vance Social Work Scholarship.  Your support of students who are becoming professional social workers will be a meaningful legacy for me and my mentor, Pat Vance.

Best wishes, 
Kim Maddox, MSW

**Contact Colette Podgorski (cpodgorski@foundation.fsu.edu/(850) 228-8536) with any questions about the Patricia V. Vance Scholarship.