Best of CASE District III Award
 

Institution: University of Florida

Title of entry: A Joyful Legacy: The Kent Fuchs presidency

About this entry: In January 2022, University of Florida President Kent Fuchs announced that he was stepping down as president at the end of the year, capping an eight-year tenure characterized by unprecedented progress. The UF alumni magazine, Florida Gators, was to produce a comprehensive profile for its fall issue to serve as one of the university’s key historical records highlighting a presidency that ushered in remarkable growth for the university and a dramatic climb in national rankings. More importantly, the story needed to capture President Fuchs’ unique style and his dedication to the students and the core mission of education. While he led UF's transformation into one the nation’s most prestigious public universities, he is remembered more for his kindness, sense of humor and caring nature. The story needed to reflect that and provide examples, anecdotes and data to adequately convey the Fuchs presidency. The result was a 2,000-word feature story and timeline for both print and digital publishing. The story was repurposed for a special Farewell to President Fuchs webpage and special piece for Florida’s state legislators. Most importantly, President Fuchs, who was very humble through the entire process and always insisted on less over more, was pleased.