Honorable Mention Winner
Arielle Brouillard
Central Florida Community College
Sophomore in Elementary Education
3.51 GPA
     Within one year of moving from Connecticut to Florida, Arielle Brouillard, 20, was already president of the Student Activities Board at Central Florida Community College. "I made it a point to get involved on campus and to make a difference in at least one person’s life," Brouillard says.
     After joining SAB, Brouillard made it her personal mission to improve the college experience for all students. This includes non-traditional, vocational, and evening scholars. "Through activities and events, I try to bridge the gap on campus and unite our students," Brouillard says. In order to make people more aware of cultural differences on campus, she coordinated the "International Food Festival" in spring 2000. Samples of foods from all over the world were offered to students. "After such a great response to last year’s event [spring 1999], we had to move to a larger location," Brouillard says. "We also had to expand the number of countries represented by campus clubs." Brouillard is planning an even larger food festival this April.
     In addition to promoting campus unity, Brouillard informs and educates students about issues concerning the college. As campus voting delegate for Florida Junior Community College Student Government Association, she attends meetings around the state to become better informed about topics that affect the students.
     "Arielle is a wonderful role model for other students who want to get involved and balance activities with academics," says Vanessa Baxley student leadership development coordinator.
     Brouillard has several other administrative positions at CFCC. These other jobs include acting as a liaison between the administration and the student body as well as participating in a student activities committee, which discusses budget and travel issues concerning student activities and athletics.
     Her overwhelming dedication paid off this year as CFCC’s SAB was given FJCCSGA’s "Best of the Best" award. "Twenty-two of the twenty-eight community/junior colleges submitted a portfolio of programs, activities, accomplishments, and state involvement," Brouillard says. "I was so proud to see our board recognized for the work we accomplished during the year."
     College, however, doesn’t consume Brouillard’s life. "Outside of school, I try to give much of myself to the community as time allows," Brouillard says. The March of Dimes and the United Way of Marion County are two organizations she volunteers for regularly. Brouillard also helps the community with her voice. "I also donate my time and vocal talents to a local church and a retirement community by volunteering to help and sing at special events," Brouillard says.
     After all she has done in her two years at CFCC, Brouillard is content knowing she has influenced others. "I’ve far exceeded my mission of making a difference in at least one person’s life, I’ve made a difference at my college and in my community," Brouillard says.
     Fifty percent of Brouillard’s expenses are covered by her job in the Office of Leadership Development and a talent grant. Her parents cover the other 50 percent.
Contact Brouillard at shoegoddess80@hotmail.com.