Honorable Mention Winner
Daniel Prather
Florida International University
Junior in Advertising
3.71 GPA
     "Each and every one of us can make a difference in our schools, our community, and our nation if we just give back a little of what has been given to us," says Daniel Prather, 37.
     Prather says getting involved is an important aspect of education. "It gives real-world skills that will set one apart from one's peers," he says. "Hitting the books is important, but putting the knowledge to work is the real objective, and getting involved gives one the opportunity."
     As president of Phi Theta Kappa’s Tau Zeta chapter at St. Petersburg Junior College, Prather helped increase membership and leadership through events such as the "Student Activities Leadership Speaker Series," a day of workshops presented by SPJC faculty and community professionals. Prather also implemented a story-writing contest for local elementary schools in February of 2000 and invited 2,000 students to enter.
     "I set clear goals and monitored their progress, and I continually adjusted them to meet the needs of the organization," he says. The chapter won several awards including the Distinguished Chapter Award and the Service Hallmark Award.
     Mike Watson, associate director of PTK, says, "I can attest to his excellent interpersonal skills and leadership abilities."
     After transferring to FIU in fall 2000, Prather founded the school's chapter of Students for a Democratic Victory to garner interest in the presidential election. He volunteered at local campaign headquarters, events, and rallies. Plus, he helped recruit volunteers and registered students to vote.
     Prather also is proud of his accomplishments through the "America Reads Challenge," a campaign that encourages children to read independently by the end of third grade. "Early reading skills dictate later success in life," he says. "I ensure the success of many by helping them learn to read." Prather contacts colleges to inform them about new literacy tutoring requirements in an attempt to get ARC more volunteers.
     Deborah Proctor, student activities coordinator at St. Petersburg Junior College, says Prather is simply the best student she has ever worked with. "He has definitely made an impact already on my life and the lives of those around him," she says. "My expectations for him are high, and I’m sure…we will continue to hear about Daniel and all that he’s accomplishing."
     Prather pays for his education through student loans, scholarships, grants, and a part-time job.
Contact Prather at dprath01@fiu.edu.