Honorable Mention Winner
Cathalain Tobin
Florida Southern College
Sophomore in Matematics/Computer Sci.
3.85 GPA

Cathalain "Cat" Tobin, 19, attended Florida Southern College to study mathematics and computer science. But now as the executive vice president of the Student Government Association, she's doing much more than maintaining a 3.85 GPA.

When her SGA wasn't working effectively, she took charge as a freshman. As vice president, Tobin has restructured House meetings and formed new committees that looked at issues such as recycling. "She questioned, discussed, and researched as groups came before SGA for funding, for recognition, and with general campus concerns," says Dr. Carol Obermeyer, vice president for student life.  "Even though she was a freshman, the upperclassmen immediately recognized her ability to question in a non-threatening way and how much that improved the entire reputation."

Tobin took an active stance to show students what's important. She has done so by writing letters to the college newspaper explaining key issues for students, on a level that other students can understand. "She's the epitome of the Golden Rule. She acknowledges everyone and consistently looks for the positives in each day," Obermeyer says.

Tobin also participates in the Christian community service organization, Sigma Rho Epsilon, in which she's secretary. She keeps detailed records of the meetings and organizes member information. "Sigma Rho Epsilon has increased in members through recruiting and better organization of all executive officers," Tobin says.

Tobin came to FSC and turned her expectations into reality. She also has served on the nominating committee for Who's Who Among American Colleges, where she worked with the faculty, dean of academics, and judicial director in nominating candidates.

She also volunteers for an organization she helped found, Community Coalition, which researches and addresses alcohol abuse. "The Coalition is working to reduce high risk alcohol use in the community through a social norming campaign," Tobin says.

She was one of six students selected as a freshman to talk about life as a college student to the President's Council at FSC. "She was an outstanding member of the panel receiving accolades from the Council members for being open, mature, and approachable," Obermeyer says. Her maturity and openness earned her a seat as the only student representative to speak at the president's table at the city's annual Lakeland Chamber of Commerce meeting this spring.

Tobin pays for college through scholarships, work study, and her parents. -LE

Contact Tobin at ctobin@flsouthern.edu.