Higher Education 2006-07 Graduates

By Linda Iley, Higher Education Advisor

The Education Department is proud to announce its 06-07 graduates:

Laura Billie from Hollywood graduated with a bachelor of arts degree in public management from Florida Atlantic University. She said she plans to start her master’s degree program in public administration at Nova Southeastern University in the 2007 fall term. After her graduate studies, she intends to work for the Tribe.

Our two graduates with an associate in arts (AA) degree in business administration are Jessica Buster, from Hollywood, and Andrea Holata, from Tampa. Buster graduated from Broward Community College and Holata from Hillsborough Community College. They both plan to pursue their bachelor’s degrees.

Elrod Bowers, who is now the Tribe’s Chief Operation Officer, recently graduated with a bachelor’s degree in business management at Florida International University. Previously, he earned a bachelor’s degree in political science from Wheaton College. His extensive education makes him well prepared for the challenges of his job.

Brenda Cypress now holds an associate of arts degree in nursing from Broward Community College. She is continuing to complete an associate in science (AS) degree in the same field. By completing an AS degree, she will be able to work immediately in a hospital. Brenda is from the Hollywood reservation.

FSU graduate, Kyle Doney, earned his bachelor’s degree in political science. Hailing from the Brighton reservation, he will be joining the Tribe’s Management Training program. His positive attitude will definitely help him with his future aspirations.

Big Cypress graduate and future teacher Desiree Jumper has completed an AA in elementary education from Rowan-Cabarrus Community College in North Carolina. She made significant academic progress while at RCCC maintaining a 3.5 GPA. She said she plans to continue her education to earn a bachelor’s degree.

Geraldine Osceola, from Hollywood, graduated with an associate in applied science degree in chemical dependency from Wor-Wic Community College in Maryland. She has been on the Dean’s List for several semesters. Osceola said she plans to do volunteer work at the Tribe’s Family Services Department and become certified as a counselor. She plans to pursue a bachelor’s degree in the Spring of 2008.

Last but not least, Jarrid Smith, from Brighton graduated with a bachelor’s degree in political science from Florida Atlantic University. He plans to continue his education and get another degree in communications, or pursue a master’s degree in political science.

Smith is also applying to The George Washington University’s Native American Political Leadership Scholarship Program. If accepted, he will spend the Spring 2008 semester in a professional internship, interacting with governmental, political, and policy leaders.