CF Trustee Cory Pool Named Benefactor of the Year

Nov. 15, 2012

College of Central Florida District Board of Trustee Cory Pool was named Benefactor of the Year by the Council for Resource Development at the 46th annual CRD conference, held Nov. 5-10 in Washington, D.C. He was one of only seven benefactors selected nationwide.

Each year, the national organization of community college professionals recognizes the outstanding contributions of donors who have made a difference to their community colleges. The donors are chosen for their dedication, commitment and pride.

Pool was nominated for his ongoing support of CF. He has served on the CF District Board of Trustees since 2007, including a term as board chair in 2011-2012, and as a member of the CF Foundation Board of Directors. In December 2011, he made a $1 million bequest in support of CF Foundation STEPS — Scholarships Taking Elementary Promising Students to CF — and Promise for the Future Fund.

Pool feels strongly about giving back to the community where he grew up. He is the namesake of a STEPS scholarship at South Ocala Elementary School, which he attended.

“The STEPS program offers a unique opportunity for young people to pursue their dreams of a higher education,” Pool said. “STEPS is a tremendous way for our youth to better themselves, and it is my hope that this gift will encourage others to participate in supporting the mission of the College of Central Florida.”

Pool is the vice president/chief financial officer of Jenkins Auto Group. In addition to personal contributions, his company, DJR Management Co., made financial contributions of more than $24,000 to the CF Foundation in 2011-2012.

“Cory has demonstrated his commitment to our college and community through his service and financial support,” said Dr. Jim Henningsen, CF president. “He is well deserving of this recognition.”