Sarasota Academy Director Recognized with Rotary Vocational Service Award

The Sarasota Southside Rotary Club recently awarded Sarasota Military Academy Executive Director Christina Bowman with the Rotary Club Vocational Service Award. SMA-COL Bowman was recognized with the award as a special surprise during the Rotary Club’s monthly meeting held via a virtual video chat.

“Year after year our Rotary Club is amazed and inspired after the annual visit from the Interact students where they recount their service involvements over the school year. A substantial amount of credit for these remarkable students goes to SMA-COL Christina Bowman and the Interact Advisors – SMA-CPT Carol Pelletier, SMA-CPT Jane Clancy and SMA-CPT Lorene Baulk – because of their unwavering commitment to developing future leaders,” said Kay Yoder, Sarasota Southside Rotary Club President. “It’s clearly evident that this is not your average school. It feels much more like a family who genuinely cares for one another and is one hundred percent invested in seeing everyone succeed. This culture is not by accident but by design, beginning at the top with Christina as Executive Director modeling the way through her commitment and dedication to academic excellence and youth development.”

The Vocational Service Award, along with the club’s Service above Self Award, helps to recognize and celebrate Rotarians (Rotary Club members) and individuals demonstrating a commitment to helping others by volunteering time, talent and resources. The awards are not given on an annual basis; rather, when an individual meets the qualifications and is nominated by a club member.

“I am truly overwhelmed and humbled by this incredible award and recognition. It was such a surprise, and I was at a loss for words during the remote meeting,” said SMA-COL Christina Bowman, Sarasota Military Academy Executive Director. “We appreciate the support of our local Rotary Club and how they help shape the lives of our cadets and staff, showing a life of service and the importance of giving back to your community. I enjoy knowing that our SMA family has such an incredible support system, and I am honored to receive this award from our friends at the Sarasota Southside Rotary Club.”

The Sarasota Southside Rotary Club reserves the Vocational Service Award for individuals who have made a significant impact at their workplace and in the community. The committee identifies potential candidates who exemplify “service above self,” the Rotary Club motto, by using their vocation to mentor others, demonstrate leadership skills and improve the quality of life for people in businesses and the community. Traditionally, candidates are nominated during

Rotary Club board meetings by club members, sharing thoughts about why the candidate is worthy of the prestigious award.

In addition to supporting the Interact Clubs at the Sarasota Military Academy high school and Prep middle school campuses, SMA partners with the Sarasota Southside Rotary Club through a variety of events and opportunities. The Rotary Club hosts SMA Interact Club students and staff, allowing cadets to showcase their projects and accomplishments earned throughout the school year. Currently, SMA Board Chairman Herb Jones and SMA Board Member Lt. Gen. (Retired) Howard Crowell, Jr. are active members of the Sarasota Southside Rotary Club.