Outstanding Graduate Award - Spring 2023

Winner: Dylan Delaney Thull

Dylan Delaney Thull, a dual enrollment student, graduates with an associate in arts degree and a 4.0 GPA. She plans to earn a Bachelor of Science in information systems at the University of Florida (UF) and hopes to pursue a career in data analytics and management. Thull has made the President’s List and Dean’s List since 2021 and maintained her perfect GPA while balancing an impressive record of extracurricular activities, including managing her own business, Sugar Sparrows LLC, a soap and body product company she founded in 2019. She previously worked as a shift leader at Culver’s restaurant, interned as a tax preparer with United Way Suncoast’s VITA program for the 2023 tax season and currently works as a business administrator at Advantage Construction Group.

Thull learned several study techniques and valuable lessons at SCF, most notably maintaining excellent habits like time management, which helped as she navigated SCF’s clubs and organizations. She was SCFCS Student Government officer from 2021-2022 and treasurer of Future Business Leaders of America – Phi Beta Lambda (FBLA-FBL) in 2023, where she also participated in state competitions earning first place in job interview and second place in both project management and information management. She was a National Honor Society member from 2021-2023. In addition,

Thull worked as a stage manager for L.A.F. Theatre Troupe, producing four full-scale performances and planning fundraising events. She has a full summer ahead, hoping to gain further customer service and leadership experience and complete a Python Data Analysis certification before she begins her journey at UF. Thull truly appreciates how greatly SCF impacted her life. “As a dual enrollment student, SCF allowed me to obtain an associate degree with zero student loans or debt. Additionally, I have met many amazing professors, faculty and students that have changed my life for the better.”

Finalist: Blake McFarlane

Blake McFarlane, former real estate professional and towboat deckhand, graduates with an associate in arts degree and a 4.0 GPA. After three years of traversing nearly every major U.S. river and city, McFarlane chose to believe in himself and prioritize academics. He now plans to pursue a bachelor’s degree in computer science at the University of South Florida.

McFarlane balanced his perfect GPA while working weekends as a server at Oak & Stone restaurant and actively participating in several campus organizations. In 2022, he was the Student Government Association vice president, overseeing the Campus Activities Board for SCF Bradenton and directing weekly meetings and planning events. He also contributed to the Student Activities Budget Review for the upcoming academic year and earned two programming certifications from the SCF Coding Academy. He currently represents SCF as a member of the Tampa Bay Bridge to the Baccalaureate program (TB-B2B), serves as a peer mentor through TB-B2B and is a member of Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society.

McFarlane credits SCF for his confidence as a student, which allowed him to perform to the best of his abilities. “If you want to be successful at SCF, take advantage of resources like the Library and Learning Center and tutors through the Academic Resource Center. Connect with professors and faculty, and also try to meet as many new people as you can.”

Finalist: Noah Cronin

Noah Cronin graduates with an associate in science degree from the Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program and a 3.94 GPA. After graduation, he plans to gain clinical experience and work as a PTA before continuing his education to pursue a bachelor’s degree in kinesiology and a doctorate in physical therapy.

An avid golfer, Cronin credits the game for its impact on his character as well as the opportunities it has presented. Since 2018, he has been a golf instructor and life coach for the First Tee Program of Sarasota/Manatee and has been coaching for the PGA Jr. League’s Serenoa Eagles since 2020. Additionally, in his current role as treasurer for the PTA Club, he has been developing fundraising ideas and planning for the 2023 class pinning ceremony and graduation.

Cronin is especially proud of his Sarasota County School System pediatric rotation. This opportunity connected him to the non-profit organization Wheelchairs 4 Kids, and together, they alleviated a medical and financial burden for one of his patients. He’s grateful for SCF’s flexible schedules, which allowed him to utilize resources like the Academic Resource Center between classes. “The PTA program properly prepared me for a successful career. I know I’ll be able to organize, assess and implement therapeutic interventions in a timely manner because of the wonderful professors and staff in the program.”