2019 Grover III and Sandra Robinson Awards

Posted June 21, 2019

These awards were first presented in June 2000 to recognize an outstanding Rotarian from our Club and a community leader who exemplify “Service Above Self”. Both Grover and Sandra Robinson exhibited the highest examples of this service to Rotary and concomitant community concern and action. These awards are given in honor of their memory and legacy.

Malcolm Thomas: 2019 Grover Robinson III Award Recipient
School Superintendent of Escambia County, Malcom Thomas, elected in 2009 has served in many roles as District Teacher, Education Specialist, Coordinator and Administrator spanning a 38 year career. He is highly committed to student success and service to the community. He was recently named by the Florida Association of School Superintendents, a national organization of school superintendents and education leaders, as the 2019 Superintendent of the Year. He holds both a Bachelor and Master’s Degree from the University of West Florida. He is dedicated to students, parents, teachers and is highly respected by educators, colleagues and friends. He has been a member of the Rotary Club of Pensacola since 2009. His Future Ready Vision 2020 initiative includes decreasing the graduation gap, establish a digital learning environment and provide quality education access for all students. He exemplifies “Service Above Self” and leadership to both the community and to Rotary.

Dr. Nell Potter: 2019 Sandra Robinson Award Recipient
Born in Apopka Florida and grew up in Zellwood Florida.  Dr. Potter attended Baylor University for her undergrad and the University of Florida, College of Medical. Nell met her husband Jim during their freshman year of medical school, married sophomore year and welcomed their first child during junior year. Nell was one of only two women who graduated in the class of 1963. In private practice she specialized in adolescent medicine. She was the Clinician at UWF for 33 years and team physician for Escambia High School for 24 years. Over the past 40 years, the Potters have donated generously to the university, particularly the College of Medicine. The couple’s overall support totals more than $600,000 and Nell has served on the UF medical alumni board for 20 years. Nell also serves on the UF Foundation Board of Directors. Dr. Potter was a founding member of Pensacola Opera, Pensacola Symphony, Impact 100, Pensacola Woman’s Alliance, and co-owner of The Zoo in Gulf Breeze.