Bluegreen Vacations Plans to Award Scholarships to UCF Students

In 2014, Bluegreen Vacations (Bluegreen Corporation) plans to create a scholarship program in honor of Michael Gaudiosi, a former employee who passed away late last year. The scholarships will be awarded to students currently attending the University of Central Florida’s Rosen College of Hospitality Management.

Gaudiosi served as general manager of The Fountains resort in Orlando from July 2012 to December 2012, when he passed away. Through his charismatic character and dedication to his work, he quickly became a valued manager and friend to the employees at Bluegreen Vacations.

Regional Director Howard Kitchen says, “There was just something about Michael, he could walk into a room and talk to anyone and put them at ease. At the same time, he could—in an elevated circumstance—carry himself well in the corporate environment. That’s not easy to come by.”

The team at Bluegreen feels that this scholarship is a great way to preserve the memory of Gaudiosi and his work with the company. They feel the award is something that Michael would have wanted, as he enjoyed contributing to charitable events.

Executive Assistant to the President and CEO of Bluegreen Ellen Devine describes a glowing example of his friendly personality and helpful nature. “We clicked right away – he understood the giving back/philanthropic side of business and he was extremely open to once again hosting our annual charity retreat at The Fountains in September of 2012,” stated Devine. “I remember going to breakfast during the retreat and seeing him take a broom to start mopping the floor by the eatery – I knew then he was a keeper and- more importantly- dedicated to helping others. We are so sorry that he left us so early but are thrilled that we can preserve his memory with this wonderful scholarship opportunity.”

The award will be made available to all students currently attending the University of Central Florida’s Rosen College of Hospitality Management, a leader in providing education to those pursuing a career in the industry.

The Bluegreen organization has committed to provide $15,000 towards the scholarship fund over the next 3 years. Each year 2 students will be awarded with a scholarship in the amount of $2,500.

UCF and Lori Shuff, the Director of Development at the Rosen College, are extremely excited and grateful for the gift. Shuff states, “Scholarships like this one are very meaningful to everyone here at the college.”

The first set of Bluegreen scholarships will be awarded at a formal ceremony at the Rosen Campus in February 2014.

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