Goodlette Named Hodges University’s Humanitarian Of The Year

Recently, Hodges University announced that long-time Naples attorney and community leader J. Dudley Goodlette as its 2014 Humanitarian of the Year. The award will be presented during a luncheon event on Thursday, February 6, 2014, at The Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort, Naples. “The Humanitarian of the Year Luncheon has become a highly anticipated, respected and celebrated event,” said Phil Memoli, Vice President of University Advancement for Hodges University. “The annual award recognizes those citizens who exemplify the spirit of benevolence and public service in the Naples community. This is the eighteenth year in which Hodges University has bestowed the award upon a local individual or couple.” The honoree each year is chosen by past Humanitarians based on very specific criteria. Past recipients look at the candidate’s philanthropic nature and spirit to determine whether it is of such magnitude that the honoree has moved society in a better, stronger direction. “It’s essential that the person or family has generously given of their time, talent and treasures to a variety of local causes,” said Memoli. “However, their desire to serve others must also be demonstrated. We want guests attending the event to leave asking themselves what they can do to give back to the community as our honoree has.” Other criteria used in the selection process are the candidate’s business excellence, creative thinking, inspiring leadership and courageous action, along with his/her adherence to high moral and ethical principles. “Many of these attributes are part of the educational outcomes we instill in our students at Hodges University,” said Dr. Jeanette Brock, president of Hodges University. “When our students can see the importance of these outcomes demonstrated in the lives of our honorees, it becomes a solid foundation in their own educational experience and eventual future success.” To that end, a Hodges alumnus is also honored during the luncheon with the Hodges University Founder’s Award, recognizing a graduate who has provided outstanding and distinguished service to our community. This year’s recipient has yet to be named. Mr. Goodlette was selected this year not only for his business acumen, but also for his charitable service in the Naples area. He has served on the Board of Directors of the Community Foundation of Collier County and currently serves as a member of the Emeritus Board. He also established the Goodlette Leadership Fund at the Community Foundation. Other local organizations that he has supported include the YMCA of the Palms, Boys & Girls Club of Collier County, Children’s Trust of Collier County, and Boy Scouts of America and Southwest Florida. Past winners of the Award include John R. Wood (2013), William and Nancy Lascheid (2012), Dolph and Sharon von Arx (2011), Juliet C. “Judy” Sproul, Katherine “Katie” Sproul and Jennifer Sproul Sullivan (2010), Terry and Christine Flynn (2009), Jerry and Arlene Nichols (2008), Truly Nolen (2007), Michael Watkins and Ellin Goetz (2006), Clyde Butcher (2005), Peter Thomas (2004), William Schoen (2003), Frances Pew Hayes (2002), Earl Hodges (2001), Corbin Wyant (2000), Jack Humphrey (1999), Myra Janco Daniels (1998), and Lavern Norris Gaynor (1997). For additional information regarding the award luncheon, call Alyssa DeLora at 239.938.7826 or visit www.hodges.edu/support.