Spotlight
From Love Story to Legacy
A Symphony of Love
Walter Heinlein began every day with the classical music of WSMR, a station that became a constant source of comfort throughout his life. After losing his wife, Sharon, in 2022, he chose to honor her memory by dedicating $2.1 million from his estate to create the Sharon Heinlein Endowment in support of Classical WSMR.
Everything Matters — Even a Smile
After losing her husband and battling cancer herself, Jill Chalsty found renewed purpose in sharing compassion and empowering young people. Honoring the care she and her husband received, she supported USF Health and later embarked on a 107‑day global voyage to deliver “packets of hope” — life‑skills tools designed to uplift students and communities. Her journey transformed personal grief into worldwide impact, continuing a legacy that has reached millions of children.
A Tribute to Family, Mentorship and Discovery
David Norton, MBA ’03, credits his USF experience and mentor Dick Bowers for shaping his career and inspiring his philanthropy. After retiring from L3Harris Technologies, Norton established endowed funds for business education and cancer research at USF, honoring his parents and supporting future innovation. His generosity ensures lasting impact on faculty excellence and medical discoveries.
Grateful Patient Honors Leader in Colorectal Cancer Treatment
After surviving rectal cancer thanks to Dr. Jorge Marcet’s innovative care, William “Bobby” Jacobsen made a generous gift to establish the Bobby Jacobsen Endowed Chair in Colorectal Surgery at USF Health. This support strengthens research, education, and clinical innovation, ensuring better outcomes for future patients and reinforcing USF’s leadership in colorectal cancer treatment.
A Seat at the Table
What began as a chance meeting at a USF football game blossomed into a powerful partnership between Julie Serovich and Bob Clark — one that now fuels a scholarship program for students committed to leadership and community service. Discover how a $250,000 gift is shaping the next generation of changemakers.