30th Anniversary History Book

25 t h A n n i v e r s a r y F o u nd e r s Da y Ho n o r e e s

The average tenure of a college president is less than nine years — but Beacon College counts itself exceedingly fortunate to have been guided by Deborah Brodbeck’s inspired leadership for 19 of its most transformative years. Throughout her remarkable career, Deborah has been a pioneering educator and ardent advocate for students with learning disabilities. A psychologist by training, she opened new doors of educational opportunity for thousands of youngsters, including Project Learn — New York’s acclaimed K to 12 program for students who learn differently. Deborah initially came to Beacon College as a consultant, bringing a deep understanding of the unique Beacon’s library is a welcoming place of gathering and reflection for our students, thanks to the dedicated efforts of Dianna Wade, the college’s first official librarian. Arriving in early 1996, Dianna brought to Beacon an impressive background in library science at a time when the College was seeking initial accreditation by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. She traveled all over Florida to locate quality, affordable academic materials, purchasing more than 4,000 volumes that included an extensive collection of books on learning disabilities, ADH, and other learning differences. She also created an online catalog and

needs and potential of students who learn differently. She was persuaded to take on the role of president, and with her guidance, the college gained national recognition for its life-changing educational approach. The Brodbeck presidency will be remembered for its many remarkable achievements. They include the development of Beacon’s holistic approach for student success, including its signature academic mentoring program … the expansion of our campus footprint from two to six buildings … the securing of vital academic accreditation … and the enhancement of student services. The legacy of her tireless efforts can also be seen in the college’s branding, recruiting, finances, fundraising, and community outreach. joined the Library Information Resource Network to build Beacon’s virtual library. Thanks to Dianna’s efforts, the SAC approved the library on its first campus visit. In the fall of 1996, she oversaw the move to the library’s current location where it continues expanding to meet the needs of our ever-growing student body. Dianna also formed cooperative agreements with other colleges and the Leesburg Public Library so that Beacon students had access to all the resources they needed. Additionally, she helped ensure that Beacon’s significant LD materials are available not only to our own students, but also to other colleges and members of the public.

Deborah Brodbeck

Dianna Wade

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