Pictured above: Former St. Petersburg mayor Kriseman and former deputy mayor Tomalin recognized by USFSP
Courtesy of Cliff McBride | USF
By Molly Ryan
Since their terms began in 2014, former St. Petersburg mayor Rick Kriseman and former deputy mayor Kanika Tomalin have been dedicated advocates for the University of South Florida St. Petersburg campus.
Last Thursday, the administration honored their efforts, who presented the two former officials with brick pavers installed at the campus’s fountain before the Campus Board meeting that morning.
“I’m incredibly honored to receive [the brick paver] and this recognition this morning,” Kriseman said at the beginning of the meeting. “We have felt so fortunate to have USF St. Pete and to be a part of the USF family.”
USF St. Petersburg Regional Chancellor Martin Tadlock called the two former officials “staunch advocates” for the campus and noted that they were now a part of the USF St. Petersburg “walk of fame.”
“They understand the importance of culture, the impact of [culture] in the community and creating a kind of culture that is invitational, accepting and inclusive,” Tadlock said.
Kriseman credited USF St. Petersburg’s “unparalleled” talent pool in helping the city grow and attract businesses.
“You cannot do great work without great partners,” Kriseman said.
Over their eight years in office, the former mayor and deputy mayor frequently partnered with USF St. Petersburg in strengthening the city and its community, such as: Signing a 2016 climate accord to make the city carbon neutral by 2050 and creating a joint task force to identify and dismantle systemic racism in Pinellas County.
Kriseman and his administration also spearheaded several initiatives rooted in the direct advancement of the St. Petersburg campus, such as: Supporting the construction of the Osprey Suites, partnering in the creation of a Director of Community Affairs position (currently occupied by Caryn Nesmith) specific to the campus and bringing USF St. Petersburg to the forefront of conversation surrounding the redevelopment of the Tropicana Field.
During the board meeting, Tadlock also awarded the two former officials with wooden plaques for their “remarkable recognition,” awards typically given only to students, faculty or staff.
While he recognized that the two former officials were now pursuing other endeavors, Tadlock affirmed that they will always be a part of the St. Petersburg campus community.
During his recognition, Kriseman applauded the partnership between the St. Petersburg campus and the city.
“Great cities are only great cities if they have great universities in their community,” Kriseman said.
