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University of South Florida
Polytechnic
3433 Winter Lake Road
Lakeland, FL 33803
(863) 667-7077
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Writer:
Janelle
Keyes
(863) 667-7077
Contact:
Janelle
Keyes
LAKELAND,
FL (October 14, 2005) - While
USF football fans cheered the Bulls to a 45-14 victory over Louisville
in late September, USF alumni Justin Troller, '01, stood in Raymond
James stadium with shared excitement-not as a spectator but as a
servant.
Troller volunteers his time to work the concession stands at all
USF home football games to raise money for a local high school's
athletics program. Troller is employed by Lakeland High School as
a social studies teacher and also serves as a coach for wrestling
and J.V. football.
A bachelor's degree in Political Science from USF and extensive
experience in the corporate office of Publix Supermarkets, Inc.
gave Troller many career options. His decision to teach was influenced
by his desire to serve the community and a part-time involvement
with coaching and athletics. Through this work, Troller became convinced
of one thing-coaching did not stop on the playing field and mentoring
young minds was a full-time job. And every day since graduation
he has helped enhance the lives of youth in his community.
Troller credits his liberal arts education in the Political Science
program at USF with preparing him for teaching. He explains that
the program taught him to understand people and look at issues from
varying perspectives, a lesson he says he still applies today, both
in and out of the classroom.
When asked to describe his other experiences and fond memories of
being a student at USF, Troller recalls that his time at USF was
very busy. While in school he worked 40 hours each week with Publix
and attended classes 2 days per week from 8 a.m. to sometimes 10
o'clock at night.
"I do fondly remember one of Professor Susan McManus' classes because
we discussed the issues of the day. We learned a great deal, and
I enjoyed the debates," said Troller.
Troller is very grateful for of the opportunities that have been
afforded him through his education, and he says USF taught him many
life lessons.
"The desire to serve my students and my community comes not only
from the influence of my close family but from what I learned while
I was a student at USF," said Troller. "USF taught me to give back."
To "give back" seems to be a way of life for the 27 year-old Lakeland
native who is currently running for Lakeland City Commission. In
addition to teaching and coaching, Troller has been involved with
many other civic and community organizations throughout his career.
He serves as Vice Chairman for the United Way of Central Florida's
Community Investment Team, Board of Director for the University
of South Florida Alumni Association, Board of Director for the Polk
Education Association, and Central Area Director for the Florida
Amateur Wrestling Association.
Troller affirms that his work is fulfilling and that he needs no
special recognition. He encourages other USF alumni to find a way
to get involved with their communities and make a difference.
Troller's motto says it all: "We earn a living by what we do, but
we earn a life by what we give."
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