First Book University kicked off the year with a reception and Seminar in Tampa on Friday, February 22.  Both events were held at the offices of our partners, SunTrust Mortgage.  On Thursday evening, SunTrust Mortgage associates, Advisory Board members, Recipient Groups, and community members gathered to network and learn more about First Book.

Jennifer Pierce with Bess the Book Bus provided a snapshot of what it has been like to receive books from the First Book Marketplace and National Book Bank.  She brought wonderful photos and letters from the children and drove to the event in Bess.  Ken Bakunas, chair of First Book-Tampa Bay, provided the Advisory Board’s perspective and turned out to be the popular person of the evening as programs approached him to learn more about how to receive books from the Board.

The following morning, representatives from three Advisory Boards – Tampa Bay, Orlando, and Ft. Myer’s gathered for a day of interactive FBU workshops.  There were lively discussions on fundraising success stories, recruiting techniques, running an effective Board, and more.  It was an excellent session and we hope everyone returned to their communities informed and energized and ready to give out more books!

A special thank you to SunTrust Mortgage for providing the space and food for FBU in Tampa!