33 We were very much at the cutting edge. [Nova] probably had more computer power in the law school than any other law school in the country. You also had people who were so committed to Nova. They were very loyal to it, and they worked hard for it. That was a real plus.” “ THE SCHOLAR NSU will be Florida’s university. We’re providing targeted education that’s necessary for that community in those cities. So, in essence, we’re almost living that now.” “ THE CHAIRMAN As it had before and would continue to do for years, Nova thrived on the leadership of seasoned professionals who, despite nearing retirement, were drawn in by the promise of its ambitious future. One such leader was Ovid Lewis—Nova’s third law school dean and, later, executive vice president for student and academic affairs—who stepped into the role of president. Lewis, a Duke graduate with a J.D. from Rutgers and a J.S.D. from Columbia, was recruited by both Shure and Fischler from Northern Kentucky University. From the outset, his vision was to transform Nova from a professional hub into a scholarly community, encouraging collaboration across disciplines. As the law center dean, he launched a distinguished visiting-scholar series, fostered cross-departmental dialogue, and worked to facilitate top-tier clerkship opportunities. As president, Lewis extended his focus to adding student-life amenities and attracting nationally respected deans. Ovid Lewis, J.S.D. President, 1994–1997 A distinguished attorney, Ferrero brought a unique blend of experience to the role, having earned a business administration degree with a concentration in accounting from St. John’s University, followed by service in the U.S. Marine Corps and a J.D. from the University of Florida Levin College of Law. His military background taught him the importance of mission clarity and empowering capable individuals while holding them accountable— lessons that complemented his analytical skills. Ferrero revered NSU’s educational innovation but aimed to strengthen community engagement and communication between schools. He organized charity events to spark essential conversations about the university’s future and its role in the state. To further NSU’s standing, Ferrero also became president of the Florida Association of Colleges and Universities—the only body representing all three higher edu- cation sectors: state universities, independent colleges, and community colleges. Ray Ferrero, Jr., J.D. President, 1998–2010 Hanbury’s three-decade public service career began at age 30 when he became the youngest city manager of a U.S. city with more than 100,000 residents. Ferrero hired him to future-proof NSU, inspired by his success in leading Fort Lauderdale out of recession, securing hundreds of millions in private investment, and transforming downtown with projects like the Riverwalk and Sistrunk Boulevard revitalization. His efforts earned Fort Lauderdale the title of Best Big Place to Live in 1995 and 1996. Before NSU, Hanbury earned a Ph.D. in Public Administration from Florida Atlantic University, fulfilling his mother’s wish. At NSU, he applied expertise in budgeting, bond optimization, and land-use negotiation to expand the university’s footprint across Florida and into Puerto Rico. In 2018, NSU’s accreditation was renewed without a single recommendation—an honor granted to only 1 in 55 institutions. Hanbury also restored research as central to NSU’s mission and introduced unanimously adopted core values and vision statements. George L. Hanbury II, Ph.D. President, 2010–2024 It is the convergence of science, technology, and liberal arts that enables critical thinking and allows today’s students to live out the NSU dream.” “ THE BUSINESSMAN
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NDE4MDg=