Struttin’ at ‘A Splash of Spring’: The Friends of the JU Library Fashion Show

Jacksonville’s longest-running fashion show was a huge hit as a capacity crowd gathered Tuesday, Feb. 12 in the Kinne Center at Jacksonville University for some fun and fund-raising for Friends of the JU Library.

The models at “A Splash of Spring” fashion show and silent auction included JU Athletic Director Brad Edwards, JU Vice President for University Advancement Michael Howland, JU alum and WJXT-TV 4’s Rebecca Barry, and Santhea Hicks, wife of JU alum and JU Mayor Alvin Brown. Also, JU vocal students Brittany Nickell and Jordyn Jones performed with JU Assistant Professor of Voice Kimberly Beasley.

Among the highlights of the 42nd annual luncheon event: Accompanied by renowned pianist Sam Fricano, WJXT-TV 4’s Sam Kouvaris crooned JU Chancellor Emeritus Frances Bartlett Kinne and JU Senior Vice President of Academic Affairs Lois Becker. Also, JU President Tim Cost delighted the library supporters by pledging his support to the library and — along with his wife, Stephanie — joining the Friends organization at the gold membership level.

“Like so many things on this campus, the library is a sign of respect that we should be showing at this school,” Cost said, noting that libraries played a significant role in his upbringing.

“Libraries have a critical role in today’s learning envronment and the availability to access of information, and the library is a vital part of our campus,” he said.

Here is a photo gallery from “A Splash of Spring”: