James Mernik ’21 and Jerry Provin ’91 were named this year’s recipients of the inaugural Lion-Hearted Award—an honor bestowed upon individuals who exemplify the College’s core values through meaningful engagement and lasting contributions to the institution.
The Lion-Hearted Award celebrates alumni, donors, and community members who have demonstrated extraordinary dedication, volunteerism, and generosity in support of Flagler College’s mission. Recipients are selected based on four pillars: dedication and involvement, philanthropic impact, leadership and advocacy, and lasting legacy.
“These recipients embody the spirit of Flagler College,” Vice President for Institutional Advancement Kristy Myers said. “They lead with purpose, give with heart, and inspire others to do the same. It is an honor to recognize their contributions and their belief in Flagler’s mission.”
James Mernik ’21, though a recent graduate, has made a remarkable impact through both involvement and philanthropy. He has participated in key events supporting Flagler initiatives such as Women of Vision’s Power of the Purse and the NYC Cabaret at 54 Below.
Mernik established the “Richard and Judith Anderson Memorial Endowed Scholarship” and contributed a major gift to the Brown Innovation Center, naming the “Mernik Maker Space.” Additionally, his support for campus preservation led to the naming of the “Mernik Mail Services” in the Campus Services Building.
“From the moment he graduated, James’ support and engagement with Flagler College have been stalwart and focused, showing that his commitment is not fleeting but enduring. Every gift he has made establishes a legacy that will continue with the institution; his actions suggest a long-term vision for the future success of the College, and his continued involvement helps build a legacy for future generations of Flagler students,” Myers said.
As a member of the Alumni Board of Directors and the Flagler Forward Campaign Steering Committee, Mernik has demonstrated leadership through his advocacy for the College’s mission, helping to build connections with other alumni, stakeholders, and potential donors.
Jerry Provin ’91 has shown steadfast support for Flagler College for more than three decades. He has regularly attended alumni events across multiple states and volunteered his time and resources at Flagler ceremonies such as Commencement.
Provin has provided financial support, directly enhancing the College’s programs, people, and places since 1992! He established two endowed scholarships, the “Jeremy A. Provin Memorial Scholarship” and the “James F. Geer Endowed Scholarship for Business and Accounting.” His $25,000 gift for the restoration of Ponce de Leon Hall resulted in the naming of the “Jerry R. Provin, Jr. ’91 and Scott A. Provin-Wylie Fireplace” in the Ponce Mezzanine.
“Jerry’s support and engagement with Flagler College have been sustained over time with his first gift to the Annual Fund. His actions across the past three decades demonstrate a long-term vision for the future success of the College with the establishment of multiple endowed scholarships and the support of historic preservation efforts in the Ponce de Leon Hall,” Myers said.
Provin’s leadership includes service on the Alumni Board, the Atlanta Alumni Chapter, and as a champion for initiatives such as Roar and Raise. His commitment will continue through a planned gift, ensuring his legacy endures for future generations.
To learn more about Flagler College’s alumni programs or to make a gift, visit www.flagler.edu/giving.
