By Olivia Doyle & Jarred Shellhouse
GAINESVILLE, Fla. — Pam and Russell Hyatt, graduates and long-time supporters of the University of Florida’s geomatics program, were awarded the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences Alumni & Friends Award of Distinction at the annual UF/IFAS Dinner of Distinction.
This award is presented to CALS alumni or friends in recognition of their outstanding contributions to the university, college, and agriculture, natural resources, life sciences and related industries.
“Pam and Russell’s dedication to the geomatics program has been steadfast throughout their years as UF alumni,” said CALS Dean Elaine Turner. “They have advocated for the program wherever they go, recruiting students and even giving financial gifts of their own.”
Although neither started their education in the geomatics program, Russell and Pam found their way to each other and to their career through UF. In the late 1980s, both joined what was then known as the surveying and mapping program, now geomatics. Throughout their time as Gators, Russell and Pam took active leadership roles in the Florida Surveying and Mapping Student Chapter as president and secretary, respectively, becoming formidable advocates of geomatics.
“Geomatics students have a very hands-on education where they learn to measure, analyze and manage geo-spatial data,” said Cathy Carr, CALS director of alumni and career services. “These hands-on opportunities are possible because of the support of the CALS alumni network, including Pam and Russell.”
The duo launched their own business, Hyatt Survey Services, in 2002. It has been twice recognized as part of the Gator100, a university list of the 100 fastest-growing Gator owned or led companies in the world. As part of their commitment to their employees, the Hyatts also offer to cover the cost of tuition for any of their employees who wish to extend their surveying education.
The CALS Alumni and Friends Award of Distinction has been awarded 47 times since its inception in 1997.
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The College of Agricultural and Life Sciences (CALS) administers the degree programs of the University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS). The mission of the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences is to deliver unsurpassed educational programs that prepare students to address the world’s critical challenges related to agriculture, food systems, human wellbeing, natural resources and sustainable communities. The college has received more total (national and regional combined) USDA teaching awards than any other institution.
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