Stetson EMBA Student Honored as Hometown Hero During Orlando Magic Game

Cory Lancaster December 6, 2017
Stetson student in military uniform being honored on the court at a Magic basketball game

Stetson University Executive MBA student, Eddie Molina, was recently honored as a Hometown Hero on center court during an Orlando Magic game. The program recognizes Central Florida first responders—fire, police, medical or military—who have made a difference in our community.

Stetson Executive MBA student, Eddie Molina, was honored as a Hometown Hero during an Orlando Magic game. Photo by Fernando Medina/Orlando Magic.

“It’s an honor to be recognized. I’m humbled to be in such great company as the past hometown heroes who have served our community,” said Molina. “We have so many deserving first responders who all play an important role in keeping our communities safe. It’s wonderful to see the Magic recognizing them.”

Molina, a chief warrant officer three, enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1997 and served with 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Recruiting Command, 1st Infantry Division, US Army NATO and 3D Military Police Group. He was deployed to Iraq in 2008 and 2010 as part of Operation Iraqi Freedom and he was awarded the Legion of Merit, two Meritorious Service Medals, nine Army Commendation Medals, nine Army Achievement Medals and the Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal.

After retiring from the Army with 20 years of service, Molina returned to his family in DeLand and entered the EMBA program at Stetson University. He is also currently preparing to run for a seat on the Volusia County Council in District One.

Neal Mero, Stetson dean of the School of Business Administration

“Eddie exemplifies the Stetson spirit—he led a life of service with 20 years in the Army and now he has returned home, entered the EMBA program and is hoping to continue his service to the community through a run on the County Commission,’” said Neal Mero, Ph.D., dean and professor of management in the School of Business Administration.

The Stetson University Executive MBA Program, housed within the School of Business Administration, is an 18-month program designed specifically for the executive, entrepreneur or fast-track manager. The innovative curriculum, supportive cohort and interactive coaching provide professionals with the business acumen and leadership skills to prepare for senior leadership success. The Princeton Review ranked the Stetson University School of Business Administration among the best in the Top Business Schools 2018 rankings for its on-campus MBA programs.