EFSC Foundation Names Jack Masson 2024 Distinguished Alumni

Jack Masson, a true community leader who has given his time and talents to make Brevard a better place for decades, has received the Eastern Florida State College Foundation’s Distinguished Alumni Award for 2024.

The announcement was made at the Foundation’s Annual Titan Scholarship Reception held on the EFSC Melbourne Campus.

“Jack is the perfect choice for this year’s honor,” said EFSC Foundation Executive Director Tonya Cherry. “He is an EFSC alumni, a scholarship contributor, and a successful community leader. We are pleased to honor him in this way for the impact he has made here in our community and in the lives of our students.”

Masson graduated from Melbourne High School in 1965. He earned an Associate of Arts degree from Eastern Florida State College (then Brevard Junior College) in 1967 and a Bachelor of Science in Recreation Administration from the University of Florida in 1970.

While finishing his bachelor’s degree, he worked as an intern with the Brevard County Parks and Recreation Department. Over the years, he was promoted to Department Director of Parks and Recreation where he remained until retiring in January 2017.

In his retirement, Masson continues to be active in the Brevard community. He is a member of the Rotary Club of Cocoa where he has served for an impressive 40 years and received the 2020-2021 Cocoa Rotarian of the Year Award. He also currently serves as a member of the Circle of Care Board of Directors.

His past service includes Chair of the Boys and Girls Clubs of Brevard County and board member for the Boys and Girls Clubs of Central Florida, Chair of the Parks and Recreation South/Central Advisory Board, his church and numerous other organizations throughout Brevard.

He earned many accolades throughout his lifetime and career. He was inducted into UF’s College of Health and Human Performance Hall of Fame in 2011, the Space Coast Sports Hall of Fame in 2016, and the Space Coast Public Service Hall of Fame in 2018. He also received the 2018 Space Coast Public Service Lifetime Achievement Award.

Other notable achievements include receiving the Annual Excellence in Public Service Award for Management from the Brevard County Board of Commissioners and recognition for outstanding service from the Brevard Veterans Council.

The EFSC Foundation will begin accepting applications for the 2025 Distinguished Alumni Award in July.

For more information about the EFSC Foundation, scholarships, or the Distinguished Alumni Award, visit foundation.easternflorida.edu or call 321-433-7055.

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