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Retired U.S. Marine Corps Major General James S. “Hammer” Hartsell has officially joined the Saint Leo University Board of Trustees, bringing with him a lifetime of military service, public leadership and an especially heartfelt connection to the University community.

For Hartsell, this moment is deeply personal. His late son, Evin B. Hartsell, graduated from Saint Leo in 2015 with a degree in psychology and received his master’s degree posthumously in 2018. Despite living with significant health challenges, Evin was known for his commitment to personal growth, his deep compassion for others and belief in education’s power to change lives.

“Saint Leo gave Evin a place to grow, to find purpose, and to be surrounded by people who believed in him,” said Hartsell. “Even on his toughest days, this University was a source of strength. Now, through this scholarship, he’s continuing to give back — and that means everything to our family.”

To honor his spirit, the Evin B. Hartsell Endowed Memorial Scholarship was established at Saint Leo. The scholarship supports students with disabilities, helping them pursue their academic and personal goals in the face of adversity. For the Hartsell family, it’s more than a tribute — it’s a way to ensure Evin’s values and legacy live on through the success of others.

Maj. Gen. Hartsell’s own path has been marked by a deep commitment to service. A Florida native, he began his military career as an enlisted Marine in 1981 and rose through the ranks over a 37-year career, retiring as a major general. Today, he serves as the executive director of the Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs, where he leads a team of more than 1,500 in support of one of the nation’s largest veteran populations.

His appointment to Saint Leo’s board reflects a continuation of his commitment to service — this time, in support of higher education, student success, and the University’s core values of community, integrity, and excellence.

“General Hartsell’s journey is one of leadership, sacrifice, and love,” said Noel Boeke, chairman of the board of trustees. We’re honored to welcome him to the Board of Trustees and especially grateful for the meaningful way he continues to be part of Saint Leo’s story. His work, and Evin’s legacy, are helping shape a more supportive and inclusive future for our students.”

Stories like Hartsell’s remind us that true impact often begins with empathy — and that the most lasting legacies are those built on love, resilience, and a desire to help others thrive.