 | Fall 2006 |
Alumni Profile: Scott Carmona
If necessity truly is the mother of invention, then Scott Carmona (BS, Engineering ˜81) is living proof of how a college student can figure a way to make it through under less than ideal circumstances. In the late 1970's, Scott was a full time student at Saginaw Valley State College, married, working a full time job, and in need of a car. He was searching for a way to work odd hours to make some extra money. In his words, "survive". Scott found a way to get through college and develop exceptional business skills that would shape his professional career. Today he owns Sunrise National Distributors, a well-respected warehouse distributor with a presence in the automotive aftermarket. He is also involved in several warehouse development projects across the country. He made it through, to say the least.
Scott Carmona remembers his college experience fondly. He recalls the unique relationship between faculty and students and, "the group of classmates that would get together to discuss homework, do labs with and the fun we had doing it although it was very hard as I juggled everything else I was doing." He also remembers the personal attention he received from his professors. On one memorable occasion Scott was certain that he was correct on a test problem that received a low grade. So he went to Dr. Eldon Graham's office to make his case. In his words, "after a few minutes of detailed explanation from Eldon, he shed light on my failings with the problem and showed me the correct way to arrive at his answer."
Twenty five years later, Scott Carmona has some of his own advice to share. He encourages freshmen to "keep your eyes wide open, listen a lot and talk little." His advice to graduating seniors is both encouraging and optimistic. "There is nothing anybody can say or do which will keep you from achieving what you want as long as you make your next big endeavor your number one priority. You can always change tomorrow if you do not like what you are doing today." He should know.
Throughout the years, SVSU has been a priority to the Carmona Family. Scott and his wife Nancy have established two scholarships, one to support aspiring engineering students and another for business majors. He is a member of the SVSU Board of Fellows and attends several events on campus. When asked why SVSU is a priority to him, Scott replied, "It is part of my community where I live, work and play. We all benefit from a better community."
If you haven't been back to campus recently, Scott can tell you what it's like. In his words, "SVSU is a living community full of exciting opportunities for people from all walks of life. The campus is full of life. Come and see how the physical facilities have grown over the years since you have graduated. You should see, with your own eyes, all the new school buildings, the library and the student center. Look at how many students choose to come to SVSU as you walk the campus. Take in the sensation of the campus activities, the campus life and the housing of all the students. Dream of what it was when you were here and think of what it will be in another 20 years. It is exciting to be a part of the SVSU life." And if you do make it back to campus you might see Scott and Nancy's oldest son Ryan. He's in his third year as a Cardinal studying Business, and like his dad was when he was in school, probably looking for some extra money too!