Palm Beach Gardens Lving - April 2026

selected to honor Jan with a gift for higher education. "Thank you to Dr. Goodwin for not only establishing this scholarship and tribute to Jan but also entrusting us with her legacy, a tremendous benefit for our students and contribution to the College’s art program." An artist’s model for figure drawing at Palm Beach State and art consultant who operated her own gallery, Jan did not merely have a passing interest in art; she lived it, breathed it, and dreamed it with great passion. That devotion, along with her name and legacy, is now benefiting art students at Florida’s first public college. Noah Bamber, Dorian Green, and Katie Villa are the first three recipients to earn the scholarship in Jan’s name. Studying fine arts, specifically figure and abstract design, Noah is thankful for more than the financial help the scholarship provides. “I’m humbled to be receiving this award along with my peers. It’s a boost and a I nspiration is found through a myriad of moments – the expected and the unexpected. With what life brings, nothing matters more than the people we know, love, and remember. And each of us has a story to share and a legacy to leave. On March 26 of this year, a heartfelt event took place at the Lake Worth campus of Palm Beach State College: the Jan Stein Memorial Scholarship Reception. With family, friends, and guests gathering to recognize not only Jan’s life but also Jan’s passion for the arts and art education, this was a celebration of a person and purpose, as the loss of someone special has brought something special to be given. When Jan Stein tragically lost her life in April 2025, her fiancé, Dr. James Goodwin, turned to Palm Beach State to ensure that more than her memory lives on. “Through the gift of this scholarship and the example of Jan’s life, I am certain that many young lives will be encouraged and supported to make a meaningful impact in the arts.” PBSC President Ava L. Parker, JD, expressed great appreciation that Palm Beach State was reassurance for me and my family that someone believes in me.” All three young artists had their original artwork on display for the reception, adorning the walls of the College’s gallery for a weeklong exhibition, curated by Professor Kristin Miller. Also on display was a sculpture of Jan aptly titled Elegance , created by local artist Eli Cecil, a 2024 recipient of the Artists Innovation Fellowship, who often crafts custom, commemorative, and ceremonial pieces. Working from a student’s figure drawing of Jan, Eli fashioned the sculpture from clear crystal glass, his first time replicating the human form. “The iridescent glass sparkles, representing Jan’s radiance and spirit, and I used Venetian gold leaf for her hair. Glass doesn’t break down over time, so in that sense it’s eternal.” Eli’s sentiment captures Jan’s essence as James recalls that Jan was a three- time cancer survivor, overcoming much through grit, determination, and sheer resilience. EXPERT CONTRIBUTOR Life, Legacy, and Elegance - By Dean Glorioso - - Photos by Carol McDonald and Dr. James Goodwin - THE JAN STEIN MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP AT PBSC Jan Stein Dr. James Goodwin, Professor Kristin Miller, scholarship recipient Dorian Green, PBSC Foundation CEO Andria Cunningham 6 PA L M B E A C H G A R D E N S L I V I N G | M AY 2 0 2 6