Walt Disney World Recognizes Polk State President Emerita

Walt Disney World Resort cast members who are alumni of Polk State College recently hosted a surprise reception to recognize Polk State President Emerita Eileen Holden for her decade-long service to both the College and community.

George A. Kalogridis, president of Walt Disney World Resort and also a Polk State alumnus, presented Holden with a Mouscar— The Walt Disney Company’s most recognizable honor.

“We are extraordinarily grateful for the marvelous work Dr. Holden has done with our alma mater,” Kalogridis said. “Under her leadership, Polk State soared to new heights. Her legacy as president will live on in the successes of its students for years to come.”

“Under her leadership, Polk State soared to new heights. Her legacy as president will live on in the successes of its students for years to come,” Walt Disney World Resort President George A. Kalogridis said.

The Mousecar, which is typically awarded to Disney Cast Members for long-term exemplary service to the company and the community as a whole, is Disney’s version of the Academy of Motion Picture’s Oscar.

During the presentation, Walt Disney World Ambassador Nathaniel Palma read a proclamation to bestow the award.

“We, the Cast Members and leadership of Walt Disney World Resort proclaim our admiration of, and our gratitude to, Dr. Eileen Holden as she concludes more than a decade of stewardship and devotion to the people of Polk County, and the students, faculty, and staff of Polk State College,” Palma said.

Polk State College President Angela Garcia Falconetti was thrilled to see Holden’s career celebrated in such a special way.

“Seeing such an iconic company like Disney recognize Dr. Holden was just incredible,” Falconetti said. “I look forward to maintaining the valuable relationship that Dr. Holden has created for Polk State College with the Walt Disney World team, as well as building upon the many other partnerships she has formed with industry leaders throughout the years.”

Holden said the award is something she will cherish forever.

“It has been such an honor and a privilege to serve Polk State College, and to see all of the great careers we’ve launched,” Holden said during the ceremony. “Thank you so much for this recognition, but most importantly, thank you for making Polk State College proud by doing what you do in your professions and your careers.”