In the heart of Florida Tech’s campus lies the Joy and Gordon Patterson Botanical Garden—a living testament to the enduring legacy of professor Gordon Patterson, a household name at the university. For over four decades, Patterson has been a cornerstone of the institution, through not only his dedicated teaching in humanities but also his profound influence on campus life and culture and his role as university historian. We spoke with Patterson about his eventful time at Florida Tech and his new book, Missiles, Mischief, and Mayhem: The Secret History of Countdown College.
What is your role here, and how has it evolved over the years?
My 43 years at Florida Tech have been a journey of intellectual exploration. In 1981, I was recruited to help rethink the core undergrad curriculum while developing courses in the history of science and technology and environmental history. In the next decade, I worked to develop courses in Asian studies. Students can now meet their core requirements in the humanities by studying both Western and Eastern civilizations. Currently, I am working to develop courses in African American studies. My fascination with environment history led to my research on the history of mosquito control. Our species’ relentless battle against six-legged, blood-sucking pests has left a profound mark on the environment, shaping societies and landscapes for millennia.
How have you seen the campus and students evolve throughout the years?
Beneath the surface of Florida Tech’s academic excellence lies a host of adventures, escapades and antics. I could not let the memory of those moments pass away. Thus, I wrote this book.
What is your favorite Florida Tech “secret history” story?
I smile when I think of founder Jerry Keuper’s scheme to launch a quail hatchery on campus and market quail eggs. I hasten to add the stories of the “atomic toilet” and the mass campus streak still make my eyes roll. (Get the book for details!)
“Florida Tech is a dynamic institution that is always in the process of ‘becoming.’ My fellow Panthers’ appetite for change, their desire to improve and passion for excellence makes each day exciting.”
GORDON PATTERSON
What role does interesting with the campus community play in keeping your job fresh and exciting?
Florida Tech is a dynamic institution that is always in the process of “becoming.” My fellow Panthers’ appetite for change, their desire to improve and passion for excellence makes each day exciting.
What do you love about your job?
Giving a good lecture. Most of all, I like it when my students ask challenging questions.
What makes Florida Tech a unique/great place to work?
The university’s “can-do” attitude.
What are some of the memories at Florida Tech that stand out to you?
Standing in the Quad in 1986, when the space shuttle Challenger exploded; yelling myself hoarse watching the men’s soccer team win a national championship 1988 and losing my voice again three years later when they won a second national championship in 1991; meeting with students on 9/11; contributing to establishing the Julius Montgomery Pioneer Award and the university’s annual MLK ceremony; teaching the sons and daughters whose parents were once my students; countless hours spent in the botanical garden (AKA: “The Jungle”); I could go on.
What inspires you not at the university?
There are still nights when I have trouble going to sleep because I’m looking forward to what’s going to happen in class the next day.
What do you see in the future for Florida Tech?
For 25 years, I served as the faculty advisor for the College Players. Their motto, “Limited to the Imagination, Bounded by Infinity,” resonates deeply with me, reflecting my vision for Florida Tech and the limitless potential that lies ahead. Go Panthers!
This piece was featured in the spring 2024 edition of Florida Tech Magazine.
