Give to the Michael D. Griffin Endowed Scholarship

Michael D. Griffin helped launch the Ford ASSET program at Seminole State and taught automotive students for 18 years, winning national recognition for the program multiple times. Griffin started his career in automotive technology at a very young age. He excelled rapidly and earned his certifications in all fields along the way. In 1989, he was hired by the College to launch the Ford ASSET program. 

Griffin spent long hours in his home garage working on ways to enhance the learning process for his students. The cut-away models of automatic and manual transmissions, a torque converter, and planetary gears are still in use today. He remained passionate about teaching throughout his career until his early death in 2007 from brain cancer. His illness did not stop him from watching his last class of students "cross the finish line" at their graduation and sharing these words of gratitude:

"Starting the Ford ASSET program at SCC was both a privilege and a challenge.  However, the rewards of teaching kept me going...seeing those little light bulbs go on, seeing something click in a student's mind. That's rewarding. Giving up teaching was one of the most difficult things I've had to do. My heart is still in it. So graduates, go forth and work hard with honesty and integrity. Make me proud."

 The Michael D. Griffin Endowed Scholarship honors his dedication to students and future generations of automotive professionals by providing financial assistance to automotive students demonstrating financial need.