Neil McFarlane was named the 2024 UF College of Nursing Alumnus of the Year during the annual Pinning and Recognition Ceremony on May 3.

McFarlane’s recognition came from his years of commitment to helping UF nursing students through a scholarship program he helped establish in 2009. McFarlane, his wife, Karen, and Gator Nurse classmates Erik Cline and Price St. Hilaire founded the MSC Patriot Award. The program benefits undergraduate nursing students personally affiliated or affiliated through family with any branch of the United States military. Since its inception, more than 60 students have received the scholarship. McFarlane served for 16 years in the U.S. Army Reserves.

A double Gator Nurse, he earned his BSN in 1994 and MSN in 1999. While receiving his award, he spoke to the graduating class about finding their foundation, dedication and ambition, or FDA as he put it.  His FDA helped lead him to his current position as president and CEO of Zevra Therapeutics, a rare disease therapeutics maker focused on serving patients with significant unmet needs.

“Nursing has been a scaffolding for my entire career,” he said.

His nursing foundation grew at UF. As for dedication, he said every student at the ceremony showed they had dedication enough to stick to their education. The ambition comes from knowing you can succeed and not limiting your reach.

“The College of Nursing’s mission talks about preparing graduates to care, lead and inspire. I think the opportunity you have today leaving the college and moving out into what you do, your FDA will allow you to be able to achieve your dreams,” he said.