Judy and Joe P. Ruthven Beach Volleyball Courts
2017
Named for Trustee Joe P. Ruthven and his wife Judy, the Judy and Joe P. Ruthven Beach Volleyball Courts allowed for the sport to officially begin at Florida Southern in 2018. The courts are located in the Publix Charities Commons and Greek Quad and are utilized by not only the team, but also by students as a unique exercise opportunity.
Joe was born in South Carolina, and after serving in the U.S. Navy during WWII, moved to Lakeland in 1957 to open a tire business. He later founded The Ruthvens, a real estate development company. He was responsible for pioneering the warehouse and distribution industry in Lakeland. Joe passed away in 2019.
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