New College Students Rescue Fisherman Trapped in Sarasota Bay Currents

New College of Florida students Eliza Cameron, Loren Niurka Mora and Caitlin Petro came to the rescue of a fisherman trapped in the currents of Sarasota Bay on Friday night near the New College of Florida campus. After several hours of fishing, 67-year-old Michael McClure became caught in an outgoing current and his waders filled with water, making it impossible for him to swim.

The students, who were sitting on shore, jumped in the bay to help McClure when they noticed he was thrashing erratically and his head was going under water. Together, the three girls were able to swim McClure into shore where campus police met them. McClure was severely exhausted but did not sustain any serious medical injuries.

“Without the assistance of Eliza, Lauren and Caitlin, I believe I would not have made it to shore,” commented McClure, a Michigan resident who lives in Sarasota five months out of the year. “Their bravery in this situation demonstrates their high character and caring for others.”

A ceremony to honor the students will be held on Thursday, April 23 at noon, in the Living Room of Cook Hall at New College. President Mike Michalson, Mr. McClure and members of the campus police will present the students with commendation certificates. All members of the New College Community, as well as the general public, are invited to attend this event to honor the students’ heroics.

For more information contact Aimee Chouinard, Media Relations Coordinator, (941) 487-4152 or [email protected].