This fund was established in 2005 by Jill and Paul Varnes in memory of Jill’s father, Matt Tutton, Sr. to support endowed scholarships for graduate and Ph.D. students in Health Education and Behavior in the college of Health & Human Performance at the University of Florida.

Matt was born in Rome, GA in 1921. He was a practicing chiropractic physician for more than 30 years in Leesburg, FL. After attending Southern Adventist and serving in the US Air Force during WWII, Matt studied at National Chiropractic College, graduating in 1948. As a veteran, Matt was active with the Veterans of Foreign Wars, serving in a number of leadership positions, including commander of the Florida VFW. He was also active in the Florida Chiropractic Association.

Matt passed away in in 1982.

Jill earned a bachelor’s and master’s degree in physical education from the University of Florida in 1973 and 1974, respectively. She became a UF professor in the Department of Health Education and Behavior at the College of Health and Human Performance after completing a doctorate in education at the University of Southern Mississippi in 1978. Jill served academic and student affairs for 11 years as the assistant dean of the College of Health and Human Performance, as well as serving three years as interim dean.

Paul earned a bachelor’s and master’s degree in PE health and recreation in 1960 and 1961, respectively, and a doctorate in education in 1967, all from the University of Florida. He is a Recreation, Parks and Tourism professor emeritus. Paul joined the UF faculty in 1968 and served as department chair for 28 years prior to his retirement.