Book Launch & Scholarship Fund

At Schmit + Associates, we believe in building not just communities, but people. That belief is at the heart of our founder Dave Schmit’s new book, Five Men: The Transformative Power of Mentorships.

In Five Men, Dave shares the stories of five individuals who profoundly shaped his journey: a father who modeled integrity, a coach who taught the value of teamwork, a professor who opened doors to growth, a faith leader who guided him through life’s storms, and a business mentor who encouraged him to lead with vision.

The book is both personal and universal. It reminds us that success is never a solo journey—it’s built on the guidance and support of those who come before us. Through honest storytelling, Dave highlights how everyday people can leave extraordinary legacies simply by showing up in someone else’s life.

As part of the book’s launch, Dave and his family returned to his alma mater, the University of Florida, to celebrate in a special way: by establishing a $50,000 scholarship fund at the Rinker School of Construction Management. This fund will not only help students achieve their dreams, but also honor the memory of Dr. Brisbane Brown, the mentor who guided Dave through his college years and inspired the character of Professor Browning in the book. It is a living example of how mentorship can ripple forward—shaping not just one life, but generations to come.

At a time when division and disconnection often dominate headlines, Five Men is a call to return to what truly matters: investing in relationships, fostering resilience, and creating stronger communities through mentorship.