About Jeanne

After being diagnosed with Stage 4 cancer, Jeanne Connell Cameron continued to pour her immense energy and love into the Krewe of Alegria. She directed the activities of Alegria’s Kickin' for Kids shoe campaign. The principal sponsor of the event, Feet First, measured the feet of needy children in certain public schools and at the Florida Sheriff’s Youth Ranch so they would receive a nice pair of shoes that actually fit. She organized the Cutest Pirate Dog Contest motivated by her love for Dalmatians. There were Bob and Sally “(Really Jeanne? Dogs named Bob and Sally?” “Yep!!)”; Purdy and Pongo; and Pepper and Penny. The Mourning Party at the end of the parade season included a band and a walk through the streets of Ybor City. Most importantly, Jeanne coordinated Alegria’s participation in the Gasparilla Distance Classic races which provides funding to support Alegria's community outreach efforts.

Jeanne’s bout with cancer and the doctors he met during her treatment inspired her only child, Miles Cameron, to become a doctor. An accomplished pianist, having already graduated from McGill University in Toronto, he chose to study medicine at the University of Florida and pursue a Medical PHD with a scholarship from the University.

Jeanne was a talented artist and graphic designer, an Adjunct Professor at the University of Tampa until Fall 2019. She also taught at the Hillsborough Community College campuses on Dale Mabry and in Ybor City. She explained her work in an interview with WEDU, a local PBS station. (Link is below.)

https://www.pbs.org/video/wedu-arts-plus-432-jeanne-cameron/