News

May 2025 Update from One Okaloosa EDC

By Nathan Sparks, CEcD Executive Director of One Okaloosa EDC Well, that’s a wrap! Truly hard to believe, but the 8th annual TeCMEN Industry Day held on May 14 at the Destin-Fort Walton Beach Convention Center has now come and gone. If you were among our 370+ attendees, 46 exhibitors, 15 speakers or 18 sponsors – thank you! We certainly value your support and partnership in executing what has become one of One Okaloosa EDC’s signature annual events.  As many of you know, there is a special group of

Northwest Florida State College Police Department Supports Ongoing “Click It or Ticket” Campaign, Reminding Everyone to Buckle Up

NICEVILLE, Fla. (May 22, 2025) — The U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is urging drivers to buckle up ahead of a national Click It or Ticket campaign. The national high-visibility seat belt enforcement effort, which coincides with the Memorial Day holiday, runs through June 1, 2025. The Northwest Florida State College Police Department is actively participating in the campaign, emphasizing that wearing a seat belt isn’t just smart — it’s the

Mattie Kelly Arts Center Galleries at Northwest Florida State College Announce National Call for Art 2025

NICEVILLE, Fla. (May 20, 2025) — The Mattie Kelly Arts Center (MKAC) at Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) welcomes artists of all styles and media to apply for participation in the 33rd Annual Emerald Coast National Juried Arts Exhibition. This competitive exhibition is an open call for ALL STYLES OF ART AND ALL MEDIUMS, including sound, kinetic, sculpture, photography, video, design, functional art, fiber, textile, and performance. This year, we introduced themes of texture and touch, as they

Cox Recognizes Inspirational Students in Okaloosa County

Niceville, FL - Cox Communications hosted the annual Cox Inspirational Student Hero Awards yesterday at Northwest Florida State College in Niceville. The 37 students honored were selected by a committee of school leaders to honor their resilience in the face of adversity. Whether they have overcome the loss of a family member, medical issues, difficult family situations, or other hardships, they have done so with optimism while continuing to encourage and inspire those around them. "Cox is proud to

Cox to Recognize Inspirational Students in Okaloosa County

Next week, Cox will host the Okaloosa County Cox Inspirational Student Hero Awards at Northwest Florida State College in Niceville. You can learn more below, and we hope you can join us in celebrating these 37 outstanding students.What: Cox Inspirational Student Hero Awards - Okaloosa CountyWhen: Tuesday, May 13, 2025, check-in/reception at 3:00 p.m., Awards Ceremony begins at 4:00 p.m.Where: Northwest Florida State College – Student Services Center, 100 E. College Boulevard, Building 400, Niceville, FL

Northwest Florida State College Earns Gold-Level Military Friendly® School Designation

NICEVILLE, Fla. (April 23, 2025) - Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) has been recognized as a Gold-level Military Friendly® School for the 2025-2026 academic year, a prestigious designation awarded following an independent evaluation of more than 1,800 colleges and universities nationwide. NWFSC stands out as one of only six public colleges or universities in Florida to achieve the gold-level status this year, highlighting the college’s ongoing commitment to supporting military service members,

Okaloosa County School District Honors Over 600 Seniors at Annual Anne T. Mitchell Academic Awards Ceremony

The Okaloosa County School District proudly celebrated the academic achievements of 619 high school seniors during the Anne T. Mitchell Academic Senior Honors Assembly held on Tuesday, April 22, at Northwest Florida State College’s Raider Arena. Students from Baker, Choctawhatchee, Crestview, Fort Walton Beach, Laurel Hill, and Niceville High Schools were recognized for their exceptional academic performance. Each honoree has earned a weighted GPA of 3.75 or higher, achieving the distinctions of Cum Laude,

Northwest Florida State College Announces “Kids on Campus” Summer Enrichment Program for 2025

NICEVILLE, Fla. (April 22, 2025) – Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) is pleased to announce the return of its beloved Kids on Campus summer program for 2025—an engaging opportunity designed to spark creativity, learning, and fun for children entering 3rd through 7th grades. Set on the beautiful NWFSC campus, Kids on Campus blends academic enrichment with hands-on experiences in a true college environment. The program offers a mix of educational and recreational activities, giving young learners a

Northwest Florida State College Launches Futures Forward Summer Camp to Empower Students in Cutting-Edge Careers

NICEVILLE, Fla. (April 16, 2025) – Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) proudly announces its Futures Forward Summer Camp, an exciting opportunity for students in 8th through 12th grades to explore dynamic and future-ready career paths. The four-day camp costs just $100 and provides immersive, hands-on experience in today’s most in-demand fields. Set to run this summer, the Futures Forward camp offers a diverse lineup of specialized programs, including: ESportsScrubs

FDLE Commissioner and NWFSC graduate Mark Glass to deliver Spring Commencement address

NICEVILLE, Fla. (April 10, 2025) - Northwest Florida State College has announced that Florida Department of Law Enforcement Commissioner Mark Glass will serve as the Spring Commencement speaker on May 9, 2025. This is a homecoming for Commissioner Glass, who is an alumnus of NWFSC. “Northwest Florida State College is proud to welcome home Commissioner Glass, and we all look forward to hearing his inspired words to a new generation of Raider alumni,” said NWFSC President Mel Ponder. “Our graduates leave

Northwest Florida State College Law Enforcement Academy Celebrates Graduating Class

The Law Enforcement Academy at Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) proudly announces the graduation of its latest class of cadets. These dedicated individuals are now ready to serve and protect their communities as members of local law enforcement agencies, including the Okaloosa County Sheriff's Office, Walton County Sheriff's Office, and Niceville Police Department. “The success of the NWFSC Law Enforcement Academy is a direct result of the hard work and sacrifice of its students, as well as the

Northwest Florida State College Forensics Team Celebrates Statewide Competition Wins

The Northwest Florida State College Forensics Speech and Debate Team showcased their exceptional talent this spring semester, earning top honors at the Florida College System Activities Association (FCSAA) Conference and the Florida Intercollegiate Forensics Association (FIFA) State Championship.   At the FCSAA Conference, NWFSC students delivered standout performances, taking first place in Persuasive Speaking and placing in the top five in Informative Speaking: Mason Porter – 1st Place Persuasive

Northwest Florida State College Celebrates the Grand Opening of Raider Village

Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) is proud to announce the grand opening of Raider Village, a dynamic, on-campus community designed to enhance the college experience. The official ribbon-cutting ceremony takes place on Tuesday, February 18th, 5 PM at Raider Village (102 E. College Blvd, Niceville, FL 32578), located on NWFSC’s campus. Raider Village marks a significant step in NWFSC’s commitment to creating an enriched and supportive learning environment for students, by offering modern residential

Okaloosa County School District First Semester Highlights 2024-2025

As we enter a new semester, it is my pleasure to share the incredible achievements and milestones of the first half of the school year with our families and community members. It is truly inspiring to witness our students excel in academics, the arts, and athletics while our teachers and staff dedicate themselves to fostering a positive and dynamic learning environment. These highlights are a testament to everyone's collective hard work and commitment to the Okaloosa County School District. Let's take a

Northwest Florida State College Announces Fall 2024 President’s and Dean’s List Honorees

Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) is proud to celebrate the exceptional academic accomplishments of students who earned spots on the Fall 2024 President’s List and Dean’s List. These honors recognize students who have demonstrated outstanding dedication and performance during the semester at the College. “We are proud of all our students who have earned these prestigious distinctions,” said Mel Ponder, President of Northwest Florida State College. “Their hard work, perseverance, and academic success

Destin Chamber Installs 2025 Board During January Breakfast

During the Destin Chamber’s Jan. 10 Business Before Hours and Annual Membership Meeting at Emerald Grande, 2024 Chairman Christian Carlee of First National Bank officially passed the gavel to 2025 Chairman Jenni Brunson of Okaloosa Gas. After taking the gavel, Brunson explained the goals she and the Board created for the coming year, including continuing to work with local and state officials and organizations in advocating for the needs of the business community, forming a Past Chairman's Council to serve

Seagrass Restaurant Announces Spring 2025 Dates & Themes

Northwest Florida State College Confirms Commissioner Melvin P. “Mel” Ponder as President Starting January 2, 2025

The District Board of Trustees of Northwest Florida State College voted to confirm Commissioner Melvin P. “Mel” Ponder as the next President of Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) at the Board’s Nov. 19 Board meeting. President-Elect Ponder will begin as NWFSC President on January 2, 2025.  The Board of Trustees selected President-Elect Ponder as the fifth president of Northwest Florida State College following an approximately six-month search with more than 100 candidates, which yielded four

NWFSC Hosts Fall Public Safety Law Enforcement Academy Completion Ceremony

Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) held a ceremony on its Niceville campus to recognize 11 students who have completed the College’s Public Safety Law Enforcement Academy program.    Graduates of Northwest Florida State College’s Law Enforcement Academy with program coordinator Wes Haggan (center) (From L to R) John Hertel, Jaysen Davis, Carlos Martinez, Dylan Ehrlich, Jordan Skelly, Cameron Rojik, Wes Haggan- Law Enforcement Coordinator, Dustin Tulley, Connor Manning, Alexis Lambert, Alberto

Eric Navarre Honored as Destin Chamber’s Business Person of the Quarter

During the Destin Chamber’s Nov. 8 Business Before Hours, Eric Navarre, Emerald Coast Market President with Renasant Bank, was honored with the Chamber’s Business Person of the Quarter Award. This award is presented directly from the Chamber’s Board of Directors to a Destin area businessperson showing vision for his or her business and leadership in our community.  “I’ve known Eric for a long time.  I’ve watched him grow and develop into a seasoned business executive and a leader in many facets of our

Northwest Florida State College Selects Finalists in Presidential Search

Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) is pleased to announce the selection of four finalists who The District Board of Trustees of Northwest Florida State College has invited to interview on Nov. 4 and 5, 2024. Following an Oct. 25, 2024 vote of the nine-member Presidential Search Committee, consisting of the eight members of the Board of Trustees and the Chair of the Board of Directors of the Northwest Florida State College Foundation, the following are the names of the finalist candidates (in

Collegiate High School Students Honored for Accomplishments

Collegiate High School at Northwest Florida State College continues to uphold its tradition of academic excellence, as demonstrated by several significant achievements. We are thrilled to announce that two of our students, Camille Peck and Roy Thomas, have been named Semi-Finalists for the National Merit Scholarship Program. These exceptional students now have the opportunity to advance to the final stage of the competition, where nearly $28 million in scholarships will be awarded. The National Merit®

Family Bay Day 2024 Brings Community Together to Celebrate Choctawhatchee Bay's Natural Beauty

The Choctawhatchee Basin Alliance (CBA), in partnership with the Choctawhatchee Bay Estuary Program and with financial support from the Mattie Kelly Environmental Initiative through the Northwest Florida State College Foundation, successfully hosted Family Bay Day at Fred Gannon Rocky Bayou State Park on Saturday, September 28, 2024. Over 450 attendees gathered to celebrate the beauty and ecological significance of the Choctawhatchee Bay.  The event was a resounding success. It offered activities and

NWFSC Foundation Hosted its Annual Board Installation and Recognition Ceremony

The Northwest Florida State College Foundation held its Annual Board Installation and Recognition Reception on Thursday, August 22, 2024, to welcome new Foundation directors, recognize new officers, thank outgoing directors, and highlight some of the Foundation’s many accomplishments within the last year. Alan Wood, 2023-2024 Foundation Board Chair, recognized the Foundation’s two outgoing board members, Dr. Bo Arnold, past Foundation Board Chair; and Gordon King, Chief Executive Officer at Okaloosa Gas

The Thirty Second Annual Emerald Coast National Juried Fine Art Exhibition

Mattie Kelly Art Center Galleries at Northwest Florida State College presents the Thirty-Second Annual Emerald Coast National (ECN) Juried Fine Art Exhibition! This year's Emerald Coast National includes work by eighteen artists. Artists represented in the 2024 ECN tend to be either emerging artists or established teaching art faculty nationwide. The Emerald Coast National began regionally, and this year's show includes several Florida artists. This year's guest judge was Sarah Knobel, Professor of Art

Northwest Florida State College Energy Program Earns Best-In-Class Award

A dedicated 10 year-long effort to create healthier, more efficient buildings not only paid off financially for Northwest Florida State College but is earning industry recognition for setting an example for others to follow.   Northwest Florida State College has cut expected energy use by 61.9 percent since partnering with Cenergistic, the pioneer and leading provider of technology-enabled conservation services, which presented the NWFSC Board of Trustees its Cenergistic Best-In-Class Award on August

Northwest Florida State College Invites Stakeholders to Participate in the Presidential Search

Northwest Florida State College invites the College community throughout Okaloosa and Walton Counties to provide feedback on the next president of the College. Alongside meetings scheduled for students, faculty, and staff, the College encourages community leaders and members of the public to attend town halls and complete a survey as the Board of Trustees kicks off the presidential search. Two Town Hall meetings will be open to the public in August: On Monday, August 12, 2024, at 5 p.m., join the College

The Northwest Florida Ballet announces Season 55

The Northwest Florida Ballet (NFB) announces Season 55, a celebration of five and a half decades of excellence in performing arts, which includes Lightwire Theater’s Dino Light at Grand Boulevard and The Nutcracker and Cinderella at the Mattie Kelly Arts Center featuring live music by the Northwest Florida Symphony Orchestra (NFSO).   The 2024-2025 season begins with Lightwire Theater’s Dino Light, sponsored by Grand Boulevard’s Coastal Culture Art, Entertainment and Events on Sat., Oct. 5 at 7:30 p.m. at

Northwest Florida State College Announces Innovative Partnership with Territorium

Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) is thrilled to announce a groundbreaking partnership with Territorium, a global education technology leader, to advance skills-based education and hiring practices in the region. This partnership will leverage Territorium's cutting-edge LifeJourney solution, which includes a Learning and Employment Record (LER), a skills-first digital wallet, AI-powered career pathways with job-matching technology, and a Comprehensive Learner Record (CLR) of achievement. This

Northwest Florida State College Students Selected to Florida College System Student Activities Association All-Academic Team

Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) is proud to announce that ten of its students have been selected to join the prestigious Florida College System Student Activities Association (FCSAA) All-Academic Team. This recognition highlights the exceptional academic achievements of these students, reflecting their dedication, hard work, and commitment to excellence. The students selected for this honor are: · Abdiel Alvarado-Pabon · Joselin Cardenas · Emery DeVane · Joshua Fillion · Karissa Grant ·

HCA Florida Fort Walton-Destin Hospital Celebrates 50 Years of Caring for the Community

HCA Florida Fort Walton-Destin Hospital commemorated a half-century of service to the community with a grand celebration marking its 50th anniversary. Since its founding in 1974, the hospital has stood as a pillar of healthcare excellence, evolving alongside the vibrant community it serves.  Zach McCluskey, chief executive officer at HCA Florida Fort Walton-Destin Hospital, welcomed hospital and community leaders, care team members and other guests to the milestone event. McCluskey expressed gratitude to

Northwest Florida State College Launches Pioneering AI Initiative for Educators and Students

Recognizing the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in education, Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) is excited to announce the launch of its new AI Initiative. This program, spearheaded by the Center for Innovative Teaching and Learning (CITL), aims to equip faculty and students with the knowledge and skills necessary to thrive in an AI-driven world. AI technologies are rapidly reshaping various industries, and education is no exception. With a focus on fostering innovative

Northwest Florida State College Partners with Knack to Ensure Students Have Easy Access to High-Impact Tutoring

Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) is proud to announce a pioneering initiative in collaboration with Knack, a Florida-based peer tutoring platform. This partnership will ensure all students have access to free, on-demand tutoring starting Fall 2024.This initiative, a collaboration between NWFSC and Knack, aims to significantly enhance student retention and success. As part of this collaboration, NWFSC peer tutors will have access to training modules that comply with the College Reading & Learning

NWFSC Publishes Proposed Course Fees for 2024-2025 Academic Year

Northwest Florida State College’s (NWFSC) Board of Trustees will be meeting on June 18, 2024, at 3 p.m. to review proposed course fee changes for the 2024-2025 academic year. This meeting is part of the College’s annual budgeting process for each academic year and provides an opportunity to assess ways to improve students’ overall quality of instruction and associated activities.   The proposed course and lab fees recommended for adjustment with the start of the Fall 2024 semester can be found at

NWFSC and FAMU Announce Articulation Agreement for Pharmacy Students

On June 4, 2024, Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) and Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU) signed an articulation agreement that creates streamlined educational pathways for students aspiring to enter the field of pharmacy.  The agreement was signed during a press conference at the FAMU College of Pharmacy campus in Crestview, Florida.   This collaboration, focusing on an Associate of Arts (AA) pathway, provides a structured and supportive route for students beginning their

May 2024 Update from One Okaloosa EDC

By Nathan Sparks, CEcD Executive Director of One Okaloosa EDC Many of you reading this had the pleasure of knowing Dr. David Goetsch, Emeritus Vice President, Northwest Florida State College, noted author of more than 70 books and proud United States Marine Corps veteran. Among his many accomplishments (and I do mean many), Dr. Goetsch co-founded both One Okaloosa EDC and the Technology Coast Manufacturing & Engineering Network (TeCMEN) in the late 80s. He served as Chairman of the EDC twice and was

NWFSC Launches New Workforce Programs

Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) is pleased to introduce three new workforce programs designed to meet both regional and state demands. Starting this fall, we will be enrolling students in Nursing Assistant, Phlebotomy, and a cutting-edge Information Technology program with a specialization in Artificial Intelligence (AI). These programs have been developed in direct response to the needs of our industry partners  "We are thrilled to lead in workforce education and training across Northwest

Cox to recognize Inspirational Student Heroes in Okaloosa County

Tomorrow, Cox Communications will recognize 36 special students at the annual Cox Inspirational Student Hero Awards ceremony in Okaloosa County. The event will be held on Wednesday, May 8th at 4:00 p.m. inside Raider Café on the campus of Northwest Florida State College in Niceville. All the pertinent information is below. We hope you can join us and celebrate these wonderful students.  ●What: Cox Inspirational Student Hero Awards in Okaloosa County●When: Wednesday, May 8, 2024, check-in/reception at 3:00

Okaloosa County School District Seniors Recognized for Academic Achievement

On Tuesday, April 16th, the Northwest Florida State College Raider Arena hosted the 50th annual Anne T. Mitchell Senior Honor Award Reception. The event recognized 591 high school seniors from Baker, Choctaw, Crestview, Fort Walton Beach, Laurel Hill, and Niceville High Schools who will graduate with honors in May. These students have achieved a weighted GPA of 3.75 or higher, which designates them as Summa Cum Laude, Magna Cum Laude, or Cum Laude. Superintendent Marcus Chambers expressed his pride and

NWFSC Launches Youth Entrepreneurship, Leadership, and Mentorship (ELM) Youth Program

Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) is excited to announce the launch of a new secondary education initiative, the Entrepreneurship, Leadership, and Mentorship (ELM) Youth Program. Facilitated through NWFSC’s Workforce Development department, the 10-month program is designed to prepare high school juniors and seniors in Okaloosa and Walton counties for careers in fields that may be pursued through non-traditional academic pathways. Although the curriculum is geared towards students with an interest in

Niceville High School Web Programming Student Wins First Place in Annual Congressional App Challenge

On November 18, 2023, U.S. Congressman Matt Gaetz announced Niceville High School Junior Andrew Putman as the 2023 Congressional App Challenge winner in Florida's First District at Northwest Florida State College. Andrew's app, Assets4Kids, won first place in the competition, which aims to alleviate child poverty. He was inspired to develop the app after witnessing child poverty during a mission trip to the Dominican Republic.   Congressman Matt Gaetz invited Andrew and his teacher, Carrie Foxhall, to the

NWFSC Student Advisory Board Make a Significant Impact at Florida College System’s Annual Leadership Conference

The Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) Student Advisory Board made a significant impact at the annual End-Year Conference of the Florida College System Student Government Association, hosted by Seminole State College in Sanford, Florida, April 19-20, 2024. Among the accolades, NWFSC student Abdiel Alvarado-Pabon secured the Region Rookie Student Award, Lillian Roller received the Region Student Leadership Award, and Connor Kilroy was honored with the State President's Award. Additionally, the NWFSC

Northwest Florida State College Streamlines Math Graduation Requirements

Today, Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) took a bold step in reforming its general education math requirements, setting a precedent for other institutions in Florida by implementing Senate Bill (SB) 366 (2021). As a result, students will no longer be required to take math courses irrelevant to their intended careers.   SB 366 amended a section of Florida law to mandate three distinct math pathways for students, tailored to align math courses with specific programs and the skills demanded by

NWFSC’s Fall 2023 President’s and Dean’s List

Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) recognized the superior academic achievement of students who completed the Fall 2023 semester by naming them to the President’s List and Dean’s List. The President’s List includes students with nine or more credits in the semester who earned a grade point average of 3.8 to 4.0 in college-level courses during the semester. The Dean’s List includes students with nine or more credits in the semester who earned a GPA of 3.5 to 3.79 in college-level courses during the

Statement From Chair Lori Kelley on Dr. Stephenson’s Selection as the Next President of Florida Polytechnic University

On behalf of the Board of Trustees at Northwest Florida State College, I extend congratulations to Dr. Devin Stephenson on his selection as the next President of Florida Polytechnic University. Dr. Stephenson’s visionary leadership during the past eight years has profoundly impacted our institution, ushering in an era of significant growth and achievement.    His dedication and strategic insight have not only enhanced our academic offerings but have also strengthened the College’s relationship with the

Twelve Okaloosa County Schools Designated as “Schools of Excellence” by the Florida Department of Ed

On Friday, March 29, 2024, ten Okaloosa County District Schools, along with two charter schools, were designated by the Florida Department of Education as “Schools of Excellence” for the 2022-2023 academic year. The Schools of Excellence program was established by the Florida Legislature in 2017 under HB 7069 to recognize and reward Florida’s highest-performing schools. The program aims to promote continuous improvement and provide administrative flexibility to the state’s top schools so they can maintain

The NWFSC Aviation Center of Excellence Hosted a Signing Ceremony for FSU and 5 State Colleges in Northwest Florida

On Monday, March 25, 2024, Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) hosted a signing ceremony at its Aviation Center of Excellence (ACE) in Crestview, Florida. Participants included Pensacola State College (PSC), Gulf Coast State College (GCSC), Tallahassee Community College (TCC), Chipola College, and Florida State University (FSU).   This ceremony served as the execution of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the colleges, signifying their commitment to collaborate on additive and advanced

The NWFSC Aviation Center of Excellence to Host Signing Ceremony for FSU and 5 State Colleges in Northwest Florida

The media are invited to join Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC), Pensacola State College (PSC), Gulf Coast State College (GCSC), Tallahassee Community College (TCC), and Chipola College for a signing ceremony with Florida State University (FSU) at NWFSC’s Aviation Center of Excellence in Crestview, Florida.  This ceremony will serve as the execution of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the colleges signifying their commitment to collaborate on additive and advanced manufacturing, aerospace

Two NWFSC Students Named 2024 Coca-Cola Academic Team Scholars

Two Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) students have been named as 2024 Coca-Cola Academic Team Scholars.   •Arya Patel, Gold Scholar, from the Chautauqua Center  •Mary Vanderkooy, Bronze Scholar, from the Robert L F Sikes Education Center  Sponsored by the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation, the Coca-Cola Academic Team program annually recognizes 150 scholars—50 Gold, 50 Silver, and 50 Bronze—with nearly $200,000 in scholarships. Each scholar is awarded a monetary scholarship and a commemorative

NWFSC Forensics Speech and Debate Team Triumphs at FCSAA State Championship

On February 9th and 10th, 2024, the Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) Forensics Speech and Debate Team triumphed, demonstrating exceptional skills at the Florida College System Activities Association (FCSAA) State Championship. Held virtually, students from 28 schools within the Florida College System competed.  The NWFSC team placed in eleven competitions, with four students winning individual honors. Among them, Aleksandria Herr received the Shira Brownstein Award, which commemorates Tallahassee

Northwest Florida State College Expands Access to Skill Training for Childcare Providers

Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC), in collaboration with the Early Learning Coalition of the Emerald Coast, is excited to announce a new initiative to address workforce gaps in the early childhood education space. NWFSC and the Early Learning Coalition of the Emerald Coast will offer a cohort of classes to child care providers to earn staff and director-level credentials.  This initiative is inspired by the charges of both the Florida Department of Education and the Division of Early Learning to help

Northwest Florida State College Partners with the Florida Department of Corrections to Provide Workforce Training

Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) is thrilled to reveal the expansion of its workforce training programs tailored for inmates ready to transition into society. Inmates will be trained in sought-after skills in the Trades and Heavy Equipment Machinery sectors at Okaloosa Correctional Institution. Furthermore, those at Santa Rosa Prison will be able to enhance their abilities in Welding and Construction. The Florida Department of Corrections (FDC) will be selecting individuals based on time served,

NWFSC to Receive Funding from the Workforce Development Capitalization Incentive Grant Program

Last week, Governor DeSantis announced Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) as a recipient of the Workforce Development Capitalization Incentive Grant. NWFSC plans to further incorporate Artificial Intelligence (AI) skills and coursework into its Computer Science and Cybersecurity curriculum, effective Summer 2024. The introduction of these courses aligns with the College’s commitment to providing students with innovative educational opportunities that meet the demands of the ever-evolving technology

NWFSC student Lillian Roller Selected to Serve on the FCSSGA State Executive Board as Chair of the Temporary Committee

Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) student Lillian Roller has been selected to serve on the Florida College System Student Government Association (FCSSGA) State Executive Board as the Chair of the Temporary Committee. As the Chair, Roller will lead the planning efforts for the Student Leadership conferences in February and April. These two Florida Conferences host representatives from all twenty-eight Florida College Student Government Associations. In her role, she will report directly to the FCSSGA

NWFSC Welcomes 2024 Spring Students and Celebrates Seventh Consecutive Semester of Increased Enrollment

Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) welcomed back students for the Spring 2024 semester, marking a seventh consecutive semester of increased enrollment. Enrollment numbers for Spring 2024 are up over 12% from Spring 2023. The substantial growth in student numbers that the College has experienced over the past two years highlights its considerable ongoing expansion, the high caliber of its academic programs, and a vibrant campus life.  “This notable rise in enrollment is a testament to the College’s

NWFSC Broadens Admission Options with Classic Learning Test (CLT) Acceptance

Last month, Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) expanded its admission pathways by accepting the Classic Learning Test (CLT) as an entrance examination for college admission and college readiness.   With the addition of the CLT, Northwest Florida State College acknowledges the importance of broadening access to higher education. This is particularly relevant for the region’s dual enrollment students, those matriculating from private schools, and/or homeschooled students.   The CLT serves as an

NWFSC Seagrass Restaurant Announces 2024 Spring Dinners

Northwest Florida State College’s Culinary and Hospitality Management programs present the Seagrass Restaurant student learning lab Spring Dinners, beginning February 8. The attached flier provides dates, themes, prices and reservation information.        Dinner Details:  •Reception begins at 5:30pm, with dinner seating at 5:50pm  •Banquet-family style, Set theme menu (sample menus attached)  •Tables set for 6 people (reservations available for parties of 2, 4 or 6 people)  •$35 dinner only; $45 dinner and

NWFSC Announces Money-Back Guarantee Program for Three Critical Workforce Programs: Nursing, Radiography, Paramedic

Today, President Stephenson announced a Money-Back Guarantee on three critical workforce programs. Students enrolled in the Northwest Florida State College’s nursing, radiography, or paramedic programs are now guaranteed their money back—a full refund of all tuition costs—if they are unable to find a job in the related field within six months of graduation.   “The Money-Back Guarantee Program is a testament to the quality of our faculty and staff and the college’s commitment to get students jobs

NWFSC Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program Named by Forbes Advisor as one of the Nation’s Best Affordable Institutions in 2024 for RN to BSN Programs

The NWFSC Nursing RN to BSN degree program (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) is designed for licensed registered nurses.  This program provides nurses with the knowledge and skills to advance their careers to become nurse managers, case managers, hospital-based educators, and more. The program content addresses high-demand nursing specialties. Clinical instruction targets the specific needs of special populations, including community and family healthcare.

The Collegiate High School at Northwest Florida State College Receives “A” from the Florida Department of Education

The Collegiate High School (CHS) at Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) received an “A” status based on student performance from the Florida Department of Education (FDOE) on December 11, 2023.  Proudly, CHS has maintained an “A” rating since its inception.  The Collegiate High School at NWFSC is ranked number one in Okaloosa and Walton Counties in English Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, Graduation Rate, and College and Career Acceleration. Additionally, CHS outperformed the

NWFSC Radiography Program Receives $10,000 Check from HCA Florida Fort Walton-Destin Hospital

Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) is thrilled to announce a significant boost to its Radiography Program, thanks to a generous donation of $10,000 from HCA Florida Fort Walton-Destin Hospital. This contribution marks a transformative moment for the program, renowned for its commitment to cultivating highly skilled professionals in the healthcare sector.    The donation from HCA Florida Fort Walton-Destin Hospital is set to play a crucial role in the advancement of the NWFSC Radiography Program. It

NWFSC Welcomes Dr. Henry Mack as Vice President for Academic Affairs

Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) is proud to announce the appointment of Dr. Henry Mack as Vice President for Academic Affairs. Dr. Mack brings a wealth of experience to the role, having served as the higher education and workforce system head for the State of Florida for four years.   As chancellor, Dr. Mack was responsible for Florida’s public and nonpublic institutions of higher education—overseeing a $3 billion dollar budget with a combined K-20 student enrollment of 1.5 million, annually. He

Northwest Florida State College President Dr. Devin Stephenson Receives Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges Carol A. Luthman Meritorious Service Award

On Monday, December 4, 2023, Dr. Devin Stephenson, President of Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC), received the prestigious Southern Association of College and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) Carol A. Luthman Meritorious Service Award. This award was presented to Dr. Stephenson during the annual SACSCOC Conference in Orlando, Florida.Each year, the SACSCOC awards individuals across the Southern United States with Meritorious Service Awards for their faithful and dedicated service and

Step One Automotive Center of Excellence Training Center Grand Opening

Step One Automotive Group, in collaboration with Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC), is proud to announce the grand opening of the Automotive Center of Excellence Training Center. The ribbon cutting ceremony, set for today, marks an innovation milestone in the automotive and educational sectors.   This state-of-the-art facility, situated in Fort Walton Beach, Florida, exemplifies the best in automotive training and services. From a dedicated used car reconditioning center, excelling in oil changes

Northwest Florida State College Announces Proposed Course Fees Effective Spring 2024

Northwest Florida State College's Board of Trustees will be meeting on November 28, 2023, at 3 p.m. to review proposed course fee changes on aviation course effective Spring 2024. This meeting is part of the College's routine evaluation and updates to course fees.   The proposed course and lab fees recommended for adjustment with the start of the Spring 2024 semester can be found at https://www.nwfsc.edu/tuition/.   As itemized in the list, these flight fees cover expenses unique to course offerings

FL Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Five Board Members to NWFSC’s Board of Trustees

Governor Ron DeSantis of Florida has made five key appointments to the Board of Trustees at Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC).  Cory Fosdyck, Senior Vice President, and Senior Resident Director for Merrill Lynch is dedicated to community service. He’s spearheaded initiatives at the Emerald Coast Children’s Advocacy Center, offered his expertise to Ascension Sacred Heart Hospital, and once led the Walton County Chamber of Commerce. He is a Senior Vice President and Senior Resident Director for Merrill

Northwest Florida State College Featured in Season 9 of The College Tour Now on Amazon Prime Video

Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) is featured in season 9 of The College Tour, a groundbreaking series from Emmy-nominated producers Alex Boylan, Lisa Hennessy, and Burton Roberts, now streaming on Amazon Prime Video. Hosted by The Amazing Race winner Alex Boylan, The College Tour travels the country telling the story of various institutions through the diverse lens ofstudents, giving the viewer an intimate portrayal of life on campus. Inspiring and motivating, the show serves as a vehicle to help

State of FloridaAwards $9M for Seacoast Collegiate High School & Northwest Florida State College's Dual Enrollment & Workforce Development Center

The Seaside School, Inc., in partnership with Northwest Florida State College, announces a significant milestone in its mission to transform educational opportunities in Walton County. The partnership between The Seaside School, Inc., a public charter school, and Northwest Florida State College has garnered the approval of $9 million in state funding, facilitating the expansion of Seacoast Collegiate High School and the creation of a Dual Enrollment & Workforce Development Center. This transformational

NWFSC Hosts the 2023 HEI Presidents' Conference

  Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) was honored to host the prestigious 2023 Higher Education Innovation (HEI) Presidents’ Conference from October 9-10, at its Niceville campus. This significant event attracted higher education leaders from all over the nation.    With the dynamic shifts in the higher education sector, HEI underscores the imperative for transformative change in both institutional structures and leadership approaches. This year’s conference theme centered on “The

Historic Partnership: NWFSC and Seacoast Collegiate High School Break Ground on New Dual Enrollment & Workforce Development Center

  In a partnership aimed at transforming educational opportunities in Walton County, Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) and Seacoast Collegiate High School were thrilled to break ground on a new Dual Enrollment and Workforce Development Center. The highly anticipated celebration and ceremony was held on October 2, 2023, at Seacoast High School, with a reception held immediately following at North Beach Social.   The strategic efforts of NWFSC and Seacoast Collegiate High School signify a shared

NWFSC President, Dr. Devin Stephenson, Receives the University of Alabama College of Education’s 2023 Harold L. Bishop Award for Leadership

Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) is proud to announce that NWFSC President, Dr. Devin Stephenson, will receive the University of Alabama College of Education’s 2023 Harold L. Bishop Award for Leadership on October 13, 2023. This esteemed recognition celebrates Dr. Stephenson’s remarkable 30-year career and his significant contributions to the field of education and leadership.  The Harold L. Bishop Award for Leadership is a highly prestigious Capstone Education Society Alumni Award that

Inmates Earn Certifications at the Okaloosa County Correctional Institution through NWFSC Corrections Program

This summer, twenty-six inmates from the Okaloosa County Correctional Institution earned skilled trade certifications through Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC). The NWFSC Corrections Program had fourteen who received the Heavy Equipment Machinery certification and twelve who received the Carpentry certification.   The NWFSC Corrections Program is a 6-month trades training program that offers industry certifications to inmates. Students become eligible and are selected in the program once they

Seagrass Fall Luncheons

Northwest Florida State College’s Culinary and Hospitality Management programs present Seagrass Restaurant student learning lab Fall luncheons, beginning September 14. The attached flier provides dates, available reservation times, price and reservation information.    The dining room is set for 2 or 4 top tables and the menu is a la carte. Please note that substitutions are not possible due to this being a student course learning lab and specific curriculum objectives. One lunch per guest for the semester

July 2023 Update from One Okaloosa EDC

By Nathan Sparks, CEcD Executive Director of One Okaloosa EDC What a month it has been for economic development in Okaloosa County! First, on June 21, Boeing held a ribbon cutting for its new 20,000 SF F-18/A landing gear maintenance and repair facility in the Fort Walton Beach Commerce and Technology Park. For those keeping track, this is Boeing’s third facility in Okaloosa County, and our workforce’s continued ability to meet the exacting standards of a company like Boeing are particularly noteworthy.

NWFSC Announces New Cheerleading Coach

Northwest Florida State College is proud to announce Shannon Tucker as the new Cheerleading Coach. Tucker is a graduate of the University of Central Florida with a bachelor’s degree in Sports and Fitness, specializing in coaching and sports injuries, and has an impressive 17-year coaching background. Her extensive experience includes owning a cheer and tumbling facility in Niceville called Destination 850, serving as Cheer Coach at Destin High School since 2021, and successfully coaching teams including

NWFSC MLT Program Announces 100% Pass Rate

Northwest Florida State College’s Medical Laboratory Technology Program (MLT) announces 100% pass rate!  This 6-semester program offers students the opportunity to earn an Associate in Science (A.S.) degree in this vital rapidly growing field of study. “I am so proud of the NWFSC Medical Laboratory Program,” said NWFSC President Dr. Devin Stephenson.  “This accomplishment, not only highlights the hard work of our dedicated leadership, but the commitment of our students to their education and future