News

NWFSC Forensics Team Earns Awards at FCSAA and FIFA Tournaments

The Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) Forensics Team recently competed in the Florida Intercollegiate Forensics Association (FIFA) Tournament at the University of West Florida and the Florida College System Activities Association (FCSAA) Tournament hosted virtually by Miami Dade College. The team’s performance earned multiple accolades at both tournaments with the most wins among the top five of competitors. At the FIFA Tournament, the team earned first place in the Limited Entry Individual Events

NWFSC Coach Steve DeMeo Named to FCSAA Men’s Basketball Hall of Fame

The Florida College System Activities Association (FCSAA) announced that Steve DeMeo will be inducted in the Men’s Basketball Hall of Fame as a member of the Class of 2023. DeMeo is the head coach for the Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) Raiders men’s basketball team and will be recognized during this week’s FCSAA/NJCAA Region VIII Men’s Basketball Tournament at Raider Arena. Spanning three decades and across all levels of the college game, DeMeo’s achievements are well-known throughout the greater

Alex Boylan to Announce Northwest Florida State College Episode on ''The College Tour'' Series

The media are invited to join Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) as it hosts a press conference with Alex Boylan, the founder and executive producer of “The College Tour” (TCT), to announce NWFSC’s future episode on the show’s ninth season. The episode will share information from select students, faculty, staff, locations, and resources with viewers everywhere through Amazon Prime Video and The College Tour’s website. Boylan, who won The Amazing Race at the age of 23, created TCT to make typical

CHS Robotics Team Wins Local FIRST Tech Challenge Tournament

The Radical Raiders robotics team at the Collegiate High School (CHS) at Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) placed first in the FIRST Tech Challenge’s FL AeroCoast League Tournament. The CHS Radical Raiders competed against eight teams from the panhandle area at Northwood Elementary School for a spot in the statewide competition. After spending hundreds of hours on creating and programming its robot, crafting its engineering notebook, and participating in community outreach events, the team’s efforts

January 2023 Update from One Okaloosa EDC

By Nathan Sparks, CEcD Executive Director of One Okaloosa EDC Is it just me, or do the holidays already seem like a distant memory? We sincerely hope that 2023 is off to a fine start for each of you. As busy as 2022 was for the One Okaloosa EDC team, 2023 is shaping up to be even busier. Along with continuing to work an incredible pipeline of active investment opportunities, our organization has added some new talent to our small but mighty team. Specifically, John Ferrandini was selected as our new

Seagrass Spring Dinners

Northwest Florida State College’s Culinary and Hospitality Management programs present the Seagrass Restaurant student learning lab Spring Dinners, beginning February 2. The attached flier provides dates, themes, prices and reservation information.       Dinner Details: •Reception will begin at 5:30pm, with dinner seating at 5:50pm •Banquet-family style, Set theme menu (sample menus attached) •Tables of 6 people  •Substitutions are not possible due to this being a student learning lab •One dinner per guest

Triumph Gulf Coast Awards $21 Million Grant for Expansion of Nursing Program at Northwest Florida State College

The Triumph Gulf Coast board has awarded Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) $21,787,560 for its Nursing Program Expansion project. Triumph Gulf Coast is a competitive development fund in Northwest Florida that supports infrastructure needs and develops industry-driven workforce and education training programs.  With the support from Triumph Gulf Coast, the College will be able to meet health care industry needs and expand the availability of qualified nurses throughout Northwest Florida. The Nursing

Northwest Florida State College Joins AWS Academy to Equip Students with In-Demand Cloud Computing Skills

Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) is pleased to announce its participation in AWS Academy, an Amazon Web Services (AWS) program that provides higher education institutions with a ready-to-teach cloud computing curriculum.  NWFSC’s AWS Academy Cloud Foundations is intended for students who seek an overall understanding of cloud computing concepts to include AWS core services, security, architecture, pricing, and support. This free, non-credit, 20-hour course is entirely online and self-paced. Funding

November 2022 Update from One Okaloosa EDC

By Nathan Sparks, CEcD Executive Director of One Okaloosa EDC Is it just me, or does time seem to speed up this time of year?  It is truly hard to believe that Thanksgiving is now less than a week out and - in the blink of an eye - Hanukkah, Christmas and a brand new year will be squarely upon us.  Of course, like many organizations, our “new year” actually began on Oct. 1, as we transitioned to FY 2023 – which many of you helped us celebrate at a festive reception held at the Hilton Garden Inn on Oct.

16 Raider Athletes Join the Florida College System Activities Association’s 2021-2022 All-Academic Team

Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) is pleased to announce that 16 Raider athletes have been named as members of the Florida College System Activities Association’s (FCSAA) 2021-2022 All-Academic Team. The FCSAA is a statewide non-profit corporation that regulates, coordinates, and promotes intercollegiate activities in athletics, brain bowls, forensics, model united nations, music, student governments, student publications, and theatre. This year, 1,161 students participating in FCSAA programs were

Three CHS Students Selected as National Merit Semifinalists

Last month, the National Merit Corporation (NMSC) announced the names of over 16,000 high school students who have been selected as semifinalists in the 68th Annual National Merit Scholarship Program. Among those chosen were NWFSC Collegiate High School students Aiden Black, Alana Davis, and Serapia Silva. The NMSC is a non-profit organization that honors the nation’s scholastic champions and encourages the pursuit of academic excellence. With the support of 340 businesses, colleges, and universities, NMSC

Northwest Florida State College Awarded $2.2 Million Grant

The U.S. Department of Education has awarded Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) a $2,245,280 grant as part of its Title III Part A Strengthening Institutions Program. The Strengthening Institutions Program helps eligible higher-education institutions expand their capacity to serve low-income students by providing funds to improve and strengthen their academic quality, institutional management, and fiscal stability. The awarded grant will provide 70% of the funding needed to support NWFSC’S Title III

Gov. Ron DeSantis Grants Northwest Florida State College $1.5 Million for the Expansion of its CDL Program

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis visited Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) this morning to announce a $1.5 million Job Growth Grant for the expansion of the College’s Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Program. NWFSC introduced its CDL program last September after receiving a $413,836 grant through the CARES Act Governor’s Emergency Education Relief (GEER) Rapid Credentialing Program. The funding allowed the College to purchase trucks, trailers, hydraulics, and state-of-the-art mechanical drive learning

NWFSC's Foundation Hosts Annual Reception

The Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) Foundation held its Annual Board Installation and Recognition Reception on Thursday, August 25, 2022, to recognize new Foundation officers and directors, thank past directors, and highlight some of its many accomplishments within the last year.  Past Foundation Chair, Ken Wampler, was introduced by Foundation Board member Alan Wood and recognized for his five years of service to the organization, where he served as treasurer and chair. Wampler is the president of

NWFSC's Seagrass Restaurant Learning Lab Announces Fall Dining

We are pleased to announce the opening of Seagrass Restaurant student learning lab luncheon series at Northwest Florida State College for the Fall semester. The restaurant is designed to provide our Culinary and Hospitality Management students a hands-on learning environment while also showcasing their talents to the community.  Seagrass Restaurant, located on the Niceville Campus, will serve lunch to the public the following Thursdays 9/15, 9/22, 10/6, 10/20, 11/3, 11/17. Seating times are available at

The Collegiate High School at NWFSC Welcomes Inaugural Freshman Class

The Collegiate High School (CHS) at Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) opened its doors to 335 students this month as the 2022-2023 school year began. Among those walking the halls were 50 new students who belong to CHS’s inaugural freshman class.  Last year, the Department of Education granted Northwest Florida State College $2 million through the Early College Career and Technical Education grant to expand its dual enrollment program at CHS. The grant enabled the school to extend its services to

NWFSC Receives 2022 CLEP Honors National Military Achievement Award

Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) has been named a recipient of the 2022 CLEP Honors National Military Achievement Award.  The CLEP Honors Award recognizes College Level Examination Program (CLEP) test centers that administer high volumes of CLEP exams throughout the academic year. These exams enable students to earn college credit for introductory-level courses by achieving satisfactory scores on subject-specific tests.  The CLEP program is administered by College Board, the same organization that

FL Governor Ron DeSantis Appoints Three Board Members to NWFSC's Board of Trustees 

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has announced the appointment of three members to Northwest Florida State College’s (NWFSC) Board of Trustees.  Newly appointed member Jack “Tanner” Peacock of Santa Rosa Beach is a broker associate at Scenic Sotheby’s International Realty. He was appointed as a Walton County Planning Commissioner and is a member of Florida Realtors and the National Association of Realtors.  Also new to the Board is Dr. Jon Ward. Dr. Ward is a dermatologist at Dermatology Specialists of

Northwest Florida State College Ranks Among the Top 10 Safest Colleges in Florida

Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) has ranked among the top 10 safest college campuses in Florida, according to Niche.com.  The rankings for campus safety were established after evaluating campus and community crime rates, rates of violent crimes, and student surveys on crime. NWFSC ranked number 10 out of the 48 colleges and universities evaluated in 2022.  NWFSC Executive Director of Campus Safety and Security, Chief Aaron Murray, explained that the College’s investment in officer training and

NWFSC Receives Energy Stewardship Recognition

Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) has received the Energy Stewardship recognition from Cenergistic, a national energy conservation company, for its comprehensive energy conservation program which decreased the College’s CO2 emissions by 51,417 metric tons over the past eight years. “Dr. Devin Stephenson, the board members, and the administration are demonstrating wise fiscal and environmental stewardship by implementing this unique organizational behavior-based energy conservation program,” said Dr.

NWFSC's Spring 2022 President's and Dean's List

Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) recognized the superior academic achievement of students who completed the Spring 2022 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

Destin Commons Announces 11th Annual Smoke on the Coast

Smoke on the Coast is back at Destin Commons. The 11th Annual Smoke on the Coast BBQ & Fireworks Festival, benefitting Coins for a Cause, is making a return on Sunday, July 3, 2022. This year’s event is magically presented by PRESTO! at The Magic Parlor, a pop-up magic show featuring five internationally-renowned acts that have graced the stages of Broadway, London’s West End, America’s Got Talent and more. The show is taking place in Destin through Aug. 28, 2022. The festive evening kicks off with live

NWFSC Presented with the Triumph Gulf Coast Horizon Award

Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) was recently presented with the Triumph Gulf Coast Horizon Award for its accelerated implementation of its FAA certification program at the Aviation Center of Excellence.  Triumph Gulf Coast is a competitive development fund in Northwest Florida that supports infrastructure needs, develops industry-driven workforce and education training programs, and provides tax abatement for businesses throughout the panhandle. Throughout the past two years, Triumph has deployed

30th Annual Emerald Coast National Juried Exhibition

The Mattie Kelly Art Center at Northwest Florida State College welcomes visual artists of all styles and media to apply for the 30th Annual Emerald Coast National Juried Exhibition. The exhibition is an open call without a set theme and features working artists from all over the country.  This year's guest judge will be Viet Le, Ph.D., MFA—an accomplished international artist and scholar based at the California College of Arts.  Selected artists will exhibit in the 1500-square-foot McIlroy Gallery, with

NWFSC President Appointed to the Southern Regional Education Board

Northwest Florida State College is pleased to announce that its president, Dr. Devin Stephenson, has been appointed as a Southern Regional Education Board member by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis. The Southern Regional Education Board strives to improve education by providing policymakers with reliable data to inform sound policies, collaborating with states to share resources, and serving educators by providing the training needed to help prepare students for their futures. The board is comprised of 16

Emerald Coast Autism Center Breaks Ground on Second Facility - Emerald Coast Learning Center

On Wednesday, June 8, 2022, starting at 5 p.m., Emerald Coast Autism Center will host a public Groundbreaking Event for Emerald Coast Learning Center, a new building located directly next to Emerald Coast Autism Center on the campus of Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) in Niceville, FL. This second facility will provide a safe, structured learning environment for the nonprofit's Transition to Work (TTW) program and its academic classrooms. The new building plans include a 20,000-square-foot building

Now Enrolling 9th Grade for Collegiate High School

Northwest Florida State College's 2022 Commencement Speaker

Northwest Florida State College is pleased to announce its 2022 Commencement Keynote speaker, Jamal Allen Sowell.  Sowell is a University of Florida alumni and UF Hall of Fame inductee. During his time at the university, he served as the UF Student Body President and Vice-Chairman of the Florida Students Association. He also worked as the Special Assistant to University of Florida President Dr. Bernie Machen, where he was a member of the president’s cabinet and served as Assistant Corporate Secretary for

NWFSC's Student Advisory Board Receives Awards

Members of Northwest Florida State College's Student Advisory Board were awarded for their contributions on and off-campus during the Florida College System's Student Government Association Year-End Conference. Led by Campus Engagement Director Marlena Veneszee and Campus Engagement Specialist Jessica O'Neill, NWFSC students gathered at the Florida State College in Jacksonville on April 8-9, 2022, where they were recognized on regional and state levels.  "Northwest Florida State College's Student Advisory

One Okaloosa EDC, TeCMEN to Host 5th Annual Industry Day on April 26

One Okaloosa EDC and its Technology Coast Manufacturing & Engineering Network (TeCMEN) are hosting the 5th annual TeCMEN Industry Day on April 26, 2022 at the Destin-Fort Walton Beach Convention Center in Fort Walton Beach, Florida.  Initially launched in 2017, TeCMEN Industry Day (TID) brings together a broad spectrum of companies and industry representatives from across the Gulf Coast region and beyond for a full day of networking and educational content. The 2022 TeCMEN Industry Day will feature more

NWFSC Announces New Men's Basketball Coach

Steve DeMeo has been named the new men’s head basketball coach at Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC). NWFSC President Dr. Devin Stephenson and Athletic Director Ramsey Ross announced this morning that DeMeo will be returning to the College to coach the Raiders after serving as the assistant head basketball coach for East Carolina and St. John’s University.  “Our College feels incredibly fortunate to have Coach DeMeo lead our men’s basketball program again,” said Ramsey Ross. “His previous tenure here

Become A Comptia A+ Or Network+ Certified IT Professional for Free

NWFSC Named a Military Friendly School with a Gold Distinction

Northwest Florida State College was recently named a 2022-2023 Military Friendly School with a Gold Distinction by MilitaryFriendly.com.   Every year, institutions earning the Military Friendly School designation are evaluated using public data sources and responses from a proprietary survey. Final ratings are calculated by combining the institution’s survey scores with the institution’s ability to meet minimum thresholds for student retention, graduation, job placement, loan repayment, and loan default

Northwest Florida State College Announces Free Apprenticeship Programs

NWFSC is committed to helping our community and business attract and retain a talented, vibrant, and skilled workforce. We offer apprenticeships in the Construction, Culinary, Hospitality, HVAC-AC-Ventilation, CNC Machining, Plumbing, and IT.  The program will blend classroom instruction and On-the-Job training to provide business and employees world-class training leading to employer recruiting and retention and giving employees tangible skills and certifications to better their careers.  Apprenticeship is

Winter Arts Social to Benefit Okaloosa Arts Alliance

The Okaloosa Arts Alliance invites you to the 2022 Winter Arts Social on Sunday, Feb. 27, from 2-4 p.m., at the Mattie Kelly Arts Center Art Galleries at Northwest Florida State College located at 100 E College Blvd, Niceville, FL 32578.   Join friends and art supporters for live entertainment by Grow Your Gift Conservatory of Music students and the Fort Walton Beach High School Drama Club and enjoy hors d'oeuvres and wine donated by Bloor Door Consulting, Niceville Publix, and Becky Belcher. The

Team Hurlburt Announces Honorary Commanders 2022-2023

Congratulations to those chosen as Hurlburt Honorary Commanders for 2022 - 2023! 1 SOW:  Neko Stubblefield, Vice President/Membership and Community Development, Eglin Federal Credit Union1 SOW/CCC:  Brian Squire, Executive Vice President, Hays Companies1 SOMDG:  Ann Hill, Executive Director, Emerald Coast Healthcare Coalition; Director of Administration, Florida One DMAT, Inc.1 SOMSG:  Aaron Bacchi, City of Mary Esther, Mayor Pro Tem1 SOG:  Megan Rutherford, Financial Planner, Northwestern Mutual

Northwest Florida State College Awarded Two New Grants to Fund Workforce Training and Education Opportunities

Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) was awarded two new grants to support students in their pursuit of innovative workforce and career education opportunities that lead to employment in high-demand industries.  The Florida Department of Education awarded the College $116,954 through the Pathways to Career Opportunities Grant to support apprenticeships in Computer Support and Computer Networking. With this grant, NWFSC will work with employers and CareerSource Okaloosa-Walton to make apprenticeship

FRLA Awards Northwest Florida's Hospitality Heroes

On Wednesday, Feb. 2, the hospitality industry gathered to celebrate the best of the best. Congratulations to all of the award winners: Hotel/resort FOHRosalie WongHampton Inn & Suites – Destin Hotel/resort BOHCarrie PritchardNewman-Dailey Resort Properties Hotel/resort managerJeff WelchHilton Garden Inn Destin/Miramar Beach Restaurant - FOHMaggie WhiteSlick LipsSandestin Restaurant - BOHAlex JohnsonBrotula'sDestin Restaurant - ManagerSteven StephensonCrab Trap Destin Culinary ManagerRobert PrestonThe Bay

Spring Dates & Themes Announced for Northwest Florida State College's Seagrass Restaurant

NWFSC Seeks Nominations for 2022 Distinguished Alumni Awards

The Northwest Florida State College Foundation is seeking nominations for its 2022 Alumni Awards and needs your participation! This is a wonderful opportunity to honor deserving alumni of Okaloosa-Walton Junior College, Okaloosa-Walton Community College, Okaloosa-Walton College, or Northwest Florida State College.    There are four categories for the awards:•Distinguished Alumni Award – NWFSC alum who is a true success story in a state or national arena •Against the Odds Award - NWFSC alum who has achieved

Northwest Florida State College Recognized with Gold Level Endorsement by Central Gulf Industrial Al

Central Gulf Industrial Alliance (CGIA) is a regional alliance composed of industrial owners, contractors, associates, and training organizations focused on improving industry performance in the areas of safety, workforce development, quality, and productivity. As part of their mission, CGIA leads a nationally recognized evaluation and endorsement process for regional industrial craft training programs to ensure they operate at or above industry standards and meet the workforce needs of the members’

Okaloosa County Sheriff Eric Aden Honored as Destin Chamber’s Business Person of the Month

During the Destin Chamber’s Sept. 10 Business Before Hours Sponsored by Century 21 Blue Marlin Pelican, Okaloosa County Sheriff Eric Aden was honored with the Chamber’s Business Person of the Month 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.  “Our community is safe because of Sheriff Aden and his staff. Throughout the year, we have a huge population increase, and the

NWFSC Hosts Scouts of America Welding Merit Badge Camp

In early August, Northwest Florida State College hosted a Scouts of America Welding merit badge camp. Twelve (12) Scouts from regional troops spent the day learning the art and science of welding from NWFSC Welding Program Director and 2018 Welding Instructor of the Year, Scottie Smith. The Scouts learned safety, explored welding with the virtual reality welding machine and used the GMAW welding process to make several projects during the camp.   To learn more about the Welding Program, visit our webpage

Multiple Grant and Scholarship Opportunities available at Northwest Florida State College

Northwest Florida State College is lowering the barrier to higher education by offering multiple grant and scholarship opportunities for the Fall Term. It’s not too late to apply!  NWFSC has been awarded grant funds under the American Rescue Plan (ARP). It is our goal to reach as many students as possible. Funding will be awarded per semester (Fall and Spring) and will be on a first-come, first-served basis until all funds have been awarded. Grants range from $300 - $1200. Eligible students must be in a

Northwest Florida State College Unveils Public Safety Memorial

On a perfect July morning, members of the local community joined Okaloosa and Walton County Officials, Northwest Florida State College Board of Trustee members along with College personnel to pay tribute to our local fallen public safety professionals from both Okaloosa and Walton counties – law enforcement officers, fire fighters and first responders. Northwest Florida State College’s Public Safety Memorial is the first of its kind in the panhandle region and provides a tranquil space to honor and remember

CAA Announces Foster Gallery Summer Rotation & Special Exhibition Artists

The Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County (CAA) is proud to announce the local artists recently chosen to exhibit their original work in The Foster Gallery’s Summer Rotation, which runs June 28 through Oct. 17, 2021, in its Grand Boulevard Town Center location. The public is invited to a reception celebrating both the Summer Rotation and Juried Exhibition artists on Wednesday, July 14, from 5 -7 p.m. Enjoy tasty sips and snacks while perusing all of the beautiful works on display and available for

Northwest Florida State College’s Aviation Center of Excellence Takes Flight

Northwest Florida State College’s Aviation Center of Excellence (ACE) officially opened June 23, 2021, at the Hsu Innovation Institute North in Crestview. More than 200 members of the local community attended the celebration. With a shared vision for excellence, Northwest Florida State College along with the Hsu Educational Foundation, the Okaloosa County Board of County Commissioners, Okaloosa County Airports, Florida Department of Transportation, Triumph Gulf Coast and many more have come together to

Emerald Coast Autism Center Partners with Northwest Florida State College for Transition to Work

Chris showed up to the Mattie Kelly Arts Center (MKAC) with a gleam in his eye. It was his second time to train as an usher for a ballet recital, and he already knew what to do.  “I got my jacket. I need a nametag. I’m ready!” said the 15-year-old as he got prepared in the cloak closet at the MKAC.  Chris is one of seven students from the Emerald Coast Autism Center participating in the new program, Transition to Work, funded by the Florida Department of Education. “We are actually the second location in

Northwest Florida State College Announces Proposed Course Fee Changes Effective Fall 2021

Northwest Florida State College announces proposed course fee changes effective for Fall 2021, to be voted on in the June 15, 2021, NWFSC Board of Trustees Meeting. The proposed course and lab fees recommended for adjustment with the start of the Fall 2021 semester can be found by accessing https://www.nwfsc.edu/tuition/. As itemized in the list, these fees cover expenses unique to course offerings such as laboratory fees, standardized testing fees and other direct course-level expenditures.    For

Congratulations Northwest Florida State College Graduates

Throughout the day on May 8, Northwest Florida State College held 13 individual ceremonies for members of the 2020 and 2021 graduating classes. Graduates, family and friends were given the opportunity to safely experience all the pomp and circumstance deserving of this momentous occasion in a modified in-person experience. Of the 1,333 students eligible to graduate, nearly half of them walked across the stage to receive their certificate, diploma or degree. “I challenge you to take what you have learned at

Northwest Florida State College and Walton County Sheriff’s Department Open the Walton Works Public Safety Complex

With a shared vision for excellence, Northwest Florida State College along with the Walton County Sheriff’s Department have created a preeminent public safety training facility that will transform the career opportunities available for the citizens of both Walton County and the entire Northwest Florida Region. The Walton Works Public Safety Complex is located at the Walton County Sheriff’s Complex in DeFuniak Springs. On April 29, members of the local community joined Walton County officials, NWFSC Board of

Northwest Florida State College Board of Trustees Receive Confirmation by Florida Senate

Six of the eight members of the Northwest Florida State College Board of Trustees were confirmed by the Florida Senate on April 29, 2021. These Trustees include Board of Trustees Chair Lori Kelley, Honorable Graham Fountain, Charlotte Flynt, Reynolds Henderson, Major General Don Litke (Ret.) and Major General Thomas “Rudy” Wright (Ret.).  The College’s remaining Trustees, Shane Abbott and Craig Barker, were confirmed in a previous session. The Board of Trustees is the policy-making body for Northwest

Northwest Florida State College Announces 2021 Blackwater Review and LaRoche Poetry Contest Winners

The winners of the 35th Annual James and Christian LaRoche Memorial Poetry Contest and the Blackwater Review art and literature journal have been announced for 2021.  Fiona Morris of Santa Rosa Beach won first place and a cash prize of $100 for her poem Summers in the Screen Room.  Madison Gray of Freeport placed second with her poem Mea Culpa. Gray will be awarded a cash prize of $50. Two poems tied for third place with a cash prize of $25 each. Carter Hyde of Fort Walton Beach tied for third place with

AmeriCorps Now Accepting Applications for 2021 - 2022 Program Year

The AmeriCorps program of Northwest Florida State College is now accepting applications for 12 full-time positions for the 2021 - 2022 program year. AmeriCorps is a component of the National Service Network. Its goal is to engage Americans of all ages and backgrounds in service to help meet communities’ critical education, public safety, environmental and other human needs. AmeriCorps is an opportunity for individuals to make a big difference in their own lives and in the lives of those around them. This

Northwest Florida State College Recognizes Fall 2020 Graduates

Northwest Florida State College would like to recognize its fall semester 2020 graduates, including those graduating with honors. “Our Raider graduates have shown great perseverance and resilience while completing their degree or credential amidst such unpredictability,” said NWFSC President Dr. Devin Stephenson. “Congratulations to each and every one of you for attaining your goal!”  For students enrolled in a degree program (bachelor’s and associate’s) at the time of graduation, a student’s total

Mattie Kelly Art Center Galleries at Northwest Florida State College has Partnered with Florida Department of State on Statewide Initiative

Florida Secretary of State Laurel M. Lee and the Florida Department of State announced the fifth annual “March of Museums” celebrating the variety and versatility of museums in Florida and the important services those museums provide to their communities. The initiative includes partner museums and cultural institutions throughout Florida that showcase the vast and diverse array of museums that populate the Sunshine State. The 2021 celebration focuses on celebrating the ingenuity and creativity of museums

SimpleHR Gives Back and Provides Valuable COVID-19 Resources to the Community

After 18 years serving the communities along Florida's Emerald Coast, SimpleHR continues to focus on giving back through volunteerism, corporate philanthropy, and knowledge-based resources. Giving back is business as usual for SimpleHR and the people who work at the employee management company.  "The staff of SimpleHR is blessed to live, work, and play in an amazing community. We are honored to have the opportunity to give back by supporting those in need." - Bill Lindsley With thousands of hours donated,

Howell Joins Renasant as Commercial Relationship Officer

Renasant Bank is pleased to announce that Meloney Howell has joined Renasant as Commercial Relationship Officer and Vice President. She is located at the Emerald Coast Parkway branch. "Having lived in the Destin area most of her life, Meloney draws on her understanding of the local market. Her 20 plus years of banking experience and first class customer service to clients brings tremendous value to both the bank and to our customers. We are excited to welcome Meloney to the Renasant family," says Eric

Northwest Florida State College’s Sigma Mu Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa Inducts 78 New Members

The Sigma Mu Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa at Northwest Florida State College is a thriving program - virtually inducting 78 new members in mid-February. Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) is the international honor society of two-year colleges and academic programs that promotes leadership, fellowship, service and scholarship. Eligibility for membership requires students to have completed at least 12 hours of associate degree course work and keep a cumulative grade point average of 3.5 or above. NWFSC’s Sigma Mu Chapter

Northwest Florida State College Announces Leadership Change in Men’s Basketball Program

Northwest Florida State Athletic Director Ramsey Ross announced that men’s basketball head coach Butch Pierre resigned his duties effective immediately due to family medical reasons.   “We appreciate Coach Pierre’s dedication and effort in leading our student-athletes,” Ross said. “I am confident that as we move forward, Northwest Florida State men’s basketball will be stronger than ever.”   Northwest Florida State College President Dr. Devin Stephenson echoed Ross’s comments and thanked Coach Pierre

Military Friendly Distinction Awarded to Northwest Florida State College

Northwest Florida State College was recently named a 2021-2022 Military Friendly School with Bronze Distinction in the Small Public category by MilitaryFriendly.com.  Each year, schools completing the survey are weighted according to six categories: military student support and retention, graduation and career outcomes, financial aid and loan repayment, culture and commitment, admissions and orientation, and academic policies and compliance.   Final survey results and ratings are determined by combining

Northwest Florida State College Ranks #1 Among all Southern Region Colleges for Student Loan Debt

On average, Northwest Florida State College graduates accumulate only $4,668 in federal loan debt, according to the 2018 data used for U.S. News & World Report’s latest college rankings. The next closest regionally accredited college was Pensacola State College. Nationally, NWF State College ranks fourth for all Regional Colleges in least debt to students.    “As an open access institution, this distinction reaffirms our commitment to student success by removing financial barriers and providing affordable

Sherwin-Williams Prosoco R-Guard Training Day

This 3 hour hands on training class covers the proper selection and installation of Prosoco R-Guard Air and Water Barriers.Join Northwest Florida State College in collaboration with Sherwin-Williams on Nov. 11, 2020, to engage in a half day training course covering the Prosoco products. Learn about how Prosoco R-Guard Air and Water Barriers can help save you time, and money while improving the overall quality. Class will begin promptly at 9 a.m., and will be a 2 hour discussion followed by a one our hands

Northwest Florida State College Partners with Florida Department of Education for New Workforce Education Initiative

Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) is excited to join forces with the Florida Department of Education (FDOE) for a new workforce education initiative aimed at raising awareness of short-term career and technical education programs. Get There Florida highlights the key benefits of the programs available locally in Okaloosa and Walton Counties and to all Floridians statewide.   “Workforce, career and technical education continues to be a primary focus for Northwest Florida State College as we strive to

Making Strides to hold Pink Drive Event in October

WHAT:  This October may look different, but breast cancer hasn’t stopped and neither has the American Cancer Society and its dedicated group of volunteers here in the Panhandle. Join the first ever Making Strides of the Emerald Coast Drive Event on Saturday, Oct. 17, from 9-10 a.m. The route will start in the main entrance of Northwest Florida State College, take you to a festive pink tour around McCracken Way and exit to Cedar Ave N. In keeping with safety guidelines and socially distant protocols, the

An OP-ED on Leadership Lessons Learned

Submitted by Dr. G. Devin Stephenson, President of Northwest Florida State College I have been in a reflection mode the past few months, considering the valuable leadership lessons learned as our institution continues to respond to the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. It is obvious to me that we were not prepared for the ongoing and unprecedented challenges and frankly, I haven’t heard from or observed anyone who was prepared. There are some who will boast of pre-existing preparation, prevention, response

Invitation to Vendors for Muddy Waters Blues Field Day and Technology Transfer Workshop 2020

Mattie Kelly Arts Center Galleries Announces the 28th Annual Emerald Coast National Juried Fine Arts

The Mattie Kelly Art Center Galleries at Northwest Florida State College is pleased to present the 28th Annual Emerald Coast National Juried Fine Arts Exhibition. This year saw applicants from across the country in a variety of media. Overall, the applications express a strong desire for connection to the familiar.  The show runs Aug. 29 - Oct. 16, 2020. Attendance is free and open to the public. To make this exhibition more broadly accessible, the exhibition is available online for the first time in its

NWF State College Students Named to President's List and Dean's List for Spring 2020 Semester

Northwest Florida State College recognized the superior scholastic achievement of students completing the Spring 2020 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

Northwest Florida State College Announces Proposed Course Fee Changes Effective Fall 2020

In accordance with Florida Statute 1009.23(12)(a) and to be voted on in the June 16, 2020, NWFSC Board of Trustees Meeting, the proposed course and lab fees recommended for adjustment with the start of the Fall 2020 semester can be found by accessing https://www.nwfsc.edu/about/leadership/board-of-trustees/.  As itemized in the list, these fees cover expenses unique to course offerings, such as laboratory fees, standardized testing fees and other direct course-level expenditures.   For further

Northwest Florida State College Launches NWF Online LIVE for Summer 2020

In response to social distancing practices brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, Northwest Florida State College will debut NWF Online LIVE, an alternative livestream instructional method for Summer 2020 semester, which begins May 18.   NWF Online LIVE will offer an abundance of general education courses with morning, afternoon and evening options. With this exciting new format, students will receive online instruction via livestream and be able to interact with their instructor and classmates in

Northwest Florida State College to Hold Virtual Commencement Ceremonies to Honor 2020 College and Collegiate High School Graduates

Northwest Florida State College’s 55th Annual Commencement Ceremony will look a little different this year as a result of the social distancing guidelines put into practice in efforts to flatten the curve against COVID-19. To honor the accomplishments of our graduates in real time, college leadership is producing NWFSC’s first Virtual Commencement Ceremony airing on May 2. The virtual ceremony will be uploaded to NWFSC’s YouTube Channel, website and social media accounts, where it can be watched it in the

Northwest Florida State College to Offer Extended Virtual Service Hours through May 5

Although Northwest Florida State College is closed for in-person services for the remainder of the spring semester in response to the COVID-19/Coronavirus pandemic, the institution is offering extended operating hours via phone and online chat to meet the needs of our students.    General inquiries can be made by calling (850) 678-5111 during our extended hours, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday - Thursday, and 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Fridays.   Raider Central Student Success Navigators are available to assist

Northwest Florida State College’s Aviation Center of Excellence Takes Flight with Triumph Gulf Coast

Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) is excited to announce the Triumph Gulf Coast Board unanimously voted to advance the Aviation Center of Excellence (ACE) project at its meeting on March 3. The Triumph Gulf Coast Board’s action moves the proposal forward from economic impact review to term sheet development. Over the next 10 years, the College projects Northwest Florida residents will earn at least 1,255 industry-recognized certificates. The proposal seeks an investment of $8,782,065 from the Triumph

Northwest Florida State College Invites Business to Career Day 2020

Dear Business Partner, Northwest Florida State College is excited to announce Career Day 2020 on Friday, April 17! Businesses that are actively hiring qualified individuals are invited to attend and meet with NWFSC community, as well as those considering enrollment in degree and certificate programs who are seeking employment. All attendees will be encouraged to bring resumes and be prepared to apply and/or interview on-site for any available positions. PLEASE JOIN US AT CAREER DAY 2020 Where: Raider

USCG Auxiliary, Eighth Coastal Region, Division 1, Winter Meeting

The USCG Auxiliary, Eighth Coastal Region, Division 1, Winter Meeting was held at the Northwest Florida State College in Niceville. The Division 1 meeting began with the invocation by Duane Treadon. In attendance was COMO Chuck Maricle, DCAPT-E Barry Fox, DCDR Dan Berry and Flotilla Commanders/Staff from Pensacola Destin and Panama City. Flotilla Commanders briefed the Division and guests on their goals for 2020. Doug Richie from Coast Guard Station Destin talked about his first year as a member while Mike

Destin Chamber Awards Outstanding Members For 2019

On Dec. 17, almost 200 Destin Chamber members gathered for the Holiday & Awards Party presented by Fort Walton Beach Medical Center and Twin Cities Hospital to celebrate the successes of 2019 and honor outstanding community members. Surrounded by the festive décor of Emerald Grande at HarborWalk Village, 2019 Destin Chamber Chairman Julie Cotton of Northwest Florida State College presented the awards.For going above and beyond in service to the Destin Chamber and the community, Michelle Terry, Dale E.

19 Graduate from Destin Forward Community Education & Leadership Program

Destin, Fla., May 8 – On May 7, the Destin Chamber celebrated the graduation of 19 business professionals from its 11th Destin Forward class. During the event, the prestigious Destin Forward Leadership Award, chosen by class vote, was presented to Brooke Zannis of Destin Commons. She is seen below (center) with Chamber Chairman Julie Cotton of Northwest Florida State College and Chamber President and CEO Shane A. Moody, CCE, FCCP. Destin Forward, a community education and leadership program, was created

Chairman’s Message: Strategic Partnerships are Key to Bettering Businesses & Our Community

Strategic partnerships are crucial to a successful business. As defined, strategic partnerships are relationships between businesses, and typically it is for the betterment of both entities.  And that is not any different for chambers of commerce as they strive to be successful. The Destin Chamber has invaluable partnerships with our members and state, local and county governmental entities. By cultivating these relationships, we all benefit. Achieving success and staying informed is how these strategic

April 2019 Business Briefs / Member News

NWF State College Announces Walton Works Partnership with Walton County Board of County CommissionersNorthwest Florida State College is excited to announce its partnership with the Walton County Board of County Commissioners in support of a Triumph Gulf Coast application for Walton Works. On Feb. 26, 2019, the Walton County Board of County Commissioners committed $1.5 million to the $5.25 million Walton Works project, directing staff to research the ability to use funding from the RESTORE Act Pot 1 funds to

April 2019 Business Briefs / Member News Part 2

Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation Opens Applications for Artists for the 24th Annual Festival of the Arts Artist applications and poster competition entries are now being accepted for the 24th Annual Festival of the Arts. Mattie Kelly Arts Foundation's Festival of the Arts is one of the Southeast's premier festivals and showcases more than 100 artists from across the US. The Festival is a celebration of art, music, food, family fun and features a live music lineup, a food bistro, wine and beer garden, art

March 2019 Business Briefs / Member News

Sponsorship Opportunity: Destin Library Summer Reading Program The Destin Library is currently looking for sponsors for its 2019 Summer Reading Program: A Universe of Stories. These sponsors would provide support, either monetary or in-kind, to help make the Summer Reading Program a positive and educational experience for Destin’s children. In exchange the sponsors would receive prominent logo placement on the of our Summer Reading Program guides, as well as on any other promotional materials produced in