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The SCF Venice campus is entering an exciting new chapter of growth, creativity, and community connection. Enrollment continues to rise, new programs are gaining momentum, and plans are moving forward for a new permanent Collegiate School building.

This fall, SCF Venice welcomed 150 Collegiate School students who are now fully dually enrolled, earning college credit while completing their high school diplomas. Another 190 dual enrolled students represent Venice High, North Port High, Lemon Bay High, area private schools, homeschool programs across Sarasota and Manatee, as well as students pursuing personalized education plans.

While the numbers reflect growing demand, what truly energizes the campus is how students engage both inside and outside the classroom. Earlier this fall, students participated in #GetHired, a career-focused event featuring community professionals who shared insights on personal branding and professional development. In October, a new Internship series will help students prepare for real-world experiences through workshops on resumes, interviews, and workplace readiness.

Campus life at SCF Venice continues to flourish. Clubs and organizations are developing leadership, service, and teamwork skills through fundraisers, volunteer projects, and cultural events. A student favorite, Pizza with the President, gives participants the chance to talk directly with college leadership in a relaxed, conversational setting that encourages open dialogue and new ideas.

Across academic disciplines, SCF Venice faculty are creating innovative, hands-on learning opportunities. In Dr. Andy Swanson’s biology course, students are working on a research project with the Florida Department of Transportation, analyzing wildlife movement through a passageway under River Road. The data they collect will help identify trends in how animals use the corridor, connecting classroom learning with real-world environmental research.

The STEM.Med student organization, guided by Dr. David Ekrut, now includes members from SCF’s Lakewood Ranch and Bradenton campuses, with students meeting virtually to explore clinical trials and emerging medical research. In the Graphic Design program, led by Professor Jeff Darwin, students gain access to industry-standard software and local internship experiences that help them transition seamlessly into creative careers.

Mathematics professor Robyn Scalzo brings financial literacy to life in her Math in Context course, where students complete a project on purchasing a car. They compare dream cars and practical options, calculate loan payments, and determine what fits within their future budgets. Several students have even used what they learned to make real-life purchases, proving that math skills have immediate, lasting value.

The arts are thriving as well. Under the direction of Dr. Doug Ford, Arts & Letters Day will return on November 10 with gothic literature adaptations, student posters, and poetry readings. A new display case in Building 600 now highlights faculty publications, celebrating SCF’s scholars and showing students that learning and creativity never stop.

Community support remains essential. The SCF Foundation’s Evening Under the Stars: Motown Magic is slated for April 11, 2026, at the campus, with proceeds benefiting scholarships, academic programs, and student success. It is one more example of how the region rallies around students and their futures.

SCF Venice continues to grow as a place where education, community, and innovation intersect. From expanding enrollment to new research and creative initiatives, the campus remains dedicated to empowering students to succeed and inspiring the next generation of local leaders.

For more information, visit SCF.edu.

Tommy Gregory, J.D., is the President of State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota.

Provided photo.