Pictured: SCF Spring 2025 Graduates. Photo courtesy of SCF.

State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota (SCF) recently hosted a weeklong series of ceremonies recognizing the academic accomplishments and future aspirations of our students. Events held from April 25 through May 2 highlighted a broad spectrum of achievements, from the perseverance of educationally disadvantaged youth to the career readiness of health science graduates.

SCF’s Honors Convocation ceremonies at the Bradenton and Venice campuses celebrated students for their academic leadership, resilience, and service. Sidney Martin and Susana Reyes Soto received the prestigious SCF Image Awards for overcoming significant challenges while embodying the college’s core values. SCF Dean of Students Jaquelyn McNeil also presented the Wayne Gulbrandsen Academic Scholarship for Single Parents to graduates Jessica Lagos, Kerin Schweigert, Brittany DeMars, Jennifer Gilson, Jessica Meza, and Tracey Nelson.

The College honored middle and high school students participating in its College Reach-Out Program (CROP). CROP supports students by providing academic motivation, skill development, and preparation for postsecondary education. Outstanding participants were recognized for their achievements during a special awards ceremony.

SCF’s health science programs marked key milestones with a series of meaningful ceremonies. A total of 111 nursing graduates received their pins, symbolizing their transition into professional practice. The group included 70 associate in science in Nursing (ASN) graduates and 41 Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) graduates. The ceremony featured remarks from SCF Dean Tammy Sawmelle, Ph.D., and faculty members, as well as a heartfelt address by ASN student Victoria Guajardo. Simon Borner was recognized with the prestigious Pat Kubler Award for excellence in nursing.

In addition, 19 Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) students and 18 Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) students were pinned in separate ceremonies, signifying their readiness to enter the healthcare workforce. Both programs maintain 100% certification pass rates and job placement for eligible graduates, reflecting SCF’s commitment to high-quality, career-focused education.

Sixteen Dental Hygiene graduates received their white coats and pins in a ceremony symbolizing their transition to clinical practice. The event included remarks from Erin Deckinga, president of the Florida Dental Hygienists’ Association, and concluded with several awards. Melissa De La Paz received both the Colgate Star Award and the Future Leader Award, recognizing her academic excellence and leadership potential.

SCF’s Collegiate Schools in Bradenton and Venice also marked graduation milestones. These innovative high school programs, based on the Swedish Kunskapsskolan model, are designed to foster independence, motivation, and early college success. Students graduate with both a high school diploma and an associate degree.

At SCFCS Bradenton, 65 students graduated. Highlights include:

• A thought-provoking keynote address by SCF Assistant Professor Katherine Bzura
• A 100% high school graduation rate
• Over 5,000 hours of community service completed
• 54 students will attend four-year institutions, while others plan to serve in the military, take a gap year, join the Peace Corps, or study abroad in Germany

SCFCS Venice students collectively earned over $2.5 million in scholarships from institutions across Florida. More than half of the Class of 2025 made the Dean’s List or President’s List while completing their A.A. degrees, contributing approximately 3,500 hours of community service.

The week culminated with SCF’s Spring 2025 Commencement ceremonies on May 2, a celebration of academic achievement and resilience. Elizabeth Juliana Wigeri van Edema, recipient of the Outstanding Graduate Award, and Professor of Speech and Communication Jennifer Bieselin, named Student-Selected Faculty of the Year, delivered inspiring addresses that embodied the spirit of perseverance and accomplishment. In total, more than 940 degrees and certificates were awarded, including 568 associate in arts, 243 associate in science, 111 bachelor’s degrees, and 18 workforce certificates. Over 443 graduates proudly participated in ceremonies held at both SCF Bradenton and SCF Venice.

Through these events, SCF demonstrated its mission to support student success at every academic level and life stage. Each celebration reflected the college’s ongoing commitment to excellence, opportunity, and community impact.

At SCF, we meet you where you are. We’re Everyone’s College.

For more information, visit SCF.edu.

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

Pictured: SCF Spring 2025 Graduates. Photo courtesy of SCF.