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President Aysegul Timur, Ph.D.
Aysegul Timur, Ph.D., the fifth president of Florida Gulf Coast University,
is widely known for building collaborative teams of university and community stakeholders
to implement strategic initiatives, including workforce alignments. This includes
launching FGCU’s micro-credentialing and digital badges initiative, which enhance
the rigor of existing academic programs while being responsive to the ever-changing
needs of the business community.
Prior to becoming president in June 2023, Timur served as FGCU's Vice President and
Vice Provost for Strategy and Program Innovation. Timur led the efforts for FGCU to
receive a historic $22.9 million grant through the U.S. Department of Commerce — Economic
Development Administration’s Good Jobs Challenge Grant to amplify workforce development
efforts in Southwest Florida.
Prior to joining FGCU in 2019, Timur worked for Hodges University, where she progressively
took on larger leadership roles. She started off as a teaching assistant in 1999 and
steadily scaled the academic ranks to become a full professor of economics in 2009.
She soon took on additional administrative roles, ultimately becoming Dean of the
Johnson School of Business in 2014 and the Senior Vice President of Academic Affairs
in 2017.
Timur is a first-generation college student who made the cross-continental move to
Naples 25 years ago. She earned a doctorate in business administration with a major
in economics from the University of South Florida, complementing her MBA and bachelor’s
degrees in Business Administration from the University of Istanbul.
Timur raised her two children with husband, Mete, in the Southwest Florida community.
While furthering her career in higher education, she also embedded herself in the
regional community, performing civic service and taking on additional leadership roles.
Today, Timur is a member of the Florida Chamber Foundation’s Board of Trustees, a
member of the Greater Naples Chamber of Commerce’s Board of Directors, a board member
of the Foundation for Lee County Public Schools, a board member of the Naples Botanical
Gardens and a board member of Imagine Solutions.
President's cabinet  & staff
president's media resources
President's Circle For Excellence
Support President Timur as she implements FGCU’s new strategic plan focused on excellence
in Student Success!
FGCU's 2024-2029 Strategic Plan
Innovating for Student Success: FGCU's Journey to Excellence
The plan is our roadmap, outlining how we make decisions about projects, legislative
budget requests, and the day-today operations at FGCU -
Your
University.
Strategic Plan
FGCU Board of Trustees
The FGCU Board of Trustees, comprised of 13 members, is the University’s governing
body, and as such is responsible for the academic, financial and organizational integrity
of FGCU, as well as assisting in advancing its mission and strategic priorities tied
to state-wide performance metrics in support of the five-county region of Southwest
Florida and beyond.
FGCU Trustees Website
President Timur's Weekly Messages to Employees
2023 Messages
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July 2023
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July 3, 2023
Hello, Eagle Family!
By now, many of you have heard my story about how I chose to continue my journey in
higher education by making the transcontinetal move to Southwest Florida 25 years
ago. Being so far away from my culture and family led me to adop this region as my
new home and the people around me as my new family.
And that's how I think of Florida Gulf Coast University. It is home. You are my family.
It is truly an honor to serve as the fifth president of your university! I am excited
for the work - and fun - to come as we grown, innovate and change together. FGCU serves
as an economic driver to Southwest Florida and beyond, and we will continue to foster
the feedback loop between the growth of the university and the needs of the region.
FGCU will take the lead on innovating and adapting big ideas and new ways of learning,
teaching, reseraching, and most importantly, preparing our students for today's ever-changing
work and business environment and the future of work as life-long learners. I am so
passionate and enthusiastic about working alongside the FGCU community to transform
lives and build a better future!
We are in a time of rapid change and technological disruption, and we need to focus
on our strategic directions. My top goal over the next 90 days is to dig deep into
the strategic planning process, which we started over a year ago with the launch of
the
FGCU Strategic Roadmap initiative
. With feedback from our students, facutly, staff, alumni and the communities we serve,
we are ready to complete the process. It is my goal to have a final document to present
to the FGCU Board of Trustees in December and the Florida Board of Governors in January,
so the journey to make these deadlines begins today.
Soon, announcements will roll out about the various ways you can get involved and
have conversations with me. I want to hear from all of you! We will also be strengthening
campus communications and bolstering efforts to create two-way channels to share ideas
and feedback. Don't be surprised if you see me out of the office and around campus
for town halls, roundtables, meet-and-greets and classroom visits. You can also email
me at
president@fgcu.edu,
and I will get back to you as soon as I can.
But all of that can wait a day. Tomorrow if the Fourth of July, and I want to wish
all of you and your families a wonderful and safe Independence Day.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
July 10, 2023
Hello, Eagle Family!
Last week kicked off the start of my presidency at FGCU, and I want to thank you for
the warm welcome and outpouring of support. Even with the Fourth of July holiday and
extreme heat, our campus was buzzing with activity.
I enjoyed stopping by the Library Lawn to talk with students during the Programming
Board’s Fresh Sesh event, and I was pleased to chat with students who were beating
the heat by studying indoors.
From an administration standpoint, I began meeting one-on-one with members of the
Board of Trustees to outline my performance goals and other topics. Cabinet continues
to meet on its regular schedule to discuss our direction as a leadership team, and
we began initial conversations about our budget allocations and future legislative
funding requests. While it is too premature to share details at this time, as all
of these conversations are ongoing, I will keep you updated as we move along.
If I miss you while I’m out and about, don’t forget you can always email me directly
at
president@fgcu.edu
. I look forward to seeing you on campus.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
July 17, 2023
Hello, Eagle Family!
I am starting my third week in office, and I continue to be out and around on campus.
Last week, I dropped by Eagle View Orientation and could not stop myself from making
some remarks and welcoming everyone to the Eagle Family! I am inspired and energized
by meeting with our upcoming class and their families.
In addition to being around campus, I have been out in the community talking about
FGCU and the role it plays in Southwest Florida. Also, I continue to meet with members
of the FGCU Board of Trustees through one-on-one meetings focused on our strategic
direction.
Last week, the President’s Cabinet worked on the 2024 Legislative Budget Request,
and we have ongoing meetings to discuss our current budget allocations. Additionally,
we are working on naming the co-chairs and establishing the expectations of two new
committees: one focused on the strategic planning process for the university and the
other on internal communications. I will provide more details about these endeavors
over the next few weeks.
Finally, I want to remind everyone to take care of yourselves. We are absolutely having
a very hot summer, and it’s important to be attentive to the recommendations of local
authorities, including FGCU’s Emergency Management office.
Wings up and go Eagles!
July 24, 2023
Hello, Eagle Family!
I was delighted to spend time last week with the Mandela Washington Fellows, a cohort
of 25 young leaders from Africa who have spent the summer on our campus learning how
to bring about positive changes in their home countries. It was so rewarding to hear
them reflect about their time at FGCU, and how they regard us as a model for working
with our local community.
As you know, part of that connectivity is FGCU’s research that is applicable to our
region. I saw that in action last week when I learned more than I probably ever wanted
to know about pythons from senior-level students and their faculty. I attended the
Department of Biology’s Summer 2023 Undergraduate Research Symposium, and it was truly
remarkable.
And for a little extra fun, I tried to put my best foot forward at the Student Shuffle,
a line dancing event at University Recreation & Wellness. Next time, I’m bringing
my gym clothes!
From an administration standpoint, I want you to know that the President’s Cabinet
is continuing its work on the 2023-24 budget allocations. Also, we have decided who
will lead the Strategic Planning Steering Committee. Committee co-chairs are Dr. Clay
Motley, dean of the College of Arts & Sciences, and Jorge Lopez, associate vice president
of Student Financial Enrollment and Business Services. Serving as ex-officio is Dr.
Eileen DeLuca, the interim chief strategy and program innovation officer. Their first
job is to form a committee, which will include student, faculty and staff representatives
from across campus. By the start of August, FGCU will have picked a consultant that
will work alongside the committee to help create our next strategic plan, so this
is an exciting first step in the process. Congratulations to Clay, Jorge and Eileen!
I plan to share more about the Internal Communications Committee next week. Stay tuned!
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
July 31, 2023
Hello, Eagle Family!
What a month we have had! It’s amazing to think that tomorrow is the first of August,
which means we are counting down to when FGCU faculty and students return to campus.
I am so eager to begin the fall term with all of you.
As summer comes to an end, it is bittersweet to say goodbye to the Mandela Washington
Fellows. We have built incredible ties with them, and I know they will carry FGCU's
commitments to the community and civic engagement back home with them to Africa. They
are now part of the Eagle Family, and we will always be in touch.
I’ve continued to be out and about, spending time with employees and students alike.
I’ve also been inviting university partners, business leaders and other representatives
of our Southwest Florida community to our beautiful campus for meetings. One of my
priorities is to do everything I can to showcase what our campus has to offer, and
often that means I’m inviting our outside guests for lunch meetings at SoVi Dining
or The Boardwalk. It truly has made all the difference in our discussions, and it
helps me tell FGCU’s story.
And that leads me to my next point. As I teased last week, the President’s Cabinet
has decided who will lead our newly formed Internal Communications Committee. The
group’s co-chairs are Pamela McCabe, the coordinator of University Communications
& Media Relations, and Professor Lyn Millner of the Department of Communication &
Philosophy. They will round out the committee with representatives from across the
campus community, and the group’s work will help us elevate the story of FGCU as we
engage with one another in more meaningful ways.
In the next week, I will be traveling to Munich, Germany, to visit the European regional
head office for Arthrex. During this trip, we will discuss how we can expand our partnership
and create new opportunities for academic, research and workforce development.
In closing, I wish all of you a wonderful week, and I look forward to seeing you around
campus.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
August 2023
Toggle More Info
August 7, 2023
Hello, Eagle Family!
We are now one week out from the start of the fall semester, and the energy that comes
with a new academic term can be felt across every corner of campus.
Part of that energy is due to an increase in traffic as more of our Eagles return
to the nest. Today, we welcome back most of our faculty members who have been off
for the summer, and our residential students will being moving into their rooms in
the coming days.
As you make your way around campus, you will likely notice some of our summertime
upgrades to campus. Signage on windows and doors are in the process of being updated
with FGCU's new logo, and the main loop around campus has been refreshed with new
asphalt and traffic lines. We are looking very sharp!
I encourage all faculty and academic support staff to be on the lookout for a message
from Provost Mark Rieger today. He has some very exciting news to share for the year
ahead.
And to all employees, I am looking forward to seeing you Friday at the Welcome Celebration
- our annual kickoff to the fall term. This is a great opportunity to share a meal,
catch up with colleagues and meet our newest employees. I'll be giving the "State
of the University" address, and I will discuss what's next for FGCU as we head into
our 26th year of teaching and learning.
It trusly is an exciting time to be an FGCU Eagle, and I look forward to welcoming
the fall term with all of you.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
August 14, 2023
Hello, Eagle Family!
I am thrilled to welcome all FGCU students, faculty and staff to the new academic
year! It is truly a time of new beginnings here on campus, and I am so excited to
welcome the incoming class of 2027, our transfer students and new hires to the Eagle
Family.
It is not lost on me that FGCU will celebrate its 26th birthday in 11 days. Our institution’s
future is bright, and we will remain focused on the pursuit of excellence in terms
of academics, research, scholarship, service to the community and the day-to-day functions
that ensure our students are successful.
I want you to know that we have been very busy all summer preparing for the start
of fall classes, and here are two changes I know our students and employees will be
glad to know:
We have upgraded our campus WiFi network, known as eduroam, to provide faster network
speeds and higher security standards. Service will now be available on the Library
Lawn and the outdoor area near Academic Building 9, home of The Water School. If you
need help logging into eduroam, visit
edu/wifi
for instructions.
We are in the process of building a new elevated, lighted boardwalk to provide a safer
way for our students and employees to travel between the SoVi residential area and
the main academic corridor. The pathway will have access points at SoVi Dining, the
Bower School of Music & the Arts and the nearby multipurpose rec field. We will have
more updates on the boardwalk in the coming months – stay tuned!
Of course, it would not be the start of the fall term without showing school spirit.
I look forward to greeting students tonight at Eagle Revolution, our annual pep rally
to kick off the new academic year. Don’t forget, doors open at 6:30 p.m. at Alico
Arena!
Our faculty and staff had their own version of a pep rally last week with the annual
Welcome Celebration. It was a terrific opportunity to catch up with colleagues, meet
our new hires and share our excitement for what’s to come in our 26th year.
I can feel it already – we are off to a banner 2023-24 academic year.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
August 21, 2023
Hello, Eagle Family!
We’re one week into the new academic year, and it is so wonderful to see the energy
and excitement that comes with the start of the fall term. I have made it a priority
in my schedule to drop by the Weeks of Welcome events, which has given me a chance
to introduce myself to students and, in one case, catch a ride on the swings during
the First Day Fair on the Library Lawn. These events are a great way to have fun,
meet fellow students, get connected to campus and learn more about what it means to
be an FGCU Eagle.
It is so important for all of our students, especially our freshmen, to feel they
belong at FGCU – that this is your home away from home. Our faculty and staff are
here to support you in your journey, and students can reach out to us at any time
for extra support. We can help you get more involved with campus events and activities,
introduce you to other students and programs, and we can provide guidance for the
road ahead – be it academics, internships or local career opportunities. We’re here
to support you, so don’t hesitate to ask for help!
One of the highlights of my week was an off-campus excursion to the Bonita Springs
community. Dr. Steve McIntosh, a member of the FGCU Foundation Board of Directors,
orchestrated a tour where I could visit with community and business leaders to talk
about growth and partnerships with FGCU. It’s important for us to make these connections
in the five-county region we serve.
I am also very proud to tell you that two important state funding requests were approved
by the FGCU Board of Trustees during its virtual meeting on Friday. Here’s what you
should know:
Linking Industry to Nursing Education (LINE) Fund
| This $1.1 million funding proposal is meant to incentivize collaboration between
nursing education programs, like we offer through Marieb College of Health & Human
Services, and partners in the healthcare industry. By working together, we can meet
local, regional and state workforce needs, and we would use the money to recruit more
instructors, improve the nursing education program and increase the number of nursing
graduates.
2024 Legislative Budget Request
| The $10.9 million funding request will help FGCU take its student-centered education
model to the next step by preparing incoming students for college-level work, build
tomorrow’s workforce and leverage innovative programs. The three-step approach will
ensure more students complete their academic programs on time with skills that will
help them meet the demands of an ever-changing workforce. You can read more about
the LBR document in the cover story of
August’s Inside FGCU newsletter
Both funding requests will now go before the Board of Governors for review, and I’ll
keep you updated on what happens next with these funding requests. Make it a great
week!
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
September 2023
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September 5, 2023
Hello, Eagle Family! I hope you all enjoyed a relaxing Labor Day weekend, and that
you are returning to campus today feeling refreshed and energized for the week ahead.
As I look at my calendar, there are many events that I am looking forward to attending
this week.
On Wednesday morning, I’ll be at the Civility Summit in the Cohen Student Union Ballroom.
The event begins at 10 a.m. and is open to the entire FGCU community. It is the first
event planned by FGCU’s newly created Office of Public Policy Events, and I hope to
see you there.
On Thursday afternoon, we will gather in the Cohen Student Union, Room 201, for the
next event planned by the Strategic Plan Steering Committee. They are helping us build
on the momentum of last year’s strategic roadmap initiative with a noon to 3 p.m.
kickoff event. It’s not too late to register –
click here for details.
Also on Thursday afternoon, the Audit and Compliance Committee of the FGCU Board of
Trustees will meet virtually. A full board meeting is set for September 12 in the
Cohen Ballroom, and it has a packed agenda. Details about these meetings can be found
on the
website for the FGCU Board of Trustees
Like so many events, last week’s Florida Board of Governors meeting had to be rescheduled
due to Hurricane Idalia. It will now take place virtually on Friday, September 8.
The agenda for the 2 p.m. meeting can be found on the
Board of Governors’ website
, and you can follow along in the proceedings through the
Florida Channel.
There is certainly a lot going on across campus, and I look forward to seeing you.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
September 11, 2023
Hello, Eagle Family!
What we say and how we say it is essential to our campus community, and, by now, you
are aware that communication ranks very high in my priorities. Today, I am excited
to share an update about the Internal Communications Committee.
I am thrilled to announce the membership of the group to all of you:
Dr. Meagan E. Baskin
| Director of the Southwest Florida Leadership Institute and associate professor
of Management in Lutgert College of Business
Beverly Brown
| Director of operations, Office of the President
Anna Carlin
| Instructional Technology Librarian
Jaclyn Chastain
| Coordinator of Academic and Curriculum Support
Dr. Lisa Johnson
| Associate vice president of Enrollment Management
Catherine Gonzalez
| Student
Dr. Chad Nelson
| Program coordinator and assistant professor in Department of Communication & Philosophy
T.O. (Travell Oakes) |
Assistant director of Multicultural Development Initiatives
Seana Perkins
| Immunization records specialist in Student Health Services
The committee will be led by co-chairs: Pamela McCabe, the coordinator of University
Communications & Media Relations, and Lyn Millner, a journalism professor in the Department
of Communication & Philosophy.
The purpose of the Internal Communications Committee is to strengthen how the university
provides information to students, faculty and staff. The committee is charged with
understanding the types of informal and formal information channels available to the
university and exploring how these channels can be leveraged in a way to better engage
FGCU’s internal audience.
The group will kick off the work by hosting listening sessions with shared governance
groups and launching a campus-wide survey that asks you some important questions about
what you want to know and how you want to receive information. Look for additional
updates from Pamela and Lyn in the coming weeks.
Let’s make it a great week!
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
September 25, 2023
Hello, Eagle Family!
The strategic planning process is moving at full speed, and I am so pleased to see
so many of our students, faculty and staff engaged with this important process. Your
input is important!
Keep an eye on the
Strategic Plan Steering Committee website
, as it lists out all the upcoming events the group has put together. One of those
events takes place tomorrow - it is a workshop meeting with the FGCU Board of Trustees.
The all-day meeting begins at 10:30 a.m. in Room 138 of Academic Building 9, home
of The Water School.
Click here for the full agenda
Thanks again to all who have been engaged with the process of developing our vision
and direction for the future, and I encourage all members of the FGCU Family to find
time to attend the meetings and discussions about this critical endeavor.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
October 2023
Toggle More Info
October 2, 2023
Hello, Eagle Family!
October has arrived, and we are approaching the halfway point of the fall term. We
have much to look forward to, including traditional fall events on campus, the upcoming
holidays and the great celebration of our fall graduates in December. I'm pleased
to see so much enthusiasm campus-wide, and I want our students, faculty and staff
to know that your leaders are taking notice.
I encourage you to save the date for an upcoming town hall, which is set to take place
at noon on October 25. I will be joined by Cabinet, which consists of our five vice
presidents, to talk about FGCU's funding sources, current operating budget and allocations,
as well as the upcoming legislative session. This will be a great opportunity to ask
questions on how the budget works for our university and have a dialogue with university
leadership.
The event will take place in the Cohen Student Union Ballroom, and our students, faculty
and staff can join the conversation in person or virtually. Full event details will
be shared by email and on my website in the days to come.
The event is the first of many to be planned by the Internal Communications Committee.
The group has been hosting listening sessions with shared governance groups and will
soon launch a campus-wide survey. Stay tuned for more information.
Make it a great week.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
October 9, 2023
Hello, Eagle Family!
Last week was a great example of how FGCU connects with community and business leaders
across Southwest Florida.
The university welcomed members of the President's Advisory Circle on Workforce and
Economic Development to campus for its quarterly meeting. This is an invite-only group
of leaders from the five-county area. FGCU faculty, staff and administrators regularly
talk with this group about the current and future state of the workforce. During our
meeting, we collected the group's valuable input and insights on our next strategic
initiatives and directions for FGCU's bright future.
On that note, don't forget the
survey about FGCU's mission, vision and goals
is due tomorrow (October 10). Check your email for Friday's announcement on the feedback
sessions from the Strategic Plan Steering Committee.
We also welcomed our Town & Gown membership to campus last week. This is a group that
has a long history in supporting FGCU student scholarships, the FGCU Campus Food Pantry,
Azul's Attire and other projects that support our students, faculty and staff. It's
always so wonderful to see our community give back.
Finally, FGCU Eagle Advocacy kicked off the upcoming legislative session with the
Southwest Florida Delegation. Our theme for the upcoming legislative session is all
about "Excellence in Student Success."
For those who missed the event, we plan to talk briefly about the upcoming legislative
session during our October 25 town hall. We'll also discuss FGCU's funding sources
and the current operating budget and allocations. The flyer for the town hall is attached.
Mark your calendars and bring a lunch.
Make it a great week!
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
October 16, 2023
Hello, Eagle Family!
In a little over two weeks, there are going to be noticeable changes to the Cohen
Student Union. FGCU is preparing for a significant renovation that will provide our
student union with a more welcoming, living room-style atmosphere. I have attached
a couple renderings of Phase 1 of the project, and you can see that the design calls
for more open space, comfortable seating areas and a bolder color scheme that aligns
with our new branding initiative.
It will take about two years for the entire Cohen project to be completed. FGCU is
conducting the project in three phases, so only small sections of the building will
be under construction at one time. Phase 1 begins October 30, and it will focus on
updating Einstein’s Bros. Bagels and the walkway/lobby area leading out to the Bookstore
parking lot.
The Bookstore will remain accessible during the work. Einstein’s will be temporarily
moving to the food court area, where it will offer a condensed menu in The Rally space.
Please note that Einstein’s will be closed October 27-28 for the move. It is anticipated
to reopen in the food court space October 30.
As this project moves along, I will provide you with updates. Thank you to the renovation
committee for collaborating on this project to improve the student union experience.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
October 23, 2023
I will be part of a team from FGCU that is attending the 2023
Florida Chamber Annual Meeting & Future of Florida Forum
. As we meet with business and community leaders from across the state, we will share
FGCU’s story and its unparalleled impact in the Southwest Florida region. This is
an excellent opportunity to extend FGCU's reach and partnerships statewide, furthering
our mission to help students launch successful careers in the Sunshine State.
Attending the annual meeting is the perfect way to start the week, especially after
an incredible weekend on campus. Eagle EXPO was action-packed, and the annual open
house truly highlighted our programs and the work done by our terrific faculty, staff
and students. The weekend doubled as Eagle Family Weekend, and it was so wonderful
to see the influx of families visiting campus, too. In all, we had more than 2,000
people on campus, and I am so appreciative of all of our Eagles who pitched in to
make it such a successful weekend.
As we head into the week, be sure to mark your calendar for Wednesday’s budget-focused
town hall featuring the President’s Cabinet. The event is a great way to learn more
about FGCU’s budget process, including our funding sources, allocations and the upcoming
legislative session. The event starts at noon in the Cohen Student Union Ballroom,
and you can watch it online at
www.fgcu.edu/townhall
. Light refreshments will be provided, and we encourage you to bring your lunch. I
am looking forward to having this important conversation with faculty, staff and students.
Finally, I want you to know that our leadership team continues to work with the Chancellor’s
Office to evaluate, interpret and implement new legislation related to higher education,
especially Senate Bill 266. Recently, we received a draft version of the Board of
Governors (BOG) regulation, which addresses prohibited expenditures. FGCU leadership
– and leaders from other state public universities in Florida – provided feedback
on this regulation to the Chancellor’s Office. We will inform you about the progress
and implementation as we learn more.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
October 30, 2023
Dear Eagle Family,
Thank you to everyone who attended our first town hall of the academic year. I was
joined on stage by our vice presidents for a presentation on FGCU’s operating budget,
and we took several questions from our in-person and virtual audience.
We know that not everyone could make it to the event, so please know that a recording
of the discussion can be found on the website for the
Office of the President
. The Internal Communications Committee is collecting feedback on this town hall,
which can be submitted through a three-question form accessible at
The committee will use this information to guide future events, and Cabinet will answer
your additional questions on the budget after the feedback survey closes on Friday,
November 3. For more information, email
icc@fgcu.edu
. The next town hall will take place in January 2024, and it will focus on performance-based
funding metrics. We will announce details shortly.
Events like these are not only informational, but a great way to build a better sense
of community for our students and employees. We often talk about the importance of
our students feeling as though they belong on our campus, but it is also important
for our employees to feel connected to our campus community. We know you can’t be
at every event, but it’s important to find ways to get involved. Joining committees,
grabbing lunch with colleagues from across campus, supporting student events on the
Library Lawn, cheering on the Eagles at sporting events and following along with the
meetings of the FGCU Board of Trustees are great ways to get more involved.
We are a team, and it’s important for all of us to find time in our day to connect
with our campus community beyond our typical roles. I, for one, am looking forward
to seeing you on campus!
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
November 2023
Toggle More Info
November 6, 2023
Hello, Eagle Family!
At the end of October, you received information from the Office of Institutional Ethics
and Compliance about the events and happenings associated with Compliance and Ethics
Week. Starting on November 13, our students, faculty and staff are invited to take
part in these workshops, training sessions and informative talks that will help refresh
your knowledge about university policies and procedures.
These events will provide you with a greater idea of what to look out for when it
comes to compliance topics and ethical behavior, which is something we all have a
responsibility to uphold. For more information and to register for Compliance and
Ethics Week sessions, visit:
Office of Institutional Ethics and Compliance Events - Eagle Link (campuslabs.com).
Next week, the FGCU Board of Trustees will meet for its second workshop on the strategic
planning process. The
workshop
will take place at 9 a.m. November 14 in Room 138 of Academic Building 9 (home of
The Water School). We are very close to completing this important, guiding document
for the university, and it is important for all of us to get involved in the process.
Finally, I want to share a terrific experience I had last Friday when I served on
a panel of university presidents from across the state. The event, held at the University
of Central Florida, was titled, “Supporting Research and Innovation in Florida – Contemporary
Challenges and Opportunities.”  Our moderator was President Alexander Cartwright (UCF),
and I was joined on stage by fellow presidents Debra Schwinn (Palm Beach Atlantic
University), Moez Limayem (University of North Florida) and Martha D. Saunders (University
of West Florida). It was a thoughtful conversation, and I was so happy to share the
ways we work with our Southwest Florida and statewide partners to prepare our students
for their future.
Often, I write you messages that explain how the university is collaborating with
business leaders and community partners to support what we do on campus in terms of
student learning, research initiatives and other programs. Last week’s panel was yet
another example of how we are working with the greater community – this time, sharing
the sentiment alongside some of our higher-ed peers across the state.
I look forward to seeing you on campus.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
November 13, 2023
Hello, Eagle Family!
I had the pleasure of attending Trustee Summit, a one-day meeting of all of the State
University System’s presidents, trustees and members of the Board of Governors (BOG).
It was held at the University of Central Florida and led into the November BOG meeting.
The summit is a conference, if you will, to help educate board members about new and
rising topics in higher education, while providing orientation sessions for new members.
I was amazed at how many of the discussion points were focused on topics that FGCU
has implemented and, often, already mastered or is in the process of planning.
This includes focusing our attention on experiential learning and internship opportunities,
which provide our students with real-world experience beyond the classroom. Also highlighted
was a push for universities to develop the local workforce with short-term, high-rigor
academic programs like digital badges and micro-credentials. It was flattering to
know we are ahead of the curve and an example in our state and across the nation for
these initiatives.
For some other areas, we have work to do. However, we are seeking out new opportunities
and planning for next steps, especially for improving student success outcomes, such
as:
implementing an advanced, data-driven culture and using predictive analytics to identify
potential barriers that keep students from progressing or graduating;
adapting learning opportunities with new technologies to better meet the needs of
today’s teaching and learning environment;
and, finally, increasing awareness of FGCU for life-long learning opportunities.
We will carry all of this momentum forward in our next strategic plan. As I previously
mentioned,
FGCU’s trustees meet tomorrow
for a second workshop on this process. Among the topics to be discussed are the draft
documents for our next mission, vision and goals.
Many important topics were also discussed during the BOG meeting, including the proposed
regulation on prohibited expenditures, general education core courses, performance-based
funding metrics and a new funding formula. I will provide more details on these topics
when we receive specific direction from Chancellor Ray Rodrigues and his staff.
Make it a great week!
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
November 20, 2023
Hello, Eagle Family!
It is Thanksgiving week, and I want to pause and reflect on my gratitude for all of
our FGCU students, faculty and staff. You have shown such wonderful support as I transitioned
to the presidency, and I am constantly in awe of the incredible community that makes
up our Eagle Family.
Please know that you are making a difference in the world, and your impact can be
felt beyond the corners of this campus. Southwest Florida residents have every reason
to be proud our university is in their backyard, and that’s because of you. I am so
proud to count you all as my colleagues.
May your Thanksgiving break be a time where you can gather with loved ones and rest
up for the final stretch of the fall term.
As a quick lookahead:
STUDENTS:
The final day of fall classes is December 8, with finals week running through December
15. Commencement is December 16. Spring term classes begin January 8, 2024.
EMPLOYEES:
In addition to the Presidential Holiday for this week (November 22), please make
sure to mark your schedules for the recently announced Presidential Holiday on December
22. This is an early kickoff to this year’s winter break, and we will see you back
on campus January 2.
I am looking forward to seeing you on campus as we head into the final weeks of the
fall semester. Have a safe and wonderful Thanksgiving.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
November 28, 2023
Hello, Eagle Family!
I hope you had a great time with your loved ones during the Thanksgiving break and
have returned to campus feeling recharged and ready to complete the final days of
the fall term.
This week, the university is fine-tuning the details of our next strategic plan, which
is a document that will guide the university during the next five years. The steering
committee and I are continuing to gather final insights and feedback from members
of FGCU’s Board of Trustees. On
December 7
, we will present the final version of this plan to the full board. It is very exciting
to have reached this stage of the plan, and I look forward to sharing more about it.
The next day, December 8, is the final day of fall classes before exam week. Students,
I wish you all the best as we approach the end of the semester. Study and sleep well!
We know this time of year comes with extra stress and responsibilities, and your wellbeing
is important.
While the end of the term is a busy time of year, it is also a time when you are more
likely to see me out and about on campus. I am looking forward to making visits to
classrooms to observe student presentations in addition to attending university events,
cheering on our student-athletes at their games and representing FGCU at community
gatherings.
I am sure you will see me around, and I look forward to seeing you.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
December 2023
Toggle More Info
December 4, 2023
Hello, Eagle Family!
We have reached the final week of the fall term, and I am so proud of the work put
into this semester by our students, faculty and staff.
As I mentioned in last week’s message, I was going to be stopping by classrooms to
sit in on end-of-term presentations. In the communications department, I sat in on
a pitch session with public relations students, and then I saw the presentation of
research papers for students in the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Program in Marieb
College of Health & Human Services. On my way, I stopped by a sustainability event
hosted by Student Government.
I also took part in a Q-and-A session with students in an undergraduate leadership
class, and I attended a meet-and-greet in the Cohen Student Union for members of the
Naples Council on World Affairs. During this event, hosted by FGCU’s Global Engagement
Office, I saw the FGCU Millennium Fellows present their projects. I was honored to
be included in these sessions and see the phenomenal work that has been done this
semester by FGCU students.
Likewise, I had a fun, after-hours meetup with faculty from the Daveler & Kauanui
School of Entrepreneurship at one of my favorite places to dine on campus: The Boardwalk.
Meeting with employees is so important to me, so please don’t hesitate to invite me
to events. I may not always be able to attend, but I will when I can!
Finally, I just want to say that I ended last week on a high note with the very spirited
Night at the Nest. We had 800 people at the gala, which is our annual fundraiser for
the Athletics program. It was such a fantastic opportunity to see our student-athletes
and coaching staff mingling with the community. It was truly the embodiment of what
we do well here at FGCU – building relationships with our community so we can better
serve our students. It was the perfect end to the week!
Have a great week on campus.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
December 11, 2023
Hello, Eagle Family!
FGCU is most definitely on a journey to excellence, and I am thrilled to announce
that our proposed strategic plan has been unanimously approved by our Board of Trustees
(BOT). We have called the 2024-29 strategic plan
Innovating for Student Success: FGCU’s Journey to Excellence
. View the draft document online by
clicking here
Next, we will take our proposed strategic plan before the Board of Governors (BOG)
January 24-25 for final approval before we begin the exciting work of bringing the
document to life. Reaching this milestone is important for our FGCU Community, and
I am so grateful and proud of all the work that has been done on this project during
the past 20 months.
We began the journey with the
2022 Strategic Roadmap Steering Committee
and completed the project with the
Strategic Plan Steering Committee
. Both groups pulled together stakeholders throughout our university, including our
deans, school directors and shared governance groups, to facilitate conversations
and feedback sessions. We heard from students, employees, alumni, donors, Trustees
and advisory board members for our six colleges and five schools. We looked beyond
our campus, soliciting feedback from our five-county service region, including business
and community leaders, local school districts, nonprofits and members of the local
delegation. The feedback we received was incredible, and it helped us refine our existing
mission and vision statements.
We have also ensured that our strategic goals and directions are in alignment with
the 2025 Strategic Plan for the State University System (SUS) and the Florida Chamber
of Commerce’s 2030 Blueprint plan, as well as the demographic and economic growth
of Southwest Florida and beyond. This helped us create strategic and measurable performance
goals that will not only continue our distinctive identity in Southwest Florida’s
living laboratory, but ensures our plan aligns to the regional workforce, the state
and the ever-changing landscape of higher education.
My deepest appreciation to all who contributed to this important task. It is almost
impossible to list everyone's name here, but links to the committee memberships are
provided above. We recognize your work and thank each of you for your contributions
and service. A special thank you to those who helped lead the work for the past six
months: Committee Co-chairs Dr. Clay Motley and Jorge Lopez as well as Ex-officio
Dr. Eileen DeLuca. Job well done!
I will keep you updated on the next step: presenting the plan to the BOG at the end
of January. Until then, please take time to read the document.
We are all stakeholders in
FGCU’s Journey to Excellence
, and that means we are all accountable for ensuring we meet our goals. I am looking
forward to the work that lies ahead!
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
December 18, 2023
Hello, Eagle Family!
The fall term has officially come to an end, and we celebrated fall commencement over
the weekend. Despite blustery, rainy weather, our ceremonies were packed with families
and friends of our Eagle graduates.
A big thank you to all the faculty participants, staff workers and student volunteers
who made this important day such a beautiful event for our graduates. And to our students
who completed their academic programs, congratulations!
As I told our graduates on Saturday, the characteristics of FGCU students stand apart
from other institutions. Like our mascot, the mighty Eagle, our students are strong
and resilient, and they have learned to persevere through life’s challenges. And the
same can be said for our world-class faculty and amazing staff members who put student
success as the focal point of their day-to-day work.
From my perspective, the past year has been an incredible year for our institution,
and I look forward to continuing that momentum in 2024. I wish you all a wonderful
and relaxing winter break, and I look forward to seeing you all next year!
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
2024 Messages
Toggle More Info
January 2024
Toggle More Info
January 2, 2024
Hello, Eagle Family, and happy New Year!
I hope you had a great time with your loved ones during winter break and have returned
to campus feeling rested and refreshed. We are kicking off the spring term next week,
and soon our campus will be buzzing with activity.
On Friday, January 12, we will gather at Alico Arena for my presidential installation,
an event that will celebrate everything our institution has achieved over the past
26 years and the work that lies ahead. Faculty, staff and students are encouraged
to attend the festivities, with the ceremony starting at 10 a.m. in the arena. The
ceremony will be followed by an outdoor lunch on the FGCU Soccer Field, and I look
forward to celebrating with all of you. Both events are free to attend, but
tickets are required
to enter Alico Arena.
While the celebration is a great kick off to the year, I am most excited about what
we will achieve together in the months ahead. From my perspective, 2024 brings us
new opportunities for personal and professional growth, and it starts with our proposed
strategic plan,
Innovating for Student Success: FGCU's Journey to Excellence
We will present the document to the Board of Governors (BOG) for final approval at
the end of the month. If you have not done so already, please
read through the plan
FGCU’s Journey to Excellenc
e will truly guide our decisions and priorities for the next five years, and all of
us have a responsibility in making sure we meet our goals.
I look forward to seeing you on campus.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
January 8, 2024
Hello, Eagle Family!
Today marks the first day of the spring term, and I wish all of our students, faculty
and staff a great beginning to what I know will be an amazing semester. I would also
like to welcome our newest students, staff and faculty to campus. On behalf of the
university, I welcome you to the Eagle Family.
The start of a new year, or a new semester, brings a sense of renewal. And it truly
is a time of new beginnings at FGCU. We are growing, we are maturing and we have a
bright, exciting future ahead of us.
I hope to see you at my presidential installation celebration this Friday at Alico
Arena. The time-honored academic celebration begins at 10 a.m., and we will gather
to honor FGCU’s legacy, celebrating everything our institution has achieved over its
past 26 years and the important work that lies ahead.
The ceremony will be followed by an outdoor lunch on the FGCU Soccer Field. Both events
are free to attend, but
tickets are required
to enter Alico Arena. Make sure you get your tickets!
I look forward to seeing you on campus.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
January 16, 2024
Hello, Eagle Family!
Alico Arena was filled with Eagle Spirit Friday during the installation ceremony,
and I thank all of our students, faculty and staff for representing our great university
at this event. Truly, it was a wonderful celebration of our institution’s unique history,
biggest milestones and the legacy we have built in Southwest Florida.
As part of the time-honored academic tradition, I shared the stage with our previous
leaders, including our founding president, Dr. Roy McTarnaghan; our third president,
Dr. Wilson Bradshaw; and Dr. Mike Martin, our fourth president. Having our previous
presidents back on campus made the event extra special – something we have heard from
longtime employees, alumni and our community supporters.
I want to thank the hardworking volunteers and event staff who put on this great event.
You embedded FGCU’s culture of
passion
partnerships
and
performance
into every piece of the ceremony and truly made the Eagle Family very proud.
As I told the audience Friday, the road ahead is bright for FGCU. We are going to
build on our successes and carry FGCU’s momentum forward. We will cross off our next
milestone next week when we present our new strategic plan to the Board of Governors
for final approval. Once approved, we will begin the exciting work of bringing the
plan to life on our campus.
It is such an exciting time to be an FGCU Eagle.
LOOKING AHEAD
: Please mark your calendars for FGCU’s next town hall, which will focus on performance-based
funding and metrics. The town hall is set for 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Friday, February
2, in the Cohen Student Union Ballroom. Check out the event flyer or visit the
website for the Office of the President
for more information.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
January 22, 2024
Hello, Eagle Family!
I am writing you from Tallahassee in honor of the 10th Annual FGCU Day at the Capitol.
Tomorrow, our team of Eagle Advocates will meet with elected officials and their staff
to talk about FGCU’s legislative priorities, what we love about this institution and
where we are headed in the future.
I’m thrilled to have so many of our students and alumni join us for this great tradition.
Thank you to Student Body President Emory Cavin, who rounded up members of Student
Government to participate in FGCU Day and learn first-hand about the fundamentals
of state government. And thanks to our Government Relations team for making this event
happen!
As I have said before, our future is bright. We will carry this momentum to the Board
of Governors this week, as I will present our proposed strategic plan for final approval.
Please stay tuned on more information about our next steps with our five-year plan.
Among our upcoming events is the next town hall. I am looking forward to a great discussion
with faculty, staff and students at the February 2 event, where I will be joined by
our vice presidents for a discussion on performance-based funding and metrics.
Light refreshments will be available, but plan to bring a lunch and your questions.
The event starts at 11 a.m. in the Cohen Student Union Ballroom.
Here are a few of the topics we will cover:
The history of performance-based funding (PBF) in Florida
A look at how the benchmarks for the metrics system has changed over time
The link between a university’s performance and how it is funded
FGCU’s position for PBF metrics
How FGCU’s proposed strategic plan will impact our performance in the state metrics
system
It may be helpful to review the following documents before the town hall:
2023 Performance Based Funding: Metric Scores and Allocations
2023 SUS Accountability Plan,
which includes definitions for each metric and shows metric-by-metric comparisons
for the 12 SUS institutions.
See the event flyer (attached) or visit the
website for the Office of the President
for more information.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
January 29, 2024
Hello, Eagle Family!
Over the weekend, we welcomed our admitted students for the upcoming academic year
to campus for our annual
Say Yes to the Nest
event. This is an opportunity to show off our campus and provide future Eagles with
more information about our academic programs, colleges, schools and campus life.
It was a beautiful day on campus, and we were able to showcase our Southwest Florida
lifestyle during winter, which was a wonderful experience for our out-of-state visitors.
I appreciate and thank all of our faculty, staff and students who made the event such
a great success. Great job, team!
Speaking of teams, one of my favorite parts about our campus is how many incredible
sporting events occur. There is always an opportunity to wear your green and blue
and cheer on our Eagles, whether the athletes play for our
registered sport clubs
or
intercollegiate teams
. Be sure to check out the Athletics calendar so you do not miss the opportunity to
interact with our outstanding student-athletes and coaches.
As we head into a new week on campus, do not be surprised if you see more people on
campus. On Tuesday and Wednesday, FGCU is hosting universities and colleges from across
the nation for
Instructure’s Badging Summit
. This is an incredible opportunity for FGCU to stand out as a role model to other
institutions as we highlight our digital badge and micro-credential programs.
I have often said that FGCU is ahead of the curve for responding quickly to workforce
needs, and one way we do this is through these short-term, high-rigor academic certificate
programs that help advance employees in their career path. Hosting this conference
is a big step for our university, and one that should make all of us proud.
Finally, I want to remind you that at 11 a.m. on Friday we will gather in the Cohen
Student Union Ballroom for the university’s next town hall:
Understanding Performance-Based Funding and Metrics
. I will be joined by our vice presidents for the discussion, and we encourage our
faculty, staff and students to bring a lunch and some questions for the Q-and-A. Visit
the
website for the Office of the President
for more information.
Make it a great week.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
February 2024
Toggle More Info
February 5, 2024
Hello, Eagle Family!
From start to finish, last week was a perfect example of how FGCU is creating partnerships
across campus and beyond.
I started the week by sitting in on discussions and presentations for
FGCU’s Digital Badge Summit
(in collaboration with Instructure), which was an incredible opportunity for FGCU
to highlight its nationally recognized digital badge and micro-credential programs.
We have done so much in such a short amount of time to develop these programs for
our students and workforce. It was a wonderful and humbling experience to share our
badging model with university leaders from across the state and nation.
I also attended the
Lee Health Day
open house, where our students, faculty and staff learned more about Lee Health and
the work being done in our community by one of the largest public health systems in
the United States. While I was there, Dr. Larry Antonucci, the president and CEO of
Lee Health, presented me with my very own lab coat – dubbing me a “Doctor in Community
Partnerships!” Of course, I was honored to receive my second “doctorate,” but the
recognition truly honors the work we are doing campus-wide to connect our students
with regional partners like Lee Health.
Finally, I want to thank all of you who attended the
town hall discussion
on performance-based funding and metrics. The open forum is exactly what we need
to do more of as a university community, and it was an exercise in showing how we
are using our new strategic plan to form better relationships campus-wide on our
Journey to Excellence
. I’m looking forward to planning our next event with the Internal Communications
Committee. Stay tuned for more details!
SAVE THE DATES
: Please mark your calendars for the spring semester lunches at
The Boardwalk
. The events are held the first Tuesday of the month, when the waterfront restaurant
will open early for faculty, staff and students. The next lunch is tomorrow – Tuesday,
February 6 – from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. I’m disappointed I have to miss it, but
I encourage you to head over for a lunch with a view!
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
February 12, 2024
Hello, Eagle Family!
Student success is at the forefront of our mission, and I am proud of the many ways
our students are learning, maturing and impacting the world around them.
Today, I want to highlight some great news from the School of Nursing. Once again,
our nursing graduates have risen to the top when it comes to passing the National
Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). This year, 100% of
our nursing graduates passed the exam, earning them the top pass rate in the State
University System of Florida. Within the SUS, the average pass rate is 92%, and the
national average is 90%. Kudos to our Nursing faculty and staff for putting support
systems in place to help our students transition from the rigorous program to the
workforce. And congratulations to our nursing graduates – you make us proud!
Speaking of alumni, last week was Homecoming. More than 1,000 alumni, students, faculty
and staff attended the various events, from the launch of an alumni-themed beer called
“Wings Up” at Palm City Brewing to celebrating the many successes of our talented
graduates at our annual Alumni Awards.  Of course, the weekend festivities were also
incredible, and I enjoyed seeing FGCU’s green-and-blue pride on display at the Homecoming
Tailgate and basketball games. I applaud our employees who made it such a wonderful
week for our Eagle Family – thank you!
Finally, I want to officially congratulate our newly elected officers for FGCU’s Board
of Trustees. Michael Wynn is board chair and Richard P. Eide, Jr. is vice chair for
the 2024-26 term. I am eager for the work ahead as we bring our strategic plan to
life.
Make it a great week, and I hope to see you on campus.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
February 19, 2024
Hello, Eagle Family!
Often, we talk about the wonderful partnerships that exist between FGCU and the regional
and statewide workforce, as we act as a pipeline that connects students to their future
careers. But we also develop important friendships with other community groups and
organizations, ensuring that
FGCU’s Journey to Excellence
will make all of Southwest Florida successful.
Take for example our partnership with the region’s K-12 school systems. We regularly
work with school administrators and instructors to plan one-of-a-kind experiences
that highlight how a university education can impact the lives of their students.
We showcased this type of partnership last week when we welcomed seventh-grade students
from Collier County Public Schools to campus. You may have noticed their bright green
shirts as the middle schoolers toured our academic facilities!
I met up with the students and Superintendent Leslie Ricciardelli on the tour, where
I was able to tell them about our institution. Their visit to campus was a wonderful
experience, especially for the students who may become the first in their family to
go to college. We will be doing a similar venture in April with Superintendent Mike
Swindle of the Hendry County School District, and I’m looking forward to engaging
more of our region’s youth in the remarkable things happening on campus.
I like to think of our visitors as Early Eagles, as we help them envision what life
as an FGCU Eagle could look like for them. When you think about it, it is not much
different than what we did Saturday during Eagle Expo. During this admissions-focused
open house, we offered prospective Eagles and their families tours of campus and the
residence halls, displayed information about our colleges, schools and programs, and
gave them opportunities to engage with our faculty, staff and students. Thanks to
our faculty, staff, students and administrators who volunteered to showcase FGCU on
Saturday.
It is always a pleasure to share our passion for student success with our visitors.
This passion and our pursuit of excellence under our new strategic plan were part
of my remarks last week during a luncheon with Town & Gown, a service organization
that promotes friendships between the Southwest Florida community and the university.
The members support student scholarships, faculty projects and stock our Campus Food
Pantry and Azul’s Attire.
Sharing FGCU’s story with our partners is vital to our success, whether it is a school
district or a representative of Town & Gown. Once again, I send my gratitude to all
our employees and students who are helping tell our story.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
February 26, 2024
Hello, Eagle Family!
Improving internal communications is one of our objectives in
FGCU’s Journey to Excellence
. Doing so will strengthen our organizational culture and ensure that our students,
faculty and staff feel more informed about and engaged in the day-to-day operations
of campus. But to make strides in this area, we need to hear from you.
Today, we are launching a campus-wide survey on internal communications. The survey
takes about 5 minutes to complete, and it will remain open for the next three weeks
– closing on Friday, March 15.
Click
HERE
to take the communications survey!
You will be asked about:
Frequency of university communications
Topics that interest you the most
Preferred methods or channels of communication
Emails you regularly read (and the ones you ignore)
Please participate in the survey and encourage your friends and colleagues to do the
same. Survey Link:
It is critical that we hear from you, as surveys like this provide us with valuable
feedback that helps our university respond to the needs of our constituents. We are
committed to continuous improvement. I look forward to also hearing recommendations
from the COACHE Strategy Setting Task Force about resources and support and ways to
improve FGCU’s culture of leadership.
EMPLOYEE APPRECIATION NIGHT AT ALICO
FGCU faculty and staff will be recognized during the women’s basketball game against
the University of North Florida Thursday night. The game begins at 7 p.m. at Alico
Arena. The players have been asked to identify an FGCU employee who has been their
personal MVP (most valuable player), and all faculty and staff in the audience will
be recognized during halftime. Tickets can be purchased at
fgcuathletics.com
, and don’t forget to wear red to support the American Heart Association.
SOAR INTO SPRING
March 4-8 is the students’ spring break, and it is my hope that faculty and staff
are able to use this time to participate in trainings and gear up for the remainder
of the spring term. One way to do this is by signing up for the annual Soar into Spring
events offered by the Staff Advisory Council (SAC). All the details can be found in
Soar into Spring document attached to this email.
Make it a great week on campus.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
March 2024
Toggle More Info
March 4, 2024
Hello, Eagle Family!
Students are on spring break this week, and that means we are looking at a different
pace on campus for faculty and staff. As you make plans for the days ahead, don’t
forget about the annual Soar into Spring events offered by the Staff Advisory Council
(SAC). There are approximately 30 events scheduled throughout the week. Please see
the attachment for the full schedule of events.
For part of this week, I will be in Tallahassee to advocate for our university alongside
University Trustees Joseph Fogg III and Richard Eide, Jr. The Senate and House recently
started negotiations for the 2024-25 state budget, and we will be meeting with legislators
to discuss our priorities, resource requests and
FGCU’s Journey to Excellence
I have been sharing information with all of you about our strategic plan, especially
our commitment to creating an exceptional workplace environment. As a reminder, we
are participating in two surveys that will assist us in this mission. On March 12,
employees will receive an email about the “Great College to Work For” survey, and
our campus-wide
survey on internal communications
will remain open until March 15. It is critical that we hear from you, so please
participate.
I wish all of you a great week on campus.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
March 11, 2024
Hello, Eagle Family!
Our students are back from spring break, and the campus is buzzing once again with
activity. I hope you took advantage of a quieter week on campus, and that you were
able to get out of the office to participate in the Soar into Spring events. I want
to thank the Staff Advisory Council (SAC) for organizing the events and our partners
around campus for providing our employees with these engaging activities around campus.
I mentioned in my email last week that I traveled to Tallahassee with two of our University
Trustees. It was a pleasure to meet with so many of our elected officials and share
the wonderful accomplishments of our university. As we discussed FGCU’s priorities,
resource requests and our new strategic plan, it was clear to me that our state officials
are proud of the work we are doing at FGCU. In the coming weeks, we will know more
about where we stand in the governor’s final state budget, and I will keep you updated
once that information becomes available.
Don’t forget, this is the final week to participate in the campus-wide survey on internal
communications. Your feedback will help inform decisions about how we will improve
internal communications for our students, faculty and staff. The survey takes about
5 minutes to complete, and it will remain open until 11:59 p.m. Friday. Click
HERE
to take the communications survey, or visit
Wishing all of you a great week on campus.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
March 18, 2024
Hello, Eagle Family!
The spring semester continues to be one of great excitement, especially for our seniors
and graduate students who are counting down the days to commencement in May. As we
approach this time-honored academic tradition, FGCU is expanding the ways we can make
this incredible milestone extra special. FGCU faculty and staff who have an immediate
family member graduating this term should send an email to April Cordonnier at
acordonnier@fgcu.edu
. We are also looking for more employees to sign up to work during the celebration.
If you want to get more involved, please fill out this form:
Spring 2024 Commencement FGCU Employee Worker Registration - Formstack
I want to thank all of our faculty and staff for taking part in recent surveys, many
of which are collecting valuable feedback about our work environment. This includes
the “Great Colleges to Work For” survey, which closes on March 26.  Your participation
in these voluntary surveys help FGCU improve our work culture, services to students
and campus communications. Please participate in these surveys to the best of your
ability.
Finally, I want to congratulate the women's basketball team for winning its seventh
consecutive Atlantic Sun Conference Tournament title over the weekend. FGCU will play
the University of Oklahoma in the first round of the NCAA Tournament at 4 p.m. Saturday
in Bloomington, Indiana. You can follow along on ESPN News, and I want to wish our
student-athletes, coaches and support staff congratulations and good luck.
If you include FGCU’s regular season play across all sports, we have won five conference
championships this year, which brings our program’s total to 103 championship wins
overall. We have much to be proud of at FGCU, and I encourage our Eagle Family to
show support for our student-athletes by wearing blue and green on campus this week.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
March 25, 2024
Hello, Eagle Family!
Over the weekend, I had the opportunity to travel to Indiana to cheer on our women’s
basketball team as they took on Oklahoma in the first round of the NCAA Tournament.
Our student-athletes always play with such passion, and Saturday was no different.
Although their journey in the Big Dance has ended, I am proud of them and grateful
to have been courtside to watch them play as a team one final time, alongside more
than 140 FGCU fans. I am so thankful to everyone who was there – alumni, parents,
friends, donors and, of course, our dedicated support teams from the Athletics department.
It was an incredible experience that I will never forget.
This week, I will be representing our university at the Board of Governors meeting
in Gainesville, where we will hear updates from all 12 public universities about student
success initiatives and faculty research. I am proud to say that during the 2022-23
academic year we nearly tripled the amount of research dollars awarded to faculty
members since the pandemic. We are continuing to build off the success of our past
as we mature as an institution, and this is just one area that shows how we are maturing
as a university and building off our past successes.
I know all of you have programs and initiatives that bring you great joy and pride
here on campus, and I look forward to seeing these endeavors grow. One way to support
these causes is by participating in the annual
FGCU Give Day
fundraising campaign. The 24-hour donation drive begins at noon Wednesday. Every
contribution, no matter the size, plays a crucial role in shaping the future of FGCU.
Visit
giveday.fgcu.edu
for more information.
SAVE THE DATE:
Please join the Office of Public Policy Events April 3 for a discussion with State
Reps. Spencer Roach (Republican from North Fort Myers) and Hillary Cassel (Democrat
from Hollywood). Called “Crossing the Political Divide,” the event will highlight
their joint efforts as co-sponsors of proposed House Bill 1213 regarding revisions
to windstorm insurance coverage. The program begins at 6 p.m. with a reception at
5 p.m. in the Cohen Student Union, Room 201.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
April 2024
Toggle More Info
April 1, 2024
Hello, Eagle Family!
Tomorrow, our campus will welcome more than 160 juniors from LaBelle and Clewiston
high schools as part of our first-ever
Hendry County Schools Day at FGCU
. Many of our faculty and staff will join in supporting this event, and you will likely
notice the uptick in foot traffic on campus as the students explore pathways in fields
related to healthcare, entrepreneurship, business, construction and education.
This initiative speaks to
Goal 3: Elevate Partnerships for Regional Impact
of our
new strategic plan
. Recently, FGCU established an FGCU-Hendry County Coalition to enhance outreach to
and communication with Hendry County, and a significant focus is on the public schools
in that region.
FGCU will also be visiting this community, as well as others in Southwest Florida,
to deepen our connections and create new partnerships that will assist in
FGCU’s Journey to Excellence
. I send my thanks to all of our faculty, staff and students who have been engaged
in these efforts.
The following evening, we will host State Reps. Spencer Roach and Hillary Cassel for
a discussion called
Crossing the Political Divide
. The program, planned by FGCU’s Office of Public Policy Events, begins at 6 p.m.
Wednesday in the Cohen Student Union, Room 201. See the attached flyer for details!
SAVE THE DATE
Finally, I encourage you to mark your calendars for
the
Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting Ceremony of the South Village Boardwalk
The event is set to begin at 9 a.m. on Thursday, April 18, and it will give you an
opportunity to take your first journey along the pathway connecting the South Village
residential area with the main academic corridor.
Employees, you can learn more about what makes this boardwalk unique in the March
issue of Inside FGCU, which can also be found online:
www.fgcu.edu/inside
If you plan to join in the festivities, make sure to RSVP through this link for catering
purposes:
I hope to see you there!
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
April 8, 2024
Hello, Eagle Family!
As you know, the remodel of the
Cohen Student Union
has been underway since the end of last October. From start to finish, the remodel
project will take about two years to complete and require three phases of construction.
Our end goal is to provide students and employees with a more welcoming, living room-style
atmosphere that incorporates more open space and group seating areas that will be
great for socializing and working collaboratively on school projects. Cohen’s remodel
will also showcase our Eagle spirit, as the walls and decor will showcase FGCU’s bold
colors and insignia.
While we are just getting started on this initiative, I am pleased to say the first
phase is nearly finished! I hope you will join me at the
grand re-opening celebration of
Einstein Bros. Bagels.
Although the restaurant did not close during the remodel, it shifted to the general
food court area. This celebration will take place at Einstein’s original – and updated
– location at 9 a.m. on Tuesday, April 23.
If you plan to join in the festivities, please RSVP by April 18 at
I am also counting down the days to FGCU’s 27th annual
Celebration of Excellence
event, which is one of our university’s longest-running traditions. Open to the entire
FGCU community, this event honors the achievements of our students, faculty and staff
during the past year.
It isn’t lost on me that the Celebration of Excellence fits into our new strategic
plan, particularly
Goal 4: Strengthen Organizational Culture and Commitment to Employees
. Celebrating your hard work and dedication to our students is an absolute joy, and
I hope to see you at 2:30 p.m. on Tuesday, April 16, in the Cohen Student Union Ballroom
for this great event.
Speaking of
FGCU's Journey to Excellence
, I am thrilled to announce the addition of a new role at our university. Soon, we
will be adding a Vice President of Strategic Initiatives & Chief of Staff position
to the President’s Cabinet. The person who fills this role will be a direct report
to me, and they will serve as one of the key strategic partners to the organization's
leadership, providing high-level support and guidance.
The person selected for this new position will collaborate campus-wide with offices
and academic units to ensure effective implementation of our new strategic plan and
other university initiatives. In other words, t
his position will deliver project management, strategic planning coordination and
implementation support to further the university's strategic vision and key organizational
initiatives with measurable and timely outcomes.
This vice president will also oversee and provide guidance to the Office of Board
Relations, where they will coordinate with the Director of Board Relations and Associate
Corporate Secretary Tiffany Reynolds, who will now also carry the title and duties
of Deputy Chief of Staff.
FGCU is launching a national search for this new vice president position, and the
job posting will go live later this week. I will keep you updated – stay tuned!
Make it a great week.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
April 15, 2024
Hello, Eagle Family!
You have heard me say that FGCU’s new strategic plan is our roadmap forward, and I
want to focus today’s message on our next steps as a university community.
To execute this plan and bring it to life,
we must
prepare unit plans
in both academic and administrative functional areas of the university. These plans
include the tactics, strategies, projects and initiatives that will be used to help
FGCU meet its overarching, institutional goals and objectives.
From here, we need to
make sure that all of our individual performance goals align
with the unit plans. This is how we make a difference in student success and drive
home the mission of the institution. As I have said many times before, every employee
on this campus – faculty, staff and administration – plays a critical role in
FGCU’s Journey to Excellence
All of us are accountable, and we need to keep this expectation in mind as we move
into FGCU’s annual goal-setting process.
Tying all these elements together – our institutional, unit and individual work –
creates the systematic alignment required for us to be successful in our mission
. It takes every single one of us to accomplish our strategic goals and objectives,
and that means we all need to work together. Together, we are FGCU!
The Strategic Plan Executive Committee, in consultation with the Cabinet and Institutional
Effectiveness and Accountability Council, has worked on a timeline and specific directions.
Information will be sent out to campus later this week, and we plan to present our
top priorities to the Board of Trustees at the September meeting. Stay tuned for more
information.
DON’T FORGET!
FGCU is offering three
virtual information sessions
about our project with the National Center for Higher Education Management Systems
(NCHEMS).
Today at 1:30 p.m. |
Click here to register for Town Hall 1
Tuesday at 11 a.m. |
Click here to register for Town Hall 2
Wednesday at 4 p.m. |
Click here to register for Town Hall 3
The
Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting Ceremony of the South Village Boardwalk
begins at 9 a.m. on Thursday. Please see the attachment for more details. I hope
to see you there!
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
April 22, 2024
Hello, Eagle Family!
Please bear with me as I have a longer message this week as we wrap up our spring
term!
STRATEGIC PLAN
Last week I announced there would be an email to campus that provides a timeline and
specific directions for how we will bring our strategic plan to life in all of our
units. In full transparency, the
Strategic Plan Executive Committee
is still developing this information.
Here’s what the team is working on:
Collecting valuable feedback from our shared governance groups so we can develop the
process and timeline.
Working with General Counsel to adjust related university policies to provide better
clarity about unit reporting across campus.
Launching a new piece of technology called
HelioCampus
, which will help us transparently set and track our efforts in continuous improvement
campus-wide.
I apologize for jumping ahead of where we were in the process – I was just so excited
to share the news! Please stay tuned for additional information on our next steps.
INTERNAL COMMUNICATIONS
Recently you were asked to participate in a survey about internal communications,
and the committee leading this effort prepared a presentation for Cabinet last week
that explains their top-five takeaways from the survey results.
Attached is their summary
, and I want you to know the co-chairs of the
Internal Communications Committee
will be returning to Cabinet in the coming weeks with a list of recommendations for
how we can improve communication efforts campus-wide. From here, we will discuss what
can be accomplished immediately, what will take a few months, and what items might
be developed over a longer period of time. The committee is also making recommendations
for upcoming events that will help us have more authentic conversations as a community.
Thank you for participating in this survey and helping guide our process forward.
COACHE SURVEY
Provost Mark Rieger and I met with the
COACHE Strategy Setting Taskforce
last Friday. The team provided such a comprehensive and thorough report with actionable
strategies and objectives that align with Goal 4 of the strategic plan. I thank everyone
who is involved in this process and appreciate the commitment of improving the two
areas of selected priorities: (one) resources and support and (two) culture of leadership.
The team also presented an implementation plan with a detailed timeline. Now, the
task force will add new members and continue to work with me to further prioritize
these recommendations and start implementing them during the summer. We will move
forward with these recommendations right away. On the other hand, once we get the
results of the “Great Colleges to Work For” survey, we will analyze and merge strategies
together even further. Stay tuned!
CELEBRATION OF EXCELLENCE & EAGLE X
It was so wonderful to attend the
Celebration of Excellence
event last week. I love that our university has this long-standing tradition to pause
and acknowledge the strength of the incredible people who work and learn here. The
nominees and award winners are a sampling of what it means to be an FGCU Eagle, and
I want to congratulate all involved!
I also want to thank
all the faculty, staff and students who made this year’s
Eagle X
event a resounding success! Eagle X is a great demonstration of FGCU’s commitment
to transformational education, from inside the classroom with research and scholarship
to beyond the classroom with internships, community engagement, and leadership process.
This great event truly showcases our students’ outstanding work to the campus and
Southwest Florida communities, and it is a true celebration of student excellence.
STATE BUDGET
I know that many of you are asking for details about this year’s legislative outcomes
regarding the state’s budget. However, Gov. Ron DeSantis has not signed the budget
yet, and we are waiting until we have the final version of the state budget to begin
conversations about our finances for the year ahead.
I know this can be confusing because the Florida Legislature passed the fiscal year
2024-25 budget on March 8.  But under Florida’s Constitution, the governor has 15
days to act on legislation once a bill has been presented to them. At this time, the
governor has not been presented with the budget bill. FGCU continues to monitor this
process closely, so please be patient and stay tuned!
DON’T FORGET:
The
grand re-opening celebration of Einstein Bros. Bagels
. is at 9 a.m. tomorrow!
FGCU has completed the first phase of a two-year process to update and remodel the
Cohen Student Union. We will mark this milestone with the grand re-opening of
Einstein Bros. Bagels in its original location.
I hope to see you there!
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
April 29, 2024
Hello, Eagle Family!
Today marks the final day of spring classes, and the rest of the week will be dedicated
to preparing for the culmination of the 2023-24 academic year. It has been a great
honor to stop by classes, observe end-of-the-year presentations and recognize our
students’ many accomplishments.
We will honor the
Eagle Class of 2024
this weekend at Alico Arena. Many of the students who will be recognized during the
four ceremonies missed an opportunity to have a traditional high school graduation
due to the global pandemic, and this will be a very special moment for them and their
biggest supporters. I send my congratulations to each of our graduates, and I want
to preemptively thank our faculty participants, staff workers and student volunteers
who have signed up to make this weekend’s events so special. Your contributions make
all the difference!
From my perspective, the past year has been an incredible year of growth for our institution.
We are seeking ways to continually improve how we serve our students, and we are working
together to reach our goals and objectives as outlined in the new strategic plan.
We are off to an incredible start, and I know we will carry that momentum into the
2024-25 academic year.
Certainly, we have welcomed many new faces to campus this year, and I want to personally
invite you to a
mix-and-mingle event with Colin Hargis
, FGCU’s new director of intercollegiate athletics. Join us Friday, May 10, in the
atrium and garden area outside of Academic Building 9, home of The Water School. The
event runs from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., and it will be in the style of an open house. Light
snacks and beverages will be served.
Colin is also going to be throwing out the first pitch the next evening during
FGCU Night at Hammond Stadium
. Wear your blue for FGCU and help us pack the stands as the Fort Myers Mighty Mussels
play the Dunedin Blue Jays. A half-price ticket is available for all FGCU students,
faculty, staff, alumni and their families. Order your tickets ($6.50, plus service
fees) today at
fevo-enterprise.com/event/fgcu
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
May 2024
Toggle More Info
May 6, 2024
Hello, Eagle Family!
It is the start of a new week, and I am still thinking about the energy that filled
Alico Arena over the weekend as the FGCU community celebrated the many accomplishments
of the Class of 2024. The stands were packed with family and friends who cheered on
their graduates, and it was an honor to recognize the resilience, hard work and dedication
of our FGCU graduates.
Thank you to all the faculty participants, staff workers and student volunteers who
made this important day such a beautiful event for our 1,900 graduates and their guests.
From start to finish, the ceremonies were absolutely beautiful. Your presence meant
so much to the graduates and their families.
Grades are due this week, and I want to thank the faculty for a successful spring
term. If you are off this summer, I send you my best wishes for a safe and restful
break.
As we head into the summer, I want to share that I will be changing up my messages
to campus for the months of May, June and July. Starting this week, I will only be
sending out messages every other week, and I will resume my weekly schedule in August.
Of course, if it is needed, I will send messages that require your immediate attention.
For part of this week, I will be traveling to Washington, D.C., with representatives
of our Government Relations, Alumni and Research & Sponsored Programs offices. We
will be meeting with various elected officials to showcase the work we do here, and
I’ll report back on this trip in my next message (May 20).
I’ll be back in time for Thursday’s Board of Trustees workshop on metrics and performance-based
funding. To learn more about the meeting, visit
www.fgcu.edu/about/fgcuboardoftrustees
If you are in town this week, please note these upcoming events:
Join us from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Friday for a mix-and-mingle event with FGCU’s new athletics
director: Colin Hargis
. The event will take place at Academic Building 9, home of The Water School. Light
refreshments will be served (see flyer).
Wear your blue for FGCU and help us pack the stands for FGCU Night at Hammond Stadium
. A half-price ticket is available for all FGCU students, faculty, staff, alumni and
their families. Order your tickets ($6.50 + service fees) today at
fevo-enterprise.com/event/fgcu
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
May 20, 2024
Hello, Eagle Family!
With the arrival of the summer term, we are counting down to the end of the fiscal
year and the start of a new budget cycle. During my meetings with Cabinet and other
campus leaders, we regularly discuss the upcoming budget year as an opportunity to
find ways we can invest more resources and support for our staff and faculty.
Without a doubt, we have seen incredible hard work campus-wide over the past year,
and it brings me great joy to see the energy and passion surrounding our new strategic
plan. I want you to know that FGCU’s leadership team is committed to building an operating
budget that prioritizes increases in compensation and support for our employees so
we can continue this work together, both professionally and personally.
As I have shared previously, we remain in a holding pattern for making final decisions
on next year’s budget. To get to this point, we need a final state budget in place.
At this time, the governor has not been presented with the budget bill from the state
legislature. Once that happens, there is still a 15-day grace period for action.
Our team continues to track this process closely, and I am looking forward to sharing
more on our upcoming budget soon. Stay tuned!
In other news, I am proud to say FGCU’s recent trip to Washington, D.C., was an incredible
opportunity to meet
with members of our Southwest Florida Congressional Delegation. Among the topics we
discussed were the:
Implementation efforts of our five-year strategic pla
Expansion of research activities, including water-quality initiative
Academic highlights of the past year, including the incredible success of our health
sciences program
And the expansion of our micro-credentialing and digital badging efforts.
Our delegates made it clear that they appreciate the work happening at FGCU, and it
was so wonderful to hear their ongoing commitment to supporting student success on
our campus. We even talked about ways we can help our students pursue internship opportunities
in congressional offices! Of course, one of the highlights of the trip was connecting
with alumni members in the FGCU Washington D.C. Eagles Chapter for an after-hours
reception.
I send my thanks to those who came along with me on this trip, including
Dr. Rose Higgins
, Associate Vice President of Research & Sponsored Programs;
Jennifer Goen
, Director of Government Relations;
Kim Wallace
, Director of Alumni Relations;
Angela Kunkle
, Director of Development; and
Susie Wentworth
, Advocacy Coordinator in Government Relations. This trip proves once again that we
have incredible support for our university in our community and beyond!
My next scheduled update will come out on June 3. As always,
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
June 2024
Toggle More Info
June 3, 2024
Hello, Eagle Family!
We may have kicked off the summer term, a time when fewer students and faculty are
around campus, but it has been anything but slow! For one, FGCU has been reaching
out to the far reaches of our five-county service area to host town hall conversations,
continue partnerships and build new relationships. These efforts speak to
strategic plan
Goal 3:
Elevate Partnerships for Regional Impact
Last week, we traveled to Clewiston for an event for the Hendry and Glades county
communities, where we spent time talking about our rural outreach efforts, connections
with the K-12 school systems and the future of agribusiness. This week, we head north
to Charlotte County to strengthen our work in this community.
One of the topics we make sure to highlight is the incredible success of our alumni.
While we have many examples of our fine flock of Eagle alumni, I want to highlight
one of them in today’s message. FGCU softball legend Courtney Platt has been inducted
into the Atlantic Sun Conference Class of 2024 Hall of Fame! She was honored
for playing for the Eagles from 2008 to 2011.
We are so proud of her!
We want to share more stories like this as we amplify FGCU’s brand under the
new strategic plan
. To help us in this endeavor, FGCU has hired BVK, a nationally known marketing firm
in the higher education space. While we are at the initial stage of kicking off this
work, consultants will be meeting with identified stakeholder groups for interviews
this week. This includes shared governance groups, donors, alumni and other constituent
groups on campus. I will share updates as the process evolves.
On this note, I expect to share news of the search process for our new Vice President
of Strategic Initiatives & Chief of Staff position in the coming weeks. The search
panel has been formed, with Vice President David Vazquez, who oversees the division
of Administrative Services & Finance, serving as chair.
SAVE THE DATE
| The next regular meeting of the Board of Trustees begins at 8:30 a.m. June 11 in
the Cohen Student Union Ballroom. Details of the
meeting’s agenda
can be reviewed online, but the meeting will be conducted in person. We understand
that attendance isn’t possible for all of our faculty, staff and students, so we will
begin writing meeting recaps to share with our campus community.
My next scheduled update will come out on June 17. As always,
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
June 17, 2024
Hello, Eagle Family!
A little over two weeks ago, I announced a leadership change in General Counsel. I
am pleased to announce that
Lisa Jones has been selected to serve as interim General Counsel
while we launch a national search with Greenwood Asher & Associates for the Vice President
and General Counsel position.
Many of you are familiar with Lisa, who joined FGCU 11 years ago as Associate General
Counsel. Her previous experience includes serving as University Counsel and Secretary
to the Board for Washburn University in Topeka, Kansas, as well as Associate General
Counsel for Wichita State University and the Kansas Board of Regents.
I know she will do a phenomenal job in this interim role, and she is already working
closely with outgoing Vice President and General Counsel Vee Leonard to ensure a smooth
transition in the leadership of that office.
On that note, I invite you to join in celebrating Vee’s incredible 19 years of service
to our campus community. Vee’s
farewell reception is from 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, July 2
, on the third floor of Edwards Hall, with the reception taking place in the open
lobby area and Conference Room 309. RSVPs are not required.
Another event I want to make sure you are aware of is this week’s
Ice Cream Social
! FGCU leaders will be passing out free ice cream to faculty and staff between noon
and 2 p.m. Tuesday (June 18) in the covered alcove area near Ben Hill Griffin Hall.
Please mark your calendars, bring your colleagues and enjoy a refreshing treat on
what will probably be a warm day in Southwest Florida!
Speaking of weather, it’s important to note that we are already seeing an uptick in
weather events related to the
2024 Atlantic hurricane season
. Employees, please pay attention to the emergency notifications shared from the FGCU
Update email account and download the RAVE Guardian Eagle App. If you need to update
your cell phone and emergency contact information, please do so through
Workday
My next scheduled update will come out on July 1.
As always:
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
June 24, 2024
Good morning, Eagle Family!
I think it is safe to say last week’s Ice Cream Social was a big hit! It was wonderful
to get out of the office, see our colleagues from across campus and enjoy a homemade
treat in the middle of the work week.
FGCU’s leadership team has decided to make the Ice Cream Social an ongoing staff and
faculty appreciation event. Please mark your calendars for 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.
for the following dates:
(Tomorrow) Tuesday, June 25
Wednesday, July 10
Tuesday, July 16
Wednesday, July 24
The free ice cream will be handed out in the covered alcove area near Ben Hill Griffin
Hall. Please make sure to scan the QR code when you pick up your ice cream! Your feedback
will help us add new flavors to the rotation and assist with market research to see
if it is feasible to launch an ice cream business that will eventually be run by FGCU
students. Provost Mark Rieger will have more information about this initiative in
the Academic Affairs newsletter.
While enjoying ice cream last week, many of you asked about the state of our Library
Lawn. As we do each summer, FGCU is using the slower months to upgrade our campus
grounds and facilities with ongoing maintenance, such as replacing roofs, upgrading
interior lighting, installing new carpet, painting and pressure cleaning campus.
Here is a list of work going on across campus:
The
Library Lawn
is being updated with improved drainage and new sod. The project will be completed
before the start of the fall term.
The
Information Technology Services (ITS) help desk
is moving from Griffin Hall to the first floor of the Wilson G. Bradshaw Library.
This provides our employees and students with a more centralized location to access
help. The project will be completed before the start of the fall term.
Four large digital signs
are being added to campus. One will be placed near the Cohen Student Union, with
the other three located along our three entrances to campus. This project will continue
through the fall term.
The food court area and bathroom
flooring in Cohen Student Union
is also being upgraded this summer. This project will finish prior to the larger
Phase II portion of the Cohen remodel, which will kick into high gear during the 2025
summer term.
FGCU is also cleaning and painting
parking garages across campus
, and we are repaving the parking area near Alico Arena.
We are also planning to create
brick-paved pathways near Merwin and Whitaker halls
for pedestrian and golf cart traffic. The project will be completed before the start
of the fall term.
As you can see, we are making great use of the summer months to improve our campus.
I look forward to seeing you out and about!
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
July 2024
Toggle More Info
July 1, 2024
Hello, Eagle Family!
Today marks my one-year anniversary of officially serving as FGCU’s president. Leading
up to this milestone, I have been reflecting on all that has transpired in the past
year, including our biggest accomplishments and the incredible work that has gone
into developing a culture of continuous improvement.
Of top of mind is the creation and launch of a new strategic plan that guides our
journey forward in terms of service to students. Embedding student success into the
fabric of our campus ensures we are doing our all to help each student reach their
academic goals and career ambitions. I referenced this last week during the Florida
Board of Governors meeting, when our accountability plan and performance-based funding
metrics were presented.
Through each division on campus, we are aligning our actions to our strategic plan,
ensuring our goals and objectives are part of day-to-day operations. Already, we are
moving the needle and seeing improvement, and that’s a testament to the data-driven
approach we have embraced. By using predictive analytics to track each students’ progress
from orientation to graduation, our faculty and staff are able to focus on the unique
needs of our students like never before.
As we balance the loss in performance-based funding with our strategic vision forward
and allocate necessary resources for improving our metrics, under the guidance of
the FGCU Board of Trustees, campus leaders and I remain dedicated to improving the
lives of all employees with a compensation package regardless of bargaining. We are
keenly aware of the strain felt campus-wide by the Southwest Florida economy, and
our primary motivation is to equitably enhance the well-being of all of our employees
in our journey forward. I will have more information about what this looks like in
an upcoming message, but I want to send my sincere appreciation and gratitude to all
of our staff and faculty for the incredible dedication and hard work shown in the
past year.
We are a team, and many of our successes from the past year will appear in the university’s
first-ever annual report. Campus leaders are currently creating this document, and
we anticipate it will launch in time for the 2024 Fall Kickoff Celebration for faculty
and staff. Pamela McCabe will share more information about our annual celebration
tomorrow, but please place a hold in your calendar for 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Friday,
Aug. 9.
In closing, I want to share that I reread my very first message to campus. I wrote
about the excitement I had for the work that stood before us as we prepared for a
new year of teaching, learning and working collaboratively. Twelve months later, I
still feel that energy and passion, and I am so proud of all we have achieved together
– and what is still to come. It is an absolute honor to be your president, and I thank
you for making this past year so memorable.
DON’T FORGET
Join us for Vice President & General Counsel Vee Leonard’s
farewell reception from 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, July 2
, on the third floor of Edwards Hall. RSVPs are not required.
The next
FREE ice cream social
is from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. Tuesday, July 9
. This is a date change. Please see the attached flyer for all upcoming dates.
My next scheduled update will come out on July 15.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
July 15, 2024
Dear Eagle Family,
We are about one month away from the start of the fall semester, and that means we
are about a month away from a new edition of the Inside FGCU employee newsletter coming
out. The newsletter was an initiative we kicked off last year to provide more information
about campus happenings and employee milestones to our faculty and staff as one of
our university-wide communication channels.
During the summer, changes were made to this publication – all of which were informed
by feedback we received through the campus-wide internal communications survey. Thank
you to all of the employees who brought forth feedback on this product. It is currently
undergoing a redesign, as we are adjusting the size and look of the product. While
we will continue to produce the newsletter electronically, it will only be delivered
in printed form to employees and offices that opt-in for the product. If you are interested
in receiving free printed copies, beginning with the August 20 edition, please
click here to fill out a request form
I am also pleased to announce the new members of the Editorial Advisory Committee,
who will be working on this initiative this year:
Ashlynn Dunn
of the Lutgert College of Business
Dayna Harpster
of WGCU Public Media
Emily Helm
of University Recreation & Wellness
Vince Modarelli
of University Advancement
Jonathan Schaffer
of Daveler & Kauanui School of Entrepreneurship
Kara Simmons
of Alumni Relations
I’Riel Williams
of Innovative Education & Partnerships
Staff support for Inside FGCU is provided by
Rubi Olvera
, the coordinator of University Communications & Media Relations, and
Dave Anderson
, the associate director of design in University Marketing & Communications.
I will be sharing more details about upcoming changes related to the internal communications
survey in future messages.
Finally, as you see in the attachment, we are also a month away from the
2024 Fall
Kickoff Celebration
. This event is like a pep rally for the new academic year, where we celebrate our
employees, gather for a lunch served by university leaders, and hear the annual State
of the University address. All attendees will receive a free gift
on their way back to work, and Azul will be giving out a special prize to the most
spirited Eagle in the room. The event is from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. August 9 at
Alico Arena. Make sure to
RSVP by August 1
, and don’t forget to wear your FGCU gear! This event excites me so much as we, Eagle
family, start the new academic year. See the attachment for more information.
SAVE THE DATES
The next free
Ice Cream Social
is from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. tomorrow (July 16) in the covered alcove area next
to Ben Hill Griffin Hall. See the Academic Affairs newsletter for more information.
My next scheduled message comes out on July 29, and I will be resuming weekly emails
in August.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
July 29, 2024
Dear Eagle Family,
As many of you know, the summer months are a great time to soak up additional training
and professional development opportunities. I took advantage of this last week when
I attended the
American Association of State Colleges and Universities’
annual New Presidents Academy conference in California.
The gathering was an opportunity for state university presidents and chancellors from
around the country to discuss best practices and dig deeper into the various elements
of a university environment, from meeting industry needs and building up the culture
of student success to the importance of campus communication. We also learned about
emerging topics in higher education, and it is clear to me that FGCU is in a great
position to quickly react to the changing environment’s impact on our students, employees
and the broader community.
Looking ahead, it is sure to be a busy week. On Wednesday, our leadership team, including
vice presidents and academic leaders, visit
Babcock Ranch
to discuss FGCU’s presence, visibility and opportunities in Charlotte County. I will
provide a recap of the visit in my message to campus next week. After that, I will
fly to Germany to visit
Arthrex’s Europe, Middle East and Africa headquarters
to continue discussions about our strategic partnership, new initiatives, research
opportunities, internships, talent pipeline and workforce development in the medical
device industry. I am also excited to meet with our
international interns from the Lutgert College of Business
during my visit.
Our next meeting of the
Board of Trustees
will be held virtually, beginning at 8:30 a.m. Thursday.
Click here
to find the agenda. For those who cannot watch the broadcast, Board Relations will
send out a recap email to campus.
As we look ahead to the start of the fall term, I want to let you know that all employees
will be invited to take part in a university marketing survey. Earlier this summer
I shared that BVK, a nationally known marketing firm in higher education, was hired
to help FGCU amplify our new strategic plan on campus and throughout our community.
BVK consultants have conducted various stakeholder interviews, and now they are preparing
to launch a campus-wide survey that will inform FGCU’s future marketing efforts.
Your perspective as FGCU “insiders” is critical to the success of this study, and
I encourage students to participate.
FGCU employees will receive an email on August 7 from Kitty Green, the vice president
of University Advancement
, with the link to the survey. Responses are anonymous. If you have any questions,
please contact Deborah Wiltrout, interim associate vice president of University Marketing
& Communication, at
dwiltrout@fgcu.edu
SAVE THE DATE
The
2024 Fall
Kickoff Celebration
for all employees is from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. August 9 at Alico Arena. The event
includes a free lunch, a gift for all attendees, and Azul will be giving out a special
prize to the most spirited Eagle in the room. Make sure to
RSVP by August 1
(See attachment)
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
August 2024
Toggle More Info
August 5, 2024
Dear Eagle Family,
The university’s annual
Fall Kickoff Celebration
is this Friday, and I hope to see Alico Arena packed with our amazing staff and faculty.
The event is called a celebration because we are recognizing the incredible people
who work here and support our mission as a student-centered institution.
I know our University Events and Chartwells catering team has planned an incredible
event for all of us to enjoy, and I want to encourage attendees to wear you FGCU pride.
Azul will be selecting someone from the crowd as our most-spirited Eagle. The more
green and blue you wear, the higher your chances of being selected for the prize:
a basket of FGCU goodies from our Bookstore!
I will also be giving the annual
State of the University Address
during the lunch portion of the program. This is a time for me to share information
about our biggest wins from the past academic year and outline our journey forward
as directed by our new strategic plan. We know that not every employee can attend
the Fall Kickoff Celebration, so we will once again post a recording of my speech
to the website and share the link with employees as soon as it is available.
As you know, it is one of my core priorities to enhance the university’s communication
efforts. Key to our movement forward is the work of the
Internal Communications Committee
, an advisory group of campus stakeholders. As this team moves into its second year,
I want to announce that the committee has two open seats. If you would be interested
in volunteering your time to serve the university in this capacity, please send me
an email with your resume or a professional bio. No prior communication experience
is required.
Finally, I want to quickly share the outreach experiences the university has had in
the past week.
First, our leadership team visited
Babcock Ranch
to discuss how FGCU could expand its footprint into Charlotte County. The visit was
planned nearly a year after the university formalized its partnership with this growing
community, putting pen to paper about our intent to build a presence in Babcock that
is rooted in our shared core values of sustainability and resilience. We are continuing
to explore various ways we can amplify teaching, research, community engagement, service
and workforce/economic development initiatives, including micro-credentialing programs,
in this space. We will provide updates to campus as we move forward.
Second, I am pleased to report I had a successful visit at
Arthrex’s Europe, Middle East and Africa headquarters.
Through this strategic partnership, we are discussing new opportunities for academic
programming, micro-credentials and faculty-student research in the medical device
industry. Also, it was a fun experience to speak with our interns who are working
in Europe as part of an international experience with the Lutgert College of Business.
BE ON THE LOOKOUT
FGCU employees will receive an email on Wednesday (August 7) from Kitty Green, the
vice president of University Advancement, with a link to a
market research survey
that will help inform our new branding campaign. The survey is part of the research
being conducted by BVK, a nationally known marketing firm in higher education that
was hired to help FGCU amplify our new strategic plan on campus and throughout our
community. Please participate.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
August 12, 2024
Dear Eagle Family,
Among my favorite traditions at FGCU is the annual
Fall Kickoff Celebration
– a time when our incredible staff and faculty gather for a meal and camaraderie
at Alico Arena. Friday’s event surpassed all my expectations! Your passion and love
for our institution were on display, and my favorite part of the program was when
our employees stood up to be recognized.
As you looked around at your peers, cheering and clapping for their Years of Service
milestones, I told you that, together, we are a team. By forging partnerships and
collaborating across campus, we are working to improve everything we do as a university.
A video recording of my
“State of the University” remarks
can now be
viewed online
. One topic I reiterated during my speech was how we need to be focused on continuous
improvement. I explained that individual units across campus are implementing tactics
and strategies to bring our university’s strategic plan to life, and how all employees
need to identify performance goals that describe how their individual role can positively
impact FGCU’s performance metrics and student success efforts.
Much work lies ahead for FGCU’s workforce. To better assist our organization, I am
realigning the department of
Human Resources
so that it reports directly to my office. Chief Human Resources Officer Sara Stensrud
and her team will report directly to me. Information Technology Services (ITS), Physical
Plant and Environmental Health & Safety will continue reporting to Administrative
Services & Finance. This means Chief Information Officer Mary Banks, Associate Vice
President of Physical Plant Jim Hehl and Environmental Health & Safety Director Rhonda
Holtzclaw will report directly to Vice President David Vazquez. In September, FGCU
should receive the final report from the National Center for Higher Education Management
Systems (NCHEMS), which will further our work in improving the operational effectiveness
of our structure and student success efforts.
I am grateful for the hard work you have put forth over the past year, and I know
that you are ready to tackle what lies ahead. In appreciation of your commitment to
FGCU’s mission, I am adding
two extra paid holidays
to the schedule this year:
Wednesday, November 27
(the day before Thanksgiving)
Tuesday, December 24
(the day before Christmas)
I am making the announcement now so you have time to plan your holidays. Thank you
for making FGCU what it is today and helping build a brighter future.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
August 19, 2024
Good morning, Eagle Family, and welcome to the start of the fall semester! It is so
exciting to see more than 16,000 FGCU Eagles across campus. I know this is going to
be our best year yet, and that’s because of you – our incredible people!
In just over a week, FGCU will celebrate its 27th year of teaching and learning. We
are growing, we are maturing, and we remain committed to our mission as a transformative
and learner-centered university here in Southwest Florida.
As you heard me say at the
Fall Kickoff Celebration
, we are now in the process of bringing our new strategic plan to life. Attached,
you will find one of my PowerPoint slides from my “State of the University” address
that outlines how we will do this together, as a team.
The process starts by understanding our institution’s mission, which provides the
foundation for our strategic plan
Innovating for Student Success: FGCU’s Journey to Excellence
We have our big-picture goals and objectives set, and we are developing a scorecard
that will help us keep track, in real time, of where we are and where we are heading.
This scorecard is the reflection of our collective work, collaboration and teamwork.
Campus-wide, unit plans are being developed to bring our strategic plan to life. These
plans outline the operational and implementation strategies, tactics and initiatives
that ensure the university’s larger goals and objectives are being met.
From there, unit goals guide each of our individual performance goals. I recognize
this is a shift in how we have handled goal setting and performance reviews in the
past.
Human Resources will be providing information that explains the process in more detail
. Supervisors will receive an email later this week, so they will be better prepared
to answer questions their employees might have about the process. Staff and out-of-unit
faculty can expect an email on the updated process next week. Managers will also be
invited to workshops September 10-20, which will help ensure employee goals are linked
to unit goals that assist the university in meeting the goals outlined in the strategic
plan. A timeline will be provided in the emails, and the goal-setting process will
be completed by October 1.
As we roll out this new process, it is important for all of our employees to understand
how their individual role contributes to the overall success of the university under
our strategic plan. We are all in this together, and together we are stronger.
As always:
Wings Up and Go Eagles!
August 26, 2024
Good morning, Eagle Family!
Yesterday, we reached an all-new milestone for our institution:
FGCU celebrated the 27th anniversary of our first day of classes
. We have achieved so much over the years, growing from our humble beginnings as a
commuter school with a handful of buildings to the regional comprehensive university
we know and love today.
FGCU filled an educational void that once existed in the Southwest Florida region,
and we have remained committed to meeting the needs of our students and the community
we serve. We are nimble, resourceful and innovative, responding to the economic and
workforce needs of the state of Florida. Through these efforts, FGCU has emerged as
the economic driver for Southwest Florida and beyond, and our institution is an example
of what regional partnerships can do to help students find success in the classroom,
career and life.
As I am sure you read in the latest issue of the
Inside FGCU employee newsletter
, we are proposing our next
Quality Enhancement Plan (QEP)
through our reaffirmation process with the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). With university-wide recommendation and support,
our proposal is called “The Skills Advantage: From Campus to Career,” and it is focused
on giving greater visibility to our transferable skills offerings. We know very well
that students develop these skills in their courses as well as extra and co-curricular
activities across our campus and beyond, but they are often not visible in the titles
of courses or the names of majors. To amplify the importance of transferable skills,
FGCU is proposing to make transferable skills the highlight of its QEP.
It’s important for all of our employees to know how these employability skills can
help our students find success, both in the classroom and in their careers. I encourage
you to visit
fgcu.edu/theskillsadvantage
. Faculty and staff interested in integrating badging into their courses or student
programs need to contact Dr. Glenn Whitehouse at
gwhiteho@fgcu.edu
Celebrate with FGCU
The
University Help Desk
moved to the first floor of the Wilson G. Bradshaw Library, and an open house is
planned for 1 p.m. Tuesday, August 27. (See attachment for details.)
College Colors Day
is Thursday, August 29. Celebrate your Eagle spirit by participating in the annual
Green & Blue Spirit Photo with the FGCU Athletics Teams at 10 a.m. on the Library
Lawn
Wings Up and Go Eagles!
August 29, 2024
Dear FGCU Family,
As FGCU settles into its 27th year of teaching and learning, we are becoming more
strategic in our daily functions and operations. Following a robust national search
that was assisted by a panel of FGCU stakeholders, I am pleased to announce the university
is taking another step in these efforts with the appointment of
Vice President of Strategic Initiatives & Chief of Staff Eileen DeLuca, Ph.D.
Eileen will transition to this new role in January 2025. Leading up to this change,
she will continue serving the university as both the acting vice president of Student
Success & Enrollment Management and interim chief strategy and program innovation
officer for the division of Academic Affairs.
As you may recall, Eileen joined FGCU in June 2023. Among her first assignments was
helping the university complete its new strategic plan,
Innovating for Student Success: FGCU’s Journey to Excellence
. In her upcoming role, Eileen will continue these efforts, collaborating campus-wide
with offices and academic units to ensure effective implementation and operationalization
of our new strategic plan and other university initiatives.
Prior to becoming an FGCU Eagle, Eileen worked at Florida SouthWestern State College,
where she progressively took on larger leadership roles. She scaled the academic ranks,
starting as an adjunct professor in 2005 and working her way up to full professor,
department chair and dean. Eileen took on assistant- and associate-level vice president
roles before being named interim provost in July 2018 and provost 10 months later.
She held the college’s top academic role through 2022, when she was named the provost
for external international partnerships. Eileen earned her doctorate in curriculum
and instruction from the University of Florida, two master’s degrees (applied anthropology
from the University of South Florida and education from the College of New Rochelle)
and a bachelor’s degree in education from USF.
When Eileen transitions into the vice president and chief of staff role in January,
she will become a direct report to me and provide high-level support and guidance
as a member of cabinet. She will also oversee and provide guidance to the Office of
Board Relations, coordinating with Director of Board Relations, Associate Corporate
Secretary and Deputy Chief of Staff Tiffany Reynolds. We will continue to explore
future leadership in the areas of strategy and program innovation.
I want to express my sincere gratitude to the search panel chair, David Vazquez, and
members of the search panel: Trustee Michael Wynn, Jen Goen, Pamela McCabe, Dr. Tracy
Elliott, Dr. Jenny Manegold, Dr. Max Stein, Dr. Eric Tack, Dr. Sang Ki Min, Mary Banks
and Jena Padilla for their time and service for practicing shared governance.
It is always a rewarding feeling to know we cast a wide net but found that the best
candidate was already among us. Please join me in congratulating Eileen.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
September 2024
Toggle More Info
September 3, 2024
Dear FGCU Family,
After serving as FGCU’s chief academic officer for over three and a half years, Dr.
Mark Rieger is moving on from his position as executive vice president and provost,
effective September 6. Mark will be going on professional development sabbatical starting
September 7.
Mark began his journey as an FGCU Eagle during the global pandemic, replacing Dr.
Jim Llorens, who was the interim provost of the university for the previous three
years.
Prior to joining FGCU, Mark served 34 years at the universities of Delaware, Georgia
and Florida in various capacities, ranging from faculty to dean. He brought to FGCU
his extensive research, teaching and administration experience.
I am especially proud of Mark’s work to bring FGCU back to a fully in-person and robust
academic offering following the pandemic, as well as his leadership during our response
and recovery efforts related to Hurricane Ian. During his time with FGCU, Mark amplified
the impact of research and sponsored programs and launched seven degree programs,
four academic certificates and five minors. Most recently, he garnered support for
FGCU’s first doctor of philosophy (Ph.D.) program, which was approved by the Board
of Trustees and now moves on for further consideration by the Florida Board of Governors.
On behalf of the university, I thank Mark for his service and send him my best wishes
as he embarks on the next phase of his journey.
FGCU is working with Greenwood Asher & Associates to launch a national search to fill
the role of provost, and soon I will be announcing the members of the search committee
who will assist with this effort. We intend to bring on our next provost by the start
of the 2025 spring term.
To assist with the transition of leadership, I have named Dr. Tony Barringer as interim
provost, enabling him to oversee the daily administrative operations for the division
of Academic Affairs. Meanwhile, the Dean’s Council will work with me directly, ensuring
continuity of our strategic initiatives and improvements in performance-based funding
metrics. Consultant Dr. Kenneth Furton, the former provost of Florida International
University, will serve as an advisor to the president and Dean’s Council in this effort.
You can see Dr. Furton’s bio attached to this email, and you will begin seeing him
on campus in mid-September.
In the meantime, I hope you will join me in wishing Mark well.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
September 9, 2024
Dear FGCU Family,
As you know, helping our students find success in and out of the classroom is our
main priority. This isn’t just a talking point for the university, but it is our way
of life as faculty and staff.
FGCU will present its Student Success Plan to the
Board of Trustees Tuesday
, with the goal of bringing the document to the Florida Board of Governors next week
for approval. The plan is a required step of the state’s Performance-Based Funding
(PBF) process, as we did not have satisfactory improvement and reach the 70-point
mark required of us on the State University System of Florida’s grading system. Although
we have made considerable progress since 2018, we still have much work to do. At this
time, FGCU's plan strongly focuses on four of our lowest metrics. With a mix of new
and ongoing efforts to dig deep into data, we are realigning and reaffirming our commitment
to helping our students reach their goals, including graduating on time.
As we move forward with these efforts, it is important for all of our faculty and
staff to know how to support students with the many questions they may have. To assist
in this effort, Student Success & Enrollment Management has created a course entitled
Student Success Resources
,” and I ask that you remind students that they can access this resource in Canvas.
Academic Affairs has also developed a similar toolkit for instructors entitled “
Faculty Success Resources
,” which is also available in Canvas.
Fall 2024: Town Hall Save the Dates
September 24
: “Journey to Excellence.” A virtual town hall to help the campus community understand
the five goals of the strategic plan.
Time: 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Location: Microsoft Teams (Link TBA)
October 24
: “Building a Great College to Work For.” A facilitated discussion about FGCU’s results
and next steps stemming from the feedback on the “Great Colleges to Work For” survey.
Time: 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Location: Cohen Student Union Ballroom (a virtual option will be available for those
who cannot attend in person)
November 6
: “Building FGCU’s Future.” A conversation about new campus projects and how we will
adjust our master plan to address our maturing campus. This will include discussion
about our property in Buckingham, space across campus and the future of Academic Building
10.
Time: 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Location: Academic Building 9, Room 138 (a virtual option will be available for those
who cannot attend in person)
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
September 16, 2024
Dear FGCU Family,
Next Tuesday, on
September 24
, we will gather for our first town hall of the fall semester, and I am thrilled to
share it will be focused on the strategic plan.
As you have heard me say – and write in my weekly messages – we all play a role in
ensuring FGCU meets the goals and objectives outlined in the strategic plan. Unit
plans for academic and administrative areas are being developed that outline the tactics,
strategies, projects and initiatives that will help us in this effort, and it is critical
for our individual performance goals to feed into the unit plans and FGCU’s Journey
to Excellence.
Our objective for this virtual town hall is to help employees make the connection
between themselves (their role) and their unit (office) to the broader university
strategic plan
, innovating and improving for student success with measures and key performance indicators.
I will start the town hall with a short overview before inviting participants into
breakout rooms for group discussion about the goals.
There will be five rooms – one for each goal included in the strategic plan – and
you will be invited to pick two rooms to visit during the town hall. During 30-minute
sessions, room hosts will facilitate a conversation to give participants an opportunity
to ask questions and share how they see their unique role supporting the strategic
plan. Please come prepared with your questions.
Next week I will share host details, but please go ahead and mark your calendars for
this event. The town hall begins at
11 a.m. and runs until 12:30 p.m.
The Microsoft Teams link is
, and a flyer for the event is
here
As they have done for previous town halls, the Internal Communications Committee will
be monitoring each room’s chat during the town hall. Requests for anonymity will be
honored.
Internal Communications Committee: Update
I recently put out a call for volunteers to fill two vacancies on the Internal Communications
Committee. I was pleased to see so many of our staff members, faculty and adjunct
instructors put their names in for consideration.
Cabinet selected
Dr. Ellen K. Donald
(assistant professor in Department of Rehabilitation Sciences and program director
of the Golisano Intellectual and Developmental Disability Initiative) and
Dr. David Poisso
n (adjunct professor in the Department of Communications & Philosophy). I also extend
my congratulations to
Seana Perkins
(administrative assistant in Student Health Services) for being selected as a co-chair
to this group.
The full roster for the committee is
here
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
September 23, 2024
Dear FGCU Family,
Last week, FGCU’s student success plan was presented to the Florida Board of Governors
(BOG), and I am pleased to share it was approved, enabling the release of $3.8 million
in performance-based funding. Creating and presenting the plan is a required step,
as we did not improve from the previous year’s total score and meet the 70-point threshold
for maintenance of funding through the state's performance funding process.
Our student success plan has a laser focus on four metrics – the three-graduation
metrics (metrics 4, 9a, 9b) and metric 5, our academic progress rate. Reducing year-to-year
variability and creating consistent attainment of scores on the excellence scale are
key components of our targeted strategy.
It is important for all FGCU faculty and staff to know that, together, we have been
working diligently and systematically toward improving all 10 metrics and key performance
indicators in our accountability plan. In March, we will return to the BOG for a follow-up
presentation to show how we have implemented the plan as well as our expected improvements
with the help of our plan. This will be an opportunity for us to receive the other
50% of funding.
A PDF copy of my presentation is attached to this email. I encourage you to review
the detailed plan with root causes and intended deliverables available
here
Mental Health Survey Starts Today
As we continue to prioritize the well-being and success of our students, FGCU will
be participating in the Healthy Minds Study. This initiative is a comprehensive research
project from the University of Michigan that will help us better understand the challenges
and needs related to mental health among our students.
Later this morning, all employees and students will receive an email inviting them
to participate in a survey; the email will come from Marieb College of Health & Human
Services with an email of
healthyminds-FGCU@umich.edu
. I encourage you to participate in this initiative.
Strategic Plan Town Hall Tomorrow
I hope to see you at 11 a.m. Tuesday for our first town hall of the academic year:
FGCU’s Journey to Excellence. The event will take place on Teams, and participants
will be encouraged to join breakout rooms for discussions about how the work of our
employees and their offices connect to our university’s strategic goals for the next
five years. Attached is the
event flyer
and a
list of the people
who will be leading discussions in each room.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
September 30, 2024
Dear FGCU Family,
Today, the university shifts back to fully normal business operations, events and
activities. As we go about our work this week, I encourage you to pause and check
in with one another. We have faculty and staff who are facing challenges at home brought
by Hurricane Helene, including those who were impacted by Hurricane Ian two years
ago. Compassion and flexibility should lead all of our efforts as we go about our
days.
I also want to thank all of you for your patience and trust as we pivoted our decisions
throughout the storm to ensure the safety of our students and employees. We coordinated
with and obtained reliable information through our partners, including regional school
districts, county emergency managers and state officials.
Many resources are available to help our employees through this difficult time:
All impacted employees hired prior to Hurricane Helene are eligible to apply for up
to $10,000 through
FGCU’s Employee Loan Program
. Loans are interest free and will be paid back through payroll deduction over the
next three years. Employees will need to provide documentation as part of the application
process.
Applications are available online
and will be reviewed and funds awarded on a case-by-case basis, as long as funds
are available. If you have questions, contact Sara Stensrud as
sstensrud@fgcu.edu
An
Employee Assistance Program
counselor will be on campus today from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. in Cohen Student Union, Room
245. No appointments are needed. The EAP is also available 24 hours a day, seven days
a week, at (833) 746-8337 or online at
www.mylifeexpert.com
. Use company code: Florida.
FGCU’S Community Counseling & Education Center
provides non-crisis/emergency services to FGCU employees and community members. The
center operates when FGCU is open. For more information, call (239) 745-4777 or visit
www.fgcu.edu/mariebcollege/counseling/communitycounseling
I shared with students a list of resources available to them, so please encourage
them to read the message I sent them this morning. We are a family, and FGCU is here
to support you.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
October 2024
Toggle More Info
October 14, 2024
Dear Eagle Family,
FGCU was fortunate during Hurricane Milton. Minimal debris cleanup was required on
our main campus, and utilities, such as power, water and internet, were unaffected
by the storm.
Not everyone in our community can say the same. We understand that all of our stories
look different right now, and it is critical that we lead with patience, compassion
and flexibility as we return to normal operations.
Keeping an open line of communication is essential for us to move forward, so please
tell your supervisor if you are facing a hardship related to the hurricane. Please
note the following resources:
Employee Assistance Program
counselors are available from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. today at the Wilson G. Bradshaw Library,
Room 431. The EAP is also available remotely 24 hours a day, seven days a week, at (833)
746-8337 or online at
www.mylifeexpert.com
. Use company code: Florida.
FGCU’s
Campus Food Pantry
in Modular 4 is available to faculty and staff this week. The pantry hours are noon
to 5 p.m. Monday and Friday and 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.
Applications for
FGCU’s Employee Loan Program
are
available online
for faculty and staff who are facing financial hardship as they work through FEMA
and insurance to recover from Milton and Helene. Contact Sara Stensrud at
sstensrud@fgcu.edu
with questions.
And if you work with students affected by Milton, please encourage them to fill out
the
Emergency Outreach Form (maxient.com)
. This is the best way for us to know what resources or assistance they need to recover
from the storm.
Information about extended deadlines for mandated trainings, goals and unit plans
will be shared with faculty and staff today, and faculty will receive further guidance
on how to address the academic days lost as a result of Helene and Milton.
Lastly, I want to thank you for your patience, care, support and kindness to one another
in these difficult times. I also want to extend my deepest appreciation to the dedicated
university personnel who stayed on campus during the storm to keep our FGCU community
safe as well as everyone who worked post-hurricane to ensure the safety and operability
of our campus. Their work helped FGCU get back to normal operations as quickly as
possible. I am so proud of our FGCU Family, and you truly make FGCU so special.
We are the Eagle Family, and we are better together.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
October 21, 2024
Dear Eagle Family,
FGCU is moving forward with national searches for the positions of
Executive Vice President and Provost
as well as
Vice President and Vice Provost, Student Success & Enrollment Management.
To assist executive search firm Greenwood Asher & Associates, I have formed two search
committees. Committee membership represents all facets of our campus community, ensuring
voices of students, faculty and staff are part of the decision process.
Committee rosters are attached to this email.
Committee kickoff meetings and listening sessions for both searches have been scheduled,
and we have launched websites for each search. Please see below for more information:
Listening Sessions: Vice President Searches
You are invited to attend listening sessions with Greenwood Asher & Associates, where
consultants will lead the discussion and prompt the audience with questions about
both positions, as they will work closely together.
Session 1
: 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. Thursday, October 31, Academic Building 9, Room 106
Session 2
: 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. Friday, November 1, Academic Building 9, Room 138
Executive Vice President and Provost:
Serves as the chief academic officer for FGCU, providing academic leadership for the
colleges and schools. The person hired for this role will be the second-highest ranking
officer at FGCU, behind the university president.
Search website
fgcu.edu/provostsearch
Kickoff meeting
: 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Friday, November 1, in Academic Building 9, Room 138
Committee support staff
: Julie Echo,
jeacho@fgcu.edu
Vice President and Vice Provost, Student Success & Enrollment Management (SSEM):
Serves as the chief student affairs officer, directing all student-related functions
of the university.
Search website
fgcu.edu/vicepresidentsearch
Kickoff meeting
: 2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Friday, November 1, in Academic Building 9, Room 138
Committee support staff
: Jenn Culver,
jculver@fgcu.edu
I encourage you to stay informed as we conduct searches for these critical positions
that directly impact our operations and efforts in supporting FGCU students.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
October 22, 2024
Dear FGCU Family,
Eagle EXPO was this past Saturday, and I want to thank our staff and faculty who took
part in planning and bringing to life this action-packed open house. The event is
meant to showcase everything we love about our university to prospective students.
I am proud to say we welcomed about 1,600 guests, including 440 individuals I would
like to think of as future Eagles.
Without a doubt, campus was filled with phenomenal energy during the event, and I
am so appreciative of everyone who dedicated their time and resources to highlight
our wonderful colleges, schools and programs.
As announced last week, all FGCU staff and faculty are invited to participate in two
upcoming town hall events:
Town Hall: Building a Great College to Work For (hosted by ModernThink)
Date: Thursday, October 24
Time: 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Location: Cohen Student Union Ballroom
Virtual access:
Town Hall: National Center for Higher Education Management Systems Report (hosted
by NCHEMS)
Date: Monday, October 28
Time: 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
Location: Cohen Student Union Ballroom
Virtual access:
ModernThink (October 24) will provide an overview of our results on the “Great Colleges
to Work For” survey, and NCHEMS (October 28) will present its final report and findings
regarding FGCU’s functional alignment with our strategic directions and key performance
indicators. I am looking forward to attending both upcoming town halls, which will
be facilitated by outside experts in their fields who have been brought on to share
how our university is benchmarked to higher education best practices and peers. Also,
I am excited to hear from our consultants about their recommendations for improvement
and the opportunities we have before us as we collectively create a better future
for our university.
Flyers for the town halls are attached, and I look forward to all of us attending
these presentations and listening together.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
October 28, 2024
Good morning, Eagle Family!
Today, we gather for an employee-focused town hall with consultants from the
National Center for Higher Education Management Systems (NCHEMS)
. Just like our ModernThink town hall last week, this is an opportunity for staff
and faculty to listen in as outside experts share their final report and findings
regarding FGCU’s functional alignment with our strategic directions and key performance
indicators. I realize that we are having back-to-back town halls and reports, but
the recent hurricanes complicated schedules.
I want to remind us all that these presentations are an external look into FGCU with
qualitative and quantitative data and information our consultants put together. It
is also very important to note that we will take our time to digest and evaluate what
we hear from our consultants in terms of findings and recommendations. All of this
information is aimed at providing us with a benchmark analysis as we continue to work
together to implement our strategic plan,
Innovating for Student Success: FGCU’s Journey to Excellence
I will be in the audience to listen to the presentation and look forward to seeing
you all.
As a reminder, the town hall is from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. today in the Cohen Student
Union Ballroom. Virtual access is available through Microsoft Teams at
, and the town hall will be recorded and posted online. The recording of the October
24 town hall on our university’s results on the “Great Colleges to Work For” survey
can be found on the
website for the Office of the President
In other news, I want to share that FGCU was well-represented at the 2024 Future of Florida Forum
and Florida Chamber Annual Meeting in Orlando last week. Attending events like these
are critical opportunities to engage with leaders across the state to discuss Florida’s
growth, economic development and innovative solutions for a sustainable future. Our
team had insightful conversations with other leaders and explored how we can continue
to positively impact our Southwest Florida community and state.
FGCU was also recognized with a special spotlight for all it has achieved in the past
27 years – a point that was reiterated by Chancellor Ray Rodrigues, who presented
on the strategic achievements of the State University System of Florida. I also want
to send a congratulations to FGCU Board of Trustees Chair Michael Wynn for receiving
the 2024 Florida Chamber’s Chairman award.
Last week, FGCU also welcomed to campus one of our Florida Board of Governors (BOG),
Timothy M. Cerio. During his visit, Governor Cerio met with students, deans and leaders
from Student Success & Enrollment Management and the university. It was a wonderful
visit that amplified the positive impact our university has on our students and the
broader community.
We will carry this message to Wednesday’s BOG meeting at Florida International University
in Miami.
Click here
for the agenda and more information.
November 2024
Toggle More Info
November 4, 2024
Good morning, Eagle Family!
Last week, FGCU was honored with a visit from our founding president, Dr. Roy McTarnaghan.
He was appointed president of our university in 1993, long before it even had a name,
and he was critical to building the university, opening it in 1997 and leading it
through 1999. It is such a gift that our previous leaders have a passion and true
love for this institution.
During his visit, Dr. McTarnaghan shared his wisdom with staff, faculty and campus
leaders on student success and the mission of FGCU. He shared memories of our university’s
early days, and he signed copies of his book,
On Task, On Time: The Development of Florida Gulf Coast University
. This book is provided to all FGCU Trustees, so they know our history, founding mission
and principles through the lens of the leader who established FGCU.
Dr. McTarnaghan and I discussed the implementation of our new Student Success Plan,
and I enjoyed learning from his years and years of experience in higher education.
His message to me: We’re on the right path, and we have his support!
I was also told this during the
Florida Board of Governors
meeting last week, where we were invited to highlight FGCU’s Micro-Credentials and
Digital Badges:
The Power of “And.”
Kristen Vanselow, the assistant vice president of Innovative Education & Partnerships,
presented our model, which puts a focus on academic and workforce alignment. It’s
exciting to see how we continue to expand opportunities for students to create a talent
pipeline between the university and our partners in various industries and the community.
This connection was showcased during Friday’s outstanding
President’s Scholarship Luncheon
, a truly wonderful event that pairs our FGCU donors with the students who have benefited
from their scholarships. I am energized and inspired by our students, donors, alumni,
faculty and staff for collaborating to make such an incredible difference in the lives
of our students.
As we celebrate the many great programs we offer our students, it’s also important
to recognize the people making it happen. One way to do just that is by nominating
colleagues for the
Advising, Librarianship, Scholarship, Service and Teaching Excellence Awards.
Nominations are due November 15, and I encourage you to get involved by sending Julie
Eacho (
jeacho@fgcu.edu
) your nominations. The provost sent an email with all the details on Friday!
Other Announcements
Employees and students have until November 12 to participate in the
HealthyMinds Study
, which is a comprehensive research project from the University of Michigan that will
help us better understand the challenges and needs related to mental health among
our students. Look for emails from
healthyminds-FGCU@umich.edu
for more information.
In partnership with Lee Health, FGCU is participating in the
2025 Lee County Heart Walk
at 8 a.m. December 14 at Centennial Park in Downtown Fort Myers. The event is in
benefit of the American Heart Association. This year, every walker who registers on
the
Heart Walk website
has the opportunity to learn hands-only CPR and spread that education to their family,
colleagues and friends.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
November 12, 2024
Good morning, Eagle Family.
Yesterday, our campus was closed in observance of Veterans Day – a time in which we
share our gratitude and appreciation for the courage, dedication and sacrifices made
by those who have served in the U.S. military. We are so honored to have veterans
among us on campus – as students, faculty and staff. On behalf of the university,
I thank you for your service.
As shared in the
November issue of the Inside FGCU newsletter
, FGCU offers various veteran-related services and resources to students, employees
and the broader community. Here are a few I would like to highlight for you today:
To better meet the needs of Southwest Florida veterans and their families, FGCU plans
to expand veteran services by creating a privately funded
Veterans Center for Student Success
on campus. The center will also enhance the university’s direct support for enrolled
veterans, their benefited families and FGCU faculty and staff.
The
Office of Military & Veterans Success
serves as a hub for academic resources for military-connected students. It understands
veteran-specific issues that impact performance and academic success and, in turn,
provides resources and guidance for servicing the unique educational needs of veterans.
Home Base of Southwest Florida’s Warrior Health & Fitness Program
, located at the Kleist Health Education Center, provides a free, 90-day program designed
to help veterans improve their physical health and well-being through supervised physical
exercise, nutrition, stress management and the benefits of a healthy lifestyle.
The
Veterans Florida Entrepreneurship Program at FGCU
offers a comprehensive, tuition-free training experience designed specifically for
military veterans and their families. It supports participants at all stages of their
entrepreneurial journey.
It is our desire to continue to amplify these efforts to ensure these key services
and resources grow.
Town Hall Recordings and Next Steps
The President’s Cabinet is working with our consultants from ModernThink (the “Great
Colleges to Work For” survey) and the National Center for Higher Education Management
Systems (NCHEMS) to provide more information about the recent town hall topics. Soon,
we will have the final report from NCHEMS to share with you, and we will be launching
a website that will contain more information about our results and next steps related
to the Great Colleges’ survey.
Video recordings of the two town halls are now available on the
Office of the President website
NCHEMS
town hall recording
Great Colleges to Work For (ModernThink)
town hall recording
Also, attached to this email is a
Q-and-A sheet
from the October 28 NCEHMS town hall. FGCU staff assisting with the event accidentally
closed the event 30 minutes early due to confusion on when the town hall was scheduled
to end. Due to this error, NCHEMS consultant Dr. Sarah Pingel prepared answers to
the questions that were left unanswered in the virtual chat.
We know there is work to do on both of these projects, and it is important that we,
as the FGCU Family, are all on the same page as we move forward. There is a lot of
information to digest right now, and we appreciate your patience as we take these
steps together.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
November 13, 2024
Dear Eagle Family,
After 22 incredible seasons at the helm of FGCU’s women's basketball team, Karl Smesko
has decided to move on from collegiate athletics to start a new journey within the
Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA). Karl shared his decision with student-athletes,
team coaches and support staff earlier this morning, and it is with bittersweet sentiments
that I announce that today will be his final day of coaching.
On behalf of the university, I want to thank Karl for his many contributions to our
university. I hope all members of our FGCU community will join me in wishing Karl,
our longtime friend and colleague, all the best as he begins the next phase in his
career.
Under Karl’s leadership, FGCU won 14 Atlantic Sun Conference (ASUN) regular season
championships, made 10 appearances in the National Collegiate Athletics Association
(NCAA) Tournament and has established the program as one of the premier 3-point shooting
teams in the nation. Of course, Karl’s accomplishments and reputation go far beyond
gameday statistics. Over the years, he has positively impacted the lives of hundreds
of student-athletes, helping them find success on the court, in the classroom and
in life. His natural ability to teach extended well beyond the student-athletes. On
the sidelines, Karl strategically mentored and developed an all-star coaching staff,
preparing them for the road ahead.
The women’s basketball season is just getting started, and I am excited to announce
that effective Thursday, November 14, Chelsea Lyles will continue the team’s efforts
as head coach. This year, Chelsea started her sixth season as associate head coach.
Previously, she served as the team’s recruiter coordinator, assistant coach and student
assistant. She also played for the Eagles between 2008 and 2010.
Please show your support for our student-athletes, coaches and support staff at their
next home game, which is set for
1 p.m. Sunday against the New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT)
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
November 13, 2024
Dear FGCU Family,
FGCU is proud to recognize Compliance & Ethics Week, and I encourage students, faculty
and staff to participate in the various events that have been planned. This includes
workshops, training sessions and informative presentations designed to deepen your
understanding of university policies and procedures.
These events are intended to further equip our campus community with essential knowledge
about compliance and ethical behavior - key responsibilities for everyone. For information
and to sign up for the sessions, visit the Office of Institutional Ethics and Compliance’s
events page on
Eagle Link
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
November 15, 2024
Dear FGCU Family,
I am thrilled to announce that Kristi M. Carman, Esq., has accepted our employment
offer to serve as FGCU’s new Vice President & General Counsel. She will begin her
role at the university in May 2025.
For the remainder of the academic year, Lisa Jones, Esq., will continue to serve the
university as Interim Vice President & General Counsel. Lisa has done a phenomenal
job in this role, and I am so pleased to have her assistance during this transition.
Likewise, I want to share my sincere appreciation for FGCU’s search panel that conducted
this national search alongside our executive search firm, Greenwood Asher & Associates.
The search process lasted longer than expected, due to candidate schedules, travel
delays and efforts to ensure we are meeting all requirements for an individual to
practice law in the state of Florida. Thanks to co-chairs Precious Gunter and Trustee
Luis Rivera as well as the rest of the search panel: Vice President Kitty Green, Dean
Shawn Felton, Sara Stensrud, Tiffany Reynolds, Jen Goen, Jena Padilla, Dr. King Alexander
Sr. and Dr. Chris Blakely. Through it all, the panel represented the university well
and remained committed to finding a great fit for our university.
In her current role, Kristi serves as general counsel at the University of West Georgia.
She is a strategic leader with comprehensive experience in legal affairs, including
compliance, contract management, Title IX and policy development. She has also served
as general counsel with the Technical College System of Georgia and the Georgia Student
Finance Commission. Her legal career brought her to the City of Atlanta, where she
served as senior assistant city attorney, and she was senior vice president at JTC
Education Holdings/MedTech in Georgia. Kristi earned her undergraduate degree from
Michigan State University in 1995 and her juris doctorate from the University of Georgia
School of Law in 1998.
We look forward to seeing Kristi on campus in May 2025, and, once again, I extend
my sincere gratitude to all who were engaged with this search effort.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
November 18, 2024
Dear Eagle Family,
Today I write you from the American Association of State Colleges and Universities
(AASCU)’s annual conference for presidents and chancellors. All of our discussions
have been focused on collaboration and how we, as leaders in higher education, can
build bridges to uplift our communities by working together.
Collaboration is a word we frequently use at FGCU, and I am thrilled to share with
my colleagues all the ways our units, departments and colleges are embracing the power
of collaboration in their day-to-day work.
Certainly, collaboration was on display last Friday as over 600 individuals came together
from across our campus and outside organizations to participate in the largest-ever Disaster Day Interprofessional
Simulation event in Southwest Florida. At the heart of the event were hands-on training
exercises for 317 students from the Marieb College of Health & Human Services, who
worked together, across majors, to care for “patients.”
I use quotes because it was a drill with very convincing actors! Some of those patients
were life-like manikins, brought in from various organizations in the community. Others
were fellow students, FGCU employees and members of the Florida State Guard who donned
makeup, prosthetics and acted as though they were injured, ill or experiencing mental
health-related trauma from an emergency situation.
This event is an example of the power of partnership. Not only did we connect students
and employees from across campus, but we engaged the public to assist with our mission
of student success. Experts in public health and safety sectors from about 20 outside
organizations were on hand to offer the assistance during the full-day event. Everyone
was there to support our students as they prepare for their future careers, and that
is a collaboration we should all be proud of!
I send my sincere thanks to the FGCU students and employees who helped make this event
possible. I want to send a special thank you to those at the core of planning the
event: Dr. Joe Buhain, Dr. Elizabeth Murray, Tracy Pearce, Zac Gelow, Diana Tsenekos,
Chief Craig Kowalski, James Welch, Jaime Wilson, Dr. Dan Bacalzo, Billy Marcantel,
Lacey Hiatte, Catherine Lytle and Matthew Connetta. Well done!
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
November 25, 2024
Hello, Eagle Family!
In honor of Thanksgiving, I have prepared a video to share my gratitude and appreciation
for all of our FGCU students, faculty and staff. To watch, please click the video
below or visit
FGCU’s YouTube channel
Happy Thanksgiving! I look forward to seeing you back on campus in December!
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
December 2024
Toggle More Info
December 2, 2024
Good morning, Eagles!
I hope you had a great time with your loved ones during the Thanksgiving break and
have returned to campus feeling recharged and ready to complete the final days of
the fall term.
The last day of fall term classes is December 9 (one week from today!), and finals
week begins on the 10th. I wish you all the best as we approach the end of the semester.
Study and sleep well! We know this time of year comes with extra stress and responsibilities,
and your wellbeing is important. As I have said before, our FGCU faculty and staff
are here to support you in your journey, so please don’t hesitate to ask for assistance.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
December 4, 2024
Dear FGCU Family,
It is with sadness that I share that one of our faculty members from the Bower School
of Music & the Arts – Dr. Patricia “Ticia” Gingras – recently passed away. Her students
knew her as Dr. G.
As the head of music education at FGCU, Dr. G. taught music methods courses, placed
and supervised student teachers, and served as the faculty liaison to the College
of Education and area schools. She joined FGCU in 2016 as a program coordinator and
assistant professor and became an associate professor in 2021. During her time at
FGCU, she also picked up addition roles teaching within University Colloquium. As
an award-winning educator, scholar and composer, Dr. G. shared her expertise and talents
at local, national and international conferences and symposiums.
The FGCU community is invited to attend
Winterfest at 6:30 p.m. today on the Bower School of Music Lawn
. The event is open to everyone, and we hope it will serve as a meaningful tribute
to Dr. G.’s life and legacy while bringing our community together during this season
of reflection and gratitude.
I also encourage you to seek out assistance during this time of grief. The following
resources are available to FGCU employees:
Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
services, including mental health counseling, are available 24 hours a day, seven
days a week, at (833) 746-8337 or online at
www.mylifeexpert.com
. Use company code: Florida.
FGCU’S Community Counseling Center
provides services to employees and community members. For more information, call
(239) 745-4777 or visit
www.fgcu.edu/mariebcollege/counseling/communitycounseling
If you know of a student who needs assistance, please let them know about the following
resources:
Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS)
: No appointments necessary. Call (239) 590-7950 or email
caps@fgcu.edu
24/7 CAPS Crisis Line
: (239) 745-EARS (3277)
Student Care Services
care@fgcu.edu
Togetherall
UBYou
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
December 9, 2024
Dear Eagle Family,
Students are at the heart of our strategic plan,
Innovating for Student Success: FGCU’s Journey to Excellence
. But the backbone of this incredible work comes from our world-class staff and faculty,
who enrich the lives of our 16,000 students and ensure they reach their full potential.
As our university adopts a mindset of continuous improvement, it is essential that
we evaluate how the university is performing as an employer so that we can foster
an environment where all staff and faculty feel that they can thrive and grow. This
is not just a goal in our strategic plan – it is the right thing to do.
To assist in this effort, we have used various efforts to solicit feedback from our
employees, with each of these tools providing us with key information about employee’s
perceptions of what it is like to work at FGCU. Through the Internal Communications
Committee, we launched a survey that helped us understand how you want to receive
information from the university and one another. I am sure you recognize that we have
executed many new initiatives. We formed a taskforce to plan action steps with regards
to the feedback we received from faculty on the Collaborative on Academic Careers
in Higher Education (COACHE) Survey, which you will hear detailed updates on the progress
soon. And, as we conclude the fall term, I am pleased to say in this email that we
are closing the loop in sharing updates about our recent town hall topics.
First, I want you to know that FGCU has received the final report from the
National Center for Higher Education Management Systems (NCHEMS)
. The full report can be found online at
www.fgcu.edu/facultystaff
, and the October 28th town hall recording is available on my
website
Second, I am pleased to announce our next steps for
ModernThink’s “Great Colleges to Work For” Survey
results. When staff and faculty participated in the survey during the spring 2024
semester, I promised you that the university would use your anonymous feedback to
guide our steps forward. I stressed how important it was for you to share your experiences
– the good and the bad – with us so we could fine-tune our work culture and environment.
And that is exactly what we are doing.
Since the October 24th town hall, we knew it was critical for us to have ongoing discussions
about the data, helping us collect ideas from across campus. Divisional vice presidents
and the deans of our colleges and schools are continuing the conversations about the
survey results in their areas, and I encourage you to join these discussions and share
your ideas for a better employee experience at FGCU. These ideas will come before
Cabinet in January so we can establish a top five list of campus priorities, which
we will then share university-wide. Units will integrate these priorities so that
we can move forward together.
To chronicle our efforts moving forward, FGCU has launched an employee experience
website. Please visit
fgcu.edu/employee-experience
to find key resources like our 2024 “Great Colleges to Work For” survey data, the
town hall recording and a list of frequently asked questions. The website also outlines
opportunities for staff and faculty to get involved in our next steps, including being
able to share anonymous feedback and sign up to become an Employee Experience Champion.
As we look ahead to 2025, FGCU will be focused on bringing all the feedback we received
from these four instruments to further analyze what we learned so we can move forward
with strategic initiatives to improve, change and innovate. We all have work to do
individually and collectively. Through these efforts, we are ensuring our campus is
a better place to work.
I know I can count on all of you to help our university in our journey forward.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
December 12, 2024
Dear Eagle Family,
It is with sadness that I inform you of the passing of Dr. Bernie Lester, a longtime
and generous supporter of Florida Gulf Coast University.
Bernie was a key part of the team from Alico, Inc., an agribusiness company led by
Ben Hill Griffin III, that was integral to bringing a university to Southwest Florida.
He was part of Alico’s executive team that provided nearly 760 acres of land that
would become FGCU’s footprint, in addition to negotiating with the state on the transfer
of land and launching the construction of our campus’ initial facilities.
When the state shifted from the Board of Regents to a university trustee model of
governance, Bernie was appointed by then-Governor Jeb Bush to the inaugural FGCU Board
of Trustees. He served in this capacity for nine years.
Over the years, his connection to FGCU included seven years of service on the FGCU
Foundation Board of Directors, seven years on the FGCU Financing Corporation Board
of Directors, 15 years as a charter member of the Lutgert College of Business Advisory
Council as well as many years as a member of the Center for Agribusiness Advisory
Board.
Bernie was also an avid fan of the FGCU Eagles, having served as a charter member
of the Eagles Club for intercollegiate athletics and holding season passes to men’s
and women’s basketball. He supported the expansion of Alico Arena with a generous
contribution, and the addition was named the W. Bernard and Elaine Lester Athletics
Administration Complex.
Philanthropically, the Lester family supported FGCU faculty, students and student-athletes
in many ways. Among those efforts were organizing the support for the three Alico
Endowed Chairs in Lutgert College, establishing the Elaine P. and W. Bernard Lester
Scholarship and creating the Lester Fund for Athletics.
Bernie’s commitment to FGCU was incredible. So much of what FGCU is today stems from
his leadership, guidance and generosity. On behalf of the university, I send my deepest
sympathies to the Lester family.
I know that many members of our FGCU community knew Bernie well.
Please remember that the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is available 24 hours a
day, seven days a week, at (833) 746-8337 or online at
. Use company code:
Florida.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
December 16, 2024
Dear Eagle Family,
Earlier today, I shared the attached message with our FGCU Board of Trustees, highlighting
the many successes the university has achieved throughout 2024. It is impossible to
include all of the great things happening on our campus, and these are only to mention
how busy we have been. I encourage you to read the memo, and I hope you see yourself
and your contributions and efforts memorialized in these highlights.
As we head into the remaining days of this calendar year, I want you to know that
your efforts in supporting and educating our students are appreciated. You are making
a difference in their lives – and in the lives of our broader community.
From my perspective, 2024 has been an incredible year for our institution, and we
have so much to be proud of! I look forward to continuing that momentum when we return
from winter break in January.
I wish you all happy holidays, a restful winter break and a joyful new year.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
2025 Messages
Toggle More Info
January 2025
Toggle More Info
January 6, 2025
Hello, Eagle Family, and happy New Year!
Because of all of you – our outstanding students, faculty and staff – I know it is
going to be a great year. I have prepared a video to share my appreciation as we continue
our collective
Journey to Excellence
Please click the video below or visit
FGCU’s YouTube channel
to watch the video.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
January 10, 2025
Dear Eagle Family,
We are now in Year 2 of our strategic plan,
Innovating for Student Success: FGCU’s Journey to Excellence.
As we move forward in operationalizing this plan, I am thrilled to see
Dr. Eileen DeLuca
shift into her new role as vice president of strategic initiatives and chief of staff.
Much of her focus will be coordinating with offices and academic units across campus
to make sure we are meeting our goals, objectives and key performance indicators.
As she leaves behind her leadership role in Strategy & Program Innovation, her direct
reports have shifted into Academic Affairs, where they report to Interim Provost Tony
Barringer. This includes:
Kristen Vanselow
, the assistant vice president for Innovative Education & Partnerships. Kristen remains
at the helm of Continuing Education, FGCU Complete, and Micro-Credentials and Digital
Badges, and will now take on leadership of the Hendry and Glades County Regional Partnerships,
Professional and Cultural Education, and 2+2 articulation agreements with the Florida
College System.
Becky Jones
, the director of Early College Programs. She leads the Accelerated Collegiate Experience
(ACE) program, a full-time, on-campus, dual enrollment experience for eligible high
school students. She is also involved with the development and support of collegiate
academies and oversight of part-time dual enrollment programs within school districts
in our regional service area.
David Jaeger
, the director of Digital Learning. He oversees both the instructional design team
that provides support to the faculty within the colleges and schools, as well as the
instructional technologists who provide support with software and the Learning Management
System. Through interactions with all divisions and participation in Faculty Senate
committees, he provides leadership for the adoption of quality digital learning practices
across all instructional modalities that use technology.
As part of her new role, Eileen reports directly to me, serves as a member of the
President’s Cabinet and oversees the Office of Board Relations in coordination with
Tiffany Reynolds
, the director of Board Relations, associate corporate secretary and deputy chief
of staff.
For the time being, Eileen will wear multiple hats at the university. Until the search
for the role of vice president and vice provost of Student Success & Enrollment Management
(SSEM) is complete, Eileen will continue serving as this division’s acting vice president.
Details about this search process can be found online at
fgcu.edu/vicepresidentsearch
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
January 13, 2025
Good morning, Eagle Family!
We are now one week into the spring semester – and a week into our launch of the
Wings Up for Student Success
platform. This is a comprehensive tool that unifies and coordinates various systems
at our university into a single, centralized platform to help us holistically identify
students who might need additional support in and out of the classroom.
Last week, all staff and faculty received a message through Canvas announcing the
launch of this tool and how it connects our campus’ efforts in advising, retention
and student success, including their academic, social, emotional and physical well-being.
See the attached graphic to see how you can share critical information with your colleagues.
Through the use of this platform, we will be better able to target academic support
services, outreach and intervention to students who need assistance, which will ensure
students do not get lost in the journey from registration to graduation. I think we
can all agree that this is a big step for our university!
I want you to know FGCU will be rolling out the use of this platform in phases, and
right now we are focused on case management, early alerts and referral tools. Updates
will continue through August, and the university will be announcing upcoming training
opportunities for all employees. This is not a one-time implementation, rather a long-term
continuous improvement. We are innovating for student success in a journey to excellence
by changing and implementing systems and processes across the institution to serve
our students better every day. For now, I encourage you to visit
FGCU’s Wings Up for Student Success website
to learn more. General questions about the platform can be sent to
wingsup@fgcu.edu
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
January 21, 2025
Good morning, Eagle Family!
I am traveling to Tallahassee alongside our Government Relations team this week to
speak with elected officials and their staff about our incredible institution. Key
to this trip is sharing our strategic priorities with state legislators and explaining
how this year’s funding requests for the university support our strategic plan –
Innovating for Student Success: FGCU’s Journey to Excellence
Each year, the university puts together a legislative budget request, or LBR, that
identifies how recurring and non-recurring funding can advance our work. For the 2025-26
budget cycle, FGCU is requesting $21.8 million in operational support.
This funding will help us improve student success outcomes and provide students with
accelerated education options, entrepreneurial endeavors and employer-partnered micro-credentials
that align with an ever-evolving workforce. Our focus is supporting programs and initiatives
that enhance success – both in and out of the classroom. Funding will also help us
advance FGCU’s community partnerships, so our students have more opportunities to
engage in real-world experiences, including internships, job-shadowing, co-ops and
more. These efforts help them gain valuable career experience and success through
transferrable and in-demand skills.
We are also requesting funds to support five capital requests. Three of these projects
reimagine existing student space on campus, including Reed Hall, the Wilson G. Bradshaw
Library and Annex, and the Cohen Student Union. We also want to use the funding to
create a new, dedicated space on campus for career preparation and the development
of innovative partnerships for our students. Also, we are requesting funding to build
a learning, research and outreach facility in Charlotte County as part of our growing
partnership with Babcock Ranch.
Throughout the semester, I will offer updates about this process as Florida officials
shape the state budget. I send my appreciation to the team in Government Relations
office for its work advocating on behalf of our university. To learn more about FGCU’s
Eagle Advocacy efforts, visit
fgcueagleadvocacy.com
Wishing you a great week on campus!
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
January 27, 2025
Dear Eagle Family,
Last week, my planned trip to Tallahassee was cancelled due to the winter weather
that impacted business and operations in northern Florida. I am working with the Government
Relations team to reschedule these important meetings with elected officials for early
February. Throughout the semester,
I will offer updates about how FGCU’s legislative budget requests are being factored
into the state’s annual budget process.
In similar news, FGCU will soon receive its final calculation
in the State University of Florida’s Performance-Based Funding (PBF) model. We have
been informed that our anticipated score is 67 for the 2025-26 cycle. This is a four-point
increase over our total score from last year, and it is something to be proud of and
celebrate.
Even before our Student Success Plan was formally approved, we saw the launch of new
initiatives and processes that would help improve our performance metrics in the four
key areas identified in the document. As a result, we experienced improvements across
the board, as well as significant increases in the three graduation metrics (Metrics
4, 9a, 9b) and Metric 5, Academic Progress Rate.
However, I know that all of us on campus are viewing the anticipated score with disappointment.
Internally, we predicted a pathway to a total score of 70 this year, with improvements
in graduation and retention metrics. Where we fell short of this prediction was Metric
1, which we forecast to be between 7 and 9, considering the wage increases (with inflation)
in the economic environment. Our actual score is anticipated to be a 6. Metric 1 focuses
on the percent of 2022-23 graduates with a bachelor’s degree who have elected to enroll
in graduate-level studies or have been employed with an annual salary of at least
$40,000. I know this is disheartening, and we are taking a deeper look at post-graduation
data to potentially identify the factors behind this result.
I do not want this to stop us from being proud of our collective work. We still have
much to celebrate, as I outlined in the attached memo to the FGCU Board of Trustees.
I am transparently sharing this information with you because we have much work to
do together.
To assist our campus community in understanding more about metrics, how they are calculated
and some of our innovative ideas for improvement, the Internal Communications Committee
has planned a town hall from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Wednesday, February 5, in the Cohen
Student Union Ballroom. The event will be interactive and include table discussions
led by the following panelists:
Dr. Eric Tack
, associate vice president of Academic Engagement
Dr. Sangki Min
, assistant vice president of Planning & Institutional Performance
Dr. Rosa Gomez-Camacho
, senior director of Institutional Research and Data Analytics
Dr. Clay Motley
, dean of the College of Arts & Sciences
Dr. Diana Cheshire
, dean of the College of Education
Megan Clipse
, senior director of University Budgets
A flyer for the event is attached. For those who cannot join the in-person conversation,
please note that a link to the town hall broadcast will be shared later this week.
From my vantage point, I can tell you there are many characteristics that set FGCU
staff and faculty apart from other institutions, and one is the incredible passion
you have for providing our students with a distinctive education and quality services.
You are driven to make a difference in the lives of our students, and I am so proud
of the work that you have accomplished in the past year. Together, we will continue
these efforts in our pursuit of excellence.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
February 2025
Toggle More Info
ebruary 3, 2025
Dear Eagle Family,
Last week, the Florida Board of Governors (BOG) approved a new strategic plan for
the State University System of Florida. Called
SUS 30: Extraordinary Impact
, the plan outlines the bold vision forward for Florida’s public universities as they
advance efforts around student success. The document defines our system’s mission,
vision, values and priority areas.
The strategic plan was presented during Thursday’s BOG meeting, which I attended alongside
many of our leaders across campus. It was incredible to see how much of our own strategic
plan,
FGCU’s Journey to Excellence
, is reflected in this document. Knowing that our goals and objectives align to the
BOG’s priorities tells us we are on the right path for student success.
As part of the system’s new strategic plan, new metrics and targets have been announced.
Many of them will highlight our successes at FGCU, including evaluating licensure
pass rates and connecting students to experiential learning/internships. These are
areas we already excel. Other metrics include more students graduating without debt
and improving the success rates of transfer and Pell Grant students. There are also
new metrics in operational excellence, world-class talent, innovative research and
economic developments. All of these are areas we are committed to improving as part
of FGCU’s strategic plan, which, again, I am very proud to say is aligned with the
system’s vision of achieving an extraordinary impact across the state.
I encourage you to spend some time reading through the SUS 30 document, which can
be found online at
www.flbog.edu/board/strategic-plan
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
February 10, 2025
Good morning, Eagle Family!
During last week’s town hall event, FGCU staff and faculty saw a preview of our new
score card, which was developed to provide the FGCU community with real-time data
on how we are performing across the State University System of Florida’s performance-based
funding (PBF) metrics. Today, I am thrilled to announce the score card is now available
for all staff and faculty!
Use the following link to access the dashboard:
scorecard.fgcu.edu
Employees need to enter their unique FGCU credentials to log into the score card.
Make sure you add this link as a favorite in your browser, and please note that the
dashboard is not accessible on mobile devices. If you run into any issues accessing
the score card, contact the FGCU Help Desk at
helpdesk@fgcu.edu
or call (239) 590-1188.
A brief introduction to the score card was provided during the town hall by Dr. Sangki
Min, assistant vice president of Planning & Institutional Performance. If you missed
the town hall, the recording is now available on the
President’s Office website
, and the university has developed a 5-minute video explaining how to use this new
data tool.
Click here
to watch the video or refer to the job aid attached to this email for step-by-step,
illustrated instructions.
Thank you to all the staff and faculty who have worked behind the scenes for the past
year to bring this dashboard to life, ensuring that we are a more informed campus
community in our collective
Journey to Excellence.
I am also excited to announce that Dr.
Ralph Wilcox
, a well-respected, retired executive vice president and provost, has agreed to work
with FGCU as a consultant on our student success efforts. Dr. Wilcox is well known
throughout the State University System of Florida, and you may have heard of his work
at the University of South Florida. As a consultant, he will be meeting with me, the
President’s Cabinet, the Deans Council and the Student Success Council to help move
our university forward.
TOWNHALL FEEDBACK
To provide feedback to the Internal Communications Committee on the format of the
“Understanding PBF Metrics” town hall event,
click here
or email
icc@fgcu.edu
. Your feedback will help the committee plan future town halls and related events.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
February 17, 2025
Good morning, Eagle Family!
FGCU is committed to providing our students with a high-quality educational experience
that provides them with the skills they need to be successful in their future careers
and life. This is the very basis of our campus-wide efforts in our
Journey to Excellence
, and I think it is important to highlight our achievements along the way.
I am very proud to share that
FGCU’s School of Nursing
has once again exceeded the state and national averages of graduates who pass the
National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN).
FGCU was the only public university in Florida to achieve a 100% pass rate – and it
is our second year in a row doing so!
While rankings are not the focus of our work, it is a sense of pride to know graduates
from FGCU’s rigorous nursing program possess the knowledge and skills needed to be
successful in their careers, starting on their very first day on the job. It is also
a testament to the hard work that our students do every day on this campus, and I
congratulate our graduates on their commitment to their studies.
I send my appreciation to the faculty, staff and administrative team in the Marieb
College of Health & Human Services and the School of Nursing for their efforts. I
am grateful to the entire campus community for working together as a team to coordinate
support to our students, which has helped them achieve this success. I am also appreciative
of the support FGCU has received from Governor Ron DeSantis and the Florida Legislature
through the Prepping Institutions, Programs, Employers, and Learners through Incentives
for Nursing Education (PIPELINE) and the Linking Industry to Nursing Education (LINE)
funds.
We celebrated reaching this milestone with Vice Chair Alan Levine of the Florida Board
of Governors (BOG) and Chair Michael Wynn of the FGCU Board of Trustees (BOT). They
were both on campus last Wednesday so Mr. Levine could learn more about our institution
from students, deans, vice presidents and representatives of our health programs.
I invite you to visit
FGCU’s YouTube channel
to hear their remarks about our nursing program’s 100% pass rate.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
February 27, 2025
Dear Eagle Family,
I wanted to provide a brief but exciting update on our journey to reaffirmation with
the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
As you are aware, this week we had a SACSCOC on-site committee visit our campus as
a requirement of the decennial reaffirmation process. During their stay, the committee
met with students, faculty, staff and administration to clarify and verify our compliance
with SACSCOC principles of accreditation and standards. This morning, the on-site
committee met with me and the leadership team to share that they have found
ZERO
areas of non-compliance and have
ZERO
recommendations to our Quality Enhancement Plan,
The Skills Advantage: From Campus to Career
. There is no better judgement we can receive from a reaffirmation visit than this
one! I have never been prouder to be an Eagle!
The success of our Compliance Certification and the praise we received for our Quality
Enhancement Plan reflects the work of the entire institution. For a peer review team
to find no areas for recommendations means that we have demonstrated across every
department and division a commitment to quality and continuous improvement. I want
to take a brief moment to congratulate FGCU for your dedication to student success
and for ensuring we continue on our journey to excellence.
I will share additional information about the next steps in the coming weeks. Until
then, let me again say congratulations and thank you for all you do achieve our mission.
Stay tuned for information about a university-wide celebration of our success!
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
February 28, 2025
Dear Eagle Family,
It is with sadness that I inform you of the passing of one of our own - Vicki Brody.
She dedicated over 10 years to FGCU, serving in academic advising for the Lutgert
College of Business and the Daveler & Kauanui School of Entrepreneurship.
Vicki was well-known on campus, among both students and employees, and she had a deep
commitment to support students in their journey here at FGCU. I know she will have
a lasting impact on her colleagues, and my heart is with her friends, peers and the
many students she worked with.
During this time of grief, I encourage you to seek out assistance. The following resources
are available to the FGCU community:
Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
services, including mental health counseling, are available 24 hours a day, seven
days a week, at (833) 746-8337 or online at
mylifeexpert.com
. Use company code: Florida.
FGCU’S Community Counseling Center
provides services to employees and community members. For more information, call (239)
745-4777 or visit
fgcu.edu/mariebcollege/counseling/communitycounseling
If you know of a student who needs assistance, please let them know about the following
resources:
Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS)
: No appointments necessary. Call (239) 590-7950 or email
caps@fgcu.edu
24/7 CAPS Crisis Line
: (239) 745-EARS (3277)
Student Care Services
care@fgcu.edu
Togetherall
UBYou
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
March 2025
Toggle More Info
March 3, 2025
Hello, Eagle Family!
With students on spring break, most of our faculty and staff are operating at a different
pace this week. I encourage all of our employees to take advantage of the Soar into
Spring events organized by the
Staff Advisory Council (SAC)
Now in its 14th year,
Soar into Spring
offers personal and professional development opportunities that range from campus
tours and department presentations to wellness-focused events and activities. Visit
fgcu.edu/sac/soarintospring
to register and learn more.
As I announced last week, the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission
on Colleges (SACSCOC) On-Site Committee deemed FGCU fully compliant with all 74 standards
and supports, without recommendations, our Quality Enhancement Plan,
The Skills Advantage: From Campus to Career
, to move forward for implementation. The positive review demonstrates our commitment
to continuous improvement. Congratulations on this institutional recognition of accomplishment!
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
March 10, 2025
Good morning, Eagle Family!
I hope all of our faculty and staff enjoyed a more relaxed pace last week while students
were on spring break. Now that students are back, we are charging full speed ahead
into the rest of the spring semester.
I am sure you noticed some of the construction efforts in and around the Cohen Student
Union. First, our next digital monument sign at the traffic signal is coming along
nicely, and I know it will be a great tool to communicate to our employees and students
once it is complete. Second, I am pleased to see so much work occurring inside Cohen,
where we have officially entered Phase 2 of the remodeling project.
Among the changes that will be made are:
Closing in the outdoor atrium area
Relocating the information booth to a more centralized space
Creating new seating areas, including one that overlooks the first floor
The addition of three second-floor conference-style rooms
As I am sure you noticed, the lawn area outside of Einstein Bros. Bagels is currently
closed, and a temporary sidewalk has been created for navigation of the area. While
it might be noisy at times, daily operations inside Cohen are not affected.
You can read more about what’s to come – and see the architectural renderings – in
this month’s Inside FGCU newsletter by
clicking here
. And don’t forget that you can request a physical copy of the newsletter be delivered
to your office each month. Just fill out the form on the Inside FGCU homepage.
March 12, 2025
Dear FGCU Family,
I am pleased to announce that Debbie M. Thorne, Ph.D., has accepted our employment
offer to serve as FGCU’s executive vice president and provost. She will join the FGCU
Family on July 1, following the conclusion of her American Council on Education Fellowship
at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte.
While she completes this rigorous program, Tony Barringer, Ed.D., will continue to
oversee the daily administrative operations of Academic Affairs as interim provost.
He will then transition to the role of senior associate vice president of Academic
Affairs. On behalf of the university, I send my sincere gratitude to Dr. Barringer
for taking on this critical leadership role for the past six months. He has brought
great collaborative and strategic efforts to our student success initiatives, and
I know he and Dr. Thorne will lead FGCU to new heights in our
Journey to Excellence
In addition to her fellowship, Dr. Thorne is the special assistant to the provost
at Texas State University, an institution that serves 40,000 students across multiple
campuses and offers over 200 academic programs. Texas State has been her home since
2001, where she became a tenured faculty member in marketing and held various faculty
and administrative roles. Most recently, she served seven years as the senior vice
provost.
Dr. Thorne earned her doctorate in business administration from the University of
Memphis, a master’s degree in marketing from Texas A&M University, and a bachelor’s
degree in business administration from Abilene Christian University. Prior to joining
Texas State, she spent four years as the director of the Center for Ethics at The
University of Tampa, taught marketing at Mississippi State University, and lectured
in Mexico, Canada, Thailand and Austria. Attached is Dr. Thorne’s biography.
As you may recall, FGCU launched the search for a chief academic officer at the same
time we launched the search for a vice president and vice provost of Student Success
& Enrollment Management (SSEM). This is the final open position in FGCU’s administrative
ranks, and I look forward to sharing an update about that search soon.
Please join me in thanking Dr. Barringer for his service and welcoming Dr. Thorne
to the Nest.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
March 17, 2025
Dear Eagle Family,
Each year, the State University System of Florida and the State College System participates
in the Intellectual Freedom Survey. This is an opportunity for faculty, staff and
students to anonymously share how they feel their beliefs and viewpoints can be expressed
on campus.
Today is the launch of that survey at FGCU. The link to the survey will be sent to
your university email. Between now and the close of the survey on April 11, you can
expect automated messages reminding you to participate.
The viewpoint survey was launched as part of House Bill 233, which was passed by the
Florida Legislature in 2021. The survey is optional.
I wish you a great week on campus, and I look forward to seeing you soon.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
March 24, 2025
Hello, Eagle Family!
This week, we celebrate
FGCU Give Day 2025
, an annual event where faculty, staff and students come together to raise funds in
support of FGCU programs and initiatives. This peer-to-peer fundraising event runs
for a full 24 hours, beginning at noon on Wednes
day
, March 26.
Your participation, whether through a financial donation or by spreading the word
to your friends and family, helps fund scholarships, advance research initiatives
and enhance the overall student experience.
We have rolled the former faculty-staff campaign into FGCU Give Day, so this is the
only time during the year that you will be asked to give.
No matter the size, every contribution plays a crucial role in shaping the future
of FGCU –
Your University
Visit
to see the 67 FGCU causes and initiatives you can support this year!
The
FGCU
Give
Day
campaign runs until noon on Thurs
day
, March 27.
Please join me in making FGCU
Give
Day
2025 a resounding success. I look forward to witnessing the positive impact we can
achieve together!
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
March 31, 2025
Good morning, Eagle Family!
In about a month, FGCU will celebrate spring commencement, honoring over 2,400 students
who are eligible to complete their academic journey from our institution. Without
a doubt, our instructors and staff have played an incredible role in helping our students
reach this milestone.
It is important for all of us to pause and appreciate our collective efforts in student
success. Just last week, we presented FGCU’s monitoring report for the student success
plan to the Florida Board of Governors (BOG), outlining the initiatives we have implemented
in the past year that have yielded deliverables on three graduation metrics (4, 9a,
9b) as well as academic progress (metric 5). Our monitoring report was approved, and
it would not have been possible without your efforts.
One of the best ways that we, as the Eagle Family, can celebrate this work is by supporting
the joyous event that is spring commencement.
Four ceremonies are taking place May 3-4 in Alico Arena
, and each event requires the assistance of our dedicated employees.
Here are two ways to get involved:
All employees can sign up to provide support as a commencement worker
. Fill out the
commencement worker form
to take on important roles that support our graduates and their guests, such as scanning
tickets, lining up students and distributing programs. You can sign up for a single
ceremony, a full day or both days.
Faculty can sign up to take part in a ceremony.
Fill out the
faculty participant form
to have the opportunity to wear your regalia, sit with graduates and be part of the
commencement march. I truly believe that faculty play a vital role in FGCU graduation
ceremonies, celebrating students’ achievements as they make their transition to the
next stage of life. Faculty presence not only honors students’ hard work but also
reinforces the mentorship and the support you have provided throughout the students’
academic journey.
Also, please remind any graduating students that the deadline to register for commencement
and claim their guest tickets is April 11. You can refer them to the
commencement website
for more information.
I look forward to seeing you at commencement in May!
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
April 2025
Toggle More Info
April 2, 2025
Dear FGCU Family,
I am excited to announce that Paul J. Dosal, Ph.D., has accepted our employment offer
to serve as FGCU’s
vice
president
and
vice
provost
of Student Success & Enrollment Management
(SSEM)
. He will join the FGCU Family on July 21.
Dr. Dosal has spent the last 15 years in vice president positions at two public research
universities in the State University System of Florida (SUS) – both of which have
seen impressive growth in state performance and preeminence metrics under his leadership.
Most recently, he served two and a half years as senior vice president for student
success at the University of Central Florida (UCF), where he is a history professor.
Prior to that, he worked at the University of South Florida (USF), where he moved
through the faculty ranks into senior administration, serving as the champion for
the student success initiatives that positioned the university for preeminence and
Association of American Universities (AAU) eligibility. Dr. Dosal earned his doctorate
and master’s degrees from Tulane University and a bachelor’s degree from St. Andrews
Presbyterian College. Attached is Dr. Dosal’s biography.
Until his arrival in the summer term, Dr. Eileen DeLuca will continue to serve the
university as the acting
vice
president
of SSEM. She will then assist with onboarding Dr. Dosal, in coordination with Academic
Affairs, ensuring a smooth transition of leadership. I send my deepest appreciation
to Dr. DeLuca for doing an incredible job guiding SSEM during the past nine months.
I know she is looking forward to focusing on her permanent role as
vice president
of
strategic
initiatives
and chief
of
staff.
Likewise, I send my thanks to the search committee and the staff who supported their
efforts as part of this search. Their work ran parallel to the provost search, and
I am incredibly grateful for all who were involved in dedicating time and energy to
the critical tasks of recruiting high-caliber leaders to our team.
That includes you – our faculty and staff. Throughout this process, you have remained
engaged in both executive-level searches, and I want you to know that I have a tremendous
amount of faith and excitement in both Dr. Dosal and Dr. Debbie M. Thorne, our new
executive vice president and provost. Together, they will lead FGCU’s efforts in providing
our students with high-quality educational experiences and support. This is the core
of our
Journey to Excellence
, and I am eager to see what we are able to achieve together.
Please join me in welcoming Dr. Dosal to the FGCU Family!
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
April 7, 2025
Dear Eagle Family,
This past week was filled with great innovation, not just here on campus but around
our community. Alongside many other representatives of FGCU, I attended the Edison
Awards, a competition that highlights leaders of new innovations and products from
around the world.
The bonus for our community is that the event takes place right here in Fort Myers.
It was a timely reminder of the talent that lives here in Southwest Florida, and the
global impact we all play in our community and through our roles at FGCU.
Of course, the top of our priority list at the university is student success. As I
shared in my message last week, the Florida Board of Governors (BOG) approved our
monitoring report for our current student success plan. This is good news, as we focused
on our key graduation metrics and students’ academic progress rate. We are making
progress.
But that isn’t our only focus in our mission of providing students with a distinctive,
affordable and high-quality educational experience here at FGCU. I want you to know
that our Deans Council, Student Success Council and Cabinet are pulling together ideas
that can strengthen our efforts.
As you have heard me say before, student success is everyone’s priority on our campus.
I know you have ideas that can truly help our students, and I want to encourage you
to reach out to your supervisors, chairs, deans or divisional leaders with your innovative
ideas in and out of the classroom, from improving specific processes, policies and
practices to adopting a completely new way of supporting student success.
Our goal is to craft a new student success plan that allows us to focus on all 10
of the metrics that we are accountable to the state, and we want to start acting now.
So please, take this as my personal invitation to share your ideas and feedback –
we look forward to hearing from you!
Our students and their academic achievements will be highlighted during Tuesday’s
Board of Trustees meeting. The agenda can be found on the
website for Board Relations
. I know that not everyone can attend the meetings, so be sure to look out for the
meeting recap message shared later this week.
I wish you all a great week on campus.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
April 14, 2025
Good morning,
In accordance with Executive Order 25-44, FGCU has identified a point person and team
to respond to information requests related to Florida’s Department of Government Efficiency
(DOGE) Team.
The main contact is Vice President of Administrative Services & Finance David Vazquez,
and he is working closely with the following individuals as part of a data gathering
team:
Dr. Rosemary Higgins | Associate Vice President, Research and Sponsored Programs
Sara Stensrud | Senior Associate Vice President, Chief Human Resources Officer
Dr. Tracy Elliott | Dean of the University Library
I understand there are many news articles and commentaries about DOGE-related requests
in higher education, and I want to transparently share how FGCU is complying with
requests for information from the Executive Office of the Governor.
Attached to this email is an information request we received on April 4. Data required
for employee reporting will come from our Human Resources Information System (HRIS)
through Workday. Data requested for sponsored research will be provided as permitted
by statute.
On behalf of the university, I want to thank David, Rosemary, Sara and Tracy for their
efforts. Should any of them contact you to request information, please provide it
as quickly as possible.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
April 15, 2025
Dear FGCU Family,
As Cabinet announced April 1st, the university is moving forward with initiatives
to elevate the employee experience. One of the key projects being worked on now is
identifying and defining a core set of values for our workplace.
Members of the steering committee to the Taskforce on FGCU Values are conducting listening
sessions with shared governance groups, academic units and departments across campus.
The group has also partnered with the Internal Communications Committee to offer three
public listening sessions on Thursday, April 17.
10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
In person: Academic Building 9, Room 106
Virtual access via
Microsoft Teams
1 p.m. to 2 p.m.
In person: Academic Building 9, Room 106
Virtual access via
Microsoft Teams
4 p.m. to 5 p.m.
In person: Academic Building 9, Room 106
Virtual access via
Microsoft Teams
See the attached flyer for more information!
Regardless of when you attend a listening session, be it in your office or in a public
session, the presentation will be the same. Find an event that works for your schedule
by visiting
fgcu.edu/employee-experience
You can also use the
values feedback form
to
anonymously share ideas about what you think our values should be and sign up to be
a focus group participant during the summer. The university will also launch a survey
for faculty and staff to ensure every staff and faculty member on campus has an opportunity
to participate in this important process.
It is our goal to announce our core values on Monday, August 11, during FGCU’s annual
Fall Welcome event at Alico Arena. Until then, I urge you to get involved! Your engagement
is important to this process.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
April 17, 2025
Dear FGCU Family,
I am sure many of you have been following the heartbreaking news impacting our friends,
peers and colleagues at Florida State University. I speak for all Eagles when I send
my deepest sympathies to the FSU family, their loved ones and all who were impacted
by today’s events in Tallahassee.
While we have not received any threats to our campus community, we have increased
the presence of law enforcement on campus. You can expect to see the Lee County Sheriff’s
Office on campus in addition to our officers with the University Police Department.
Please know that mental health and counseling services are available to provide comfort
and support to FGCU students, faculty and staff. If you need assistance or other resources,
do not hesitate to ask.
Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
services, including mental health counseling, are available 24 hours a day, seven
days a week, at (833) 746-8337 or online at
www.mylifeexpert.com
. Use company code: Florida.
FGCU’S Community Counseling Center
provides services to employees and community members. For more information, call
(239) 745-4777 or visit
www.fgcu.edu/mariebcollege/counseling/communitycounseling
If you know of a student who needs assistance, please let them know about the following
resources:
Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS)
: No appointments necessary. Call (239) 590-7950 or email
caps@fgcu.edu
24/7 CAPS Crisis Line
: (239) 745-EARS (3277)
Student Care Services
care@fgcu.edu
Togetherall
April 21, 2025
Dear Eagle Family,
It is with bittersweet sentiments that I share that
Beverly Brown
, the director of operations for the Office of the President, is retiring this summer.
During her 10 years at FGCU, she has led and contributed to the direct support of
three FGCU presidents, beginning with Dr. Wilson G. Bradshaw and continuing through
Dr. Mike Martin and my administrations.
Bev has ensured our office runs seamlessly in support of the entire university and
greater community. She has served as our office’s point person for community leaders,
donors, trustees, members of the Board of Governors, legislators, alumni, as well
as current FGCU students, faculty and staff. In addition to the complexities of her
main role at the university, she has also contributed to the FGCU community through
various committees. This includes chairing FGCU’s Commencement Committee, which is
charged with planning and executing the university’s ceremonies that celebrate our
graduating students and their families each fall and spring.
Knowing how difficult it is to hire someone to step into Beverly’s role, I looked
to the office’s existing support coordinator,
Tracie Beck
, who has served as a direct backup to Beverly for several years. She has already
demonstrated the skills and commitment required, and I am very confident that Tracie
is the right person for the position. I know she will provide a smooth transition
with no interruptions of operations in the Office of the President.
We have already started training Tracie for her new roles and responsibilities, and
I am excited to announce that we are looking to fill Tracie’s current role through
an internal search. Human Resources will share the internal listing with campus this
week. If the support coordinator position interests you, I encourage you to apply.
Beverly’s last day is August 1, and we are planning a retirement gathering in her
honor. Details will be shared as we get closer to the July event, but I hope you will
all join me in celebrating Beverly’s time at FGCU and Tracie’s new appointment.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
April 28, 2025
Good morning, FGCU Family!
We have officially reached the end of the spring semester, and today marks the last
day of classes before finals begin. It’s a busy and exciting time at our university,
with our spring commencement ceremonies scheduled for Saturday and Sunday.
Approximately 2,400 students are completing their academic journey at FGCU. Thank
you to all of our staff and faculty who have signed up to make this weekend’s events
a special one for our graduates, their families and the FGCU community. I am also
grateful to the commencement committee for all their work planning the four ceremonies.
Last week was very busy, with such end-of-year achievements as
EagleX
, a s
howcase of exceptional student experiences in research, community engagement, leadership
and internships, as well as
Celebration of Excellence
. Here, the FGCU community celebrated the achievements and accomplishments of many
of our students, faculty and staff. This week, we also gather for the induction of
the
Class of 2025 Hall of Fame.
Congratulations to all!
As I look back on the 2024–25 academic year, I’m truly grateful for our faculty and
staff who have put their passion into providing outstanding to our students. Every
day, you help us innovate, grow and put students first. Thank you!
I encourage you to click the video below, or visit the
FGCU YouTube channel
, to watch a special end-of-year message from me.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
May 2025
Toggle More Info
May 5, 2025
Hello, Eagle Family!
A brand-new week is here, and I’m still energized from this weekend’s incredible commencement
ceremonies at FGCU! Alico Arena was absolutely electric, bursting with Eagle pride
as we celebrated the achievements of the Class of 2025 with their families, friends
and biggest supporters.
This term, approximately 2,400 students were on track to complete their academic journey
at FGCU – a new and exciting milestone for our university. While many think of commencement
as the end of a journey, it is really the beginning. Our graduates are launching into
the world ready to make an impact! Some are stepping straight into exciting careers,
while others are diving deeper into their academic journeys. No matter where they
go next, I have no doubt they will carry the spirit of FGCU with pride and represent
our university with excellence and purpose.
I send my deepest appreciation to the faculty who wore regalia and sat beside our
graduates to support them in this beautiful rite of passage, and I am so grateful
to the staff workers and student volunteers who ensured the festivities ran smoothly
for our graduates and their guests. Your presence and high energy made the celebrations
one-of-a-kind, and I know the experience was appreciated by our graduates and their
families.
Commencement truly was a powerful reminder of what it means to be focused on student
success, and each ceremony embodied how great it is to be part of the Eagle family.
Thank you to all who made it possible!
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
May 12, 2025
Dear FGCU Family,
I am pleased to share that today is the official first day on campus for Vice President
& General Counsel Kristi M. Carman, Esq. As I previously announced in November, Kristi
joins us with a wealth of experience and will play a key leadership role at FGCU.
In addition to overseeing the Office of General Counsel, Kristi serves as a member
of the President’s Cabinet, reporting to both myself and the FGCU Board of Trustees.
Over the coming days and weeks, you will likely have the opportunity to meet Kristi
as she becomes acclimated to our campus community. I encourage you to extend a warm
welcome and introduce yourself to Kristi – her email is
kcarman@fgcu.edu
I would also like to express my sincere appreciation to Lisa Jones, Esq., who has
provided outstanding leadership in an interim capacity for the past 11 months. Her
dedication and commitment to the university during this time of transition have been
invaluable. I am confident that Lisa will be an exceptional resource to Kristi as
she steps into her new role and becomes a part of the Southwest Florida community.
FGCU Welcomes BOG Member
Our one-of-a-kind Eagle spirit was highlighted during a recent visit from Florida
Board of Governor Ashley Bell Barnett. As she toured campus, learning more about our
regional comprehensive university, she met with students, faculty and administrative
staff. She left impressed and recognized our great service to Southwest Florida and
beyond, and I have attached a photo from the day.
President Messages Shift to Biweekly Schedule for Summer
As we move into the summer months, I want to share a brief update regarding the frequency
of my campus messages. Beginning this week and continuing through the end of July,
I will shift to a bi-weekly schedule for these communications.
My regular weekly messages will resume in August. That said, should any time-sensitive
or important updates come up, I will send additional messages.
I hope you enjoy a productive and restorative summer at FGCU!
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
May 27, 2025
Dear FGCU Family,
FGCU recently received additional information requests related to the Florida Department
of Government Efficiency (DOGE) Team, and I have attached the letters to this email
for your review.
To respond to t
hese requests, the university has pulled data from reports previously submitted to
the Florida Board of Governors, and we have been working closely with the team from
the Office of the Controller, Planning & Institutional Performance, Human Resources
and Research & Sponsored Programs, among others. Thank you to all who have been part
of the data collection to ensure our compliance with these requests.
In other news, I am sure you have heard that the Florida Senate and House were not
able to reach an agreement on the state budget, but both chambers passed HCR 1631,
officially extending the legislative session through June 6. This provides legislators
more time to finalize the budget and related bills, as is constitutionally required.
Recent budget discussions have included proposals for tax relief and ways to manage
state spending – ideas that could shape how much revenue is available. Once a total
budget amount is agreed upon, funding allocations will be announced, and the formal
budget conference process will begin.
Our Government Relations team, led by Jennifer Goen, will continue to keep watch over
this process. As always, I will keep you updated as things progress.
My next scheduled message is June 9.
Until then …
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
June 2025
Toggle More Info
June 2, 2025
Dear FGCU Family,
I recognize that today’s message is not on my regular schedule, but I knew many of
you would be interested in this information.
FGCU’s athletic program and our student-athletes were recognized with several high
honors during the 2024-25 Atlantic Sun Conference’s Annual Awards and Hall of Fame
Ceremony last week. Among the night’s highlights were:
The Bill Bibb Trophy
– This award is given to the ASUN Conference’s top overall athletic program, which
recognizes the strength and consistency of our teams across all sports.
The Sherman Day Trophy
– This award is given to the ASUN Conference's top women's athletic program for the
year. This marks the fifth time FGCU has won this prestigious title.
I am also proud to share that
FGCU student-athlete Jaci Carpenter
, a beach volleyball player, was named the
2024-25 ASUN Female Student-Athlete of the Year
. This is the highest academic honor in the league, and Jaci was among 10 elite student-athletes
nominated for the honor. She carried a perfect 4.0 GPA and recently graduated with
a degree in communications.
Additionally,
alumna Sarah Hansen
was inducted into the
ASUN Hall of Fame
for her contributions to the university as well as her achievements in the ASUN league.
As a key member of our women’s basketball program from 2009-14, Sarah’s legacy continues
to make our Eagle community proud.
These awards are a resounding testament to the tireless dedication of our coaches,
staff and administrators who work hard every day to support our student-athletes,
not just in competitions, but in the classroom and beyond.
Congratulations
to all!
New DOGE Request
FGCU is now working on another information request from the Florida Department of
Government Efficiency (DOGE) Team.
Please see attachments for more information.
To respond to the request by the June 6 deadline, FGCU has formed a team of individuals
from the following university offices: Advancement, Board Relations, Budget, Controller,
Facilities, General Counsel, Government Relations, Human Resources, Institutional
Ethics & Compliance, Internal Audit and Procurement.
Once again, I send my sincere gratitude to all who have been part of the data collection
to ensure our continued compliance with requests from DOGE and the Florida Board of
Governors.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
June 6, 2025
Good morning, FGCU Family!
Today, I’m thrilled to share a historic and truly transformative moment for our university!
Thanks to the incredible generosity of the Elaine Nicpon Marieb Charitable Foundation,
FGCU has received a commitment of more than $22 million – the largest donation in
our university’s history! The funding will be directed toward the development of cutting-edge
instructional technology at FGCU’s Marieb College of Health & Human Services.
FGCU’s long-standing partnership with the foundation is rooted in our connection to
Dr. Elaine Nicpon Marieb – a distinguished human anatomist, renowned textbook author
and extraordinary philanthropist. Between 2011 and 2017, Dr. Marieb generously contributed
more than
$17 million
to FGCU, demonstrating her deep commitment to advancing health and human services
education.
Elaine passed away in 2018, and the Marieb Foundation has enabled the continued growth
of our College of Health & Human Services through her legacy. Our ongoing partnership
has significantly expanded opportunities for our students, faculty and research, and
it will strengthen the future of healthcare in the Southwest Florida community and
beyond.
I am pleased to announce that Academic Building 10 will also be named in her honor.
A media event to announce the news will occur in Marieb Hall at 10 a.m. Friday, June
13.
I send my sincere gratitude to all who have fostered this tremendous partnership over
the years, especially past and current leadership in Marieb College of Health & Human
Services and Advancement.
Congratulations
to all!
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
June 9,  2025
Dear FGCU Family,
This past week, I attended the Florida Education Commissioner's Summit in Miami. The
meeting was attended by presidents and trustee chairs from the State University System
of Florida and the Florida College System, as well as the K-12 public school superintendents
from each county.
It was great to be in the same room with leaders of Florida’s educational ecosystem
and discuss our collective work on student success. The meeting agenda focused on
increasing postsecondary readiness in Florida, including discussions on education
standards, accountability and accreditation.
More specifically, the summit emphasized preparing students for college, careers and
lifelong success as well as raising the bar on education standards, with an emphasis
on critical and analytical thinking and ensuring transparency and fairness. We discussed
the importance of 2+2 programs, targeted pathways and curriculum alignment as well
as experiential learning, internships and co-op programs, which are integral parts
of students’ career preparation from college to workforce.
Lastly, the summit provided an opportunity to thank Manny Diaz for his service as
the Florida Commissioner of Education and welcome Anastasios "Stasi" Kamoutsas, who
will take over as commissioner in July.
First Day Ready Launches in August
Among the ways FGCU is strengthening efforts around student success is with the launch
of a comprehensive course materials program this fall. Called First Day Ready, this
partnership with Barnes & Noble College provides students in undergraduate courses
with all their required course materials by the first day of classes at a fixed rate
of $20 per credit hour.
The program is designed to improve student preparedness, affordability and academic
outcomes. Faculty will continue to select their preferred course materials in their
desired format – print or digital. Training sessions will be available this summer,
and I encourage you to learn more by reviewing the information on the
First Day Ready landing page
, including its associated frequently asked questions (FAQs).
My next scheduled message to campus is June 23 ...
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
June 17, 2025
Dear Eagle Family,
Yesterday, the Florida legislature passed a $115.1 billion budget for the 2025-26
fiscal year. The proposed budget reflects a statewide reduction of approximately $1.5
billion.
I know that many of you are asking for details about what this means for our university. At
this time, the governor has not been presented with the budget bill. Under Florida’s
Constitution, the governor has 15 days to act on legislation once a bill has been
presented to them.
While we wait for the final version of the state budget, we have begun conversations
about our finances for the year ahead. FGCU continues to monitor this process closely,
so please be patient and stay tuned!
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
June 19, 2025
Dear Eagle Family,
I am sure that many of you tuned in to watch yesterday’s Florida Board of Governors
(BOG) meeting, where the final Performance-Based Funding (PBF) scores for the State
University System of Florida (SUS) were announced. As previously forecast and shared
with campus, FGCU earned a total score of 67.
This represents a four-point improvement from last year and represents tremendous
growth across our four most critical metrics, as outlined in the current student success
plan. While we are proud of the improvements made to date, there is a collective disappointment
in our total score. For the second year in a row, FGCU is ranked last among the 12
state universities – a sting we all feel.
This morning, I shared a similar sentiment with the FGCU Board of Trustees, and you
will find that memo attached to this email.
Let me remind you: At FGCU, we are on a
Journey of Excellence
. We are committed to helping our students find success in and out of the classroom.
I am proud to see the systematic changes we have implemented in the past months take
root, setting us up for continued growth in the years ahead.
I send my appreciation to our colleagues who are leading the efforts in developing
a more comprehensive student success plan that addresses all ten PBF metrics – not
just the four we identified as most critical this past year. FGCU continues to work
with Dr. Ralph Wilcox, former provost and executive vice president at the University
of South Florida, and I look forward to seeing these efforts come to life under the
leadership of Drs. Debbie M. Thorne and Paul J. Dosal.
At FGCU, student success is everyone’s top priority, and I am confident this moment
strengthens our resolve to improve.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
June 23, 2025
Dear Eagle Family,
At FGCU, we deeply value the dedication, talent and hard work of our employees. Your
continued commitment to our mission to be a “transformative, learner-centered institution
dedicated to student success” is critical in our journey to excellence. In recognition
of your efforts, FGCU is taking deliberate steps to ensure that our compensation remains
competitive and aligned with market standards.
As part of our annual budget cycle, I have been working with the President’s Cabinet
to implement a series of strategic budgetary measures aimed at prioritizing employee
salary increases. These actions are designed to target savings in the coming fiscal
year that will be redirected to support compensation increases.
Each division will be responsible for identifying and implementing savings initiatives.
These efforts are critical to ensuring that we can invest meaningfully in our most
valuable resource – our people.
We understand that these changes may require adjustments, and we appreciate your cooperation
and creativity in identifying cost-saving opportunities.
Next Steps |
Senior leaders will be meeting with budget teams in each division across campus within
the next three weeks. I invite you to share your ideas with your senior leader. By
working together, we can continue to foster a supportive and rewarding environment
for all members of our university community.
Thank you for your continued dedication and service.
My next scheduled message to campus is July 7 ...
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
July 2025
Toggle More Info
July 1, 2025
Dear Eagle Family,
It is with sadness that I share the passing of one of our long-time faculty members
– Andrew “Andy” Owen. Andy worked nearly 17 years in the Bower School of Music & the
Arts, where he started as an assistant professor in 2008 and became a professor in
2020.
Without a doubt, Andy left a lasting impact at FGCU. He touched the lives of his students
and colleagues through his printmaking classes, and he provided guidance and support
to those who stopped by his studio to talk about art and life. The largest gift to
be donated to the
Permanent Collection of Art at FGCU
came from Carol L. Shay, the daughter of Harvey Littleton – a world-renowned artist
that Andy once worked alongside as a master printmaker.
Later this year, the art program will celebrate Andy’s legacy with a student-focused
steamroller printmaking workshop, an innovative process he invented in the late 1970s
to promote alternative, collaborative methods in printmaking. The Bower School will
announce those details once they become available.
During this time of grief, I encourage you to seek out assistance. The following resources
are available to the FGCU community:
Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
services, including mental health counseling, are available 24 hours a day, seven
days a week, at (833) 746-8337 or online at
www.mylifeexpert.com
Use company code: Florida.
FGCU’S Community Counseling Center
provides services to employees and community members. For more information, call
(239) 745-4777 or visit
www.fgcu.edu/mariebcollege/counseling/communitycounseling
If you know of a student who needs assistance, please let them know about the following
resources:
Counseling and
Psychological Services (CAPS)
: No appointments necessary. Call (239) 590-7950 or email
caps@fgcu.edu
24/7 CAPS Crisis Line
: (239) 745-EARS (3277)
Student Care Services
care@fgcu.edu
Togetherall
UBYou
July 1, 2025
Dear Eagle Family,
I am pleased to report Governor Ron DeSantis officially signed a $117.4 billion state budget
yesterday, enabling FGCU to complete its financial outlook for the year ahead.
From my perspective, there is much to acknowledge and appreciate. The budget includes
$21.7 million
appropriation to support our partnership with
Babcock Ranch
, advancing our vision to
establish a dynamic learning, research and outreach facility in Charlotte County
. Additionally,
The Water School
continues to be recognized for its leadership in sustainability and resiliency. It
has been named as a partner in an
$8 million comprehensive water quality study
focused on river basins and upstream sources. Outside of these funding items, FGCU
was not allocated other new operational funds.
It is exciting to see our governor and state legislators’ support of the work we do
here at FGCU. I send my sincere appreciation to our FGCU community for advocating
for our legislative budget request, including our Board of Trustees and the Office
of Government Relations.
With the state’s budget in place, s
enior leaders continue to evaluate how strategic
budget
ary measures will help fund university priorities that are driven by the strategic
plan for the new fiscal year.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
July 7, 2025
Dear Eagle Family,
As you may have seen in the news, six public university systems – including Florida’s
– have formed the
Commission for Public Higher Education
, a first-of-its-kind accreditation model for public higher education institutions.
This consortium is beginning a multi-year review process with the U.S. Department
of Education. At this time, nothing has changed for FGCU until we complete the current
reaffirmation timeline and process through the Southern Association of Colleges and
Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). As previously shared, FGCU received 100%
compliance with no recommendations following our on-site review, and we look forward
to a reaffirmation announcement in December. We will work with the Chancellor’s Office
for more information and guidance over the next few months.
In other news, I am pleased to share an exciting
staffing update in the Office of the President
. Following an internal search,
Julie Eacho
has been selected as our new support coordinator.
Julie most recently served as executive assistant to the provost and executive vice
president for Academic Affairs. She will now step into the role currently held by
Tracie Beck
, who is preparing to transition into her new position as director of operations for
my office – a change made in light of
Beverly Brown
’s well-earned retirement
this summer. On a temporary basis, Julie will continue to assist with responsibilities
in Academic Affairs.
Julie joined FGCU in July 2022 and has been a vital part of the Academic Affairs team,
providing high-level administrative support, managing complex calendars and logistics,
coordinating Celebration of Excellence and serving as a trusted liaison to colleagues
across campus. Before joining FGCU, she held executive-level support positions with
Walmart Inc., Walt Disney Parks & Resorts and the University of North Carolina at
Charlotte.
I am confident that Julie’s background and collaborative spirit make her an ideal
fit for the office. Please join me in congratulating Julie and welcoming her into
this new role.
At the same time,
I invite you to Beverly’s retirement reception
from
4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, July 24
at
The Boardwalk
. Faculty and staff are invited to stop by, grab a snack and raise a toast to Beverly
as we thank her for all she has done for our campus. RSVPs are not required. If you
have questions, please contact Tracie Beck at
trbeck@fgcu.edu
Library Closure Today
As a reminder, the Wilson G. Bradshaw Library is closed today due to a scheduled construction
power outage, and the facility will reopen for normal operations at 7:30 a.m. tomorrow
– Tuesday, July 8. While the facility is unavailable, here are details on how to connect
with offices normally staffed in the library building:
University Library
staff are working remotely and can be contacted via
“We Ask”
, email and Microsoft Teams
Access the
Help Desk
today in Ben Hill Griffin Hall, Computer Lab 262, or call 239-590-1188 or email
helpdesk@fgcu.edu
The
Lucas Center
staff can be reached via email and Teams
Access the
Center for Academic Achievement
(CAA) from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. today in
Academic Building 9, Room 138
For additional information, refer to the
June 30th message from Academic Affairs
My next scheduled message to campus is July 21 ...
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
July 11, 2025
Good morning, Eagle Family!
We are officially one month away from FGCU’s most spirited employee traditions – the
2025 Fall Kickoff Celebration
Join us
from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Monday, August 11, at Alico Arena
for a fun, energizing event designed just for faculty and staff to celebrate the
start of the new academic year. This is our time to reconnect with colleagues, celebrate
your contributions to the Eagle Family, and enjoy a meal with friends from around
campus.
Here’s what you can expect:
State of the University Address
– I will reflect on the past year’s biggest wins and share what’s next as we continue
to move forward with our strategic plan.
A thank-you gift
for every attendee
– just a small token of our appreciation from
YOUR University
Azul’s Most-Spirited Eagle Award
– Come dressed in your most spirited FGCU green and blue for a chance to win a basket
of goodies from the FGCU Bookstore.
Make a difference
– Bring canned goods, non-perishable items and cash donations in support of the FGCU
Campus Food Pantry.
This event is all about recognizing our
faculty and staff
and celebrating the work we do to support our student-centered mission.
To ensure an accurate headcount for catering,
RSVPs are required by August 5
I am looking forward to seeing you there!
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
July 21, 2025
Dear FGCU Family,
I am delighted to officially welcome two outstanding leaders to the FGCU Family —
Debbie M. Thorne
, Ph.D., executive vice president and provost, and
Paul J. Dosal
, Ph.D., vice president and vice provost of Student Success & Enrollment Management.
With their fresh perspectives and expertise, FGCU is poised to elevate our academic
mission, enrich student success and strengthen the spirit of collaboration that defines
us as a regional comprehensive university.
Dr. Thorne joined the Eagle Family earlier this month and has already immersed herself
in the life of the university. From participating in Eagle View Orientation to representing
FGCU at a Florida Board of Governors (BOG) meeting, she has embraced the passion and
purpose that drive our community. Today is Dr. Dosal’s first day on campus, although
I know he has already connected with many of you in preparation for the work that
lies ahead. Both leaders participated in the June Board of Trustees (BOT) meeting,
which included a special workshop about
student success. Likewise, they have been engaged with the preparation of the student
success plan, which will be presented to FGCU's BOT and then the BOG in September.
Together, their partnership will help shape our future as we innovate, collaborate
and grow – elevating our institution as a destination of choice for students and employees
alike. I can tell you firsthand that they are committed to my 3 P's of Passion, Partnership
and Performance. Please join me in welcoming Drs. Thorne and Dosal to FGCU!
You will have a great opportunity to meet them at the
2025 Fall Kickoff Celebration from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Monday, August 11, at Alico
Arena
. The annual gathering brings staff and faculty together for camaraderie, fun and
free food served by our executive leadership team, including members of Cabinet and
deans.
Here’s what to know about the event:
RSVPs are required by August 5
– two weeks from now!
Wear your FGCU green and blue for a chance to be named the Most-Spirited Eagle by
Azul!
Bring canned goods, non-perishable items and cash donations to support the FGCU Campus
Food Pantry!
See the attached flyer for additional information. We cannot wait to see you there!
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
July 25, 2025
Dear Eagle Family,
It is with sadness that I share the passing of one of our long-time history instructors,
Dr. Michael Epple. Mike, as he was known to friends and colleagues, joined the university
in 2003 as an assistant professor.
A respected scholar of the Cold War, he was a frequent contributor to the Florida
Conference of Historians
. Over his more than 20 years at FGCU, Mike served on numerous college and university
committees, was an active member of Faculty Senate and advised our chapter of the
National History Honor Society, Phi Alpha Theta. From 2016 to 2018, he served as coordinator
for the history program, and he was also part of the group that received FGCU’s Team
Service Award during the 2006-07 academic year.
On behalf of all of us at FGCU, I send my deepest condolences to his family, especially
his daughter, Michelle, who is also a valued adjunct professor in the Eagle Family.
During this time of grief, I encourage you to seek out assistance. The following resources
are available to the FGCU community:
Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
services, including mental health counseling, are available 24 hours a day, seven
days a week, at (833) 746-8337 or online at
www.mylifeexpert.com
Use company code: Florida.
FGCU’S Community Counseling Center
provides services to employees and community members. For more information, call
(239) 745-4777 or visit
www.fgcu.edu/mariebcollege/counseling/communitycounseling
Information about Mike’s passing has also been shared with students. If you know of a
student who needs assistance, please let them know about the following resources:
Counseling and
Psychological Services (CAPS)
: No appointments necessary. Call (239) 590-7950 or email
caps@fgcu.edu
24/7 CAPS Crisis Line
: (239) 745-EARS (3277)
Student Care Services
care@fgcu.edu
Togetherall
UBYou
August 2025
Toggle More Info
August 4, 2025
Good morning, Eagle Family!
This week, we welcome back our nine-month faculty, and that means we are officially
in the countdown to the fall term. Before we know it, students will be moving into
their residence halls, and the fall semester will be in full swing.
As we approach this very busy time of the year, I want to remind you to mark your
calendars for the
2025 Fall Kickoff Celebration
in Alico Arena. A flyer for the event is attached to this email, and I hope all of
our staff and faculty will attend this fun and energizing kickoff to the new academic
year.
Remember, this kickoff celebration is all about you – our faculty and staff – and
the impact you make every day on our campus. Tomorrow is the final day to sign up
to attend. Please
register online by August 5th
so we can plan for catering.
As is tradition, here’s what you can expect:
I will share our accomplishments and what lies ahead for FGCU during my
State of the University Address
One of you will be named
Azul’s Most-Spirited Eagle
, so be sure to wear your green-and-blue Eagle gear with pride!
Every employee in attendance will receive a
special thank-you gift
from the university.
The
Campus Food Pantry
, which supports FGCU students who are facing food insecurity, will be collecting
canned goods, non-perishables and cash donations. Be sure to drop your donations in
the lobby of the arena before you grab a plate at the buffet.
I, for one, cannot wait to see you and celebrate your milestones.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
August 11, 2025
Good morning, Eagle Family!
Today’s the day! FGCU’s most spirited employee traditions – the
2025 Fall Kickoff Celebration
– begins at 11:30 a.m. at Alico Arena, and I hope you are ready to show your green
and blue gear!
This is our time to reconnect with colleagues from across campus over a meal and truly
celebrate the impact you are making on our campus – and beyond. And we have much to
be proud of!
Here’s what you can expect:
During my
State of the University
remarks, I will reflect on the past year’s biggest wins and share what’s next as
we continue to move forward with our strategic plan. A recording will be made available
for employees who miss the event.
Every attendee will receive a
special
thank-you gift
from the university
– plus other giveaways!
One of you will be named
Azul’s Most Spirited Eagle
– an award that comes with a basket of goodies from the FGCU Bookstore.
Together, we will make a difference by bringing canned goods, non-perishable items
and cash
donations to support the FGCU Campus Food Pantry
You will quickly see how this event has become FGCU’s most spirited employee traditions!
See you there!
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
August 18, 2025
Good morning, Eagle Family!
The start of fall classes is always an exciting time of year for our university, as
we welcome our newest Eagles to campus and kickstart the student success initiatives
we put in place over the summer.
I know 2025-26 is going to be an incredible year for FGCU, and that is because of
you – our world-class staff and faculty. I encourage you to click the video below
or visit the
FGCU YouTube channel
to watch a special message from me.
August 25, 2025
Good morning, Eagle Family!
The start of the fall semester has already been filled with great moments and achievements,
and I hope all of our employees have enjoyed watching our campus come to life as our
students returned for the new academic year.
Today, I am really feeling that energy around campus as we celebrate an important
milestone –
FGCU’s 28th anniversary of our doors first opening to students
! The early pioneers of our institution were driven to show the impact a regional
comprehensive university could make in the Southwest Florida community by filling
an education void that has long existed in our region. Today, we stand proud knowing
we are delivering academic excellence, fostering alumni success and collaborating
with our community for a better tomorrow.
We sure have come a long way since 1997, and we are on a mission to carry that momentum
forward as part of our culture of continuous improvement. That starts with understanding
our core institutional values –
Curiosity, Commitment and Collaboration
While our core values were recently announced, these sentiments have always embodied
the spirit, culture, principles and behaviors we have always strived to embrace as
faculty and staff at FGCU. They represent not just who we are but who we aspire to
become, and they stand in harmony with our foundational principles, mission, vision,
code of conduct and commitment to free expression. Together, they drive our actions
and behaviors in support of our
Journey to Excellence
Attached to this email is a printable PDF of our core values, with explanations of
what each word means and represents in our daily interactions with one another. I
hope each of you will hang these proudly in your office, and I encourage you to visit
our newly launched values webpage:
fgcu.edu/values
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
August 25, 2025
Good afternoon, Eagles.
The university has been made aware of a recent interaction between an outside guest
to our campus and students, in which the visitor uttered a racial slur while addressing
students. I want you to know that we are reviewing the incident carefully.
At FGCU, we expect everyone on campus – students, employees and visitors – to behave
in a manner consistent with federal and state laws as well as FGCU regulations.
As an open, public campus, FGCU is regularly used as a space where individuals can
exercise free speech. We encourage
constructive and informed discussion on topics and issues in a peaceful manner,
even when we disagree or find an individual’s expression offensive or controversial.
But we do not condone or permit behavior that intentionally harasses, intimidates,
threatens or causes a substantial disruption to the learning
environment, campus functions or the health and safety of others and their property.
If you experience an uninvited, personal assault or confrontation on campus, please
report it. The following resources can help:
University Police Department
(239) 590-1900
Office of Institutional Ethics & Compliance
(239) 745-4366 |
oiec@fgcu.edu
Dean of Students Office
(239) 590-7900 |
doso@fgcu.edu
Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS)
(239) 590-7950 |
caps@fgcu.edu
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
September 2025
Toggle More Info
September 2, 2025
Good morning, Eagle Family!
In support of FGCU’s commitment to student success and lifelong learning, I am excited
to share that our Alumni Relations office has launched the
FGCU Mentoring Program
– a university-wide initiative that connects current students with FGCU alumni and
community members for meaningful mentorship experiences. The program is open to all
students, regardless of major or class year. This program is an incredible way to
provide our students with professional and personal guidance from leaders right here
in our community.
As we begin promoting this opportunity to students, I encourage you to spread the
word among those who may want to serve as mentors. That includes our many Eagle graduates
who continue to make a difference on campus as employees, as well as your connections
throughout Southwest Florida.
The deadline to apply as a mentor or mentee is September 12. To learn more or to apply,
visit
fgcu.edu/mentoringprogram
or contact Ron Richards, alumni engagement and mentorship coordinator, at
rrichards@fgcu.edu
I have no doubt our community will step up, as it always has. Over the past 28 years,
FGCU has built a strong reputation as a regional comprehensive university by creating
innovative partnerships that link classroom learning to real-world experiences. From
academic programs to certificates and microcredentials, our students gain valuable
opportunities that prepare them to thrive after graduation.
We continue to build on this momentum with collaborations involving the Richard M.
Schulze Family Foundation, Arthrex,  University of Massachusetts Lowell, Babcock Ranch,
and more. Each partnership expands what it means to be an Eagle and strengthens the
network of support for our students’ success.
Thank you for helping us open new doors for our Eagles.
Employees, I also want you to know that in addition to the new student mentoring program,
FGCU is in the process of launching a formal employee mentorship program, which will
provide participants with a peer-to-peer mentoring experience. The idea was proposed
by a cohort of university employees that took part in Dr. Steve McIntosh’s leadership
program in the spring. More information will be announced soon.
Together, we are shaping the next generation of leaders.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
September 8, 2025
Dear Eagle Family,
Helping our students succeed is at the center of everything we do at FGCU, and we
see that in the commitment, care and creativity FGCU staff and faculty bring to work
each day. Truly, student success is a passion that connects us all!
This week, we will bring our 2025-26 student success plan to the FGCU Board of Trustees
and the Florida Board of Governors for approval. The is a required step in the state’s
performance-based funding (PBF) process, as we once again fell short on the State
University System of Florida’s grading system’s 70-point threshold.
It is disappointing to see our university at the bottom of our peers, as we have so
much to be proud of. In the last year alone, we rose four points on the state’s performance
review, and that’s due to the systematic and sustainable improvements that were implemented
to improve our three-graduation metrics (metrics 4, 9a, 9b) and metric 5, our academic
progress rate.
I want you to know our new student success plan builds on the momentum from last year,
and it applies a university-wide approach to student care management. With expanded
predictive analytics, artificial intelligence and coordinated enrollment planning,
we will help support students more effectively, particularly in critical areas like
academic progress and graduation rates.
This plan also reflects FGCU’s
core values
of
Curiosity
, as we embrace innovation and new approaches to meet students where they are;
Commitment
, ensuring we remain steadfast in supporting student achievement; and
Collaboration
, as we work together across departments to coordinate resources.
As I often say, we have work to do. I thank you for prioritizing student success,
and I want you to know our students benefit from your hard work every day.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
September 15, 2025
Dear FGCU Family,
Last week, FGCU’s student success plan was approved by the Florida Board of Governors
(BOG), and we are now implementing the tactics and strategies it outlines. Attached
is the document that is guiding our steps forward.
As you have heard me say before, student success is everyone’s responsibility at FGCU.
Thanks to campus-wide efforts last year, we climbed four points higher in our total
performance-based funding score for the State University System of Florida (SUS).
As we build off the momentum from last year, it is my expectation that our collective
efforts will improve our standing, advancing us beyond the 70-point threshold we are
required to meet.
In pursuing this goal, I want to call on our
core values
to guide how we work together:
Curiosity
: Let us continue to ask and invite challenging questions, explore new and innovative
ideas and apply critical thinking so our strategies are not just effective, but transformative.
Commitment
: We will lead with integrity, hold ourselves accountable and persevere through difficulties.
Every department, every team and every individual matters in this shared undertaking.
Collaboration
: We must break down silos, communicate with respect, partner across campus and empower
one another. When we leverage our collective talents, we harness the real strength
of FGCU.
I look forward to showcasing the results of our plan in March, when we return to the
BOG for a follow-up presentation.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
September 22, 2025
Good morning, Eagle Family!
Improving employee well-being initiatives is a key commitment of FGCU’s Strategic
Plan as part of Goal 4: Strengthen Organizational Culture and Commitment to Employees.
This is something all areas of the university should be conscience of, as we work
collaboratively to create a more engaging and positive work experience for one another.
I am pleased to share that for the remainder of the fall 2026 semester, FGCU’s
Community Counseling & Education Center
is offering free counseling services exclusively for our employees and their families.
Services will be provided in-person or virtually by master’s-level student interns
under the supervision of licensed counselors. This initiative serves a dual service,
as it will provide important support to our faculty and staff while also providing
graduate-level students with the hands-on experience they need to prepare them for
their future careers.
Services offered include:
Individual counseling
Couples and relationship counseling
Family counseling
Group counseling
Play counseling for children
Teen/adolescent support
Appointments are limited and can be booked by calling (239)-745-4777 or emailing
communitycounseling@fgcu.edu
I also want to remind you that as university employees, you always have free access
to services through the state’s
Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
, which includes mental health counseling. The EAP is available 24 hours a day, seven
days a week, at (833) 746-8337 or online at
www.mylifeexpert.com
. Use company code:
Florida
As we work toward fulfilling the goals and objectives of our strategic plan, our shared
values of
Curiosity, Collaboration, and Commitment
will guide us – fostering a culture of learning and growth, strengthening our connections
across campus and demonstrating our dedication to one another’s well-being.
Together, we can continue to build a supportive and thriving workplace for every Eagle
employee.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
eptember 29, 2025
Good morning, FGCU Family!
As outlined in our strategic plan, FGCU is committed to elevating academic and operational
excellence by thoughtfully harnessing the power of artificial intelligence (AI). To
help us achieve this goal, I am pleased to announce the launch of a university-wide AI
initiative being led by Dendritic: A Human-Centered AI and Data Science Institute.
This multi-year initiative focuses on responsible, ethical and the practical use of
AI to enhance how we teach, learn, research and work together. This initiative isn’t
just about technology – it’s about making our university more efficient, innovative
and supportive of our students and employees.
To guide our AI journey, we have developed a roadmap that helps our campus community
mature our knowledge and use of AI. This starts by simply building awareness about
AI, to using AI effectively in our daily lives, and ultimately to leading with AI
as a model in the Southwest Florida region and higher education.
This fall, we are launching two flagship programs to bring this vision to life:
FGCU AI Academy
| A comprehensive program for students, faculty and staff to build AI literacy, professional
development and applied skills. Registration for the first cohort opens the first
week of October, and you can sign up in the following link
www.fgcu.edu/eng/dendritic-institute/academy/event_catalog
FGCU AI Excellence Hub
| A space for service and innovation that connects cutting-edge research and academic
expertise with real-work experience for FGCU, industry, government and the community.
The hub positions FGCU as a leader in responsible AI and advanced technologies.
Details for both of these programs can be found on the Dendritic Institute’s website,
www.fgcu.edu/eng/dendritic-institute
. For more information, contact Dr. Leandro de Castro, director of the institute,
at
dendritic@fgcu.edu
Eagles, I invite you to take part in this bold and timely initiative. Together, we
can make FGCU a national example of how AI can be used ethically and effectively to
support our students and employees and shape the future of higher education.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
October 2025
Toggle More Info
October 6, 2025
Dear Eagle Family,
Two years ago, our university launched its strategic plan,
Innovating for Student Success: FGCU’s Journey to Excellence
. This document establishes clear goals and objectives that assist us in meeting the
unique needs of our students, community and workforce. Today, we see how our plan
has been brought to life, and I am proud to see tangible improvements across every
corner of campus.
While it is true that we still have work to do, we also have so much to celebrate.
This is why, for the second year in a row, FGCU has created an executive-level annual
report to highlight our biggest wins during the past year. This includes leading with
our core values of
Curiosity
Commitment
and
Collaboration
as we conduct groundbreaking research, expand industry partnerships and achieve measurable
gains in student success.
The document, attached to this email and accessible
online
, is truly a celebration of the systemic changes that reflect our culture of accountability
and continuous improvement. As such, we have called it:
Continuing the Journey to Excellence: Annual Report 2024-25
This document is a reminder of what can be achieved when we work together, under one
vision. While not every accomplishment is included –
how could we possibly fit all of it into one document?
– the annual report highlights the major milestones that have been achieved from
across campus, with noted successes in academics, student support, community engagement,
employee well-being and our sustainability practices.
We will be producing our third year-in-review report next summer, and we want to include
your achievements. Details on how we will collect this information will be announced
in the spring term.
Thank you for all you do for our students, one another and the Southwest Florida community
– and beyond.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
October 13, 2025
Dear Eagle Family,
This past week offered meaningful opportunities to advance FGCU’s mission and reinforce
the values that guide our work each day.
Alongside members of our Government Relations team, I traveled to Tallahassee to meet
with elected officials and their staff. Together, we shared FGCU’s commitment to innovation,
student success and community impact – pillars of our institutional mission. We discussed
how this year’s funding priorities continue to advance these efforts as part of our
strategic plan
, Innovating for Student Success: FGCU’s Journey to Excellence
Each year, our legislative budget request identifies how new and recurring investments
strengthen academic excellence and foster opportunities that prepare our students
to lead and serve in a rapidly changing world. Having the support of our Southwest
Florida Legislative Delegation is vital for our success, and it advances everything
we do as FGCU Eagles.
Later in the week, I joined emergency management leaders from state universities and
colleges for discussions on topics related to campus safety and preparedness efforts.
These conversations underscored the importance of collaboration, proactive planning
and shared learning as we ensure our campuses remain places where students, faculty
and staff can thrive.
These experiences remind me how our collective efforts, on and off campus, reflect
FGCU’s core values of
Curiosity
Collaboration
and
Commitment
. Together, we continue to mature our university, ensuring that it not only educates
but also inspires positive change across Southwest Florida and beyond.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
October 20, 2025
Dear Eagle Family,
As part of our commitment to strengthening FGCU’s organizational culture and supporting
employee growth, the university is piloting a 360°feedback program with 25 senior
leaders.
This effort responds directly to the results of our Collaborative on Academic Careers
in Higher Education (
COACHE)
and
Great Colleges to Work For
surveys, which emphasized that our staff and faculty value the importance of open
communication, leadership development and accountability. This is also a step forward
in our continuous improvement model, and I thank you again for participating in these
important employee feedback surveys.
The 360° process is a pilot program, and it is designed to gather feedback from colleagues
across different levels, providing a well-rounded view of leadership and workplace
effectiveness. While not everyone will be invited to take part at this time, employees
who were selected will receive an invitation from FGCU Cabinet
(via the email address
FGCU@qualtrics-survey.com
to participate. This is the secure account used to send and collect survey responses,
and each participant will receive unique log-in credentials.
This is a big step for our university, as it has never been in our practice to offer
360° reviews. Insights from this pilot program will help us refine how we approach
this initiative and ensure future feedback experiences are meaningful and effective
for everyone.
This initiative also reflects FGCU’s core values. It shows we are leading with:
Curiosity
, as we explore new ways to learn and grow through open feedback.
Commitment
, as we hold ourselves accountable to continuous improvement and leadership excellence.
Collaboration
, as we work together to build trust, understanding and shared success across our
campus community.
I hope you see that your perspectives are helping shape a stronger work culture at
our university. Together, we are building an environment where every employee feels
valued, supported and empowered to thrive.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
October 27, 2025
Dear Eagle Family,
Civic engagement has long been a cornerstone of the FGCU mission, and this weekend
our students demonstrated that commitment in powerful ways. Nearly 700 Eagles participated
in
Make a Difference Day
, joining students from across the nation in this annual day of service.
Students contributed their time and talents to a variety of projects – from volunteering
at local soup kitchens and food pantries to participating in beach cleanups, landscaping
projects and mentoring initiatives.
Throughout the day, our Eagles empowered one another to be their best selves as they
provided service to our region – honoring FGCU’s commitment to Southwest Florida by
driving positive change. Our students discovered more about who they are and how they
can make a difference in the world around us.
I send my deep appreciation to all employees who played a role in shaping the meaningful
experiences our students had this weekend, especially the
Service-Learning & Civic Engagement
team. Truly, the Make a Difference Day activities showcased FGCU’s deep commitment
to experiential learning and community partnership, and I loved seeing how our students’
efforts reflected
FGCU’s core values
of
Collaboration, Commitment
and
Curiosity
Latest DOGE Request
Last week, FGCU received a request from the Florida Department of Government Efficiency
(DOGE), and I have attached the letter to this email for your review.
This request follows up on a previous letter and asks institutions in the State University
System of Florida for more information about payments to professional organizations
and programmatic accreditors.
Once again, I send my gratitude to the members of our campus community who are assisting
in the collection of this information to ensure our compliance with these requests.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
November 2025
Toggle More Info
November 3, 2025
Dear Eagle Family,
Among our key objectives under
Goal 4 of FGCU’s strategic plan
is to strengthen internal communications, including how we share information and
connect with one another. I know how important it is for you to be updated on campus
happenings, student success efforts and employee engagement opportunities. The Internal
Communications Committee has been behind FGCU’s enhancements in this area.
Once again, the group has put together a brief form to “check in” with the campus
on areas of improvement. Your feedback will directly guide the committee’s efforts
and planning for the
2026 calendar year
The survey closes
Friday
, so
please complete the Communications Check-In Form
before the deadline. Your feedback truly makes a difference.
In addition, I encourage you to mark your calendars for committee’s final event of
the year:
Community Engagement Showcase: Discover Connections Across Campus
Date:
December 4
Time:
11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Location:
Cohen Student Union Ballroom
Learn More on FGCU's Featured Event Calendar
The showcase will open with remarks from
University Relations
and
Service-Learning & Civic Engagement
, followed by an interactive experience where participants can use an event map to
explore tables around the ballroom. Each table will feature FGCU offices, departments
and registered student organizations (RSOs), with each table highlighting how FGCU
and the Southwest Florida community collaborate to drive student success and academic
excellence.
If you are interested in signing up for a table, email
ICC@fgcu.edu
by
November 24. These events are great ways to connect with others around campus and
share ideas!
November 6 Board of Governors Meeting
During the
Internal Communications Committee's
last event, campus growth and construction projects were discussed, including our
proposed workforce housing project. On Thursday, FGCU’s proposal will be reviewed
by the Florida Board of Governors.
The project plans to use university-owned land near Gulf Coast Town Center to create
affordable, temporary housing for new faculty and staff. The first phase will include
70 cottage-style homes and townhomes – helping new hires transition smoothly to our
community while attracting top talent to support our students’ success. If approved,
we would be the first in the State University System of Florida to move forward with
a plan like this, which shows the innovative spirit of FGCU.
I also want you to know that an executive summary of the State University System’s
efficiency initiative, produced by the Division of Bond Finance in support of Governor
DeSantis’ Florida Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), will be presented during
the BOG meeting. For more information,
visit the BOG’s website
Thank you for staying engaged and helping us continue to make FGCU an exceptional
place to work and learn.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
November 10, 2025
Dear Eagle Family,
As we head into the Veterans Day holiday, I invite you to take a moment to reflect
on what this day represents. Veterans Day is more than a day off – it is an opportunity
to express our gratitude to those who have served in the U.S. military while honoring
the veterans and military-connected individuals who are part of our FGCU family.
Join me today for FGCU’s
Veterans Day Ceremony at 2 p.m. on the Library Lawn near the Veterans Pavilion.
Together, we will recognize the service and sacrifice of our veterans, including many
of our students, faculty and staff. The ceremony will feature guest speakers, the
FGCU Student Veterans of America Team and performances from the Bower School of Music
& the Arts.
The freedoms we enjoy are made possible through the courage and sacrifices of those
who serve. As FGCU looks to the future, we continue to strengthen our commitment to
veterans and military-connected families through initiatives such as priority registration,
faculty and staff training, the Veterans Florida Entrepreneurship Program and partnerships
with organizations like Home Base of Southwest Florida.
Over the summer, FGCU was recognized by the state as a Collegiate Purple Star Campus
– a testament to our dedication to those who have served. We have also planned to
expand our Office of Military & Veteran Success by building a dedicated space, which
will be a central hub for academic, professional and wellness resources for veterans,
military-connected students and their families. The facility will possibly be funded
through philanthropy and will serve as a critical resource for the Southwest Florida
community
As announced earlier this fall, FGCU is evaluating a proposal to create a U.S. Army
ROTC program, which would prepare students to become officers while earning a degree.
At FGCU, we see how much our veterans enrich our campus with their experiences. To
every veteran in our Eagle community: thank you for your courage, your service and
your sacrifices. We are deeply grateful to call you colleagues.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
November 17, 2025
Dear FGCU Family,
FGCU is proud to recognize
Compliance and Ethics Week
, an opportunity to learn more about university policies and procedures while raising
awareness about compliance topics and the importance of ethical behavior.
I invite all employees and students to take part in the free events hosted by the
Office of Institutional Ethics & Compliance (OIEC). From workshops and training sessions
to panel presentations, Compliance and Ethics Week will deepen your understanding
of our shared responsibilities, with topics ranging from the management of university
property and records to workplace communication and the ethical use of artificial
intelligence (AI).
For a full list of events and registration details, visit OIEC’s page on
Eagle Link
When we learn with
Curiosity
, act with
Commitment
and work together in
Collaboration
, we bring FGCU’s core values to life. Compliance and Ethics Week is one way we work
to strengthen our university community by reinforcing positive values and behaviors
across campus.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
November 20, 2025
Dear Eagle Family,
FGCU has received a new information request from the Florida Department of Government
Efficiency (DOGE) regarding the rigor and performance of our programs, majors and
departments. This request was issued to all institutions in the State University System
of Florida.
To ensure our campus community remains informed, I am sharing the letter we received,
which is attached to this email.
I want to again express my appreciation to the FGCU employees who continue to support
the timely collection of information needed to respond to these statewide requests.
Your efforts help ensure that FGCU remains compliant and that we uphold our shared
commitment to openness and accountability.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
November 21, 2025
Dear Eagle Family,
It is with great sadness that I share the passing of one of our own – psychology Professor
Terence “Terry” Leary, Ph.D. Terry joined FGCU in 2011 as an instructor and rose to
full professor in 2024.
An expert on psychopathy and the steward of the Radford/FGCU Serial Killer Database,
Terry guided students through meaningful research that shaped their academic and professional
paths. In the classroom, he fostered a warm, engaging environment where students felt
encouraged to explore and grow.
He also contributed broadly to the profession – serving as a journal editor and reviewer, participating in
Faculty Senate, and creating opportunities for students pursuing industrial/organizational
psychology.
Terry was not only a respected faculty member in the College of Arts & Sciences, but he
was a generous mentor and cherished friend whose impact will endure.
During this time of grief, I encourage you to seek out assistance.
The following resources are available to FGCU employees:
Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
services, including mental health counseling, are available 24 hours a day, seven
days a week, at (833) 746-8337 or online at
www.mylifeexpert.com
Use company code:
Florida
FGCU’S Community Counseling Center
provides services to employees and community members. For more information, call
(239) 745-4777 or visit
www.fgcu.edu/mariebcollege/counseling/communitycounseling
If you know of a student who needs assistance, please let them know about the following
resources:
Counseling and
Psychological Services (CAPS)
: No appointments necessary. Call (239) 590-7950 or email
caps@fgcu.edu
24/7 CAPS Crisis Line
: (239) 745-EARS (3277)
Student Care Services
care@fgcu.edu
Togetherall
UBYou
November 24, 2025
Good morning, Eagle Family!
As we head into the Thanksgiving holiday, I want to share a special message of gratitude
for you – our amazing students, faculty and staff. All of you contribute to our success
and work collaboratively to ensure we are making a difference in the Southwest Florida
community and beyond.
Please take a moment to watch the video below or visit
FGCU’s YouTube
channel to reflect on the many accomplishments we have made – together.
Enjoy a restful and joyful holiday.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
December 2025
Toggle More Info
December 1, 2025
Good morning, Eagle Family!
I hope your Thanksgiving break was restful and filled with meaningful time with family
and friends.
This week offers a wonderful opportunity to reconnect and rediscover the many ways
FGCU engages with our region. On Thursday,
from
11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in the Cohen Student Union Ballroom, the Internal Communications
Committee will host its final event of the 2025 calendar year:
Community Engagement Showcase: Discover Connections Across Campus
Twenty-seven areas of campus are signed up to highlight how FGCU and the Southwest
Florida community collaborate to support student success and academic excellence.
I hope you’ll take a moment to stop by – students and employees alike will find valuable
insights into the impactful work happening across the university.
These collaborations reflect FGCU’s broader commitment to expanding access and opportunity.
One example is the statewide
2+2 initiative
, which provides an affordable, clear pathway for students to earn a bachelor’s degree.
By completing their first two years and earning an Associate in Arts (AA) degree at
a Florida College System institution, students are guaranteed admission to one of
the schools in the State University System of Florida to finish their degree.
Our
Destination FGCU
program strengthens this promise. In addition to guaranteeing admission for AA graduates
from
our partner colleges, it offers a personalized transition into the university experience
from
dedicated transfer advisors and application support to scholarship opportunities and
transfer-friendly degree pathways.
We proudly partner with Florida SouthWestern State College, South Florida State College,
State College of Florida–Sarasota Manatee, St. Petersburg College and Miami Dade College,
with ongoing discussions to expand our reach even further.
These collaborations represent more than agreements – they are investments in Florida’s
future. Alongside our partner colleges, we are creating opportunities, fueling progress
and building the workforce of tomorrow, one student at a time.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
December 10, 2025
Dear Eagle Family,
I’m excited to share an important update on our journey to reaffirmation with the
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
As you are aware, an on-site committee visited our campus in February as a requirement
of the SACSCOC decennial reaffirmation process. During their visit, the committee
met with students, faculty, staff and administration to clarify and verify our compliance
with SACSCOC principles of accreditation and standards. At the conclusion of the visit,
the on-site committee met with me and the leadership team to share that our institution
was 100% compliant with all 74 standards, and the review team had no recommendations
on our Quality Enhancement Plan (QEP),
The Skills Advantage: From Campus to Career
There is no better judgment we can receive from a reaffirmation visit than this one!
During the SASCOC Annual Meeting on Tuesday, its Board of Trustees took the official
action of awarding FGCU "Reaffirmation of Accreditation," with no conditions or sanctions.
This decennial reaffirmation is the most positive outcome available to higher education
institutions.
The success of our compliance certification and the praise we received for our QEP
reflect the action, innovation and commitment of the entire institution. For a peer-review
team to find no areas for recommendations means we have demonstrated a commitment
to quality and continuous improvement across every department and division.
This achievement marks a proud day for our entire Eagle community and stands as a
testament to our shared commitment as part of our
Journey to Excellence
. Congratulations to each of you for helping make this extraordinary moment possible.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
December 12, 2025
Dear Eagle Family,
As we close out the fall semester, I want to celebrate the incredible impact our staff
and faculty have made over the past 12 months at
FGCU –
Your
University
This year, you demonstrated what it looks like to boldly lead for student success
and service to the community. You did this through our shared values of
Curiosity
Commitment
and
Collaboration
, and the impact you have made on our students, our region and one another has been
remarkable.
Please watch the video below or visit
FGCU’s YouTube channel
to reflect on our accomplishments.
December 15, 2025
Dear Eagle Family,
This weekend’s FGCU commencement ceremonies were nothing short of amazing!
Alico Arena was electrified with Eagle pride as we celebrated the Class of 2025. Thank
you to everyone who helped make this celebration so memorable for our students, their
families and their biggest supporters.
As we wrap up 2025, I want to share a message I sent to the Board of Trustees that
highlights some of the many accomplishments across campus this year. It barely scratches
the surface of all that we have achieved – together – under our strategic plan, but
I hope you will take a moment to read it and see your own impact reflected in those
successes.
I also want to share that our strategic plan dashboard is now live, offering real-time
data on our key performance indicators tied to the five goals of
FGCU’s Journey to Excellence
. The dashboard is part of FGCU’s existing scorecard that tracks our performance on
the State University System of Florida (SUS) metrics. View it online through the
FGCU Scorecard Server.
Thank you for making 2025 such an extraordinary year for FGCU. I’m excited to carry
this momentum into the new year with you.
Wishing you happy holidays, a restful break and a joyful start to 2026!
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
2026 Messages
Toggle More Info
January 2026
Toggle More Info
January 5, 2026
Good morning, Eagle Family!
As we begin a new year, I want to applaud you once again for the incredible work that
made 2025 so impactful. I truly feel that our momentum is only building, and it is
powering us into an exciting 2026.
At the center of everything we do at FGCU is student success, which is made possible
by the dedication, care and creativity you bring to campus each day.
The start of a new year provides us with an opportunity to reflect on our shared
Journey to Excellence
, enabling us to bring fresh perspective, renewed energy and a clear resolve to all
we are doing for our students and community. Guided by our values of
Curiosity
Commitment
and
Collaboration
, I am confident we will continue to elevate how we serve students and support one
another as members of the Eagle Family.
Once again, thank you for your contributions, and I wish each of you a wonderful and
productive 2026!
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
January 12, 2026
Good morning, Eagle Family!
Eight days from now, you will receive an invitation to participate in the
Great Colleges to Work For survey
. Administered by our third-party partner, ModernThink, the survey provides a confidential
and anonymous way for faculty and staff to share honest feedback about what is working
well at our university – and where we can continue to improve.
Your participation in 2024 gave us a roadmap to improving our campus culture, guiding
our collective efforts to strengthen who we are and who we aspire to be.
I am so proud of the work that has occurred in the past year and a half, as we listened
and learned from one another. Many of our employees are participating in taskforces
and committees and have led and shaped these initiatives, with representation coming
from all across campus. I believe that improvements have been made because of these
collective and collaborative efforts. We established our institutional values, welcomed
new leadership, invested in leadership and professional development opportunities,
elevated shared governance and created avenues to better connect with one another as
we advance the goals of our strategic plan.
Your feedback and collective work led to so many positive changes
at our institution, as we have shared many times before.
I am counting on all of you to participate in our next Great Colleges survey. To be
clear, this is not about raising scores – it is about understanding our people and
how we can strengthen our campus culture.
On January 20th, ModernThink will send each of you an invitation to participate in
the Great Colleges survey, with the email (
surveys@modernthink.net
) containing your unique link and password. The survey will remain open through February
3. By sharing your experience, you are helping FGCU in its
Journey to Excellence
– ensuring we are a better place to work, teach and grow.
I encourage you to take part and continue helping us build the future of FGCU together.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
January 23, 2026
Dear Eagle Family,
As you know, we have been diligent about improving our outcomes on the State University
System of Florida’s Performance-Based Funding (PBF) model. We have implemented new
strategies, launched cross-campus teams to review and track data, and we have rewritten
our strategy when it comes to student retention, persistence and graduation.
Today, I’m pleased to share that your efforts over the past two and a half years are
truly making a difference.
While we wait for a formal announcement, we have been informed that our preliminary
score this year will be 73 – a gain of six points over last year and representing
a ten-point increase since our
Journey to Excellence
began.
This was made possible because of your commitment and collaboration each day to our
mission for student success.
I am deeply proud of the contributions you have made. What we have accomplished reflects
sustained effort and shared purpose, and it proves that progress doesn’t happen by
chance – it is earned. I am confident that the framework and processes now in place
will continue to advance our efforts in student success.
Today is a day to celebrate how far we have come. Congratulations! I look forward
to providing you with more updates on our performance in the weeks to come.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
January 26, 2026
Good morning, Eagle Family!
At FGCU, who we are and how we work together is defined by our institutional values
of
Curiosity
Commitment
and
Collaboration
. We ask thoughtful questions, hold ourselves accountable and partner across campus
to make progress — for our students, the Southwest Florida community and one another.
That spirit of continuous improvement is why your voice matters. I encourage you to
take time to participate in the
Great Colleges to Work For survey
, which closes February 3.
This survey is not about a score. It is about ensuring the work we are doing reflects
who we are and who we aspire to be as a university. We have made great progress over
the last two years on our campus. Your insights help us understand what is working
well and where we can keep moving forward together.
The survey is confidential, administered by a trusted third party and designed to
be flexible. It takes about 20 minutes to complete, and you can save as you go – enabling
you to complete the survey when you have time. If you are having problems finding
the invitation with your unique log-in information, you can search your fgcu.edu work
email for Great Colleges (
surveys@modernthink.net
).
Thank you for your commitment to FGCU and for being an active partner in shaping our
workplace and our future.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
February 2026
Toggle More Info
February 2, 2026
Good morning, Eagle Family!
Tomorrow is the final day to participate in the Great Colleges to Work For surve
y. If you have not already filled it out, I encourage you to take advantage of this
opportunity to make your voice heard.
This survey isn’t about a score – it is about listening and recognizing the institutional
culture we have been strengthening together. Your honest feedback helps ensure our
work reflects our values, highlights what’s working well and shows us where to keep
growing – together.
As a reminder, the Great Colleges survey is:
Anonymous and administered by a third party (ModernThink)
Accessible through your unique email invitation from
surveys@modernthink.net
Designed to take about 20 minutes
Flexible, so you can save and access it multiple times before submitting
If you need assistance, ModernThink’s Help Desk is available at (888) 684-4658 or
surveys@modernthink.net
. Once again, I thank you for your commitment in shaping our workplace and future.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
February 9, 2026
Good morning, Eagle Family!
As shared at the end of last semester, FGCU continues to advance our commitment to
building a culture grounded in our core institutional values –
Curiosity
Commitment
and
Collaboration
This work builds on the values journey the university has been advancing over the
past year. As we move from defining our shared values to embedding them in our everyday
practices, we are taking a closer look at how they show up in key areas such as hiring,
role expectations and how we talk about performance.
One outcome of this effort will be the
introduction of new performance review competencies
, aligned with our core values, for the
2026-27 evaluation cycl
e.
There are no changes to the current performance review process, as the changes will
roll out in August.
To support a smooth transition and help supervisors and employees understand the process
for next year, workshops will be held in April.
Manager sessions
will focus on how the new competencies will shape goal setting and evaluations in
next year’s process.
Employee sessions
will focus on what the new competencies mean and how to prepare for the next cycle.
Additional details and registration information will be shared by Human Resources
closer to March. In the meantime, questions or concerns can be directed to Sara Stensrud
in Human Resources at (239) 590-1425 or
sstensrud@fgcu.edu
Thank you for your continued engagement as we strengthen the culture we are building
together.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
February 12, 2026
Good morning, Eagle Family!
It is with great pride and gratitude that I share the news of an extraordinary gift
that will leave a lasting legacy at FGCU.
Today, FGCU’s Board of Trustees approved the naming of
Academic Building 9 as Margaret Antonier Hall
, honoring a $10 million philanthropic commitment.
Margaret Antonier is the president and CEO of Miromar Development, and she is widely
regarded as a visionary leader who helped shape modern-day Estero with the creation
of Miromar Lakes, Miromar Outlets, the Miromar Design Center and University Village.
She is also a long-time champion of FGCU, supporting students through scholarships
and establishing the university’s first endowed fund for student success. In recognition
of her leadership and service, FGCU awarded her an honorary Doctor of Laws degree
in May 2023.
Academic Building 9 is the home of The Water School and other STEM-focused programs,
classrooms and research laboratories that bring together faculty, staff and students
from across disciplines. Completed in 2022, the facility is currently the largest
academic building on campus.
The gift will be endowed, with proceeds supporting The Water School.
Plans for a celebratory event will be announced at a later date. For now, I extend
my sincere thanks to Margaret Antonier and to all who have helped foster this meaningful
partnership.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
February 16, 2026
Good morning, Eagle Family!
As part of our ongoing commitment to enhancing services and support for our faculty
and staff, I am pleased to share an update about
Eagle View Village
– an employee housing initiative years in the making that is quickly becoming a reality.
As I have shared previously, this project is the first of its kind among Florida’s
12 public universities. It represents a meaningful investment in our people and reinforces
our commitment to strengthening organizational culture and supporting those who move
the needle for student success – our mission – every day.
Over the past five years, Southwest Florida has experienced a 28% increase in housing
prices, intensifying affordability challenges in south Lee County and affecting our
ability to recruit and retain talented faculty and staff. The initiative to build
Eagle View Village began under the leadership of President Emeritus Mike Martin and
has been brought to fruition through the commitment and guidance of FGCU’s Board of
Trustees, the FGCU Financing Corporation and the Florida Board of Governors. Their
leadership, along with the dedication of many across our institution, has made this
moment possible.
We are now focused on Phase One of this project, which is being built on university-owned
land near West Lake Village and the Gulf Coast Town Center. Phase One includes 74
one-, two- and three-bedroom units that are being developed for FGCU by Naples-based
Soltura Development Group.
Our goal is to provide employees with a high-quality, transitional housing option
at approximately 20% below local market rates. Construction crews have been on site
since the fall semester and soon the project will become vertical – meaning you will
start to see the construction of buildings. We expect the Phase One buildout to be
complete by December, with occupancy beginning in January 2027.
While priority will be given to faculty hired from outside Southwest Florida, I am
especially pleased to share that
during the initial lease-up period, current full-time faculty and staff will also
have the opportunity to apply to live in Eagle View Village for one or two years.
Interest forms will be available in Workday beginning March 2.
A follow-up email with additional details about the process will be shared by the
President’s Cabinet next week.
For more background on the project, I encourage you to revisit previous coverage in
The Inside FGCU employee newsletter:
Five Things to Know: Employee Housing
FGCU Board of Trustees Approves Housing Project for Employee Recruitment
Eagle View Village reflects our ongoing commitment to our employees and our continued
work to enhance the services and support we provide to faculty and staff. I am proud
that we are able to offer this meaningful benefit as we continue building a university
where our employees and our students thrive.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
February 23, 2026
Hello, Eagle Family!
As we approach spring break and our campus settles into a different rhythm, we are
presented with a meaningful opportunity to invest in one another and in the culture
we are intentionally building together.
I invite you to participate in the
March 2-6 Soar into Spring
events, hosted by the
Staff Advisory Council (SAC)
. Now in its 15th year, Soar into Spring reflects the spirit of our Strategic Plan,
especially
Goal 4:
Strengthen Organizational Culture and Commitment to Employees
This week of programming demonstrates what is possible when we collaborate across
campus to create a more engaging, supportive and enriching work experience for all.
All administrative and professional (A&P), support personnel (SP), other personal
services (OPS), full-time faculty, adjunct faculty and instructors are encouraged
to participate.
The schedule includes a variety of personal and professional development opportunities,
from campus tours and department presentations to wellness-focused sessions and community-building
activities.
Online registration
is required.
These events embody our institutional values:
Collaboration across campus
as we connect with colleagues beyond our immediate teams.
Curiosity to learn
as we explore new ideas, perspectives and practices.
Commitment to excellence and understanding
as we invest in our growth and in each other.
We will kick off the week at 9:30 a.m. March 2 on the Library Lawn with a group photo.
Be sure to wear your Eagle spirit!
The week concludes March 6 with a free Food Truck Rally on the Library Lawn. As you
register at
, please also consider bringing a donation to support the FGCU Campus Food Pantry,
which supports FGCU students who are facing food insecurity.
I send my thanks to SAC for organizing this important employee and personal development
initiative, as well as the many FGCU departments that have agreed to facilitate programs
that highlight services in their areas.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
March 2026
Toggle More Info
March 2, 2026
Good morning, Eagle Family!
A new milestone in our university’s history was reached Friday as we celebrated the
Buckingham Golf Learning Center
, which is set to open just after spring break to students in FGCU’s PGA Golf Management
(PGM) program. The facility is a true outdoor learning experience for PGM students.
FGCU’s golf program is one of 16 in the nation accredited by the PGA – and the only
one in Florida. From our early days in a modular classroom to the addition of dedicated
indoor labs and now this expanded experience, FGCU has continued to elevate the learning
environment for our students. This milestone reflects seven years of planning, budgeting
and a collective commitment to excellence as we provide our Eagles with a premier
training facility that prepares them to lead and succeed in the workforce.
Located at the university’s Buckingham property, the center features a dedicated driving
range and short-game training space, enabling our future golf professionals to fine
tune their professional skills while refining their coaching and teaching technique.
For the remainder of the spring term, the facility will be available to PGM golf instruction
classes, and we are planning for it to become fully operational in the fall.
And this is only the beginning! We have bolder plans for the Buckingham site, including
expanding experiential learning opportunities for our PGM students as well as those
in other programs, plus opportunities to engage FGCU Athletics with the property.
I look forward to providing updates on these efforts in the future.
Friday’s event also provided an opportunity to celebrate the remarkable accomplishments
of
Dr. Tara McKenna
, PGA/LPGA, who leads the PGM program. The South Florida PGA presented her with a
Professional Development Award in recognition of her impact on the Southwest Florida
golf community.
I send my congratulations to all involved with making the Buckingham Golf Learning
Center a reality, and I send my appreciation to Dr. McKenna and her team from PGM.
Please enjoy the photo collage below highlighting scenes from the day’s events.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
March 9, 2026
Good morning, Eagle Family!
I hope you had a chance to recharge during spring break and perhaps connect with colleagues
from across campus during the Staff Advisory Council’s annual Soar into Spring program.
Moments like these – when we step away from our usual pace to learn from one another
– can be both meaningful and reenergizing.
As we move toward the end of the semester, we are entering a busy stretch for our
students and for all of us. I know how much effort is taking place across campus every
day, and that work truly matters. The support you provide helps our students succeed
right now, and it also plays an important role in how FGCU will be evaluated in the
2027 academic year through the State University System of Florida’s performance metrics.
These numbers, as we all know, are baking now.
One helpful resource available to faculty and staff is the newly improved
FGCU Scorecard
. Available at scorecard.fgcu.edu, this dashboard offers a real-time look at our progress
on the state’s metrics, as well as the key performance indicators within our strategic
plan.
I encourage you to spend time exploring the data, looking at the trends and thinking
about how these insights might connect to your work.
Our institutional values continue to guide this effort. At FGCU, we lead with
Curiosity
when we ask questions and seek new ideas. We strengthen
Collaboration
when we work across teams and departments. And we show our
Commitment
to excellence when we use data-informed decisions to support our students and their
success.
Thank you for the work you do every day. It makes a meaningful difference in the lives
of our students and in the culture we are building together at FGCU. I’m grateful
for the care and dedication you bring to our shared purpose.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
March 16, 2026
Good morning,
Tomorrow at 10:30 a.m., I hope you will join me in celebrating an exciting milestone
in our journey as a campus community – the completion of Phase 2 of the Cohen Student
Union renovations.
Since it opened, the student union has been the heart of campus life. As FGCU has
grown, this space has grown with us — from its first remodel in 2011, to its naming
as the Cohen Student Union in honor of Harvey Cohen and the Cohen family, to the ballroom
expansion in 2019.
Two years ago, we celebrated the remodel of the first-floor eateries. This week, we continue the
next chapter of that story.
With the completion of Phase 2, we have transformed the Cohen Student Union into an
even more welcoming place for students, employees and members of the public to gather –
both inside and out. With modernized furnishings, refreshed design elements and the
creation of a landscaped lawn, the facility proudly reflects our Eagle spirit.
While there is still more work ahead in Phase 3 (including enhancements to our second-floor
ballrooms), I believe we can all agree this space represents the pride of our Eagle
community.
We will mark this milestone with a brief ribbon cutting, remarks, an appearance by
Azul, and light food and beverages.
RSVP online
or by using the link in the attached event flyer.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
March 23, 2026
Hello, Eagle Family!
This week, we celebrate
FGCU Give Day 2026
, an annual event where faculty, staff and students come together to raise funds in
support of FGCU programs and initiatives. This peer-to-peer fundraising event runs
for a full 24 hours, beginning at noon on Wednesday, March 25.
Your participation, whether through a financial donation or by spreading the word
to your friends and family, helps fund scholarships, advance research initiatives
and enhance the overall student experience. No matter the size, every contribution
plays a crucial role in shaping the future of FGCU –
Your University
Visit
giveday.fgcu.edu
to browse over 80 FGCU causes and initiatives you can support this year!
The
FGCU Give Day
campaign runs until noon on Thursday, March 26. Please join me in making FGCU Give Day 2026
a resounding success. I look forward to witnessing the positive impact we can achieve
together!
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
March 30, 2026
Dear Eagle Family,
Over the past two years, we have made tangible, measurable gains in student success
through a focused, data-informed approach grounded in accountability, transparency
and collaboration. These results reflect our shared commitment to our values –
Curiosity
Collaboration
and
Commitment
– and our focus on doing what matters most for our students as part of our
Culture of Care
These efforts led to a 10-point increase in our total score on the State University
System of Florida’s metrics. Last week, I had the opportunity to present our progress
to the Florida Board of Governors, and I am proud to share that our report was unanimously
approved, resulting in the release of approximately $4 million in state investment
funds that have been on hold, pending the results of our student success efforts.
While our journey is far from over, this achievement is worth celebrating. And that
starts with you – FGCU’s staff and faculty. Thank you for the impact you make every
day.
As you have heard me say before, this is only the beginning of our student success
story, and I know the best is yet to come for FGCU.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
April 2026
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April 6, 2026
Good morning, Eagle Family!
As we approach commencement and the close of the academic year, I want to sincerely
thank you for the work you have done to make 2025-26 such a strong and meaningful
year for FGCU.
Across our university, our institutional values have been evident in action – from
strengthening our performance on statewide metrics to fostering a true culture of
coordinated care that supports our students and one another. Your
Curiosity
Collaboration
and
Commitment
have made a meaningful difference.
In this busy time of year, it is also important for us to find time to come together,
celebrate and reflect on what we have achieved and what’s still left to do in our
Journey to Excellence
. With this in mind, I am pleased to share two events with all of our staff and faculty:
April 24: FGCU Family Night at Swanson Stadium
Just as we kicked off the academic year together in the fall, we have an opportunity
to close it in the same spirit. I hope you will join us for our first ever
FGCU Family Night from 4:30-6:30 p.m. April 24 at Swanson Stadium in the Athletics
Complex.
This end-of-year celebration is meant to be a free evening of food, activities and
appreciation. Following the party, we will cheer on FGCU Baseball, with the game starting
at 6:30 p.m. Your presence – and that of those who support you – matters as we recognize
the collective effort behind this year’s success. Admission is free for all staff,
faculty and their families.
This event is co-hosted by the Employee Engagement Collective and the Internal Communications
Committee, in coordination with the President’s Cabinet. Please RSVP at
fgcu.edu/FGCUFamilyNight
to help us plan accordingly.
April 29-30: From Insight to Action: Building Our Best Workplace – Together
The following week, I encourage you to take part in a two-day event focused on the
recent Great Colleges to Work For survey. This is an important opportunity to engage
with the survey results, reflect on our progress and help shape what comes next.
Day 1 – April 29
: ModernThink consultant Rich Boyer will lead two town halls (8:30-10 a.m. and 1-2:30
p.m., with virtual access available) to share results and answer questions.
Day 2 – April 30
: An in-person workshop from 2-3:30 p.m. with the Internal Communications Committee
will focus on ongoing initiatives and provide space to share ideas for strengthening
our workplace moving forward.
Both days’ events will take place in Sugden Hall, Room 114. You can RSVP for these
sessions through Eagle Link at
fgcu.edu/events/greatcolleges
Thank you again for all you do for FGCU.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
April 13, 2026
Good morning, Eagle Family!
This week, FGCU will celebrate a historic milestone – one made possible through extraordinary
partnership across our campus, our region and our state.
We officially break ground on Academic Building 10, ushering in a brighter future
that will significantly enhance our health sciences programs and further strengthen
our impact across Southwest Florida and beyond.
While space at the site is limited at the ceremony, all are welcome to attend. The
event begins at 10 a.m. Wednesday near Parking Lot 7 at the construction site.
This project is the embodiment of our institutional values, as we thought boldly and
with
Curiosity
on how we can expand our teaching and learning while showcasing our ongoing
Commitment
to the growing needs of our region. But above all, this milestone was reached with
Collaboration
– both internally and externally – as we sought to strengthen our campus and the
communities we serve.
FGCU is deeply grateful to Governor Ron DeSantis and our state legislators, especially
the members of the Southwest Florida Legislative Delegation, for championing this
project as a vital investment in our students, faculty, staff and the regional workforce.
We also extend our appreciation to the FGCU Board of Trustees for their leadership,
to our community partners for their continued support, and to the Elaine Nicpon Marieb
Charitable Foundation for its transformational generosity, which continues to elevate
opportunities for our students and advance innovation in teaching and learning.
Truly, this project is partnership in action.
I know we are all excited to see how this new facility will expand opportunities for
our students, support the growing demand for healthcare professionals, and further
position FGCU as a leader in workforce development and regional progress.
Milestones like this are only possible because of the shared dedication of our faculty,
staff and partners. I send my deepest appreciation to all who made this historic moment
come to fruition.
I look forward to seeing you at this celebration!
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
President Timur's Weekly Messages to Students
2024 Messages
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August 2024
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August 5, 2024
We are now in the official countdown to the start of the fall term, which begins August
19. FGCU students bring such an energy and excitement to the campus community, and
I am looking forward to seeing our campus re-energized with the comings and goings
of our 16,000 students.
As I previously mentioned toour calendar for the annual
Eagle Revolution
pep rally. The event takes place at Alico Arena – home of FGCU Athletics – on the
first day of the fall term. Students can enjoy a concert-like atmosphere that includes
free food, music and giveaways. You will hear from university leaders like me as well
as our incredible FGCU student-athletes and coaches. It’s also a chance to learn how
to get involved with the Dirty Birds, the official student fan group for FGCU. The
doors open at 6:30 p.m., and I look forward to seeing you!
BE ON THE LOOKOUT
All undergraduate students will receive an email on Wednesday (August 7) from Kitty
Green, the vice president of University Advancement, with a link to a
market research survey
that will help inform our nebw randing campaign. The survey is part of the research
being conducted by BVK, a nationally known marketing firm in higher education that
was hired to help FGCU amplify our new strategic plan on campus and throughout our
community. Please participate.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
August 12, 2024
Dear Eagle Family,
We are now one week out from the start of the fall semester. It is thrilling to see
our campus population grow each day as more of our Eagles return to the nest.
Last week, most of our faculty members who have been off for the summer reported to
campus, and we gathered about 800 of our employees at Alico Arena for our annual Fall
Kickoff Celebration. This event is like a pep rally for staff and faculty members,
and I know our employees are excited to work with you and help you meet your goals.
It is incredibly important for our students, especially our freshmen, to feel they
belong at FGCU – that this is your home away from home. Our faculty and staff are
here to support you in your journey, and students can reach out to us at any time
for extra support. We can help you get more involved with campus events and activities,
introduce you to other students and programs, and we can provide guidance for the
road ahead – be it academics, internships or local career opportunities.
For those of you moving into the residence halls this week, you will be greeted by
FGCU staff, faculty and some of your peers. We want to welcome our newest Eagles to
campus and help you acclimate as quickly as possible.
Don't forget to stop by my tent for some ice-cold water and some shade! Here’s where
to find me during move-in:
Wednesday
| Tent stationed between Osprey and Eagle halls between 9 a.m. and 11 a.m.
Thursday
| Tent stationed at Palmetto Hall between 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.
I am looking forward to welcoming you to FGCU. Please don’t hesitate to ask for help!
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
August 19, 2024
Good morning, Eagle Family, and welcome to the start of the fall semester! We are
excited that our beautiful campus is filled with more than 16,000 FGCU Eagles.
In just over a week, FGCU will celebrate its 27th year of teaching and learning. We
are growing, we are maturing, and we remain committed to our mission as a transformative
and learner-centered university here in Southwest Florida. I know this is going to
be our best year yet, and that’s because of you – our incredible students!
As you go about finding your way on campus and adjusting to your new course schedule,
I want to encourage you to take full advantage of the resources and opportunities
available to you. Our faculty and staff are here to support you every step of your
journey, so reach out and let us know how we can help you.
On behalf of the entire university, I wish you all a safe, healthy and wonderful start
to the fall semester.
DON’T FORGET
Tonight is our annual
Eagle Revolution
pep rally at Alico Arena. Enjoy free music, food and prizes as you are introduced
to FGCU’s traditions, student-athletes and coaches. The fun begins at 6:30 p.m. –
see you there!
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
August 26, 2024
Good morning, Eagle Family!
Yesterday, we reached an all-new milestone for our institution:
FGCU celebrated the 27th anniversary of our first day of classes.
We have achieved so much over the years, growing from our humble beginnings as a
commuter school with a handful of buildings to the regional comprehensive university
we know and love today.
FGCU filled an educational void that once existed in the Southwest Florida region,
and we have remained committed to meeting the needs of our students and the community
we serve. We are nimble, resourceful and innovative, responding to the economic and
workforce needs of the state of Florida. Through these efforts, FGCU has emerged as
the economic driver for Southwest Florida and beyond, and our institution is an example
of what regional partnerships can do to help students find success in the classroom,
career and life.
One way we are doing this is through transferable skills. Often called employability
skills, these are abilities like communication, critical thinking and teamwork that
make you a standout applicant in the job market. You develop these skills in your
courses as well as extra or co-curricular activities throughout your educational experience
here at FGCU, but they are often not visible in the titles of courses or the names
of majors.
To amplify the importance of transferable skills,
FGCU offers
10 digital skills badges
employers value most
, and you can earn these badges at no cost and no additional classes via Canvas.
Learn how to get career-ready at
fgcu.edu/digitalbadges/transferable.
Celebrate with FGCU
The
University Help Desk
moved to the first floor of the Wilson G. Bradshaw Library, and an open house is
planned for 1 p.m. Tuesday, August 27. (See attachment for more details.)
College Colors Day
is Thursday, August 29. Celebrate your Eagle spirit by participating in the annual
Green & Blue Spirit Photo with the FGCU Athletics Teams at 10 a.m. on the Library
Lawn.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
August 29, 2024
Dear FGCU Family,
As FGCU settles into its 27th year of teaching and learning, we are becoming more
strategic in our daily functions and operations. Following a robust national search
that was assisted by a panel of FGCU stakeholders, I am pleased to announce the university
is taking another step in these efforts with the appointment of
Vice President of Strategic Initiatives & Chief of Staff Eileen DeLuca, Ph.D.
Eileen will transition to this new role in January 2025. Leading up to this change,
she will continue serving the university as both the acting vice president of Student
Success & Enrollment Management and interim chief strategy and program innovation
officer for the division of Academic Affairs.
As you may recall, Eileen joined FGCU in June 2023. Among her first assignments was
helping the university complete its new strategic plan,
Innovating for Student Success: FGCU’s Journey to Excellence
. In her upcoming role, Eileen will continue these efforts, collaborating campus-wide
with offices and academic units to ensure effective implementation and operationalization
of our new strategic plan and other university initiatives.
Prior to becoming an FGCU Eagle, Eileen worked at Florida SouthWestern State College,
where she progressively took on larger leadership roles. She scaled the academic ranks,
starting as an adjunct professor in 2005 and working her way up to full professor,
department chair and dean. Eileen took on assistant- and associate-level vice president
roles before being named interim provost in July 2018 and provost 10 months later.
She held the college’s top academic role through 2022, when she was named the provost
for external international partnerships. Eileen earned her doctorate in curriculum
and instruction from the University of Florida, two master’s degrees (applied anthropology
from the University of South Florida and education from the College of New Rochelle)
and a bachelor’s degree in education from USF.
When Eileen transitions into the vice president and chief of staff role in January,
she will become a direct report to me and provide high-level support and guidance
as a member of cabinet. She will also oversee and provide guidance to the Office of
Board Relations, coordinating with Director of Board Relations, Associate Corporate
Secretary and Deputy Chief of Staff Tiffany Reynolds. We will continue to explore
future leadership in the areas of strategy and program innovation.
I want to express my sincere gratitude to the search panel chair, David Vazquez, and
members of the search panel: Trustee Michael Wynn, Jen Goen, Pamela McCabe, Dr. Tracy
Elliott, Dr. Jenny Manegold, Dr. Max Stein, Dr. Eric Tack, Dr. Sang Ki Min, Mary Banks
and Jena Padilla for their time and service for practicing shared governance.
It is always a rewarding feeling to know we cast a wide net but found that the best
candidate was already among us. Please join me in congratulating Eileen.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
September 2024
Toggle More Info
September 3, 2024
Dear FGCU Students,
After serving as FGCU’s chief academic officer for over three and a half years, Dr.
Mark Rieger is moving on from his position as executive vice president and provost.
Mark brought to FGCU his extensive research, teaching and administration experience
in higher education that spanned 34 years.
I am especially proud of Mark’s work to bring FGCU back to a fully in-person and robust
academic offering following the pandemic, as well as his leadership during our response
and recovery efforts related to Hurricane Ian. Mark amplified the impact of research
and sponsored programs and launched seven degree programs, four academic certificates
and five minors. Most recently, he garnered support for FGCU’s first doctor of philosophy
(Ph.D.) program, which was approved by the Board of Trustees and now moves on for
further consideration by the Florida Board of Governors.
On behalf of the university, I thank Mark for his service and send him my best wishes
as he embarks on the next phase of his journey.
To assist with the transition of leadership, I have named Dr. Tony Barringer as interim
provost, enabling him to oversee the daily administrative operations for the division
of Academic Affairs. FGCU is also launching a national search to fill the role of
provost, and we intend to bring on our next provost by the start of the 2025 spring
term.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
September 9, 2024
Good morning, FGCU Students!
We are now at the start of the fourth week of the fall semester, and I hope you have
found yourself in a familiar groove when it comes to class attendance, studying and
enjoying all that FGCU has to offer.
To assist in this effort, Student Success & Enrollment Management (SSEM) has created
a course entitled “Student Success Resources.” It is a one-stop shop for many of the
resources you need, and I encourage you to check it out the next time you log into
Canvas.
I know I have said this before, but our faculty and staff are here to support you
in your journey and help you reach your goals. Please do not hesitate to ask us for
help. We are here for you, whether you need help in your studies, guidance on volunteer
experiences, or simply have a question about campus happenings.
I am also a resource for you! I schedule my week in such a way that I can walk campus,
drop into classrooms and attend student engagement events. I attend as many of our
home sporting events as possible, and you can always find me sitting with the Dirty
Birds to cheer on our Eagles. Please do not hesitate to say hi or tell me what is
on your mind.
Your experience at FGCU matters to me and all of us at FGCU.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
September 23, 2024
Good morning, FGCU Students!
As I have mentioned in this space, your success is important to all of us at FGCU.
In recent weeks, I have shared key resources and information with you on how to access
help – both in and out of the classroom.
Today, I want you to know about some of the other ways the university is working to
improve your experience.
Student Success Plan
We are moving forward with implementing our student success plan, which is a required
step in our university’s performance-based funding model. Last week, I presented the
plan to the Florida Board of Governors (BOG), and I am pleased to share it was approved.
Although we are working toward improving all 10 student success metrics our university
is assessed on, we are hyper focused on four metrics that relate to timely graduation
and students staying on track in their studies. A PDF copy of my presentation is available
here
for more information on our next steps.
Mental Health Survey Starts Today
FGCU is participating in the University of Michigan’s Healthy Minds Study, which is
a comprehensive research project that will help us better understand the challenges
and needs related to mental health among our students.
Later this morning, you will receive an email inviting them to take part in a survey.
Please note: the email will show up in Outlook as coming from the Marieb College of
Health & Human Services and the associated email is
healthyminds-FGCU@umich.edu
Please participate to the best of your ability. See
flyer
for details.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
September 30, 2024
Dear Students,
Today, the university shifts back to our normal schedule of classes and campus events,
but we know there are members of the FGCU Family who are facing challenges at home
brought by Hurricane Helene.
Students, I want you to know that faculty have been directed to be as flexible and
reasonable as possible when coordinating make-up work for the days missed. Instructors
will make all efforts to ensure academic continuity, and updates about class assignments
and date extensions will be provided through Canvas. Again, we encourage you to reach
out to individual professors for more information. Compassion and flexibility will
lead our efforts as we go about our return to normal operations.
I also want to thank all of you for your patience and trust
as we pivoted our decisions throughout the storm to ensure the safety of our students
and employees. We coordinated with and obtained reliable information through our partners,
including regional school districts, county emergency managers and state officials.
We have many resources available to students:
FGCU students can access mental health support and therapy services through
Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS)
. Walk-ins are welcome (no appointments necessary), and the CAPS team can be reached
at (239) 590-7950 or
caps@fgcu.edu
24/7 CAPS Crisis Line
is available outside of normal business hours (evenings, weekends and holidays) at
(239) 745-EARS (3277). For more information, visit
www.fgcu.edu/counseling-and-psychological-services
Togetherall
is a safe, anonymous, online peer-to-peer community for mental health support that
is free to all FGCU students. Sign up using your FGCU email:
UBYou
is a student wellness and success app for students that offers a one-stop shop to
FGCU campus resources as well as mental and physical health exercises. Sign up for
free using your FGCU email:
Student Care Services
is available in person from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday in
Cohen Student Union, Room 288, or by phone at (239) 590-7900 and email at
care@fgcu.edu
. The
referral form is available
online.
We are a family, and FGCU is here to support you.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
October 2024
Toggle More Info
October 14, 2024
Dear Students,
FGCU was fortunate during Hurricane Milton. Minimal debris cleanup was required on
our main campus, and utilities, such as power, water and internet, were unaffected
by the storm.
Not everyone in our community can say the same. We understand that all of our stories
look different right now, and it is critical that we lead with patience, compassion
and flexibility as we return to normal operations.
The best way for us to know what resources or assistance you need post-hurricane is
to fill out the
Emergency Outreach Form (maxient.com)
. Students can also stop by Student Care Services from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through
Friday in Cohen Student Union, Room 288, or call (239) 590-7900 during normal office
hours. The team can also be reached by email at
care@fgcu.edu
If you have not done so already, please check Canvas for updates about your individual
classes, as there could be changes in assignments or syllabi due to the academic days
lost between Hurricanes Helene and Milton. For an overview of the many resources available
to you on campus, check out the Canvas course called “Student Success Resources.”
Also, please share with your instructors any obstacles you are facing related to the
storms. Please do not hesitate to ask for help.
Lastly, I want to thank you for your patience, care, support and kindness to one another
in these difficult times. I also want to extend my deepest appreciation to the dedicated
university personnel who stayed on campus during the storm to keep our FGCU community
safe as well as everyone who worked post-hurricane to ensure the safety and operability
of our campus. Their work helped FGCU get back to normal operations as quickly as
possible. I am so proud of our FGCU Family, and you truly make FGCU so special.
We are the Eagle Family, and we are better together.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
October 21, 2024
Dear Students,
FGCU is moving forward with national searches for the positions of
Executive Vice President and Provost
as well as
Vice President and Vice Provost, Student Success & Enrollment Management.
To assist executive search firm Greenwood Asher & Associates, I have formed two search
committees. Committee membership represents all facets of our campus community, ensuring
voices of students, faculty and staff are part of the decision process.
Committee rosters are attached to this email.
Committee kickoff meetings and listening sessions for both searches have been scheduled,
and we have launched websites for each search. Please see below for more information:
Executive Vice President and Provost:
Serves as the chief academic officer for FGCU, providing academic leadership for the
colleges and schools. The person hired for this role will be the second-highest ranking
officer at FGCU, behind the university president.
Search website
fgcu.edu/provostsearch
Kickoff meeting
: 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Friday, November 1, in Academic Building 9, Room 138
Committee support staff
: Julie Echo,
jeacho@fgcu.edu
Vice President and Vice Provost, Student Success & Enrollment Management (SSEM):
Serves as the chief student affairs officer, directing all student-related functions
of the university.
Search website
fgcu.edu/vicepresidentsearch
Kickoff meeting
: 2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Friday, November 1, in Academic Building 9, Room 138
Committee support staff
: Jenn Culver,
jculver@fgcu.edu
Listening Sessions: Vice President Searches
You are invited to attend listening sessions with Greenwood Asher & Associates, where
consultants will lead the discussion and prompt the audience with questions about
both positions, as they will work closely together.
Session 1
: 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. Thursday, October 31, Academic Building 9, Room 106
Session 2
: 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. Friday, November 1, Academic Building 9, Room 138
I encourage you to stay informed as we conduct searches for these critical positions
that directly impact our operations and efforts in supporting FGCU students.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
October 22, 2024
Dear Students,
Eagle EXPO was this past Saturday, and I want to thank our employees and students
who took part in planning and bringing to life this action-packed open house. The
event showcased everything we love about our university to 440 prospective students.
We are now heading into the final stretch of the fall semester.
As we approach the term’s final weeks and the upcoming holiday breaks, it is critical
for you to be attending class, completing assignments and seeking out help when you
need it. Your best resource will always be your instructors, but I want you to know
where else you can go to for help:
The
ITS Help Desk
is located on the first floor of the Wilson G. Bradshaw Library and is open from 7
a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Friday and from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday. You can
also call (239) 590-1188 or email the Help Desk team at
helpdesk@fgcu.edu
Center for Academic Achievement
(CAA) offers tutoring, the writing lab and supplemental instruction. Visit the CAA
in Library West, Room 202, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 8 a.m.
to 5 p.m. Friday.
Finally, for an overview of all student resources, check out the Canvas course called
“Student Success Resources.”
Please do not hesitate to ask for help. All of us at FGCU are here to support you
in your journey.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
October 28, 2024
Dear Students,
As I wrote last week, the end of the fall term is coming up quickly. As we look toward
the start of a new month, please note the following days off from classes:
November 5
: Study day
November 11
: Veteran’s Day observed
November 27-30
: Thanksgiving observed
The last day of fall classes is December 9 and finals beginning on the 10
th
Please stay on top of your course assignments and other deadlines. It is critical
for you to attend class, complete assignments and seek help when you need it. As I
have said before, our FGCU faculty and staff are here to support you in your journey,
so please don’t hesitate to ask for assistance.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
November 2024
Toggle More Info
November 4, 2024
Good morning, FGCU Students!
Last week,
FGCU was honored with a
visit from our founding president, Dr. Roy McTarnaghan.
He was appointed president of our university in 1993, long before it even had a name,
and he was critical to building the university, opening it in 1997 and leading it
through 1999. It is such a gift that our previous leaders have a passion and true
love for this institution.
During his visit, Dr. McTarnaghan shared his wisdom with staff, faculty and campus
leaders. He and I discussed FGCU’s new Student Success Plan. His message to me: We’re
on the right path, and we have his support!
I carried his words of wisdom with me to Friday’s outstanding
President’s Scholarship Luncheon
, a truly wonderful event that pairs our FGCU donors with the students who have benefited
from their scholarships. Many of you were in the room. I am energized and inspired
by the FGCU community for collaborating to make such an incredible difference in the
lives of our students.
As I have said many times, I encourage you to take full advantage of the resources
and opportunities available to you – and that means taking full advantage of the events
happening across campus.
From the performances through the Bower School of Music & the Arts, FGCU Athletics
and the various activities planned by our registered student organizations, I can
tell you there is a lot to do!
Stay up to date on the offerings with the weekly events listing prepared by University
Communications & Media Relations, or visit
FGCU’s Calendar of Events
and
Eagle Link
websites.
Other Announcements
Do you have a great instructor, advisor or other employee worthy of recognition? Students,
please nominate them for an
Advising, Librarianship, Scholarship, Service and Teaching Excellence Awards.
Nominations are due November 15. Contact Julie Eacho at
jeacho@fgcu.edu
for details.
Students have until November 12 to participate in the
HealthyMinds Study
, which is a comprehensive research project from the University of Michigan that will
help us better understand the challenges and needs related to mental health among
our students. Look for emails from
healthyminds-FGCU@umich.edu
for more information.
In partnership with Lee Health, FGCU is participating in the
2025 Lee County Heart Walk
at 8 a.m. December 14 at Centennial Park in Downtown Fort Myers. The event is in
benefit of the American Heart Association. This year, every walker who registers on
the
Heart Walk website
has the opportunity to learn hands-only CPR and spread that education to their family,
colleagues and friends.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
November 12, 2024
Good morning, Eagle Family.
Yesterday, our campus was closed in observance of Veterans Day – a time in which we
share our gratitude and appreciation for the courage, dedication and sacrifices made
by those who have served in the U.S. military. We are so honored to have veterans
among us on campus – as students, faculty and staff. On behalf of the university,
I thank you for your service.
FGCU offers various veteran-related services and resources to students, employees
and the broader community. Here are a few I would like to highlight for you today:
To better meet the needs of Southwest Florida veterans and their families, FGCU plans
to expand veteran services by creating a privately funded
Veterans Center for Student Success
on campus. The center will also enhance the university’s direct support for enrolled
veterans, their benefited families and FGCU faculty and staff.
The
Office of Military & Veterans Success
serves as a hub for academic resources for military-connected students. It understands
veteran-specific issues that impact performance and academic success and, in turn,
provides resources and guidance for servicing the unique educational needs of veterans.
Home Base of Southwest Florida’s Warrior Health & Fitness Program
, located at the Kleist Health Education Center, provides a free, 90-day program designed
to help veterans improve their physical health and well-being through supervised physical
exercise, nutrition, stress management and the benefits of a healthy lifestyle.
The
Veterans Florida Entrepreneurship Program at FGCU
offers a comprehensive, tuition-free training experience designed specifically for
military veterans and their families. It supports participants at all stages of their
entrepreneurial journey.
It is our desire to continue to amplify these efforts to ensure these key services
and resources grow.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
November 15, 2024
Dear FGCU Students,
I am thrilled to announce that Kristi M. Carman, Esq., has accepted our employment
offer to serve as FGCU’s new Vice President & General Counsel. She will begin her
role at the university in May 2025.
For the remainder of the academic year, Lisa Jones, Esq., will continue to serve the
university as Interim Vice President & General Counsel. Lisa has done a phenomenal
job in this role, and I am so pleased to have her assistance during this transition.
I extend my sincere gratitude to all who were engaged with this search effort.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
November 18, 2024
Dear Eagle Family,
Today I write you from the American Association of State Colleges and Universities
(AASCU)’s annual conference for presidents and chancellors. All of our discussions
have been focused on collaboration and how we, as leaders in higher education, can
build bridges to uplift our communities by working together.
Collaboration is a word we frequently use at FGCU, and I am thrilled to share with
my colleagues all the ways our units, departments and colleges are embracing the power
of collaboration in their day-to-day work.
Certainly, collaboration was on display last Friday as over 600 individuals came together
from across our campus and outside organizations to participate in the largest-ever Disaster Day Interprofessional
Simulation event in Southwest Florida. At the heart of the event were hands-on training
exercises for 317 students from the Marieb College of Health & Human Services, who
worked together, across majors, to care for “patients.”
I use quotes because it was a drill with very convincing actors! Some of those patients
were life-like manikins, brought in from various organizations in the community. Others
were fellow students, FGCU employees and members of the Florida State Guard who donned
makeup, prosthetics and acted as though they were injured, ill or experiencing mental
health-related trauma from an emergency situation.
This event is an example of the power of partnership. Not only did we connect students
and employees from across campus, but we engaged the public to assist with our mission
of student success. Experts in public health and safety sectors from about 20 outside
organizations were on hand to offer the assistance during the full-day event. Everyone
was there to support our students as they prepare for their future careers, and that
is a collaboration we should all be proud of!
I send my sincere thanks to the FGCU students and employees who helped make this event
possible. Well done!
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
November 25, 2024
Hello, Eagle Family!
In honor of Thanksgiving, I have prepared a video to share my gratitude and appreciation
for all of our FGCU students, faculty and staff. To watch, please click the video
below or visit
FGCU’s YouTube channel
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
December 2024
Toggle More Info
December 2, 2024
Good morning, Eagles!
I hope you had a great time with your loved ones during the Thanksgiving break and
have returned to campus feeling recharged and ready to complete the final days of
the fall term.
The last day of fall term classes is December 9 (one week from today!), and finals
week begins on the 10th. I wish you all the best as we approach the end of the semester.
Study and sleep well! We know this time of year comes with extra stress and responsibilities,
and your wellbeing is important. As I have said before, our FGCU faculty and staff
are here to support you in your journey, so please don’t hesitate to ask for assistance.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
December 4, 2024
Dear FGCU Students,
It is with sadness that I share that one of our faculty members from the Bower School
of Music & the Arts – Dr. Patricia “Ticia” Gingras – recently passed away. You knew
her as Dr. G.
As the head of music education at FGCU, Dr. G. taught music methods courses, placed
and supervised student teachers, and served as the faculty liaison to the College
of Education and area schools. She joined FGCU in 2016 as a program coordinator and
assistant professor and became an associate professor in 2021. During her time at
FGCU, she also picked up additional roles teaching within University Colloquium.
The FGCU community is invited to attend
Winterfest at 6:30 p.m. today on the Bower School of Music Lawn
. The event will serve as a meaningful tribute to Dr. G.’s life and legacy while bringing
our community together during this season of reflection and gratitude.
I also want you to be aware of the following resources available to students through
FGCU:
Mental health support and therapy services are available through
Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS)
. Walk-ins are welcome (no appointments necessary), and the CAPS team can be reached
at (239) 590-7950 or
caps@fgcu.edu
. The 24/7 CAPS Crisis Line is available at (239) 745-EARS (3277). For more information,
visit
www.fgcu.edu/counseling-and-psychological-services
Student CARE Services
is available to assist with resources and referrals. Contact the team at
care@fgcu.edu
. For more information, visit
www.fgcu.edu/eaglescare
Togetherall
is a safe, anonymous, peer-to-peer community for mental health support that is free
to all FGCU students. Sign up using your FGCU email:
UBYou
is a free student wellness and success app for students that offers a one-stop shop
to FGCU campus resources as well as mental and physical health exercises. Sign up
using your FGCU email:
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
December 9, 2024
Dear Students,
Today is the last day of fall classes and end-of-semester finals begin tomorrow. The
semester will culminate this weekend with our fall commencement ceremonies, in which
approximately 1,800 students will celebrate the completion of their academic journey
at FGCU.
To our Eagle graduates: I look forward to this weekend’s celebrations, where we will
honor the work you have put into your classwork, extracurricular activities and service
to the broader community. I am so proud of all you have achieved during your time
as an FGCU Eagle. I know I will be hearing great things about you in the years to
come!
To all other FGCU students: I wish you a wonderful and relaxing winter break, and
I look forward to seeing you back on campus in January 2025.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
2025 Messages
Toggle More Info
January 2025
Toggle More Info
January 6, 2025
Hello, Eagle Family, and happy New Year!
Because of all of you – our outstanding students, faculty and staff – I know it is
going to be a great year. I have prepared a video to share my appreciation as we continue
our collective
Journey to Excellence
Please click the video below or visit
FGCU’s YouTube channel
to watch the video.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
January 10, 2025
Dear Eagle Family,
We are now in Year 2 of our strategic plan,
Innovating for Student Success: FGCU’s Journey to Excellence.
As we move forward in operationalizing this plan, I am thrilled to see
Dr. Eileen DeLuca
shift into her new role as vice president of strategic initiatives and chief of staff.
Much of her focus will be coordinating with offices and academic units across campus
to make sure we are meeting our goals, objectives and key performance indicators.
As she leaves behind her leadership role in Strategy & Program Innovation, her direct
reports have shifted into Academic Affairs, where they report to Interim Provost Tony
Barringer. This includes:
Kristen Vanselow
, the assistant vice president for Innovative Education & Partnerships. Kristen remains
at the helm of Continuing Education, FGCU Complete, and Micro-Credentials and Digital
Badges, and will now take on leadership of the Hendry and Glades County Regional Partnerships,
Professional and Cultural Education, and 2+2 articulation agreements with the Florida
College System.
Becky Jones
, the director of Early College Programs. She leads the Accelerated Collegiate Experience
(ACE) program, a full-time, on-campus, dual enrollment experience for eligible high
school students. She is also involved with the development and support of collegiate
academies and oversight of part-time dual enrollment programs within school districts
in our regional service area.
David Jaeger
, the director of Digital Learning. He oversees both the instructional design team
that provides support to the faculty within the colleges and schools, as well as the
instructional technologists who provide support with software and the Learning Management
System. Through interactions with all divisions and participation in Faculty Senate
committees, he provides leadership for the adoption of quality digital learning practices
across all instructional modalities that use technology.
As part of her new role, Eileen reports directly to me, serves as a member of the
President’s Cabinet and oversees the Office of Board Relations in coordination with
Tiffany Reynolds
, the director of Board Relations, associate corporate secretary and deputy chief
of staff.
For the time being, Eileen will wear multiple hats at the university. Until the search
for the role of vice president and vice provost of Student Success & Enrollment Management
(SSEM) is complete, Eileen will continue serving as this division’s acting vice president.
Details about this search process can be found online at
fgcu.edu/vicepresidentsearch
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
January 13, 2025
Good morning, Students!
We are a week into the new semester, and I hope you are finding your groove as you
balance your studies, classes, work schedules and extracurricular activities. We have
so much happening on campus, and I want to encourage you to keep an eye out for our
Weeks of Welcome events.
FGCU hosts these student-focused activities at the start of every term, and they provide
you with great opportunities to connect with one another and the broader campus community.
As Weeks of Welcome events are organized, they are posted on
Eagle Link
. Access this website with your FGCU credentials.
You can count on seeing me at as many of these WOW events as possible.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
January 21, 2025
Good morning, Students!
I am traveling to Tallahassee to speak with elected officials this week about FGCU’s
strategic priorities and explain how our 2025-26 budget requests support the strategic
plan –
Innovating for Student Success: FGCU’s Journey to Excellence
Each year, FGCU submits a legislative budget request, or LBR, that shows how state
funding can advance our work. Our focus is supporting programs and initiatives that
help you find success – both in and out of the classroom.
FGCU is requesting $21.8 million in operational support to provide you with accelerated
education options, entrepreneurial endeavors and employer-partnered micro-credentials
that align with an ever-evolving workforce. Funding will also help us advance FGCU’s
community partnerships, so you have more opportunities to engage in real-world experiences
and gain valuable career and transferrable skills.
FGCU is also requesting funds to support five capital requests. Three of these projects
help with reimagining existing student space on campus so they can better meet your
needs, including:
Updating
Reed Hall
, one of our original academic buildings from 1997
The creation of post-pandemic learning spaces in the
Wilson G. Bradshaw Library and Annex
Reconfiguring the
Cohen Student Union
so it meets the unique needs of current and future students
Throughout the semester, I will offer updates about this process as Florida officials
shape the state budget. To learn more about FGCU’s Eagle Advocacy efforts, visit
fgcueagleadvocacy.com
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
January 27, 2025
Dear Students,
Last week, my planned trip to Tallahassee was cancelled due to the winter weather
that impacted business and operations in northern Florida. I am working with the Government
Relations team to reschedule these important meetings with elected officials for early
February.
These meetings are an opportunity to showcase the incredible things happening every
day on our campus and why we need our legislators’ support. Throughout the semester,
I will offer updates about how FGCU’s legislative budget requests are being factored
into the state’s annual budget process.
Over the weekend, FGCU welcomed our admitted students for the upcoming academic year
to campus for our annual Say Yes to the Nest event. This is an opportunity to show
off our campus and provide future Eagles with more information about our academic
programs, colleges, schools and campus life.
Although it was quite chilly, it proved to be a beautiful day on campus. I know many
of our current students contributed to the success of this annual event, and I want
to thank you for showcasing your university so proudly.
Have a great week on campus, Eagles!
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
February 2025
Toggle More Info
February 3, 2025
Dear Eagle Family,
Last week, the Florida Board of Governors (BOG) approved a new strategic plan for
the State University System of Florida. Called
SUS 30: Extraordinary Impact
, the plan outlines the bold vision forward for Florida’s public universities as they
advance efforts around student success. The document defines our system’s mission,
vision, values and priority areas.
The strategic plan was presented during Thursday’s BOG meeting, which I attended alongside
many of our leaders across campus. It was incredible to see how much of our own strategic
plan,
FGCU’s Journey to Excellence
, is reflected in this document. Knowing that our goals and objectives align to the
BOG’s priorities tells us we are on the right path for student success.
As part of the system’s new strategic plan, new metrics and targets have been announced.
Many of them will highlight our successes at FGCU, including evaluating licensure
pass rates and connecting students to experiential learning/internships. These are
areas we already excel. Other metrics include more students graduating without debt
and improving the success rates of transfer and Pell Grant students. There are also
new metrics in operational excellence, world-class talent, innovative research and
economic developments. All of these are areas we are committed to improving as part
of FGCU’s strategic plan, which, again, I am very proud to say is aligned with the
system’s vision of achieving an extraordinary impact across the state.
I encourage you to spend some time reading through the SUS 30 document, which can
be found online at
www.flbog.edu/board/strategic-plan
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
February 10, 2025
Good morning, Eagles!
It is hard to believe, but we are already approaching the middle of February. Spring
break will be here before we know it! While I know you are very hard at work in your
studies, I want to remind you that campus life is an important piece of the FGCU experience.
Our campus is a vibrant hub of activities that add value to your education. We truly
have something for every interest – from cheering on the Eagles from the Dirty Birds
section at our games, attending lecture series or signing up for workshops to checking
out student programming on the Library Lawn and performances with the Bower School
of Music & the Arts. But what makes these events so great is you – our students.
If you find yourself wanting to get more involved, but don’t know where to start,
please reach out to our staff and faculty. We are committed to supporting you throughout
your journey at FGCU, and we have many resources we can share with you.
Don’t forget I am a resource, too! I look forward to seeing you out on campus.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
February 17, 2025
Good morning, Students!
I am very proud to share that FGCU’s School of Nursing has once again exceeded the
state and national averages of graduates who pass the National Council Licensure Examination
for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN).
FGCU was the only public university in Florida to achieve a 100% pass rate – and it
is our second year in a row doing so!
While rankings are not the focus of our work, it is a sense of pride to know graduates
from FGCU’s rigorous nursing program possess the knowledge and skills needed to be
successful in their careers, starting on their very first day on the job. It is also
a testament to the hard work that our students do every day on this campus, and I
congratulate our graduates on their commitment to their studies.
I send my appreciation to the faculty, staff and administrative team in the Marieb
College of Health & Human Services and the School of Nursing for their efforts.
I invite you to
visit
FGCU’s YouTube channel
to hear remarks about our nursing program’s 100% pass rate
that were given by Vice Chair Alan Levine of the Florida Board of Governors (BOG)
and Chair Michael Wynn of the FGCU Board of Trustees (BOT).
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
February 24, 2025
Good morning, Students!
The midpoint of the spring term is upon us, and your spring break vacation begins
soon.
Whatever your plans may be, I hope you use this time away from your studies to catch
up on your sleep, relax and have fun. Above all, please be safe!
I encourage you to visit the
FGCU YouTube channel
to watch a special spring break message from me. I look forward to seeing you back
on campus!
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
February 28, 2025
Dear Students,
It is with sadness that I inform you of the passing of one of our own - Vicki Brody.
She dedicated over 10 years to FGCU, serving in academic advising for the Lutgert
College of Business and the Daveler & Kauanui School of Entrepreneurship.
Vicki was well-known on campus, among both students and employees, and she had a deep
commitment to support students in their journey here at FGCU. My heart is with her
friends, peers and the many students she worked with.
During this time of grief, I encourage you to seek out assistance. The following resources
are available to the FGCU community:
Mental health support and therapy services are available through
Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS)
. Walk-ins are welcome (no appointments necessary), and the CAPS team can be reached
at (239) 590-7950 or
caps@fgcu.edu
. The 24/7 CAPS Crisis Line is available at (239) 745-EARS (3277). For more information,
visit
www.fgcu.edu/counseling-and-psychological-services
Student CARE Services
is available to assist with resources and referrals. Contact the team at
care@fgcu.edu
. For more information, visit
www.fgcu.edu/eaglescare
Togetherall
is a safe, anonymous, peer-to-peer community for mental health support that is free
to all FGCU students. Sign up using your FGCU email:
UBYou
is a free student wellness and success app for students that offers a one-stop shop
to FGCU campus resources as well as mental and physical health exercises. Sign up
using your FGCU email:
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
March 2025
Toggle More Info
March 10, 2025
Good morning, Students!
Welcome back to campus! I hope you were able to relax and enjoy the pause in the semester,
and that your spring break was restful and safe. Here on campus, life continued to
be busy – especially when it came to two projects centered around the Cohen Student
Union.
1) Cohen Remodel Enters Phase 2
Our goal with this project is to create a much more modern, spacious and cozier atmosphere
for our students to gather for meals, meetings and more.
Renovations include:
Closing in the outdoor atrium area
Relocating the information booth to a more centralized space
Creating new seating areas, including one that overlooks the first floor
The addition of three second-floor conference-style rooms
As I am sure you noticed, the lawn area outside of Einstein Bros. Bagels is currently
closed, and a temporary sidewalk has been created for navigation of the area. While
it might be noisy at times, daily operations inside Cohen are not affected. All food
services will operate as normal throughout the remodel.
2) Construction of New Digital Sign
The other project is outside of Cohen, near the traffic signal, where we are installing
the next digital monument sign on campus.
The digital sign will look like the ones staged at the three main entrances to campus,
and it serves as another method of communicating what’s happening on campus.
These two projects emphasize FGCU’s commitment and dedication to our students, and
I know that these enhancements to campus will become great assets to all who use our
campus. Please be on the lookout for updates about our various campus construction
and maintenance projects, as our leadership team strives to keep you informed of what’s
happening at your university.
I wish you a great week back.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
March 12, 2025
Dear FGCU Students,
I am pleased to announce that Debbie M. Thorne, Ph.D., has accepted our employment
offer to serve as FGCU’s executive vice president and provost. Through this role,
Dr. Thorne will be the chief academic officer at FGCU.
Attached is Dr. Thorne’s biography. Dr. Thorne is an American Council on Education
Fellow at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte and also works as special
assistant to the provost at Texas State University. She will start her role at FGCU
July 1. Until then, Tony Barringer, Ed.D., will continue to oversee the daily administrative
operations of Academic Affairs as interim provost.
On behalf of the university, I send my sincere gratitude to Dr. Barringer for taking
on this critical leadership role for the past six months. He has brought great collaborative
and strategic efforts to our student success initiatives, and I know he and Dr. Thorne
will lead FGCU to new heights in our
Journey to Excellence
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
March 17, 2025
Dear Students,
Today, you will receive an invitation to participate in the Intellectual Freedom Survey.
This is an opportunity for you to anonymously share how you feel your beliefs and
viewpoints can be expressed on campus. The survey is optional.
The link to the survey will be sent to your university email. Between now and the
close of the survey on April 11, you can expect automated messages reminding you to
participate.
The viewpoint survey was part of House Bill 233, which was passed by the Florida Legislature
in 2021. It is administered across the State University System of Florida and the
Florida College System.
I wish you a great week on campus, and I look forward to seeing you soon.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
March 24, 2025
Hello, FGCU Students!
We are kicking off
FGCU
Give
Day
at noon on Wednes
day
, March 26.
This is a 24-hour period of time
where we encourage students and their families to consider donating in support of
the programs and initiatives that they are most passionate about at FGCU.
This annual tradition helps fund scholarships, advance research initiatives and enhance
the overall student experience.
Here’s how students can get involved:
Visit
giveday
.fgcu.edu
to see the
67 FGCU causes and initiatives
that you can support this year!
Every contribution, no matter the size, plays a crucial role in shaping the future
of FGCU –
Your University
Spread the word using
#FGCUGiveDay
on social media.
Pick up a
Give Day Passport on the Library Lawn
from noon to 5 p.m. on Wednesday and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday.
Completing the activities in the passport will make you eligible to direct a donation
from the FGCU Foundation to the campus initiative of your choice!
Graduating in May? Completing the Give Day Passport qualifies you for an FGCU Graduation
Medallion that you can wear at commencement!
hope to see you on the Library Lawn, and I look forward
to witnessing the positive impact we can achieve together!
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
March 31, 2025
Good morning, Students!
In about a month, FGCU will celebrate spring commencement, honoring over 2,400 students
who are eligible to complete their academic journey from our institution.
Four ceremonies are taking place May 3-4 in Alico Arena
If you are one of our soon-to-be graduates, please make sure you register for the
event and claim your guest tickets by April 11. Look for email notifications from
Tassel (
noreply@tassel.com
) with instructions on how to do this!
Commencement is also a great opportunity for our students to obtain service-learning
hours. Student volunteers help check in graduates, greet families, scan tickets at
the door and serve as information assistants in Alico Arena. Each job is important
to ensuring graduates and their families have a great day.
Sign up by April 23 by filling out this form.
If you have any questions about commencement, please visit
www.fgcu.edu/commencement
. We look forward to celebrating this momentous occasion with our graduates and their
guests.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
April 2025
Toggle More Info
April 2, 2025
Dear FGCU Students,
I am excited to announce Paul J. Dosal, Ph.D., as FGCU’s
vice
president
and
vice
provost
of Student Success & Enrollment
Management
(SSEM). Through this role, Dr. Dosal will serve as the c
hief student affairs officer and direct all student-related functions for the university.
His first day on campus is July 21.
Dr. Dosal is well-known in the State University System of Florida (SUS) as a student
success expert, as he has spent the last 15 years in vice president positions at the
University of Central Florida (UCF) and the University of South Florida (USF). Attached
is Dr. Dosal’s biography.
I have a tremendous amount of faith and excitement in both Dr. Dosal and Dr. Debbie
M. Thorne, our new executive vice president and provost. Together, they will lead
FGCU’s efforts in providing students with high-quality educational experiences and
support.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
April 7, 2025
Good morning, FGCU Students!
We are now three weeks out from the start of final exams, and I know that you are
studying hard and preparing final assignments and projects for your various courses.
It is easy to get swept up in the added work this time of year, especially when you
are balancing a job or internship, social commitments, service-learning requirements
and your studies.
If you are struggling in a class or experiencing challenges, please ask for help.
We have many great resources available on campus, from academic advising and tutoring
to student-focused counseling. One of our best resources can be found through Canvas.
The next time you log in, be sure to check out a course called “Student Success Resources.”
Remember, your experience at FGCU is important to me, your professors and all the
employees who work on campus. We are truly passionate about helping you find success
– both in and out of the classroom – so please do not hesitate to raise a hand and
ask for help.
We are a family, and FGCU is here to support you.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
April 14, 2025
Dear FGCU Students,
I often write you about the importance of knowing what academic and wrap-around resources
are available to you on our campus. Today, I want to celebrate one of our healthy
living resources:
University Recreation & Wellness Center (URecWell)
In February, FGCU celebrated the fifth anniversary of the facility opening, and it
has become a wonderful hub of wellness for our students. Just last week, URecWell
surprised its one millionth visitor with a gift basket filled with the eight dimensions
of wellness (physical, emotional, social, intellectual, spiritual, environmental,
financial and occupational).
Congratulations to
Emerson Mahoney, an FGCU junior, for being the one millionth visitor! I commend the
staff who have made URecWell such a wonderful asset to our students on campus, and
I encourage you all to take advantage of this great resource for wellness.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
April 17, 2025
Dear FGCU Family,
I am sure many of you have been following the heartbreaking news impacting our friends,
peers and colleagues at Florida State University. I speak for all Eagles when I send
my deepest sympathies to the FSU family, their loved ones and all who were impacted
by today’s events in Tallahassee.
While we have not received any threats to our campus community, we have increased
the presence of law enforcement on campus. You can expect to see the Lee County Sheriff’s
Office on campus in addition to our officers with the University Police Department.
Please know that mental health and counseling services are available to provide comfort
and support to FGCU students. If you need assistance or other resources, do not hesitate
to ask.
Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS)
: No appointments necessary. Call (239) 590-7950 or email
caps@fgcu.edu
24/7 CAPS Crisis Line
: (239) 745-EARS (3277)
Student Care Services
care@fgcu.edu
Togetherall
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
April 21, 2025
Good morning, Students!
Our FGCU Eagles have achieved so many wonderful milestones during the 2024-25 academic
year, and I know many more await you.
As you attend your final week of spring semester classes and prepare for next week’s
exams and final projects, I hope you are finding enough time to rest and recharge.
I know it is easier said than done to take care of yourself with the extra stress
and responsibilities that come this time of year, but I want to emphasize how important
it is to prioritize your health and wellbeing.
Please remember that we have many wonderful resources available on campus to assist
you in your academic and co-curricular journey. If you need help, please ask for assistance
and refer to the Canvas course called “Student Success Resources.”
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
April 28, 2025
Good morning, Eagles!
We have officially reached the end of the spring semester, and today marks the last
day of classes before finals begin. It’s a busy and exciting time at our university,
with our spring commencement ceremonies scheduled for Saturday and Sunday.
This weekend, we will recognize the achievements of approximately 2,400 students who
are completing their academic journey at FGCU. Many of these students’ achievements
were recognized during end-of-year celebrations.
Last week, high-achieving students from each college were recognized during
Celebration of Excellence
, and the
EagleX
showcase was an opportunity to celebrate exceptional student experiences in research,
community engagement, leadership and internships. This week, we gather for the induction
of the
Class of 2025 Hall of Fame.
I send my heartfelt congratulations to all members of the Eagle Class of 2025. To
all other FGCU students, I wish you a wonderful and safe summer, and I look forward
to seeing you on campus soon!
I encourage you to click the video below, or visit the
FGCU YouTube channel
, to watch a special message from me.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
May 2025
Toggle More Info
May 5, 2025
Good morning, FGCU Students!
A brand-new week is here, and I’m still energized from this weekend’s incredible commencement
ceremonies at FGCU! Thank you to all of our student volunteers and workers who showcased
their enthusiastic energy and Eagle pride as we celebrated the achievements of the
Class of 2025.
Our graduates are launching into the world ready to make an impact! No matter where
they go next, I have no doubt they will carry the spirit of FGCU with pride and represent
our university with excellence and purpose.
Commencement was a powerful reminder of why student success is at the heart of everything
we do at FGCU, and I cannot wait for the day we celebrate
your
big moment!
Until then, please remember that you are never alone in your journey. FGCU offers
a wide range of amazing resources to support you both in and out of the classroom.
Be sure to check out the “Student Success Resources” course on Canvas. We are here
to help you thrive!
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
May 12, 2025
Good morning, FGCU Students!
Today marks the start of summer classes at FGCU. While not all students are enrolled
in summer classes, it is important to know that all student-facing services remain
fully available to support you.
You can explore all that’s available in the Canvas course called "Student Success
Resources." And, as always, reach out to your instructors or other FGCU staff members
for assistance. We are here to support you – 365 days a year!
I also want you to know that I am shifting to a bi-weekly schedule for these communications
during the summer. My regular weekly messages will resume in August. Should any time-sensitive
or important updates come up for students, I will be sure to send additional messages.
I hope you enjoy a productive and restorative summer at FGCU!
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
May 27, 2025
Good morning, FGCU Students!
For many, the last week of May signals the start of summer, and it is certainly feeling
like summer these days in Southwest Florida. Please make sure to hydrate, seek shade
when you can, and enjoy the air conditioning when you need a break from the heat.
I know I mention it frequently, but I don’t want you to forget about the many helpful
tools available in the “Student Success Resources” Canvas course. Whether you're looking
for tips, support or just a little guidance, it’s all there. Of course, your instructors
and FGCU staff are just a message away if you need anything.
My next scheduled message is June 9. Until then …
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
June 2025
Toggle More Info
June 9, 2025
Good morning, FGCU Students!
The fall semester may feel far away, but I know you will want to know about a new
program we are launching to help you save money on course materials!
Through
First Day Ready
, FGCU is providing students in undergraduate courses with all their required course
materials by the first day of classes at a fixed rate of $20 per credit hour.
Keep an eye on your inbox in early July – you will get details and instructions from
Barnes & Noble
on how to get started!
The email verifies your order and delivery method.
All students are automatically enrolled in the program each semester, starting in
the fall term, and you will be given a choice to opt-out of participating.
The fall opt-out window is July 14 to August 23.
If you decide to use the program, the charge will be directly applied to your student
account and found on your “Bill and Payment Center” along with your tuition and fees.
I encourage you to learn more by reviewing the information on the
First Day Ready landing page
, including its associated frequently asked questions (FAQs).
My next scheduled message to campus is June 23 ...
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
June 23, 2025
Today kicks off summer B term’s
Week of Welcome (WOW)
– a fun and friendly FGCU tradition that brings students together at the start of
each semester. WOW events are a great way to meet new people, explore campus and start
feeling right at home in our Eagle family.
You can find the full lineup of events on
Eagle Link
and stay in the loop by following
@fgcuosi
on Instagram. Plus, keep an eye on your inbox – each Tuesday, students receive a
list of events that highlight what is happening on your campus, so you never miss
a beat.
Don’t forget: It’s never too early to get excited for the fall WOW events
which run August 14 to September 5
I’ll be out there, and I hope to see you at as many events as possible!
My next scheduled message to campus is July 7 ...
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
July 2025
Toggle More Info
July 1, 2025
Dear Students,
It is with sadness that I share the passing of one of our long-time art professors
– Andrew “Andy” Owen. He dedicated nearly 17 years of service to the FGCU community
through the Bower School of Music & the Arts.
Without a doubt, Andy left a lasting impact at FGCU. He touched the lives of his students
and colleagues through his printmaking classes, and he provided guidance and support
to those who stopped by his studio to talk about art and life.
Later this year, the art program will celebrate Andy’s legacy with a student-focused
steamroller printmaking workshop, an innovative process he invented in the late 1970s
to promote alternative, collaborative methods in printmaking. The Bower School will
announce those details once they become available.
During this time of grief, I encourage you to seek out assistance.
Students, please be aware
of
the following resources available to you through FGCU
Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS)
: No appointments necessary. Call (239) 590
-7950 or email
caps@fgcu.edu
24/7 CAPS Crisis Line
: (239) 745-EARS (3277)
Student Care Services
care@fgcu.edu
Togetherall
UBYou
July, 7 2025
Dear FGCU Students,
I want to acknowledge the dedication and effort you are putting into your studies.
Summer courses can move quickly, and we recognize the commitment it takes to stay
focused and succeed.
While we have fewer students on campus, the summer season enables the university to
make important updates and improvements to our campus facilities. One such project
is currently affecting the Wilson G. Bradshaw Library, which is closed today due to
a scheduled construction-related power outage.
I want you to know:
University Library
staff are working remotely and can be contacted via
“We Ask”
, email and Microsoft Teams.
Access the
Help Desk
in Ben Hill Griffin Hall, Computer Lab 262, or call 239-590-1188 or email
helpdesk@fgcu.edu
Access the
Center for Academic Achievement
(CAA) from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. in
Academic Building 9, Room 138.
All of these functions will resume normal operations in the library building at 7:30
a.m. tomorrow – Tuesday, July 8.
We appreciate your patience as we work to enhance your learning environment.
My next scheduled message to campus is July 21 ...
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
July 21, 2025
Dear FGCU Students,
July is nearly over and soon you will be stepping onto campus – some of you for the
first time – to begin a new chapter at FGCU.
For our newest Eagles that are moving into on-campus residence halls, we are rolling
out the green and blue carpet for you. As is our tradition, FGCU staff, faculty and
fellow students will be here to greet you, lend a helping hand and make your move-in
experience go as smoothly as possible. Be sure to
review Housing’s website
to verify that you have everything you need before arriving for move-in.
I will be in South Village August 13-14 handing out ice-cold water and welcoming you
to the nest. I look forward to chatting with you and your family!
Before you know it, we will be kicking off the first day of fall classes on August
18 – and I know it will be another wonderful year ahead for all of us Eagles.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
July 25, 2025
Dear Students,
It is with great sadness that I share the passing of Dr. Michael Epple, one of our
long-time history instructors. He joined FGCU in 2003 as an assistant professor, bringing
with him a deep expertise in Cold War history.
Over the past 20 years, Dr. Epple made a lasting impact – not only through his teaching
and service on university committees, but also through the strong connections he built
with students, especially as advisor to our chapter of Phi Alpha Theta, the National
History Honor Society.
On behalf of all of us at FGCU, I extend our heartfelt condolences to his family,
especially his daughter Michelle, an adjunct professor and member of the Eagle Family.
During this time of grief, I encourage you to seek out assistance. Students, please
be aware of the following resources available to you through FGCU:
Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS)
: No appointments necessary. Call (239) 590
-7950 or email
caps@fgcu.edu
24/7 CAPS Crisis Line
: (239) 745-EARS (3277)
Student Care Services
care@fgcu.edu
Togetherall
UBYou
August 2025
Toggle More Info
August 4, 2025
Good morning, Eagles!
Whether you have been working, traveling or simply resting up for the new academic
year, I hope you are enjoying the final weeks of summer.
Here on campus, the countdown to the first day of the fall semester has begun!
Classes begin August 18
– 14 days from now – and I cannot wait to welcome all 16,000-plus of you to the 2025-26
academic year! Our FGCU Eagles bring a wonderful energy and excitement to the campus,
and nothing captures that quite like the kickoff to the fall semester.
I am looking forward to seeing you soon. As always:
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
August 11, 2025
Dear Students,
We are exactly one week from the start of the fall semester, and I am excited to share
an important update in how we communicate with you. Today is the official launch of
MyFGCU
, the official all-in-one mobile app for our university!
Through this app, you will have quick access to the information and tools that you
need, including campus updates, Canvas courses, real-time parking information, an
interactive campus map, dining menus, grades, class schedules, tuition bills via Gulfline,
important events and much, much more.
With this one-stop shop, students will be able to stay informed, connected and up
to date about everything FGCU. I think we can all agree that this is an exciting step
for our university!
We also have
MyFGCU Web
, which is a desktop version for those who prefer a laptop. Check it out the next
time you are on campus.
As part of this process, you will notice we made a few minor updates to
fgcu.edu
. Canvas, email and Gulfline are now accessible through the MyFGCU portal for a more
streamlined experience, so you will no longer see those options in the top navigation
bar.
Remember the ITS Help Desk is here to support you. Review the
MyFGCU FAQ sheet
or call the ITS Help Desk at (239) 590-1188.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
August 18, 2025
Good morning, FGCU Students!
Today, we kick off fall classes and begin a new academic year at FGCU. On behalf of
the entire university, I wish you a safe, healthy and wonderful start to the semester.
I encourage you to click the video below or visit the
FGCU YouTube channel
to watch a special message from me..
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
August 25, 2025
Good morning, Students!
The start of the fall semester has already been filled with great moments and achievements,
and I hope you are making time to connect with your peers around campus during our
many
Weeks of Welcome events
. You can find these events advertised on Eagle Link, and one of my favorite traditions
happened last week – taking a spin on the swings at the First Day Fair!
As we head into Week Two of the fall term, I am thrilled to announce that today is
a very special day for our Eagle Family – today is the 28th anniversary of our doors
first opening to students. We sure have come a long way since 1997, but it is because
of the early Eagle pioneers that we can enjoy this incredible campus and all of its
offerings.
If you aren’t fully versed in our various resources and services, do not worry! FGCU
created a special Canvas course called “Student Success Resources” as a one-stop shop
for many of the ways FGCU can support you, from academic advising and tutoring to
student-focused counseling.
And don’t forget, your best resource is our FGCU employees. We are truly passionate
about helping our students find success – both in and out of the classroom – so please
do not hesitate to raise a hand and ask for help.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
August 25, 2025
Good afternoon, Eagles.
The university has been made aware of a recent interaction between an outside guest
to our campus and students, in which the visitor uttered a racial slur while addressing
students. I want you to know that we are reviewing the incident carefully.
At FGCU, we expect everyone on campus – students, employees and visitors – to behave
in a manner consistent with federal and state laws as well as FGCU regulations.
As an open, public campus, FGCU is regularly used as a space where individuals can
exercise free speech. We encourage
constructive and informed discussion on topics and issues in a peaceful manner,
even when we disagree or find an individual’s expression offensive or controversial.
But we do not condone or permit behavior that intentionally harasses, intimidates,
threatens or causes a substantial disruption to the learning
environment, campus functions or the health and safety of others and their property.
If you experience an uninvited, personal assault or confrontation on campus, please
report it. The following resources can help:
University Police Department
(239) 590-1900
Office of Institutional Ethics & Compliance
(239) 745-4366 |
oiec@fgcu.edu
Dean of Students Office
(239) 590-7900 |
doso@fgcu.edu
Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS)
(239) 590-7950 |
caps@fgcu.edu
September 2025
Toggle More Info
September 2, 2025
Good morning, Students!
In support of FGCU’s commitment to student success and lifelong learning, I am excited
to announce the launch of the
FGCU Mentoring Program
– a university-wide initiative that connects current students with FGCU alumni and
community members for meaningful mentorship experiences.
The program is open to all students, regardless of major or class year. Whether you
are an undergraduate exploring career paths or a senior building professional connections,
you will be matched with a mentor based on shared academic or career interests.
Apply by September 12 at
fgcu.edu/mentoringprogram
Mentorships will last one semester, and participants are expected to meet (virtually
or in person) at least twice per month.
Here are some key dates to keep in mind:
October 8
– Commitment Day Event (with mentors and mentees)
October–December
– Active mentorship period (training and support included)
December 3
– Post-Mentoring Celebration Event
This is a wonderful way to connect with mentors who can offer insight, guidance and
encouragement as you navigate college and prepare for life after graduation.
For more information, contact Ron Richards, FGCU’s alumni engagement and mentorship
coordinator, at
rrichards@fgcu.edu
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
September 8, 2025
Good morning, Students!
At FGCU, we are committed to helping you find success – both in and out of the classroom.
Your professors and campus staff are here to support you, but your own engagement
plays a big role in reaching your goals.
Here’s how you can set yourself up for success:
Show up and stay engaged.
Attending class and participating/completing assignments on time are key to staying
on track toward graduation.
Ask for help – early.
Your instructors want you to succeed. Visit them during office hours, contact them
with questions and seek out additional resources. FGCU provides free tutoring, the
Writing Lab and supplemental instruction through the
Center for Academic Achievement
. Explore more in the “Student Success Resources” course in
Canvas
Seek out tech support.
The
ITS Help Desk
, located on the first floor of the Wilson G. Bradshaw Library, is available 7 a.m.
to 10 p.m. Monday to Friday and 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday. Call (239) 590-1188 or
email
helpdesk@fgcu.edu
for assistance.
Get involved.
Join student activities, organizations and events. FGCU is dedicated to helping you
find your place, grow as a leader and make the most of your time here. Learn more
by visiting the
student involvement webpage.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
September 15, 2025
Good morning, Eagles!
It is hard to believe, but we are already a month into the fall semester. I hope you
have settled into a good rhythm with your classes. I know this time of year can get
busy with class projects, exams, work, internships, service-learning and everything
else you are balancing.
It is easy to become overwhelmed with your to-do list. Please remember that you are
not alone.
FGCU staff and faculty are committed to making sure you have the support you need,
both inside the classroom and beyond.
If you haven’t already, take a look at the
“Student Success Resources”
course in Canvas. It’s designed as a one-stop shop for many of the ways we can help,
from academic advising and tutoring to mental health counseling and wellness services.
We care deeply about your success and want you to feel comfortable reaching out whenever
you need a helping hand.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
September 22, 2025
Good morning, Eagles!
Your well-being is essential to your success at FGCU, and I want to make sure you
know where to turn if you need support. Whether you are facing academic stress, personal
challenges or just need someone to talk to, the university provides a range of services
designed to help you.
Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS)
is the main source of mental health support and therapy services for students on FGCU’s
campus. CAPS provides therapy, psychiatry, consultation, workshops and group sessions
– available both in person and online.
Learn more at
fgcu.edu/counseling-and-psychological-services
Email:
caps@fgcu.edu
Call:
(239) 590-7950
24/7 CAPS Crisis Line:
(239) 745-EARS (3277) is a go-to resource outside of normal business hours, like
evenings, weekends and holidays.
Student Care Services
helps students navigate challenges and connect with resources. The office can assist
students through the withdrawal process for extenuating circumstances, help you request
items from the essentials closet, and connect you to support – both on and off campus.
Learn more at
fgcu.edu/studentlife/care
Email:
care@fgcu.edu
Call:
(239) 590-7900
Togetherall
is a safe, anonymous, online peer-to-peer community for mental health support that
is free to all FGCU students.
Sign up online
using your FGCU email.
UBYou
is a student wellness and success app for students that offers a one-stop shop to
FGCU campus resources as well as mental and physical health exercises.
Sign up online
by using your FGCU email.
Explore the “
Student Success Resources
” course in Canvas for the full range of support services and know that every FGCU
employee is dedicated to helping you achieve your goals.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
September 29, 2025
Good morning, Students!
FGCU is committed to elevating academic and operational excellence by thoughtfully
harnessing the power of artificial intelligence (AI). To help us achieve this goal,
e are launching a university-wide AI initiative to enhance how we teach, learn, research
and work together. This effort will be led by Dendritic: A Human-Centered AI and Data
Science Institute.
This initiative isn’t just about technology – it’s about making our university more
efficient, innovative and supportive of our students and employees.
This effort
starts by simply building awareness about AI, to using AI effectively in our daily
lives, and ultimately to leading with AI as a model in the Southwest Florida region
and higher education.
This fall, we are launching two flagship programs to bring this vision to life:
FGCU AI Academy
| A comprehensive program for students, faculty and staff to build AI literacy, professional
development and applied skills. Registration for the first cohort opens the first
week of October, and you can sign up in the link
www.fgcu.edu/eng/dendritic-institute/academy/event_catalog
FGCU AI Excellence Hub
| A space for service and innovation that connects cutting-edge research and academic
expertise with real-work experience for FGCU, industry, government and the community.
The hub positions FGCU as a leader in responsible AI and advanced technologies.
Details for both of these programs can be found on the Dendritic Institute’s website,
www.fgcu.edu/eng/dendritic-institute
. For more information, contact Dr. Leandro de Castro, director of the institute,
at
dendritic@fgcu.edu
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
October 2025
Toggle More Info
October 6, 2025
Dear Students,
One of the questions I am often asked is what I enjoy most about serving as FGCU’s
president. My answer is always the same: you – our students, our FGCU Eagles.
You bring energy, joy and purpose to everything we do as a university. I love seeing
you excel in the classroom, thrive in your extracurriculars and grow as individuals.
If you see me, don’t hesitate to say hello. You will often find me cheering alongside
the Dirty Birds at our athletics games, applauding at performances from the Bower
School of Music & the Arts or simply strolling through campus to connect with you.
Please share your experiences with me and let me know how we can improve. All of us
at FGCU want to know how we can best support your success.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
October 13, 2025
Dear Students,
Higher education is about more than earning a degree - it's an opportunity to learn
and continuously improve ourselves in a supportive environment. At FGCU, that spirit
of growth is central to our campus culture. It shapes how we teach and learn, how
we serve the Southwest Florida community, and how we show up for one another.
You also find it reflected in our core values of
Curiosity, Commitment
and
Collaboration
. These values don’t just live on paper. You should feel them in every interaction
you have with FGCU faculty and staff.
Curiosity
means we ask questions, explore new ideas, and find creative ways to make your learning
experience relevant and engaging.
Commitment
means we follow through. We hold ourselves accountable and work hard to provide the
support, tools and guidance you need to reach your goals.
Collaboration
means we work together to help you reach your goals. We listen with respect, share
ideas and partner across departments to help you succeed.
Simply put: Students are the reason we are here. And at FGCU, we believe every Eagle
deserves to thrive.
If you need assistance finding your next step forward, please reach out to your instructors
and staff around campus. The "
Student Success Resources"
course in Canvas is also helpful, providing you with a one-stop space for all-things
FGCU, including tutoring, advising, counseling and wellness services.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
October 20, 2025
Dear Students,
Each year, our student and family engagement events continue to grow and improve –
and with it, the connection between our students, their families and our campus community.
The past two weekends are great examples of that impact.
First, we welcomed parents, siblings and friends for our annual
Eagle Family Weekend
, with events taking place October 10-12. It was wonderful to see so many of your
loved ones experience life as an Eagle and get to see you enjoying our beautiful campus.
And then we followed it up with
Eagle Expo
on October 18. This was an opportunity for our current students, faculty and staff
to talk to prospective students about our university. From detailed presentations,
college tours and the cookout on the Library Lawn, the day was truly filled with the
Eagle spirit.
These events do not happen in a silo. They are the result of great collaboration across
our campus. Thank you to all the students, employees and volunteers who helped make
the event such a success.
Your enthusiasm and hospitality truly showcased the spirit of FGCU.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
October 27, 2025
Dear Students,
Civic engagement is at the heart of your experience at FGCU, and this weekend our
Eagle community truly soared.
Nearly 700 students participated in
Make a Difference Day
, joining students from across the nation in this annual day of service.
From volunteering at local soup kitchens and food pantries to participating in beach
cleanups, landscaping projects and mentoring initiatives, FGCU students made a lasting
impact. Through service, you discovered more about yourselves, one another and the
challenges facing the Southwest Florida region.
I am so proud of you! Your commitment to service shows what it means to be an FGCU
Eagle. Together, we are committed to building a brighter future for the world around
us, and I thank you for making a difference in Southwest Florida.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
November 2025
Toggle More Info
November 3, 2025
Dear Students,
At FGCU, we want you to feel informed, connected and engaged in what’s happening on
campus – from student success initiatives to events that bring our community together.
Behind these efforts is the
Internal Communications Committee
– a team of students, faculty and staff who plan events and recommend ways to improve
how we share information across campus.
The committee has put together a short, anonymous survey to hear directly from you
about what’s working and what could be improved. Your feedback will guide the committee’s
planning for the
2026 calendar year
It only takes
five minutes
and
closes
Friday
, so
please complete the Communications Check-In Form
before the deadline. Your feedback truly makes a difference.
The committee is also hosting its final event of the year, and you are invited!
Community Engagement Showcase: Discover Connections Across Campus
Date:
December 4
Time:
11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Location:
Cohen Student Union Ballroom
Learn More on Eagle Link
The event will kick off with remarks from
University Relations
and
Service-Learning & Civic Engagement
, followed by an interactive showcase featuring FGCU offices, departments and registered
student organizations (RSOs). Use an event map to explore the ballroom and discover
how FGCU and the Southwest Florida community collaborate to support student success
and academic excellence.
If your RSO is interested in signing up for a table, email
ICC@fgcu.edu
by
November 24.
This is a great opportunity to connect with others, share your organization’s impact
and build new partnerships!
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
November 10, 2025
Dear Students,
As we head into the Veterans Day holiday, I invite you to take a moment to reflect
on what this day represents. Veterans Day is more than a day off – it is an opportunity
to express our gratitude to those who have served in the U.S. military while honoring
the veterans and military-connected individuals who are part of our FGCU family.
Join me today for FGCU’s
Veterans Day Ceremony at 2 p.m. on the Library Lawn near the Veterans Pavilion.
The ceremony will feature the FGCU Student Veterans of America Team and performances
from the Bower School of Music & the Arts.
FGCU offers various veteran-related services and resources to students, employees
and the broader community. Here are a few highlights:
The
Office of Military & Veterans Success (MVS)
provides academic resources for military-connected students.
Home Base of Southwest Florida’s Warrior Health & Fitness Program
at the Kleist Health Education Center provides a free program focused on veterans’
physical health and well-being.
The
Veterans Florida Entrepreneurship Program at FGCU
offers tuition-free training for military veterans and their families.
Over the summer, FGCU was recognized by the state as a Collegiate Purple Star Campus
– a testament to our dedication to those who have served. We have also planned to
expand the MVS office and are evaluating a proposal to create a U.S. Army ROTC program
on campus.
To every veteran in our Eagle community: thank you for your courage, your service
and your sacrifices. We are deeply grateful to call you colleagues.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
November 17, 2025
Dear FGCU Students,
FGCU is proud to recognize
Compliance and Ethics Week
, an opportunity to learn more about university policies and procedures while raising
awareness about compliance topics and the importance of ethical behavior.
I invite students to take part in the free events hosted by the Office of Institutional
Ethics & Compliance (OIEC). From workshops and training sessions to panel presentations,
Compliance and Ethics Week will deepen your understanding of our shared responsibilities.
For a full list of events and registration details, visit OIEC’s page on
Eagle Link
Compliance and Ethics Week is one way we work to strengthen our university community
by reinforcing positive values and behaviors across campus.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
November 21, 2025
Dear Students,
It is with great sadness that I share the passing of psychology Professor Terence
“Terry” Leary, Ph.D.
An expert on psychopathy and the steward of the Radford/FGCU Serial Killer Database,
Terry guided students through meaningful research that shaped their academic and professional
paths. In the classroom, he fostered a warm, engaging environment where students felt
encouraged to explore and grow.
He also contributed broadly to the profession – serving as a journal editor and reviewer, participating in
Faculty Senate, and creating opportunities for students pursuing industrial/organizational
psychology.
Terry was not only a respected faculty member in the College of Arts & Sciences, but he
was a generous mentor and cherished friend whose impact will endure.
During this time of grief, I encourage you to seek out assistance.
Students, please be aware of the following resources available to you through FGCU:
Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS)
: No appointments necessary. Call (239) 590
-7950 or email
caps@fgcu.edu
24/7 CAPS Crisis Line
: (239) 745-EARS (3277)
Student Care Services
care@fgcu.edu
Togetherall
UBYou
November 24, 2025
Good morning, Eagle Family!
As we head into the Thanksgiving holiday, I want to share a special message of gratitude
for you – our amazing students, faculty and staff. All of you contribute to our success
and work collaboratively to ensure we are making a difference in the Southwest Florida
community and beyond.
Please take a moment to watch the video below or visit
FGCU’s YouTube
channel to reflect on the many accomplishments we have made – together.
Enjoy a restful and joyful holiday.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
December 2025
Toggle More Info
December 1, 2025
Good morning, Students,
I hope your Thanksgiving break was restful and filled with meaningful time with family
and friends.
This week offers a wonderful opportunity to discover the many ways FGCU engages with
our region. On Thursday,
from
11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in the Cohen Student Union Ballroom, the Internal Communications
Committee is hosting a
Community Engagement Showcase: Discover Connections Across Campus
Twenty-seven areas of campus are signed up to highlight how FGCU and the Southwest
Florida community collaborate to support student success and academic excellence.
At FGCU, your success is at the heart of everything we do.
One way we are meeting the unique needs of our students is through programs like
Destination FGCU
, which builds on Florida’s statewide
2+2 transfer pathway
. This initiative helps students earn an affordable four-year degree by completing
the first two years at a Florida College System institution and then transferring
to a state university – like FGCU – to finish their degree.
Destination FGCU goes a step further by providing personalized support, scholarship
opportunities and dedicated advisors to help transfer students make a smooth transition
into university life and future careers.
This is just one example of how we are working to make every Eagle’s path to success
clear and achievable.
If you need assistance finding your next step forward, please reach out to your instructors,
advisors or staff around campus. You can also explore the
Student Success Resources
course in Canvas for tutoring, advising, counseling and wellness services.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
December 12, 2025
Dear Students,
I am so grateful FGCU has been a key piece of your life’s journey.
You have made it to the end of the fall semester. Enjoy a well-earned winter break,
and I look forward to seeing you back on campus in January!
I wanted to share my appreciation for everything we have achieved as FGCU Eagles in
the past 12 months. Please watch the video below or visit
FGCU’s YouTube channel
2026 Messages
Toggle More Info
January 2026
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January 7, 2026
Good morning, Eagles, and welcome to the start of the spring term.
With the start of 2026, it is a great time to approach your academic journey with
a fresh perspective and renewed resolve to excel. At FGCU, your success matters. Faculty
and staff are here to support you, and your engagement makes the difference.
I encourage you to show up for your classes, stay involved, ask for help, and take
advantage of the many academic, technology and involvement resources available to
you. Together, these habits will help you stay on track and make the most of the term
ahead.
If you need guidance on starting this process, connect with your instructors, advisors
or campus staff – we are ready to help! You can also explore the “Student Success
Resources” course in Canvas for a comprehensive list of on-campus resources.
Have a great first week back on campus!
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
January 12, 2026
Good morning, Eagle Students!
Now that you are getting into the flow of campus life and learning your new school
routines for the spring term, I want to use my weekly emails to introduce you to the
different functional areas that support your experience at FGCU. These offices and
teams help shape your day-to-day life as a student, often behind the scenes.
With the next meeting of the
FGCU Board of Trustees
taking place this week, I thought it would be a good opportunity to start this effort by
explaining how the university is governed and how it connects to you.
FGCU is guided by a 13-member Board of Trustees. This group helps set the direction
of the university and ensures it operates responsibly with students at the center
of decision-making. The board includes members appointed by the governor, members
appointed by the Florida Board of Governors, plus the presidents of FGCU Faculty Senate
and Student Government. This means all FGCU student voices are included in important
conversations.
Our trustees care deeply about FGCU. Many are Eagle alumni, mentors or volunteers who
are committed to supporting students and strengthening our connection to Southwest
Florida. They are leaders of industry and oversee university finances, performance and
policies. They also hold the president accountable for how the university operates.
FGCU is also part of the
State University System of Florida
, which includes 12 public universities serving more than 430,000 students statewide.
Oversight for all state universities is provided by the
Florida Board of Governors.
This group sets shared priorities, defines each university’s mission, coordinates
systemwide efforts and appoints the chancellor.
This governance structure enables FGCU to stay focused on the needs of our students
and our region while meeting statewide standards for higher education.
Board of Trustees meetings are held “in the Sunshine,” meaning they are publicly noticed,
include public comment on agenda items and are open to anyone to attend. Students
are always welcome! The next meeting begins at 8:30 a.m. tomorrow in the Cohen Student
Union Ballroom. A recap highlighting key topics will be shared after the meeting.
To learn more about university governance, visit the
website for the Office of Board Relations
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
January 20, 2026
Good morning, Students!
As I announced last week, I will be using this space to highlight campus resources
that support your success – both in and out of the classroom. If something is getting
in the way of your academic or personal success, I highly recommend you reach out
to
FGCU’s Dean of Students Office
This team’s role is to help you navigate challenges and connect you with the right
support, both on campus and beyond.
Dean of Students Office – Resources Available:
Student Care Services
offers support and advocacy to students experiencing life stressors that may impact academic success. Services include referrals
to campus resources, access to the Essentials Closet (providing free personal and
school supplies) and assistance with class absences.
Student Conduct
strives to promote a safe, respectful and educationally supportive community by guiding students on expectations,
academic integrity and the
Student Code of Conduct
Basic Needs Initiatives
offers individualized academic and personal support to students with lived experience
in foster care, homelessness or ward of the state status.
Dean of Students Office – Get Connected:
Website
fgcu.edu/studentlife/dean_of_students/
Email:
doso@fgcu.edu
Phone
: (239) 590-7900
If you are not sure where to turn, the Dean of Students Office is a great starting
point. Remember, FGCU is more than classes and assignments. We are the Eagle Family,
and our staff and faculty are here to help you in class, at home and in life.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
January 26, 2026
Good morning, Students!
Your health matters and staying well helps you stay focused, engaged and successful
at FGCU. The best way to do this is by connecting with Student Health Services – our
on-campus health clinic for students.
Located behind the Arts Complex and next to Parking Garage 2, Student Health Services
provides you with high-quality medical care from experienced providers, including
physicians, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, registered nurses and medical
assistants.
Our medical team includes:
Dr. Tod Winslo
w – Medical Director
Meaghan Stocks
– Physician Assistant (PA)
Chelsey Nuzum
– Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN)
Rhonda Haley
– Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN)
Megan Haggard
– Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN)
Student Health Services – Resources Available:
Medical Support
– Schedule routine and urgent appointments for common illnesses and injuries such
as coughs, sore throats, flu-like symptoms, women’s health needs, physical exams,
sexually transmitted infection screenings, pregnancy tests and more.
Appointments
– Make an appointment through the
Student Health Portal
or call (239) 590-7966 to speak with a scheduler. You can also stop by the clinic
to set up an appointment that meets your needs during hours of operation.
Hours of Operation
– The clinic is open from 8:15 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 9 a.m.
to 4:45 p.m. Friday.
After-Hours Support
– The 24/7 After-Hours Nurse Advice Line is available by calling (239) 590-7966.
Additional resources can be found on
the Student Health Services website
Immunization Support
– Student Health Services can assist with required university records and seasonal
vaccinations to protect you and the campus community. Call (239) 590-1254 for immunization
appointments.
If you have questions, reach out to Student Health Services. The team is your first
stop for campus healthcare – and it is an affordable alternative to off-campus urgent
care for many common illnesses and injuries. Stay healthy!
Wings Up & Go Eagles
February 2026
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February 2, 2026
Good morning, Students!
At FGCU, your well-being matters – both inside and outside the classroom.
Counseling & Psychological Services (CAPS) is here to support your mental and emotional
health
through free and confidential services.
While you may already know CAPS’ therapy dogs, Luna and Dasher, they are just part
of a team of licensed mental health professionals dedicated to helping students navigate
challenges and build skills for success.
CAPS – Resources Available:
One-on-One Care
: Schedule individual therapy sessions offered in person or through teletherapy to
address concerns such as stress, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, life
transitions and more.
Groups
: Participate in support groups, process groups, psychoeducational groups and skills-based
groups that are focused on shared experiences and personal growth.
Psychiatric Services
: Psychiatric evaluations and medication management are available.
Case Management
: Get help connecting to mental health services in the community and navigating resources
– on and off campus.
Self-Help Resources
: Access free online self-help tools and mental wellness resources through the CAPS
website,
www.fgcu.edu/caps
Outreach & Education
: CAPS staff provide engaging presentations, programs and events for student groups
and community partners.
CAPS – Get Connected:
Appointments:
Call CAPS at (239) 590-7950 or visit the office 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday
(bring your FGCU Student ID)
Virtual Front Desk:
Available through the CAPS website 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday
CAPS Crisis Line (24/7):
(239) 745-3277
Location:
Third floor of the Student and Community Counseling Center
near Lucas and Whitaker halls
If you have questions or need support, reach out to CAPS. Whether you’re seeking immediate
help or ongoing counseling, CAPS is here to support you – every step of your FGCU
journey.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
February 9, 2026
Good morning, Students!
Over the past few weeks, I have shared resources that support your health through
medical care and mental health services. Wellness at FGCU is broader than any single
office. It includes a full range of services designed to support you throughout your
college experience.
This week, I am highlighting
University Recreation & Wellness (URecWell)
, part of a larger suite of student services within Campus Life. My next series of
messages will highlight each individually.
URecWell supports holistic wellness by promoting physical, mental, social and emotional
health through fitness, recreation, wellness education and connection. Most of its
services are included in your student fees.
Facilities and Outdoor Spaces
Hit the Gym
: The University Recreation & Wellness Center in South Village is a 55,000-square-foot
fitness and recreation facility.
Play Outside
: The university’s recreation fields and the Recreation Outdoor Complex (ROC) offer
space to play, including outdoor basketball and volleyball courts.
Swim
: Aside from the SoVi Pool, students can use the Lee County/FGCU Aquatics Center.
The Waterfront
: Enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing and wakeboard boat access in North Lake
Village. Camping gear rentals and free bike rentals are also available through Pedal
Power.
Overview of Programs and Activities
Group Fitness
: More than 30 classes are offered each week, including yoga, cycling, high intensity
training (HIIT) and dance.
Exercise is Medicine
: Offers a free fitness consultation and introductory training session to students.
Additional personal training services (individual and buddy options) are available
at lower costs than community options.
Safety Training
: Courses include First Aid, CPR/AED, lifeguard training and swimming lessons.
RecVenture Trips & Clinics
: Opportunities for students to try off-campus activities, like becoming scuba certified,
go sailing and paddleboarding, or try niche activities, like goat yoga.
Intramural Sports and Clubs
: Intramural sports leagues and tournaments are available for all skill levels, with
more than 30 student-run sport clubs that compete with colleges and universities nationwide.
Connect with University Recreation & Wellness
Visit
fgcu.edu/urecwell
for hours, locations, programs and trip details.
Student Employment:
URecWell is the largest student employer on campus, offering flexible schedules,
leadership development and transferable skills. Learn more
online
Whether you want to work out, compete, explore the outdoors or build healthy habits,
URecWell is here to support your physical wellness. Next week, I will share information
about student involvement, including opportunities for becoming more connected to
your peers on campus.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
Febraury 16, 2026
Good morning, Students!
Having a strong sense of belonging is essential to a successful and memorable college
experience. Getting involved beyond the classroom helps you build meaningful connections,
discover your passions and find your place within our campus community.
Involvement opportunities
create transformative experiences that foster advocacy, leadership, education, service
and connection – helping you build lifelong skills and lasting memories.
Here’s a snapshot of some of the ways you can get more involved:
Programming Board
| Offers student-led events such as concerts, live entertainment, late-night programs
and traditions, such as the spring Homecoming celebrations that bring all of campus
together.
fgcu.edu/studentlife/programmingboard
Student Government
| Gives you the opportunity to advocate for your peers and spark change through executive,
legislative and judicial branches, with both paid and volunteer roles available.
fgcu.edu/sg
Registered Student Organizations (RSOs)
| Through more than 150 groups, students can connect with peers through academic,
professional, cultural, service and interest-based groups across campus.
fgcu.edu/studentlife/studentorgs
Fraternities and Sororities
| 25 organizations offer values-based communities focused on fellowship, scholarship,
leadership and service, with national affiliations, to help you create lifelong connections.
fgcu.edu/studentlife/fraternitysororitylife
These involvement opportunities are supported through the offices of
Fraternity & Sorority Life
and
Organizations & Student Involvement
within Campus Life. You can explore the latest activities and upcoming experiences
for these areas and more by visiting
Eagle Link
at
getinvolved.fgcu.edu.
As I have shared before, I encourage you to take full advantage of the resources and
opportunities available to you. Getting involved is more than attending events – it
is about building community and network, discovering your strengths and shaping your
college experience. As you will see in the photo collage below, I was able to see
this in action during FGCU Day at the Capitol, where students advocated directly with
elected officials to help secure the resources needed to advance FGCU’s mission.
Truly, there is so much to do here. Take that first step and get involved in
Your University
February 23, 2026
Good morning, Students!
At FGCU, your wellbeing is a vital part of your academic success and your overall
college experience.
Prevention & Wellness Services
, a part of University Recreation & Wellness, is dedicated to helping you build healthy
habits, strengthen life skills and feel supported throughout your FGCU journey.
College can bring new stress and responsibilities, and the Prevention & Wellness team
helps you stay balanced and resilient. Through peer health education, trained student
leaders provide outreach and resources on topics like stress, substance use, sexual
health and sleep – offering real support from people who understand what you’re going
through.
Here’s a look at the free resources available:
Wellness Coaching:
Meet one-on-one with a trained Student Success Wellness Coach to set personal goals,
build sustainable healthy habits and receive support in areas like stress management,
roommate mediation, sleep or procrastination. Virtual appointments are available.
Paws & Relax:
Take a break on the Student Plaza with therapy dogs once a month throughout the semester.
These visits offer comfort, connection and a moment to unwind right when you need
it most.
Wellness Wednesday:
Weekly interactive tabling that brings wellness education directly to students. Stop
by for a quick chat on your way to class to learn quick tips, grab resources and engage
in hands-on activities. Keep an eye out for special events and giveaways, like “Safe
Spring Break” goodie bags.
Cash Cab:
A fun, educational game that brings wellness knowledge to you on the go. Hop in the
golf cart “cab,” answer health-related questions and get a free ride to your destination
on campus.
Wellness InSTALLments:
A monthly bathroom newsletter provides quick reading so you can stay informed on
timely health topics, upcoming events and new initiatives.
Victim Advocacy Services:
A confidential, compassionate support service for survivors of any crime, including
but not limited to, sexual assault, relationship violence, stalking and harassment.
FGCU’s Victim Advocate offers a wide array of services, such as safety planning, navigating
reporting options, campus and community referrals, and emotional support.
If you’re looking for ways to stay healthy, get involved or find support, I encourage
you to connect with
Prevention & Wellness
. For more information, email
pws@fgcu.edu
, call (239) 590-7733 or stop by the office in the Cohen Student Union, Room 161.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
February 26, 2026
Good afternoon, Students!
Congratulations! You have reached the midpoint of the spring semester, and spring
break is around the corner.
Please take a moment to watch the video below (or online at
FGCU’s YouTube channel
) for an important message from me.
Enjoy your break, and I look forward to seeing you soon. Together, we will finish
the semester strong!
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
March 2026
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March 9, 2026
Good morning, Eagles, and welcome back!
I hope your spring break was restful and gave you a chance to return to campus refreshed
and focused on finishing the semester strong. As you move through the final weeks
of the term, remember that many campus resources are available to support your success.
One such office is
The Leadership Experience
, which helps students discover and develop their leadership potential through engaging
programs, meaningful connections and hands-on opportunities to work, serve and lead.
The office focuses on three pillars – community, leadership and impact – with a mission
to help every student graduate with the confidence to say,
“I am a leader.”
To get there, programming is designed for every stage of a student’s journey at FGCU.
Emerging
Leaders
– Discover your strengths, values and leadership styles.
Frosh Mosh
: A three-day summer experience introducing new students to FGCU while building community
with peer mentors.
Emerging Eagles
: A program that helps students explore their strengths and ignite their leadership
journey.
Come Thru Sessions
: Casual, monthly student gatherings with free food and activities designed to build
connections.
Engaged Leaders
– Apply your leadership skills in collaboration with others.
iLEAD Summit
: A leadership conference connecting students with peers and inspiring leaders.
iLEAD Academy
: An immersive experience for students already making an impact on campus and guiding
organizations and communities.
Alternative Break
: A community-engagement program involving student travel during scheduled breaks
in the academic year that is focused on education, service and action planning.
Enlightened Leaders
– Lead with purpose and impact beyond FGCU.
Omicron Delta Kappa:
A national honor society that recognizes academic and leadership excellence.
Applications are now being accepted.
Presidential Leadership Certificate
: A leadership recognition program that honors students who have shown commitment
to personal growth and positive change.
Eagle X
: The Leadership Experience is among the areas that supports Eagle X – the largest
annual showcase at FGCU that honors outstanding student work in internships, leadership,
research and service-learning.
Submit your applications to participate!
These experiences are highlighted in the photo collage above. Learn more about these
programs on
The Leadership Experience's website
, join their
Eagle Link Page
or visit the team in the Cohen Student Union, Room 152. You can also follow the office
on
or
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
March 16, 2026
Good morning,
Tomorrow at 10:30 a.m., I hope you will join me in celebrating an exciting milestone
in our journey as a campus community – the completion of Phase 2 of the Cohen Student
Union renovations.
Since it opened, the student union has been the heart of campus life. As FGCU has
grown, this space has grown with us — from its first remodel in 2011, to its naming
as the Cohen Student Union in honor of Harvey Cohen and the Cohen family, to the ballroom
expansion in 2019.
Two years ago, we celebrated the remodel of the first-floor eateries. This week, we continue the
next chapter of that story.
With the completion of Phase 2, we have transformed the Cohen Student Union into an
even more welcoming place for students, employees and members of the public to gather –
both inside and out. With modernized furnishings, refreshed design elements and the
creation of a landscaped lawn, the facility proudly reflects our Eagle spirit.
While there is still more work ahead in Phase 3 (including enhancements to our second-floor
ballrooms), I believe we can all agree this space represents the pride of our Eagle
community.
We will mark this milestone with a brief ribbon cutting, remarks, an appearance by
Azul, and light food and beverages.
RSVP online
or by using the link in the attached event flyer.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
March 23, 2026
Hello, FGCU Students!
We are kicking of
FGCU Give Day
at noon on Wednesday, March 25. This is a 24-hour period of time where we encourage
students and their families to consider donating in support of the programs and initiatives
that they are most passionate about at FGCU.
This annual tradition helps fund scholarships, advance research initiatives and enhance
the overall student experience.
Here’s how students can get involved:
Visit
giveday.fgcu.edu
to see
over 80 FGCU causes and initiatives
that you can support this year! Every contribution, no matter the size, plays a crucial
role in shaping the future of FGCU –
Your University
Spread the word using
#FGCUGiveDay
on social media.
Pick up a
Give Day Passport on the Library Lawn
from noon to 5 p.m. on Wednesday and 9 a.m. to noon Thursday.
The checklist of activities will inspire conversations about how philanthropy positively
impacts FGCU students and how your involvement can make an impact on campus.
Students submitting completed passports will receive one service-learning hour.
Graduating in May? Complete all five actions on the Give Day Passport and qualify
for an FGCU Philanthropy Medallion that you can wear at commencement!
I look forward to witnessing the positive impact we can achieve together!
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
March 30, 2026
Dear Students,
FGCU is one of the only public universities in the country with a service-learning
requirement for all undergraduate students – a tradition that has been part of the
university since it opened in 1997. Our goal is to help students apply what they learn
in class to real community needs in Southwest Florida while helping you gain hands-on
experience that employers and graduate schools value.
Here are some examples of what service-learning looks like:
Students in The Water School creating geographic information system (GIS) mapping
projects for nonprofits.
Composition students writing blog posts for environmental and community-based agencies.
Software engineering students developing apps for community organizations.
Art students collaborating on public sculptures that beautify and raise awareness.
Theatre students using performance techniques to improve quality of life in assisted
living facilities.
The office of
Service-Learning & Civic Engagement
is here to help you gain meaningful experience while making a real impact in our
community.
To get started, you can search for
service-learning opportunities posted on Eagle Link
or seek out
community partners in the region
that need your assistance. You can also look for SRVC-designated courses when registering
for classes in Gulfline. More than 300 FGCU classes include service-learning each
year.
Be sure to track your service-learning hours through the
Eagle Service Network
, and log in at least once each semester to check your progress. A helpful
how-to video
is available on YouTube to guide you through the process.
Connect With Service-Learning & Civic Engagement
Location
: McTarnaghan Hall, Suite 229
Email
servicelearning@fgcu.edu
Phone
: (239) 590-7023
Website
fgcu.edu/studentlife/servicelearning
Service-learning is a defining part of the FGCU experience. I look forward to seeing
how these experiences inspire you to learn, serve and lead in our community.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
April 2026
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April 6, 2026
Dear Students,
As we head into the final weeks of the spring term, I want to highlight one of the
most valuable academic resources available to you at FGCU: the
Center for Academic Achievement
Known around campus as CAA, the center serves as our primary on-campus resource to
help all FGCU students maximize their academic potential. The best part? All services
are free, and you can use them as often as you would like.
CAA – Resources
Peer Academic Coaching
– Meet one-on-one with a trained peer coach to identify your academic strengths and
build skills such as goal setting, time management, study strategies and exam preparation.
This is also a great resource for students transitioning to college
. Learn more
fgcu.edu/academics/caa/successprogram
Peer Tutoring
– Drop-in tutoring for a variety of STEM courses, including science, math, nursing
and business classes. No appointment is required.
fgcu.edu/academics/caa/tutoring
Supplemental Instruction
– Regularly scheduled peer-led learning sessions facilitated by trained student leaders
are available for Anatomy & Physiology I & II. These sessions help deepen understanding
of course material while building effective learning strategies.
fgcu.edu/academics/caa/supplementalinstruction
Writing Lab
– Individual consultations for writing-based assignments in any major and at any
stage of the writing process.
fgcu.edu/academics/caa/writinglab
Brainfuse (24/7 Online Tutoring)
– If your schedule is busy or you are learning remotely, Brainfuse provides free
online tutoring anytime you need it. Click the video below (or watch it on
FGCU’s YouTube channel
) to learn how to access Brainfuse and the services it provides.
CAA – Get Connected!
Be sure to visit
fgcu.edu/academics/caa
for tutoring schedules, hours or operation and other helpful resources, such as a
time management formula for calculating study time for a class, a study group management
kit and a guide for prepping for final exams.
Better yet, stop by! CAA is located in Library West, Rooms 201 and 202, and the team
can be contacted at
caa@fgcu.edu
or (239) 590-7906. You can also follow FGCU’s Center for Academic Achievement on
Instagram @FGCU_CAA.
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
April 13, 2026
Good morning, Eagle Family!
This week, FGCU will celebrate a historic milestone – one made possible through extraordinary
partnership across our campus, our region and our state.
We officially break ground on Academic Building 10, ushering in a brighter future
that will significantly enhance our health sciences programs and further strengthen
our impact across Southwest Florida and beyond.
While space at the site is limited at the ceremony, all are welcome to attend. The
event begins at 10 a.m. Wednesday near Parking Lot 7 at the construction site.
This project is the embodiment of our institutional values, as we thought boldly and
with
Curiosity
on how we can expand our teaching and learning while showcasing our ongoing
Commitment
to the growing needs of our region. But above all, this milestone was reached with
Collaboration
– both internally and externally – as we sought to strengthen our campus and the
communities we serve.
FGCU is deeply grateful to Governor Ron DeSantis and our state legislators, especially
the members of the Southwest Florida Legislative Delegation, for championing this
project as a vital investment in our students, faculty, staff and the regional workforce.
We also extend our appreciation to the FGCU Board of Trustees for their leadership,
to our community partners for their continued support, and to the Elaine Nicpon Marieb
Charitable Foundation for its transformational generosity, which continues to elevate
opportunities for our students and advance innovation in teaching and learning.
Truly, this project is partnership in action.
I know we are all excited to see how this new facility will expand opportunities for
our students, support the growing demand for healthcare professionals, and further
position FGCU as a leader in workforce development and regional progress.
Milestones like this are only possible because of the shared dedication of our faculty,
staff and partners. I send my deepest appreciation to all who made this historic moment
come to fruition.
I look forward to seeing you at this celebration!
Wings Up & Go Eagles!
CONTACT
10501 FGCU Blvd. S.
Fort Myers, FL 33965
239-590-1000
Toll Free 800-590-3428
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