PirateQ 
The Power of Community: “We are PSC”!
Pensacola is a thriving community filled with warm, gracious, and caring business professionals that contribute to the success of this place they call “home.”
PSC Volleyball Upsets Gulf Coast State to Win FCSAA Championship
Pensacola State College won its second straight FCSAA Division II Championship with a 3-1 win over top-seed Gulf Coast State College. Led by Coach Pati Gandolfo, awarded the Kim Whitney Award for District II Volleyball Coach of the Year.
PSC Pirates CARE Program Takes a Wrap-around Approach to Support Students
When walking down the hall to the Pirates CARE main office in the PSC Student Center, one sees glass “storefront windows” on the left, housing the Campus Career Closet – or the “Pirates CARE Boutique,” as Jessica Johnson, Director of Wellness Services likes to call it.
First-Generation Day a Real Celebration
There was a palpable feeling of pride and excitement in and around Delaino Student Center on Nov. 7 as students, faculty, staff, veterans and active-duty military personnel gathered to celebrate First-Generation Day, hosted by TRiO under the leadership of Dr. Debbie Douma, Dean of Grants and Federal Programs and Chandler White, Coordinator of Student Engagement and Leadership in Student Affairs.
Championing Community, Changing Lives, and Providing Opportunity
Decades of support for Pensacola State College have been given by three sponsors who are continuing their commitment to our community, our students, our families, and our thriving workforce.
PSC is Proud to Celebrate Veterans Day and Military Family Appreciation Month
Veterans Day is set aside to honor and celebrate the service of Veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces. Originally celebrated as Armistice Day to mark the end of World War I, November 11th was later expanded to commemorate the service all who have served in the U.S. Military.
Women’s Soccer Takes the Win
It doesn’t take a lot of time to recognize that the PSC Women’s Soccer team is a winning one: in only their second season of existence, the team secured their first-ever championship title in the NJCAA Division II South Atlantic District Championship.
The Tradition Continues of Sporting Good Fun with a Purpose
The Alumni Association held its annual Quail Hunt & Pheasant Shoot on Oct. 25 and 26. The event was at Dennis Lake Wing Club in Bay Minette, Alabama, where it has been held for more than ten years.
The Results Are In!
There was some serious competition for this year’s Virtual Halloween Costume Competition, and our Pirate fans definitely weighed in, commenting and voting on their favorites as students, faculty and staff brought their best this Halloween! Please enjoy the photo submissions we received (and be inspired to participate next year)! We are pleased to announce the…
Buly: Aurelio Jose Diaz Trillo Artist Presentation Oct. 30
Hosted by the Visual Arts Department, Spanish artist Buly (Aurelio Jose Diaz Trillo) discussed his work, his son Pablo translating, at the PSC Lamar Lecture Hall.
October is… National Dental Hygiene Month
The Pensacola State College Dental Hygiene program is a competitive and rigorous 88-credit hour one, accepting only 35 students each May, as determined by the program’s accrediting body, according to Dr. Mitzie Sowell.
Pirates Clinch the Sun-Lakes Conference Volleyball Tournament Berth
PSC Pirates Volleyball secured their No. 2 spot in the Sun-Lakes Conference Tournament after they hosted their final three conference matches over the weekend against South Florida State, Palm Beach State and Indian River.
Pay It Forward with the “I am PSC” Campaign Through Dec. 5th
Mikenzie Francis-Opperman knows the importance of scholarships firsthand. Not only is she the Pensacola State College Director of Foundation Scholarships, but she also received scholarships while pursuing her own college education.
Final Week for State Benefits Open Enrollment, through Nov. 1
Time is running out for eligible employees to enroll for State benefits.
Student Graphic Designers Earned Their Sleep with Exhibition
The “No Sleep Till Branded” student exhibition opening reception in the Active Project Space of the Switzer Gallery on Oct. 29 celebrated a collective of eight portfolios and displays from the Senior Studio Graphic Design course, required in the Dr. Marjan Mazza Bachelor of Applied Science in Business and Management, Graphic Design Management concentration degree.
PSC’s Milton Campus Rolled Out the Fun
The 35th annual Northwest Florida Forestry Conclave Lumberjack Festival was held on Saturday, Oct. 19 from 9:30 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. at the Milton campus and offered something for everyone, from competitions like Bow Sawing, Axe Throw, Pole Toss and Log Roll to food trucks from area restaurants and vendor stands selling merchandise.
The Pirate Family Showed Up at the Carla Williams PSC Domestic Violence Awareness & Remembrance Walk on Oct. 24
Friends, family, student athletes, former and current faculty and staff members, alumni, and nonprofit organizations for mental health services gathered on the sunny afternoon of Oct. 24 to remember Pensacola State College legend Carla Williams and to create awareness of domestic violence issues.
PSC Women’s Soccer Team Scores Big with NJCAA Region 8 Championship
The PSC Women’s Soccer team won its second straight NJCAA Region 8 Women’s Soccer Championship after defeating Pasco-Hernando State College in back-to-back triumphs on Oct. 17 and 18, winning 3-0 each match. In the Championship match, per the PSC Athletics website, the morning started off rocky for the Pirates, who struggled to find their rhythm…
Foo Foo Festival 2024
The 11th Annual Foo Foo Festival is scheduled for Oct. 31 through Nov. 11, 2024, and this year, the Pensacola State College Visual Arts Department and Performing Arts Department will be participating in Foo Foo Festival with a collaborative project “Eclectic Fidelities.”
Margarette S. Berrisford Scholarship for Women Continues Legacy of Guidance, Support
Those fortunate enough to have crossed paths with Margarette S. Berrisford fondly recall her genuine care for everyone. Whether they were old friends or new acquaintances, Berrisford never met a stranger; she remembered names, dates and details about each person she encountered.
“No Sleep Till Branded” Student Art Exhibition Opening Reception Set for Oct. 29
This exciting exhibition showcases a collective of eight student portfolios from the Senior Studio Graphic Design course, required in the Dr. Marjan Mazza Bachelor of Applied Science in Business and Management, Graphic Design Management concentration degree.
PSC Faculty, Staff, Students and Alums Prepare to Suit-up with JCPenney this Sunday, Oct. 27
JC Penney is ready to assist students, faculty, staff, administrators and alumni suit-up for success this Sunday, Oct. 27 from 3:00 until 6:00 p.m. at their store at University Town Plaza at 7171 N. Davis Highway in Pensacola during their “Suit-Up” event.
Second Week of Employee Open Enrollment for 2025 State Benefits
PSC staff are assisting employees and retirees with enrollment at the Pensacola Campus’ Chadbourne Library (Building 20, Room 2068). The schedule may be modified by October 25 if the need is no longer determined. An email announcement of a modified schedule will be sent by Human Resources.
The “I am PSC” Campaign Brings in Support of Academic Excellence and Student Scholarships from Near and Far
Pensacola State College continues its inaugural “I am PSC” campaign to celebrate 75 years of academic achievement and community impact, running now through Dec. 5, 2024. This movement gives community members, faculty, staff and students the opportunity to support scholarships that uplift PSC students, and donors are well on their way of helping reach a campaign goal of raising $75,000 to open doors and empower students from diverse backgrounds and in a variety of fields to create a better future for themselves.
Pirates Remember PSC Legend Carla Williams at the Third Annual Domestic Violence Awareness and Remembrance Walk on Oct. 24
Those who knew Carla Williams feel the profound loss of this Pirate legend who lost her life to domestic violence in May 2022. A standout Pensacola State College basketball player for two years, she was selected to play on All-Academic, All-Conference, and All-Region teams before playing at Florida State University.
I AM PSC
Are you ready to show your Pirate pride? We are excited to invite you to be part of the very first “I am PSC” campaign—an inspiring initiative to celebrate everything we love about Pensacola State College!
The Visual Arts Department Bridges the Professional Artworld Gap with the Annual Faculty and Support Staff Exhibition “Show & Tell! [3]”
Pensacola State College’s Visual Arts Department in the Anna Lamar Switzer Center for Visual Arts opened the 2024 annual faculty and support staff exhibition “Show & Tell! [3]” on Oct. 15 at 5:00 p.m. in the Switzer Gallery. This year’s exhibition showcases the talents of artists who work for Pensacola State College, displaying an eclectic variety of mediums.
PSC Celebrates National Vet Tech Week and Those Who Care for Society’s Beloved Animals
October 13 -19, 2024 is National Veterinary Technician Week (NVTW), a time that honors and recognizes the significant contributions and expertise these credentialed professionals make to their profession and to society every day.
Spotlight on Students – Noah Desmangles, Cybersecurity student
One only needs to spend a few moments with Noah Desmangles to know that he is truly special. A student in Cybersecurity, this young man’s journey began in middle and high school.
Pizza With the President Offers Students More Than Just a Slice
PSC students on each campus had the opportunity to meet PSC President Ed Meadows in person while they enjoyed pizza provided by Student Affairs.
Hot Topics & Hot Coffee – “Deception of Suicidal Ideation” by Dr. Russell Copelan
The Robinson Honors Program hosted this semester’s “hot topic” discussion on suicidal ideation on Oct. 9 at the Anna Lamar Switzer Center for Visual Arts.
Open Enrollment for 2025 State Benefit Choices Oct. 14 – Nov. 1, 2024
Open enrollment for employees who are eligible for major and optional benefits started Oct. 14 and ends Nov. 1, 2024 at 5:00 p.m. CST. The Department of Management Services (DMS) both mailed and e-mailed employees with guidance to enroll for benefits options.
PSC announces proposed lab fee changes to Workforce Education and Professional Services courses
Pensacola State College announced proposed lab fee changes for students enrolled in Workforce Education and Professional Services courses.
Graphic Design Students Count Down the Days to the “No Sleep Till Branded” Art Exhibition
This exhibition showcases a collective of eight student portfolios from the Senior Studio Graphic Design course, required in the Dr. Marjan Mazza Bachelor of Applied Science in Business and Management, Graphic Design Management concentration degree.
Elaine Trushel Nursing Scholarship Provides Hope, Support for Future Nurses
Anyone who has received medical assistance or supported a loved one through a medical experience, whether in a clinic or at a hospital, understands the importance of knowledgeable and compassionate care. As a devoted nurse practitioner, Elaine Ann Akunevich Trushel provided the highest level of care while serving our country in the U.S. Navy.
PSC Welcomes New Coordinator of Marketing and College Information
While Ms. Shauna Gough may be new to the position of Coordinator of Marketing and College information, she is certainly not new to the world of academia. Moving to the area in 2020, “one week before the world shut down,” according to Gough, the new coordinator has been immersed in education her entire life.
PSC announces proposed lab fee change to Mathematics and Computer Science courses
Pensacola State College is announcing proposed lab fee changes for students enrolled in the Mathematics and Computer Science programs.
Celebrating 75 Years of Excellence through the “I am PSC Campaign”
Pensacola State College launched its inaugural “I am PSC Campaign” on October 1st. The campaign will run through December 5th and will be an opportunity to support scholarships that uplift PSC students.
Students Compete Head-to-Head in the Civic Literacy Showdown Study Session
For many, taking tests can create anxiety, causing physical symptoms like excessive sweating, nausea, rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath or headaches; emotional symptoms can include feelings of self-doubt, fear, stress, inadequacy or anger, according to Healthline. Thankfully for students at Pensacola State College, the Humanities and Social Sciences department strives to reduce these anxieties by providing study support with their Showdown sessions.
Fierce and Fun Competition at the 28th Annual YMCA Corporate Cup
Community members driving by the Pensacola State College track at 8:00 a.m. on Sept. 21 to grab a coffee to kick-start the weekend may have done a double take as they witnessed 16 teams in different company and organization T-shirts stretching and warming up. This was only the start of an Olympic-style, co-ed team competition that celebrates health and wellness in the workplace while emphasizing teamwork, communication, team building and fun.
PSC Athletics Kicked Off Its Year with The Pirate Experience on Sept. 19
Coaches, athletes, parents, Pirate Club members and interested community members gathered at Hartsell Arena on Thursday, Sept. 19 at 5:30 p.m. for the annual event that officially kicks off the year for the athletics program and introduces this year’s student athletes. Executive Director of Development for Alumni & Athletics Hailey Lotz beamed as she shared that this is “the best Pirate Club membership year yet” for the department, with so many reasons to celebrate.
Get in the game with eSports at Pensacola State College
Many people consider playing video games a fun, relaxing way to while away the time, but for Pensacola State College President Edward Meadows, athletic director Bryan Lewallyn, eSports head coach Jeremy Sommers and his competitive team, fun is serious business.
Shiver Me Timbers! It’s Talk Like a Pirate Day.
Avast, ye mateys! Pensacola State College is ready to embrace its inner buccaneer as it celebrates Talk Like a Pirate Day today, Sept. 19. In honor of its mascot Pete the Pirate, the college invites students, faculty and staff from all PSC campuses to join in the fun
Business Affairs’ Team Discusses State Benefits
In the PSC Benefits Committee meeting on Friday, September 13, Human Resources Director Tammy Henderson and team discussed state insurance for full-time employees, effective January 1, 2025. Employees from all campuses were invited to attend the 2:00 p.m. meeting at the Pensacola campus library to learn more about the upcoming changes to their benefits.
PSC Gears Up to Celebrate Constitution Day 2024 in Patriotic Fashion
For those who call the United States of America “home,” certain traditions and celebrations of historical events are a part of their upbringing; however, many aren’t as familiar with Constitution Day, celebrated on September 17 each year
JCPenney and Pensacola State College prepare to Suit-Up for success during its fifth annual event this October
There is no real price tag for feeling self-confident and ready to shine, and JCPenney is ready to assist students, faculty, staff, administrators and alumni do just that on Sunday, Oct. 27 from 3-6 p.m. at their store at University Town Plaza at 7171 N. Davis Highway in Pensacola during their “Suit-Up” event.
PSC to host College Fairs Sept. 9, 10 on Pensacola and Milton campuses
Pensacola State College is teaming up with the school districts of Escambia and Santa Rosa counties to host College Fair 2024 on Monday and Tuesday, Sept. 9 and 10. Escambia County and Santa Rosa County high school juniors, seniors and their parents are invited to meet representatives to ask questions about admissions requirements, tuition, fees,…
Pensacola State Supporters Enjoy Graze, Grapes & Grain Reception
Pensacola State College donors and supporters were treated to various hors d’oeuvres during the Garde Manger President’s Circle Appreciation Reception held July 24 in the Delaino Student Center on the Pensacola campus. Culinary and Hospitality Program students created appetizers and sweet treats for the “A Toast To Your Generosity”-themed event.
ABM team member works toward reaching Special Olympics
Danelle Shavers ─ an ABM Industries team member ─ is nothing short of amazing. Shavers embodies the spirit of dedication and perseverance, not just within the walls of Pensacola State College but also as a passionate participant in Special Olympics Florida. Known for her hard work and reliability at ABM, she brings a level of excellence that inspires everyone around her. Beyond her professional endeavors, Shavers channels her energy into sports with equal fervor.
Pensacola State alum earns Escambia County Fire Rescue service award
Pensacola State College alumnae Shannon Hoffman is among several firefighters and support staff employees recognized at the 2024 Escambia County Fire Rescue Awards Ceremony at Marcus Pointe Baptist Church in June. A fire and rescue department photographer, Hoffman received a Service Recognition Medal. A double-PSC graduate, Hoffman has been with the fire and rescue department for over four years.
New student orientation, fall registration sessions ongoing at Pensacola State
Ashmore Auditorium had a full house for the first Pirate Path New Student Orientation session on July 30 on the Pensacola campus. Bailee Petry won the prize for having traveled the farthest. She and her parents drove 14 hours from Clinton, Iowa.
PSC’s Charter Academy earns ‘A’ grade
Pensacola State College’s Charter Academy was among 14 Escambia County School District institutions to earn an “A” grade for the 2023-2024 academic year from the Florida Department of Education. The school district earned an overall “B” grade for the 2023-2024 school year.
Former craftsman discovers an aptitude for math at PSC
When Andrew Puharic moved to Pensacola in March 2020, the former plumber planned to purchase investment property to develop and resell. However, COVID-19 had different plans. “The pandemic hit, and the global housing market went crazy,” recalled Puharic, a Pensacola State Math Lab tutor who instead enrolled in the College in fall 2020.
3 former Pensacola State Pirates play in Softball World Cup
Three former Pirates competed with the Australian team in the 2024 WBSC Women’s World Cup Finals. Georgia Hood, Jenna Trim and Shaylan Whatman helped the Aussie Spirit to a seventh-place finish in the World Baseball Softball Confederation finals held July 15-21 in Castions di Strada, Italy.
PSC Pirates making big waves on Team USA, MLB baseball
Pensacola State College’s baseball program has a long, rich history of being a catalyst for great talent and the start of many successful careers ─ in the Major League and the business world. That storied saga adds a new chapter this summer as four former PSC Pirates took to bigger stages to showcase their talents on the ballfield.
86 PSC nursing graduates honored at pinning ceremony
Derek Olford enrolled in Pensacola State College’s nursing program in 2023 as “something to do” while he recovered from a workplace injury. On Aug. 1, Olford was among the 86 Bachelor of Science in Nursing and Associate in Science in Nursing graduates recognized at the Summer Pinning Ceremony at First Pentecostal Church in Pensacola.
Area high school artists honored at annual Pensacola State exhibit
Tin Tran’s “Weave the Clouds, Forge the Waves” was selected Best of Show at the 2024 Juried High School Awards Exhibition ceremony. Hosted and juried by Pensacola State College’s Anna Society members, the exhibition is on display in the Charles W. Lamar Studio until Aug. 2. The awards ceremony held June 25 featured a collection of artworks by Escambia County and Santa Rosa County high school juniors and seniors.
7 honorees selected as 2024 Pensacola State College Distinguished Alumni
Seven trailblazers ─ Gary and Carissa Bergosh, Richard Fountain, Rep. Michelle Salzman, Michael Kohler, James “Jim” Reeves and Senator Doug Broxson ─ were recently recognized as 2024 Pensacola State College Distinguished Alumni.
Pensacola State receives $4.41 million grant for new Aviation Airframe and Powerplant Mechanics Program
Pensacola State College’s Aviation Airframe and Powerplant Mechanics (A&P Mechanics) Program received a big financial boost on July 1. Gov. Ron DeSantis personally announced a $4.41 million Job Growth Grant Fund award to the program at a press conference held in the Bear Jones Moore Reeves Center for Math and Advanced Technology on the College’s Pensacola campus.
PSC student wins $1,000 Watson Family Foundation scholarship
Pensacola State student Lakisha Ball won the Watson Family Foundation Juneteenth Scholarship. Ball, a nontraditional student majoring in business management, wrote a 462-word essay on the Rev. H.K. Matthews to win the $1,000 scholarship. A native of Pensacola, Ball said she chose Rev. Matthews because of his legacy in the civil rights movement.
PSC hosts 4th annual Juneteenth celebration
Pensacola State College observed Juneteenth a few days early on June 16. However, the fourth annual event attracted a large crowd to celebrate the holiday commemorating the emancipation of enslaved Black Americans. PSC Professor Tonie Anderson-Steele, event organizer and Milton campus counselor, was bittersweet about the celebration.
Switzers establish endowed PSC Alumni Assn. scholarship
Charlie and Fran Switzer both served in the U.S. Navy. The couple met in the military and still understand the challenges of service members.For that reason, the Switzers recently donated $12,500 to the Pensacola State College Alumni Association to establish the Veterans Endowed Scholarship. The alumni association matched the Switzers’ donation to establish a $25,000 scholarship.
C. Donald “Don” Bishop, President and CEO of InDyne, Inc. and Chairman of the Board and CEO of InDyne’s Reliance Test & Technology (RT&T) Joint Venture Donates a Metroliner Aircraft to Pensacola State College
Pensacola State College announced the donation of a Fairchild Merlin IV aircraft appraised at $900,000. The aircraft will be used in the College’s Aviation Airframe Mechanics and Aviation Power Plant Mechanics (A&P Mechanics) Program. Students enrolled in the program will experience a unique training environment as the aircraft offers a unique opportunity to work on a Metroliner, which is a larger aircraft than programs typically have at their disposal.
PSC Planetarium and Space Theater to show ‘Apollo & Beyond’ on July 12
Pensacola State College’s Planetarium and Space Theater will show “Apollo and Beyond: Conquering Gravity” on Friday, July 12. The showing is set for 6-7 p.m. in the planetarium located in the Baroco Center for Advanced Technology, Building 21, on the Pensacola campus at 1000 College Blvd.
Juried High School Awards Exhibition on display in Lamar Studio through Aug. 2
Hosted and juried by the College’s Anna Society members, the exhibition will feature a collective of student artwork in all media from high school juniors and seniors who live in Escambia County and Santa Rosa County. The Charles W. Lamar Studio is in the Anna Lamar Switzer Center for Visual Arts, Building 15, on the Pensacola campus at 1000 College Blvd.
PSC Nonprofit Center to hold resource development workshop on June 13
Pensacola State College Center for Nonprofit Excellence and Philanthropy will hold a “Nonprofit Resource Development” workshop on Thursday, June 13. Andrea Krieger, the College’s Executive Director of Institutional Development, will facilitate the 8 a.m.-5 p.m. training session in the College’s Pen Air Federal Credit Union Classroom.
Employee Spotlight: Sam Smith appointed to Pensacola Women’s Alliance Board of Directors
Sam Smith, the Pensacola State College assistant director of Workday Solutions, has been named to the Pensacola Women’s Alliance Board of Directors. Made up of professional and business women, the Pensacola Women’s Alliance (PWA) is dedicated to promoting the advancement of local women. Formed in 1982 by Diane Miller and Isabella Grimes, the nonprofit’s mission includes providing scholarships to women at Pensacola State College and the University of West Florida.
PSC receives $10K Bank of America grant for Career Technical Education program
Bank of America Charitable Foundation has generously given Pensacola State College students enrolled in Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs a financial boost. Through the foundation, the bank awarded the College a $10,000 grant to help CTE students working toward an Associate in Science degree, a vocational certificate, or college credit certificate.
PSC photography program grad wins gold at national ADDYs competition
Ralitsa Mihaylova, a Spring 2024 Pensacola State College graduate, won a gold national 2024 American Advertising Federation (ADDY) Award. Mihaylova’s entry, “The Botanist,” won first place in the Still Photography – Color Single category at the AAF Awards Gala and Dinner held May 31 in Salt Lake City.
PSC partners with Escambia County, CareerSource ESCAROSA to teach construction skills
A few months ago, Kaleb Lymons barely knew how to use a hammer. Fast forward to now, the 19-year-old can operate a power drill, an air gun and even a miter saw. “I had some basic knowledge of construction because I had a couple of friends in the field. I knew what a hammer was, but I had never built a structure,” said Lymons, a recent Escambia County Block-By-Block Program graduate.
Innovative, next generation advanced manufacturing research and development institute establishing satellite in Pensacola
Pensacola, Fla. (May 21, 2024) – FloridaWest EDA and Pensacola Escambia Promotion and Development Commission (PEDC) are excited to announce that LIFT, a national advanced materials manufacturing innovation institute, has selected Pensacola to establish its latest technology accelerator and talent development showcase facility.
PSC to present ‘Plan 9 from Outer Space,’ ‘Night of Living Dead’
Pensacola State College Performing Arts Department will present a Mark Landon Smith double feature this week. The department will stage “Plan 9 From Outer Space” and “Night of the Living Dead” at 7:30 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, May 23-25, and 2:30 p.m. Sunday, May 26, in Ashmore Auditorium, Building 8, on the Pensacola campus.
‘Hold It Up To The Light’ exhibition on display at PSC’s Switzer Gallery
Gina Phillips’s “Hold It Up To The Light” exhibition is on display in Pensacola State College’s Switzer Gallery May 27-Aug. 9. Phillips, a mixed media narrative artist, will present a lecture from 5-6 p.m. Tuesday, May 28, in the Switzer Lecture Hall, Building 15, Room 1590, on the College’s Pensacola campus. A reception will follow from 6-7:30 p.m. Presented by the Anna Society, the lecture and reception are free and open to the public!
PSC Nonprofit Center to hold virtual workshop on Tuesday
Mary Claire Walther, a Dini Spheris consultant, will lead “Strengthening The Ask And Deepening Donor Understanding” virtual workshop on Tuesday, May 28. Hosted by Pensacola State College Foundation Nonprofit Center for Excellence and Philanthropy, the virtual workshop is set for 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
PSC Charter Academy Information Sessions set for June 11, June 18
Pensacola State College Charter Academy will hold Information Sessions for potential students in May and June. Sessions are set for 6 p.m. Tuesday, May 28, and Tuesday, June 18, in Building 27, Room 2716, on the Pensacola campus. The campus is located at 1000 College Blvd., Pensacola.
Over 600 PSC grads participate in Spring commencement exercises
More than 600 Pensacola State College graduates received bachelor’s and associate degrees, applied technology diplomas and workforce certificates during commencement exercises held May 10 at the Pensacola Bay Center. Rick Byars, senior external affairs manager for Florida Power and Light Co., was the keynote speaker. He shared his life story as a message of inspiration to the Class of 2024. As a child who grew up in the Catholic Church foster care system, Byars urged the graduates to never give up on their aspirations and dreams despite life’s challenges.
WSRE PBS to host Amazing Kids Day on June 1 for children with autism
WSRE PBS will host Pensacola’s second annual Amazing Kids Day for families affected by autism on Saturday, June 1, from 9 a.m.-noon in the Jean and Paul Amos Performance Studio at Pensacola State College. Amazing Kids Day is a free, sensory-friendly event for children with special needs to explore fun, educational activities. At the same time, parents and caregivers can learn about some of the local family resources available to them.
PSC team finished 13th in world in ‘The Business Strategy Game’
Three Pensacola State College graduates – Elizabeth Guercio, Skylar Smith and Robert Williams – are among the world’s best “virtual” business owners. The Spring 2024 graduates participated in “The Business Strategy Game” and placed first in their class and 13th worldwide for the week of Feb. 26-March 3.
Allied Health Pinnings
Physical Therapist Assistant Program graduates Ten Pensacola State College Physical Therapist Assistant Program graduates were pinned during a ceremony held May 8 on the Warrington campus. The program graduates ─ Joshua Christiansen, Katrina Espinosa, Lauren Fradejas, Ashlee Heifner, Alyssa Johnson, Anna Mayhair, Jana Motes, Ivy New, Demetrius Smith and Kaylee Volnoff ─ also earned Associate…
More than 80 PSC nursing students pinned at ceremony
Sterling Hill and Grace Rhodes have done almost everything together since they were toddlers. On May 9, the couple joined more than 80 other Pensacola State College Associate in Science in Nursing and Bachelor of Science in Nursing graduates at the pinning ceremony at First Pentecostal Church in Pensacola. “It feels great to finally have it all done,” Hill, 23, said. “It was a great experience, especially the clinicals.”
44 seniors graduate from PSC Charter Academy on May 13
“It behooves us to do our best to see that the standard of the average citizen is kept high; and the average cannot be kept high unless the standard of the leaders is very much higher,” Retired U.S. Navy Rear Adm. Donald Quinn told Pensacola State College’s Charter Academy 2024 graduates.
Pensacola State recognizes 210 staffers at 2024 Employee Service Awards ceremony
When Betty Freeney, Martha Weyels and Linda Winesett began their careers at Pensacola Junior College, word processors and Xerox copies were among the most innovative office equipment. Many people don’t remember the archaic equipment today, but these employees do! The three have over 120 years of combined experience at the College and were among the 210 PSC administrators, faculty and staffers recognized at the 2024 Employee Service Awards. The ceremony, held April 23 in the Jean and Paul Amos Performance Studio, honored employees with at least five years of continuous service.
Pensacola State graduation set for May 10 at Bay Center
Rick Byars, senior external affairs manager at Florida Power and Light Company, will be the keynote speaker at Pensacola State College’s spring graduation set for 5 p.m. Friday, May 10, in the Pensacola Bay Center. Byars’ career in the energy industry began at Entergy, where he worked for over 18 years. He joined the Southern Company’s Gulf Power in April 2007, where he held several posts ranging from Community and Economic Development General Manager to Regional Manager, Corporate External Affairs. In January 2022, Florida Power and Light merged with Gulf Power.
PSC announces proposed lab fee changes to Math, Computer Science and Visual Arts courses
Pensacola State College announced proposed lab fee changes for courses for students enrolled in the Visual Arts, Math and Computer Science programs. The College’s District Board of Trustees will vote on the fee changes at the Tuesday, June 18, meeting set for 5:30 p.m. on the Pensacola campus. If approved by the Board of Trustees, the new fees will take effect for the Fall 2024 Semester.
PSC announces proposed Nursing, Allied Health Lab fee changes for courses
Pensacola State College announced proposed lab fee changes for courses for students enrolled in the Nursing and Allied Health programs. The College’s District Board of Trustees will vote on the fee changes at the Tuesday, June 18, meeting set for 5:30 p.m. on the Pensacola campus. If approved by the Board of Trustees, the new fees will take effect for the Fall 2024 Semester.
NWFSC hosts signing ceremony with PSC, Florida State, 3 other state colleges
Participants included Pensacola State College (PSC), Gulf Coast State College (GCSC), Tallahassee Community College (TCC), Chipola College and Florida State University (FSU). This ceremony served as the execution of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the colleges, signifying their commitment to collaborate on additive and advanced manufacturing, aerospace research, and healthcare across Northwest Florida.
Robinson Honors Program hosts Student Leadership Conference for high school SGA officers
The transition from high school to college can be difficult for some students. However, Pensacola State College’s Robinson Honor Program scholars devised a plan to make it easier. On April 12 and 26, the Robinson Honors Program held The SGA Leadership Conference in the Delaino Student Center on the Pensacola campus.
Sydni Hutchens wins President’s Choice Award, Honorable Mention at student art exhibit
Pensacola State’s best and brightest art students were recognized at the 2024 Annual Student Art Awards Exhibition on April 9 in the Anna Lamar Switzer for Visual Arts. Sydni Hutchens’s “Melting Solitude” received the President’s Choice Award, and her “The Cat and the Fish” won the Honorable Mention. Benjamin Calloway’s “Catch of the Day” also garnered an Honorable Mention.
PSC Charter Academy presents Senior Symposium
Pensacola State College’s Charter Academy Class of 2024 recently presented its Senior Symposium projects on April 25. The standing-room-only event featured research and a presentation on career options from the 44 seniors who will graduate on May 13. Parents, mentors, Charter Academy administrators, PSC President Ed Meadows, PSC Board of Trustees chair Dr. Troy Tippett and Board Member “Flash” Gordon Sprague questioned the seniors about the projects and plans after graduation.
PSC visual arts student heading to national ADDYs
Ralitsa Mihaylova, a Pensacola State College Visual Arts student, will compete for a national 2024 American Advertising Federation (ADDY) award. Mihaylova’s entry, “The Botanist,” won gold at gold in the Still Photography – Color Single category at the District 4 AAF Annual Conference held April 19-21 in Orlando. The entry also won gold at the 2024 American Advertising Federation Pensacola American Advertising Awards Gala in February in the “Elements of Advertising” category.
24 student-athletes commit to universities, colleges
Twenty-four Pensacola State College student-athletes – and the first Women’s Soccer player – are moving on to Division I, Division II and NAIA colleges and universities. The signees were recognized at a signing ceremony on April 29 in Hartsell Arena on the Pensacola campus.
PSC announces proposed Allied Health Lab fee changes for courses
Pensacola State College announced proposed lab fee changes for courses for students enrolled in the Allied Health programs. The College’s District Board of Trustees will vote on the fee changes at the Tuesday, June 18, meeting set for 5:30 p.m. on the Pensacola campus. If approved by the Board of Trustees, the new fees will take effect for the Fall 2024 Semester.
Pensacola State College announces proposed instructional fee change
Pensacola State College announces a proposed Full Cost of Instruction Fee cost update for students. PSC administrators recommend a $280 Full Cost of Instruction Fee for both Bachelor and Credit programs. This fee is what is charged to students on their 3rd or more attempt on the same course. The proposed Full Cost of Instruction Fee…
Pensacola State College announces proposed lab fees changes for courses
Pensacola State College announced proposed lab fee changes for several courses for students enrolled in the programs. The College’s District Board of Trustees will vote on the fee changes at the Tuesday, June 18, meeting set for 5:30 p.m. on the Pensacola campus. If approved by the Board of Trustees, the new fees will take…
Join local nonprofits at Pensacola State College’s 2024 Nonprofit Summit on Friday
Nine local leaders will share their expertise on how to empower excellence in nonprofit management on Friday. The Pensacola State College Center for Nonprofit Excellence and Philanthropy will kick off the summit with Robert “Bob” Stanton, an international leadership savant and former global leader for Bayer, Ascend Performance Materials, and Envu. Stanton’s keynote will set the tone for the day, focused on the seven key pillars of nonprofit management that lead to success.
PSC supporter Jim Reeves recognized for PRIDE Enterprises
Longtime Pensacola State College supporter and donor Jim Reeves was recently recognized for PRIDE Enterprises. Reeves is the board chairman of PRIDE – an acronym for Prison Rehabilitative Industries and Diversified Enterprises. The 501c not-for-profit corporation was created by the Florida Legislature in 1981.
PSC, UWF cohost Leadership Pensacola 2024 class
The 2024 Leadership Pensacola class recently received a crash course on education – from preschool to postsecondary. Hosted by Pensacola State College and the University of West Florida, the 50 representatives of Northwest Florida businesses spent Education Day 2024 (March 7) learning about early learning, workforce education and higher education.
Pensacola State College named a Military Friendly® School for 15th year
Pensacola State College has been named a 2024-2025 Gold Military Friendly® School by Viqtory Media. This is the 15th year the College has received the Military Friendly® School title and the third consecutive year earning the gold designation in the “Large Public” school category.
Nan Greenhut James remembered as a friend to many
Friendly, compassionate, courageous are only a few of the characteristics that friends use to described Nan Greenhut James. A retired Pensacola State College employee, James passed away on March 29 following a lengthy illness. She was a senior executive assistant at the College from October 1993 to August 2015, and worked in the Vice President of Academic Affairs office and at WSRE-TV station. “Nan had many friends, and I am fortunate to have been one of them. She was a classy lady who deeply loved her family and her church,” said Pat Crews, senior executive administrative assistant to PSC President Ed Meadows.
Pensacola State College Cosmetology Program alum wins big at The Skin Games competition
A former Pensacola State College student is one of the best makeup artists in the world. Jessica Smothers, known professionally as “Jess Lee Smo,” won first place in the Avant Garde Makeup Artist of the Year category at The Skin Games held March 14-18 in Atlanta. The Skin Games is one of the largest international skincare and makeup competition and award shows. Competitors include novice makeup artists, mom-and-pop shop entrepreneurs and professionals.