Broward College, a vibrant institution serving over 30,000 students across its diverse campuses and centers, has commenced the 2024-25 academic year with palpable energy and enthusiasm. As students, both familiar faces and eager newcomers, returned to campus, the atmosphere was charged with anticipation for the opportunities ahead.
Image alt text: Sammy Seahawk mascot poses with a diverse group of Broward College students outdoors, symbolizing campus community and welcome.
The first day of classes was marked by a warm welcome, with returning students reconnecting and new students experiencing their first interactions with the college mascot, Sammy Seahawk. The spirit of camaraderie was further amplified by complimentary college merchandise and refreshments, easing the transition into the academic term. Student Life orchestrated a dynamic series of twelve events during the initial week, attracting over 2,000 students who actively participated between their classes, fostering a strong sense of belonging and engagement right from the start.
Josef Tinsley, the Interim Campus Director of Student Life at Broward College’s Central Campus, highlighted the positive commencement to the semester. “We had a great first week of the fall term,” Tinsley remarked. “Our students were very excited to be back, and they were engaged from the very first day. It’s going to be a great year – go Seahawks!” This sentiment was echoed throughout the college community, reflecting the vibrant and welcoming environment Broward College cultivates.
The commitment to student success was further demonstrated by the significant volunteer efforts of faculty and staff. During the first week, dedicated personnel contributed approximately 300 hours at strategically located “Ask Me” stations across campuses. These stations served as invaluable resources for new students, providing guidance, answering queries, and ensuring a smooth onboarding experience.
Lauren Adamo, Interim Senior Director of Student Engagement, expressed deep appreciation for the faculty and staff contributions. “A huge shoutout to our incredible faculty and staff, who volunteered at our Ask Me stations, helping to welcome and guide our new students,” Adamo stated. This proactive support system underscores Broward College’s dedication to student support and accessibility.
The momentum from the first week seamlessly transitioned into the second, with a diverse range of activities organized by Student Life. Open houses provided students with opportunities to explore resources and connect with campus communities, while an interactive game show offered both entertainment and the chance to win cash prizes. Convocation ceremonies across two campuses formally welcomed new students into the Broward College academic family, reinforcing the significance of their educational journey.
Image alt text: Diverse group of Broward College students walking and conversing on Central Campus, illustrating student life and campus vibrancy.
At the heart of Broward College’s mission is the preparation of students for fulfilling and impactful careers. All Broward College Degree Programs Fall Within 7 Career Pathways, strategically designed to align with high-demand industries and evolving workforce needs. These pathways provide a structured framework for students to explore their interests, develop specialized skills, and earn degrees that directly translate into career opportunities. Students can choose from diverse fields such as healthcare, with strong programs in nursing, public safety disciplines, the rewarding field of education, and the dynamic world of aviation.
Broward College distinguishes itself through strategic partnerships that significantly enhance the student experience. Notably, it holds the distinction of being the first community college in the nation to collaborate with JetBlue’s Gateway University, an innovative pilot development program. This partnership exemplifies Broward College’s commitment to providing cutting-edge, industry-aligned education and creating direct pathways to professional careers for its graduates.
Further solidifying its position as a leading institution, Broward College’s commitment to excellence has garnered national recognition. Earlier this year, Broward College was named one of only 20 national semifinalists for the prestigious 2025 Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence. This esteemed award recognizes community colleges demonstrating high achievement across critical areas of operation and student success. The selection as a semifinalist, narrowed down from an initial pool of 150 community colleges, marks the second time Broward College has been honored by the Aspen Institute. This recognition underscores the college’s outstanding performance in key areas: teaching and learning innovation, certificate and degree completion rates, successful transfer and bachelor’s degree attainment, workforce readiness and success, broad accessibility to college resources and offerings, and importantly, equitable outcomes for students from diverse backgrounds, including students of color and those from low-income communities.
Beyond the academic achievements, the excitement of the fall 2024 term extended to everyone, including the college’s spirited mascot. Sammy Seahawk was actively involved in welcoming students and participating in campus events, further enhancing the vibrant and engaging atmosphere as Broward College began another year of academic excellence and student success.
