At the center of the partnership is a strengthened 2+2 pathway that provides guaranteed admission to FAMU for eligible Valencia College Associate in Arts (AA) graduates and selected Associate in Science (AS) graduates into designated FAMU baccalaureate programs, consistent with university policies.

“We know that many students in Central Florida dream of attending FAMU, and we are thrilled to offer them a clear pathway to make that dream a reality,” said Valencia College President Kathleen Plinske. “Through this partnership, students can begin their college journey at Valencia and know that they have a guaranteed pathway to continue their education at FAMU. That kind of certainty is incredibly powerful for students and their families as they plan for the future.”

Under the agreement, Valencia students participating in the FAMU IGNITE Transfer Program must complete an AA degree or an identified AS degree and submit an IGNITE Transfer Program inquiry form before earning 30 credits to declare their intent to participate in the 2+2 pathway. The three-year agreement establishes a collaborative framework to increase access to public higher education, expand transfer opportunities and reduce the time required for students to complete associate and bachelor’s degrees. The agreement is effective for the 2025-26 academic year and extends through the conclusion of the 2027-28 academic year.

The agreement also provides a reverse transfer pathway, allowing eligible students who transfer to FAMU before completing their AA degree to have qualifying credits earned at FAMU transferred back to Valencia, upon student consent, so Valencia can award the associate degree when requirements have been met.

“At Florida A&M University, we believe access and excellence must go hand in hand. By working with Valencia College, we can help more students understand their pathway to a four-year degree, connect with FAMU earlier in their academic journey and ultimately position themselves for success in Florida’s workforce and beyond,” said FAMU President Marva B. Johnson, J.D. “This partnership demonstrates what is possible when institutions work together around a shared goal: helping students successfully move forward, complete their degrees and contribute to the communities they serve.”

Financial support and enhanced student services

The partnership goes beyond admission and transfer credit to provide additional support for students participating in the IGNITE program.

Under the agreement, eligible Valencia IGNITE students may receive FAMU scholarships ranging from $1,000 to $4,000, based on GPA and available funding. Students with a 3.3 FAMU-recalculated GPA may receive $1,000, while students with a 3.6 GPA or higher may receive $4,000. Additional eligibility requirements include participation in the IGNITE Program for at least one year, meeting the FAMU fall admission deadline and being a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.

The agreement also calls for enhanced support for Valencia students enrolled in identified transfer plans, including FAMU advisors who will work with Valencia students and advisors.

“Transfer success is not simply about moving credits from one institution to another; it is about creating a coordinated student experience,” said FAMU Provost Allyson Watson. “This agreement establishes a framework for our academic and student-support teams to work together earlier and more intentionally. Through advising, transfer planning and stronger alignment of academic pathways, we can help students make informed decisions about their education and stay on track toward degree completion.”

Academic pathways aligned with workforce needs

The agreement includes designated transfer pathways connecting Valencia College programs with FAMU bachelor’s degree programs including Health Science, Health Informatics and Information Management, Biological Sciences, Biology, Molecular and Cellular Biology, Biology Pre-Med/Pre-Dental, Chemistry, Chemistry-Biochemistry, Computer Science, Information Technology, Architectural Studies and Construction Engineering Technology, among others.

The institutions will also collaborate on faculty and student services, campus visits, recruitment activities and regular engagement between FAMU advisors and Valencia Success Coaches. The agreement calls for at least one annual “Presidents Day” activity at either institution to support recruitment and student engagement.

“As a FAMU alumna, I know firsthand the value of a FAMU education and what it means to become part of the Rattler community,” said Valencia College Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs Roberta Carew. “What makes this partnership especially meaningful is that it goes beyond creating a pathway for students to transfer—it creates a more connected experience along the way.”

The agreement was signed by Johnson and Plinske and establishes a three-year framework that may be renewed by mutual written agreement.

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As instructors welcomed students back to class at Valencia College, the staff of VCentials did, too. 

The on-campus market is open to all Valencia students, where they can select up to five items for free every day. The shelves and coolers are stocked with produce, protein, dairy, ready-to-eat and shelf-stable foods. VCentials markets are available at all 7 main campus locations.  

“I’ve always encouraged my students when they come and visit, come in and grab a snack even if it’s something very simple,” said Dee, the VCentials Operations Manager at the Osceola campus. “If you’re taking a test you prepared for it but you’re hungry, guess what you’re going to hear louder? It isn’t your brain; it’s your stomach. Why not get a snack, eat it before you take your test? This way, you can achieve much higher scholastic scores.” 

Click here to read the rest of the Second Harvest article on VCentials.

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“This is their space,” said Denise Asselta, director of Valencia College’s Veterans Affairs team. While all students can go to the campus library or student lounges, Asselta said that many veterans are older than their classmates, and like to have a separate place where they can meet other veterans. “They prefer to come here and hang out between classes.”

The new space features upholstered benches, four computers for students to use, as well as snacks and a refrigerator and coffee station.

In addition to the support staff available in offices next door, veterans can learn about opportunities at the new resource center. A Veterans Administration representative visits the campus once a month, answering questions about health care, disability, mental health, housing, and food assistance.

The new Veterans Resource Center is located on the second floor of the Student Services Building on West Campus, in room 214B. The center is open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.

The new lounge is not only much bigger than the previous veterans office space, says Aramis Aramburo, a 28-year-old Navy veteran now studying engineering at Valencia. Aramburo, who’s president of the student-led Vet Connect, says the Veterans Resource Center helps veterans adapt to college life.

“Veterans ,whether or not they’ve integrated well back into society, have a different way of thinking of speaking, even when they try really hard,” he said. “Having a space where you know that other people have either had your experience, or have been around other people who have gone through your experience, it’s really nice. It’s a separate space where you can let your guard down.”

Evvi Reed, a former U.S. Marine, stopped by the new Veterans Resource Center on opening day to check it out.

“I’m starting classes soon and I wanted to get to know the campus,” she said. “Since I’ve come here, everyone has been so nice and accommodating.”

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The Coca-Cola Leaders of Promise Scholarship Program helps new Phi Theta Kappa members defray educational expenses while enrolled in associate degree programs. Scholars are encouraged to assume leadership roles by participating in Society programs and are selected based on scholastic achievement, community service, and leadership potential.

In 2025, Batul, an international student from Kampala, Uganda, was inducted into Phi Theta Kappa, the honor society with more than 4.3 million members in 11 countries. She has served as president of her campus chapter at Valencia College.

Also active in the college’s International Club, Batul currently studies business at Valencia College, and plans to major in finance when she transfers to the University of Central Florida.

“My goal is to build a successful career in corporate finance with a focus on strategic financial decision making,” she says. “By mastering these skills, I want to empower the next generation with essential financial literacy knowledge by teaching youth how to make smart and informed decisions with their money. And long term, I plan to use my knowledge to mentor future business leaders and launch impactful financial initiatives across both local and global communities.”

The Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation provides funding for the scholarships, with a portion earmarked for members who are veterans or active members of the United States military. Additional donations to the Phi Theta Kappa Foundation support multiple Global Leaders of Promise Scholarships earmarked for international students.

“The Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation has a long history of providing financial assistance to outstanding students at community colleges,” said Jane Hale Paulsen, president of the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation. “We are proud to partner with Phi Theta Kappa to make it possible for more deserving students to achieve their educational goals and support tomorrow’s leaders of the global community.”

The funds provided by the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation not only aid college completion but also give students the opportunity to engage in Society programs and develop leadership skills to become future leaders in their communities.

“Research shows that Phi Theta Kappa members are four times more likely to complete a college degree than their peers,” said Amanda Karpinski Gorman, executive director of the Phi Theta Kappa Foundation. “The Leaders of Promise Scholarships recognize students for what they have achieved already and assure that financial need isn’t an obstacle to achieving their academic goals.”

Phi Theta Kappa is the premier honor society recognizing the academic achievement of students at associate degree-granting colleges and helping them to grow as scholars and leaders. The society is made up of more than 4.4 million members and nearly 1,250 chapters in 11 countries, with approximately 220,000 active members in the nation’s colleges. Learn more at ptk.org

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Blair Bradley

Bradley is a former Analyst for North American Reserve Corporation. Active in her community, she serves as a STEM tutor and volunteer for the local Parent Teacher Association and an alumni interviewer for the Rice Alumni Volunteer Association. Bradley earned her bachelor’s degree in biomedical engineering and managerial studies from Rice University.

Sean Milligan

Milligan is the President of Gatlin Mill. Previously, he served as the Vice President of GWSI, Inc., the Senior Director of Supply Chain Operations for GXO Logistics, Inc., and the Director of Supply Chain Solutions for Hillebrand. Milligan earned his bachelor’s degree in business administration and global logistics from the College of Charleston.

Tracey Stockwell

Stockwell is the Chief Financial Officer for Universal Orlando. Active in her community, she has served as the Treasurer of the Universal Orlando Foundation and as a member of the Orlando Economic Partnership Executive Committee. Stockwell earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Windsor.

These appointments are subject to confirmation by the Florida Senate.

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In these roles, Presidents Hawkins and Plinske will help guide statewide priorities for the Florida College System, working collaboratively with fellow presidents, state leaders, and policymakers to advance student success, workforce development, and institutional excellence. The Council of Presidents serves as a key advisory group to state leadership, including the Florida Legislature and the Governor’s Office, on issues impacting higher education and workforce readiness.

“I am honored to be selected by my peers to serve as chair of the Florida College System Council of Presidents,” said Mr. Fred Hawkins, President of South Florida State College. “Florida’s state colleges play a critical role in preparing our workforce and strengthening our communities. I look forward to advocating for the colleges, collaborating with members of the Legislature and the Governor’s Office, and ensuring our system receives the appropriate funding to continue delivering high-quality, affordable education for all Floridians.”

Mr. Hawkins currently serves as president of South Florida State College, with campuses in DeSoto, Hardee, and Highlands counties, and brings extensive experience in public service, higher education leadership, and workforce development initiatives. Prior to being named president of South Florida State College, he served in the Florida House of Representatives for Osceola and Orange counties as the vice chair of the Higher Education Appropriations Subcommittee and the whip of all education committees. Additionally, he was the president and CEO of the Osceola County Education Foundation. As a former member of the Florida Legislature, he brings a strong understanding of the policymaking process and established relationships with state leaders that will further strengthen the Council’s advocacy efforts.

“I am grateful for the opportunity to serve as the chair of the Policy and Advocacy Committee,” said Dr. Kathleen Plinske, President of Valencia College. “Florida’s state colleges are essential to expanding access to higher education, meeting the needs of our workforce, and creating pathways to opportunity for students across our state. I look forward to working alongside President Hawkins, my fellow presidents, and state leaders to advocate for policies and investments that strengthen our colleges and help more Floridians achieve their academic and career goals.”

Dr. Plinske serves as president of Valencia College, the sixth-largest community college in the nation, serving more than 75,000 students annually. Under her leadership, Valencia has achieved historic enrollment levels and its highest graduation and retention rates on record. The college has expanded affordability through innovative scholarship programs and employer partnerships while strengthening workforce education to prepare students for high-demand careers across the region.

The Florida College System Council of Presidents provides strategic leadership and advocacy for the state’s colleges, which collectively serve more than 680,000 students annually. Under President Hawkins’ and President Plinske’s leadership, the Council will continue to focus on innovation, access, and alignment with Florida’s economic and workforce needs.

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Valencia College President Kathleen Plinske welcomed Loeffler and led a tour of the facilities, where Valencia College operates short-term training programs in precision optics, electronic board assembly, mechatronics and semiconductor and robotics technology.

During the tour, Plinske outlined Valencia College’s long-standing partnerships with local employers, ranging from large corporations like Lockheed Martin to small manufacturing businesses in the region. Through the college’s Accelerated Skills Training programs, she explained, the college provides fast, targeted workforce training aligned to regional industry needs for both large and small businesses, while the college’s Associate in Science degree programs are also designed in collaboration with area employers.

Also present for the tour were leaders from Osceola County, FloridaMakes and the Manufacturers Association of Central Florida.

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• Angelia Ramsay McKay, who was the oldest graduate at the college’s May 2026 commencement. Angelia earned an Associate of Science in Nursing from Valencia College in 1995 and planned to transfer to UCF to earn a bachelor’s degree in nursing. But after her daughter Amber was born prematurely, Angelia stopped taking classes and focused her attention on her daughter. Angelia returned to Valencia to finish what she started so many years ago. Today, Angelia’s daughter is also a nurse, and Angelia hopes to be an inspiration to her daughter.
• Carter Aide discovered a passion for cooking in high school, working at local restaurants and gradually worked his way into the kitchen. He loved it, but when he enrolled in Valencia College’s culinary program, he discovered a new world. There, he was taught by masters of their craft, learning first-hand about baking bread, the science behind classical meals, and the art of juggling the many stations in a restaurant kitchen. Now he’s headed to a post-graduate culinary program in Japan, to learn Japanese cooking. And that, he hopes, will be just the start of his culinary journey.

Read more about their stories and advice for other students in the June issue of the Community Paper.

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Valencia’s submission features a cutout map of the United States of America adorned by the stars and stripes of the American flag. The students welded symbols of America representing its diverse regions onto the cutout.

“The Stars, Striped, & Steel: An America Mosaic” finished product presents: a space shuttle over Florida, representing boundless ambition; the Empire State Building over New York symbolizing vision and endurance; a motorcycle in California promoting ingenuity and performance; a barbecue grill in Texas reflecting celebration, joy and unity;  and an American eagle in the Pacific Northwest, soaring as a beacon of freedom.

The piece is complete with an intentionally weathered American flag,  reminding us that unity and perseverance are our nation’s greatest strengths.

“I think it came out great,” said welding technology student James Wainwright. “We tried to capture what we think America is, from the East Coast to the West Coast, from the South to the North. It was fun.”

“Giving this opportunity to the welding students demonstrates what we do,” said Brendon Monize, assistant director of Advanced Manufacturing at Valencia College. “We think of welding as just a trade,but really it’s the fabric and foundation of what we do as Americans.”

Welding instructors Juan Ayala and Eddie Pollock and carpentry instructor Mike Hill guided the students through the project’s completion.

After the competition, the piece will find a permanent home on Valencia’s campus.

Welding programs throughout the state have been invited to submit one entry — metal artwork, plaque or sculpture — inspired by the anniversary theme. Florida’s Commissioner of Education Anastasios “Stasi” Kamoutsas will select the winning entries.

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Sponsored by the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation and administered by the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society, the Coca-Cola Academic Team represents some of the highest-achieving community college students in the nation.

“Winning this scholarship is further proof that when you put in the hard work and the effort, people will recognize and value that,” Parra said.

After graduating from Valencia in May with two associate degrees through the Seneff Honors College, Parra will transfer to the University of Central Florida to study computer engineering. He plans to use his scholarship to move closer to UCF, so he can be as involved in campus life there as he was at Valencia.

His educational journey at Valencia included working as a recreational monitor at the campus fitness center, where he developed an app to help students with personalized exercise plans built around the fitness center’s equipment. He also co-founded an Osceola Campus Sports Club, which has grown to more than 80 active members.

“Valencia has genuinely been a second home to me, and I don’t say that lightly,” Parra said. “I came in without really knowing how any of this worked, and this place met me where I was and gave me room to grow into something I’m proud of.”

Coca-Cola Academic Team scholars will be recognized in both local and statewide ceremonies. They were also recognized internationally during Phi Theta Kappa’s annual convention in Baltimore in March.

Phi Theta Kappa is the premier honor society recognizing the academic achievement of students at associate degree-granting colleges and helping them to grow as scholars and leaders. The society is made up of more than 4.4 million members and nearly 1,250 chapters in 11 countries, with approximately 220,000 active members in the nation’s colleges. Learn more at ptk.org

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