CARRICO PROMOTED AS FINANCIAL LITERACY ADVISER FOR SOUTHWEST FLORIDA COLLEGE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CARRICO PROMOTED AS FINANCIAL LITERACY ADVISER FOR SOUTHWEST FLORIDA COLLEGE

Fort Myers, Fla., (December 29, 2009) – Originally from Louisville, KY., Kris Carrico has called Southwest Florida her home for the past four years. She started her career with Southwest Florida College in October of 2007 as Financial Aid Planner and recently earned a promotion to Financial Literacy Advisor for the institution.

“Southwest Florida College has been a family to me,” Carrico said. “I have met some of the greatest people here who have aided in my professional and personal growth. SWFC is very close to my heart.”

Carrico earned a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from the University of Louisville and has had previous experience in sales and training while working at a marketing company. Over the past year, she has proven very adept at understanding the intricacies of the federal, state and institution’s regulations. She has worked towards training her peers on the subject of student financial literacy and also as the Tuition Assistance department’s liaison with Admissions to foster increased understanding of financial aid.

Carrico hopes that her promotion will benefit the students at Southwest Florida College by having on campus assistance with personal debt management.

“My role is to educate students on how to manage their personal debt and how to use the tools their loan program provides to manage their student loan debt, by educating them in their classroom and one on one,” Carrico said.

Southwest Florida College is an accredited, private, institution of higher learning centrally located in Fort Myers, Tampa, Port Charlotte, and includes the Institute of Interior Design located within the Miromar Design Center in Estero. The College offers programs in Health Care, Business, Design, Education, Information Technology and Legal Studies. Its mission is to provide educational opportunities for individuals to acquire knowledge and skills that will help prepare them for rewarding careers in fields with high growth potential. For more information, call toll free 888-526-7973 or visit http://www.swfc.edu/.

SWFC CADD STUDENT ENTERS ADDA COMPETITION

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA COLLEGE STUDENT ENTERS ADDA COMPETITION
Fort Myers, Fla. (December 28, 2009) – After selling his wood shutter business in 2007, David Slabosz decided to attend Southwest Florida College because he said it seemed “to offer the best degree with the most Computer Aided Drafting classes.” What he hadn’t realized was that his CAD classes at SWFC would almost immediately help him gain employment with a fire alarm company – after just two classes. In addition, Slabosz’s college enrollment qualified him to enter a prestigious drafting competition.

Slabosz, now in his second year, submitted an original design for a special-use office building to the American Design Drafting Association's 43rd Annual Design Drafting contest. "My entry is a stand-alone, single-level office building for an attorney that had to meet ADDA requirements, which are very realistic and exacting," Slabosz said. "My design had to accommodate six visitors in the lobby area and couldn't exceed the contest maximum 3,000 sq. ft of office space." Slabosz submitted five drawings, which delineated the foundation, floor, roof, framing and electrical drawings.

“Probably at least 150 hours went into the set of drawings, so a lot of drafting time was needed,” Slabosz said. “I was trying to submit a very functional, but unique design.”

Slabosz completed his drawings using the college’s Architectural Desktop 2010 and Auto CAD 2010 programs, which he learned during his training at SWFC. He said the initial drawing took the most time, but his program manager, Paul Engler, helped him to stay on top of the deadline.

“I am always saying quality over quantity,” said Slabosz. “At this point in our degree, CAD needs to be as easy as walking.”

ADDA is an international organization representing the drafting and design profession. Entering the contest gives Slabosz the opportunity to showcase his work at the national level. According to the ADDA website, the purpose of this contest is to “encourage excellence in effort and discipline, and to give recognition to outstanding students and design/drafting programs.”

To be eligible to enter the contest, a student must be a member of an Association Student Chapter, enrolled in a school with curriculum certified by the Association and enrolled in a school having Educational Institute Membership.

Entries had to be submitted by the deadline of December 15, 2009. Entries are judged on appearance, neatness, accuracy, linework, linetype differentiation and layering standards. Additional factors include view selection, organization, dimensioning, title block, creativity, reproducibility and legibility of plot. Winners are to be announced by late February of 2010 and awards are to be presented at the ADDA Annual Conference in Louisville, KY., on April 12, 2010.

Southwest Florida College is an accredited, private institution of higher learning centrally located in Fort Myers, Tampa, Port Charlotte, and includes the Institute of Interior Design located within the Miromar Design Center in Estero. The College offers programs in Health Care, Business, Design, Education, Information Technology and Legal Studies. Its mission is to provide educational opportunities for individuals to acquire knowledge and skills that will help prepare them for rewarding careers in fields with high growth potential. For more information, call toll free 888‐526‐7973 or visit http://www.swfc.edu/.

DONAHUE RECENTLY JOINED THE SOUTHWEST FLORIDA COLLEGE TAMPA CAMPUS AS CAMPUS DIRECTOR

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

DONAHUE RECENTLY JOINED THE SOUTHWEST FLORIDA COLLEGE TAMPA CAMPUS AS CAMPUS DIRECTOR

Tampa, Fla., (December 28, 2009) – A Denver, Colo., native and a 16-year veteran of career college recruitment has been named director for the Tampa campus of Southwest Florida College.

Veronica M. Donahue has worked as Director of Recruitment at ITT Technical Institute in Thornton, Colorado and most recently as Director of Admissions at Brown Mackie College. She has also held director of admissions positions at Hamilton College, Concorde Career Institute and Denver Technical College, which was later known as DeVry University.

Donahue has a background in sales, marketing/advertising and training and was responsible for developing and delivering training presentations at the National Director of Admissions training seminar. She was also selected as one of the Directors of Recruitment to train and mentor newly hired Directors of Recruitment and she co-developed the National Training Video to be used as the primary training tool for admissions in all ITT Technical Institute schools nationwide.

Donahue looks forward to supporting the students, faculty and staff of the Southwest Florida College Tampa campus as the newly appointed Campus Director.

“I am honored to be a part of this team,” Donahue said. “I am impressed by the people at Southwest Florida College. I have yet to meet anyone at Southwest Florida College who is not dedicated completely to the mission of enrolling, educating and employing our students. The environment is both uplifting and professional. It is a pleasure to come to work each day.”

Southwest Florida College is an accredited, private, institution of higher learning centrally located in Fort Myers, Tampa, Port Charlotte, and includes the Institute of Interior Design located within the Miromar Design Center in Estero. The College offers programs in Health Care, Business, Design, Education, Information Technology and Legal Studies. Its mission is to provide educational opportunities for individuals to acquire knowledge and skills that will help prepare them for rewarding careers in fields with high growth potential. For more information, call toll free 877-205-2074 or visit http://www.swfc.edu/.

Season's Greetings from our family to yours.

Happy Holidays from Southwest Florida College!

Southwest Florida College has helped to make dreams into reality for thousands of our students. Isn't it time you focused on your own dreams? Make it a holiday season you'll never forget. Let us help you secure a solid education and a fulfilling career.

For more information, call toll free 888-279-2342 or visit http://www.swfc.edu/.
Best wishes from Southwest Florida College.

Digital Portfolio Show Roundtable A Confidence Building Success for Graphic Design Students - Event

SWFC's 2009 Digital Design Portfolio Students

The Graphic Design Program at Southwest Florida College held Digital Portfolio Roundtable event where we invited local business leaders as our guests to hold mock job interviews with this quarter's graphic design portfolio students. Usually, it is their last class and it is up to each designer to present themselves with a clear and creative vision.

Our honored guest "employers" with Aaron Belchamber and Jan Rhonehouse from Career Services

With our 12 "employers," each job interview lasted about 4 minutes and put the spotlight on our students' creativity while providing them a challenging exercise in performing a confidence-building job hunt.

Brendan Stanley and Brian Thompson from Alliance Digital Solutions & www.CapeCoral.com interview Jarred Gaddis

According to Aaron Belchamber, the Digital Design Portfolio Instructor, "All students were under a tight deadline. In 10 weeks they had to collect the best of their materials and create new designs, produce a compelling portfolio in digital form as a stand alone website, design and print their resumes and business cards and mentally prepare for the Portfolio Roundtable Event. Mr. McElroy, myself, and all the Graphic Design adjuncts are very proud of our Graphic Design students."

Students begin another round of interviews

As a wrap-up after the event, the employers were gracious enough to spend some time providing constructive feedback for our graphic designers. This event was an incredible opportunity for our graphic design students to learn from real business people with a real world perspective.

"The roundtable"

When asked about her experience, Belinda Duclos replied: "We were all pretty nervous, but when it was all over, I felt pretty good about myself."

All students who participated received all the comments the job interviewers evaluated them on and a copy of their feedback was emailed to them. Some of the comments are worth noting:
"Her design skills are beautiful!" ~ "Great stuff, this guy is going to be a start!" ~ "Needs to be stronger at selling her work" ~ "Outstanding! Well rounded in all aspects" ~ "Student needs to use SPELLCHECK!" ~ "Needs specific call to action, has great stuff."
Here is a list of all of our "Guest Employers" who conducted the interviews. Thank you so much for your time!

• Brian Thompson – Alliance Digital Solutions – (Co-owner) also owns Cape Coral.com
• Nichol Blanco – Associate for Larazza Films
• Daniel Herrera – Producer, Director for Larazza Films
• Brendan Stanley – Alliance Digital Solutions – Creative Director
• Scott Jacobs – Allstar Marketing – President
• Katie Romano – Get Groovy – CEO
• Jodi Hopper – G.M.P. Employers Retiree Trust/Dzine Gallery
• Shell Redfern – Get Groovy – Creative Director
• Manzie Lawfer – 2 Way Radio Express – Owner/President/Book Author
• Denise Spence – Dunbar High School – Magnet Grant Technology
• Nancy Coker – Child Care of SW Florida – COO – Early childhood services in 10 counties

A lot of the student samples can be viewed on the SWFC's Graphic Design student website at http://www.creativesouthwestflorida.com/. Special thanks to Brooke Fisher from Marketing for providing photos from the event.

Southwest Florida College is an accredited, private institution of higher learning centrally located in Fort Myers, Tampa, Port Charlotte, and includes the Institute of Interior Design located within the Miromar Design Center in Estero. The College has been providing post secondary education to Floridians since 1974 and offers programs in Allied Health, Business, Design, Education, Information Technology and Legal Studies. Its mission is to provide educational opportunities for individuals to acquire knowledge and skills that will help prepare them for rewarding careers in fields with high growth potential. For more information, call toll free 888-279-2342 or visit http://www.swfc.edu/.

Institute of Interior Design: An Interview with Program Manager Linda Peterson

If you see an empty room as a blank canvas, then why not look into a career in interior design? The Institute of Interior Design at Southwest Florida College can help turn your passion into a rewarding career.

Whether you want an education and training for a new career or skills that will enhance your performance in your current career, the Institute of Interior Design has a skilled team of professionals and tailored interior design programs that are suited to meet your needs and the needs of the industry.

To learn more about Interior Design, call us today at (888) 279-2342 or visit our website at http://www.instituteofinteriordesign.com/!

Southwest Florida College is an accredited, private institution of higher learning centrally located in Fort Myers, Tampa, Port Charlotte, and includes the Institute of Interior Design located within the Miromar Design Center in Estero. The College has been providing post secondary education to Floridians since 1974 and offers programs in Allied Health, Business, Design, Education, Information Technology and Legal Studies. Its mission is to provide educational opportunities for individuals to acquire knowledge and skills that will help prepare them for rewarding careers in fields with high growth potential. For more information, call toll free 888-279-8342or visit www.swfc.edu.

SWFC Graphic Design Program: Straight From the Students

Southwest Florida College prepares digital design students for a successful career in both design and production through an emphasis on developing the student's capacity for critical thinking, and stimulating imagination and innovation.

The critical skills of perception, interpretation, and inventiveness are fostered as well as an understanding of digital design business practices. Industry standard software applications are used while solving design problems, planning, and executing solutions. The Student’s focus is to sharpen their ability to visually translate ideas of an intended message to a targeted audience.

Special thank you to Phil Rood, Angeli Chin-Franz, Jessica Kelly and The TJ Kelly Band! 3D animations in this video were modelled and produced in 3Ds Max by Aaron Belchamber, the Graphic Design Department's full time web design and 3D animation instructor.

Southwest Florida College is an accredited, private institution of higher learning centrally located in Fort Myers, Tampa, Port Charlotte, and includes the Institute of Interior Design located within the Miromar Design Center in Estero. The College has been providing post secondary education to Floridians since 1974 and offers programs in Allied Health, Business, Design, Education, Information Technology and Legal Studies. Its mission is to provide educational opportunities for individuals to acquire knowledge and skills that will help prepare them for rewarding careers in fields with high growth potential. For more information, call toll free 888-526-7973 or visit http://www.swfc.edu/.

SWFC Reaches Record Enrollement & Announces Expansion at its Port Charlotte Campus

Fort Myers, Fla. (November 5, 2009) – One new campus, five new programs, a Virtual school, and 2,300 students are swelling Southwest Florida College’s enrollment statistics.

"The school’s overall 28 percent increase compared to last year is spread across all of its divisions," said Dr. Stephen Calabro, Executive Vice President for Southwest Florida College.

The most significant increase came at the combined Southwest Florida College Fort Myers campus and Institute of Interior Design at Southwest Florida College in Estero, where 1,573 students enrolled this term, compared to 1,269 last year. The second largest enrollment spike came at the six-month-old Port Charlotte campus, where 197 students enrolled, compared to just 31 during its opening term in February. The Tampa campus swelled to 505 students, compared to 495 in the fall term last year. And the Southwest Florida College online division enrolled its 200th fully online student.

Program enrollments are especially strong in health care, which enrolled 821 students this year compared to the 573 that entered last year. Other programs that have shown considerable growth include Legal and Information Technology, which gained an additional 45 and 33 new students respectively.

The new Southwest Florida College bachelor’s degree program in Health Care Administration has gained traction and has enrolled 20 students in its first term being offered. Other new programs have been added to the Port Charlotte campus offerings and include a Crime Scene Investigation Diploma, and three new associate degree programs in Criminal Justice, Early Childhood and Management and Marketing. The Port Charlotte campus is expanding. Construction is expected to be completed by the Winter Term and will include added classroom space and laboratories.

Southwest Florida College is an accredited, private institution of higher learning centrally located in Fort Myers, Tampa, Port Charlotte, and includes the Institute of Interior Design located within the Miromar Design Center in Estero. The College has been providing post secondary education to Floridians since 1974 and offers programs in Allied Health, Business, Design, Education, Information Technology and Legal Studies. Its mission is to provide educational opportunities for individuals to acquire knowledge and skills that will help prepare them for rewarding careers in fields with high growth potential. For more information, call toll free 888-526-7973 or visit www.swfc.edu.

Event: SWFC Financial Aid Experts Volunteer to Offer Assistance in Completing the FAFSA

Tampa, Fla. (November 4, 2009) – The Southwest Florida College Tampa campus has been selected to host the 2010 College Goal Sunday. College Goal Sunday is a statewide volunteer program designed to provide free information and assistance to students and families who are applying for financial aid for post secondary education.

Financial aid experts will volunteer their time to assist students and their families with completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which is required for any student seeking federal and state financial aid, including grants and loans at all colleges in the country.

"The goal is to help students and their families navigate and complete the FAFSA process and answer their specific questions regarding Financial Aid," said Margaret Joffe, Default Manager for Southwest Florida College.

The event will be held at the Southwest Florida College Tampa campus located at 3910 Riga Boulevard on Sunday, January 31 from 2 to 5 p.m.

For more information about College Goal Sunday, please contact the Southwest Florida College Tampa campus at 813-630-4401 or visit http://www.collegegoalsundayflorida.org. To learn more about Southwest Florida College and the programs that it offers, contact a Guest Service Representative toll-free at 888-526-7973 or visit http://www.swfc.edu/.

Southwest Florida College is an accredited, private institution of higher learning centrally located in Fort Myers, Tampa, Port Charlotte, and includes the Institute of Interior Design located within the Miromar Design Center in Estero. The College offers programs in Allied Health, Business, Design, Education, Information Technology and Legal Studies. Its mission is to provide educational opportunities for individuals to acquire knowledge and skills that will help prepare them for rewarding careers in fields with high growth potential. For more information, call toll free 888-526-7973 or visit http://www.swfc.ed/.

SWFC Introduces New Programs

Port Charlotte, Fla. (October 21, 2009) – Southwest Florida College recently announced the expansion of its program offerings at the new Port Charlotte campus, which opened its doors in February of this year.

Recent additions at the Port Charlotte campus include a diploma in Crime Scene Investigation (CSI), a diploma in Early Childhood Care and Management, and three associate’s degrees – Criminal Justice, Early Childhood Education, and Management and Marketing. Applications are now being accepted for the winter term.

The Crime Scene Investigation curriculum was recently approved by the Crime Scene Certification Board of the International Association for Identification (IAI) and entitles Southwest Florida College to offer first level IAI certification. This globally recognized certification puts SWFC in stride with the world’s oldest and largest organization of forensic science professionals. The IAI represents some 6,900 practitioners in seventy five countries.

The Management and Marketing program is designed to familiarize students with the many facets of owning, operating, managing and marketing a business enterprise. Upon completion of the program, graduates can pursue careers in general management, sales and promotion, marketing, human resources, and retail operations.

The addition of the Early Childhood Education associate’s degree will allow students who are currently enrolled in the Early Childhood Care and Management diploma program to earn a degree. The program is designed to prepare students for careers in preschools, childcare centers, school-age programs, and in public schools with children through the age of eight. Students will obtain a background in the growth and development of young children and will be able to understand how they learn.

The associate’s degree in Criminal Justice provides students with a broad spectrum of coursework in corrections, law enforcement, terrorism, private security and investigations. Last month four students from the Criminal Justice program competed in the 2009 Lambda Alpha Epsilon (LAE) Region 5 Conference and returned with a first place, two second place and a third place medal.

Southwest Florida College also offers life‐time career assistance, tuition assistance and scholarships for those who qualify. For more information on any of these new programs, or to find out more about the new SWFC Port Charlotte campus, please call 1-888-526-7973 today to speak with an administrations representative or visit http://www.swfc.edu/.

Southwest Florida College is an accredited, private institution of higher learning centrally located in Fort Myers, Tampa, Port Charlotte, and includes the Institute of Interior Design located within the Miromar Design Center in Estero. The College has been providing post secondary education to Floridians since 1974 and offers programs in Allied Health, Business, Design, Education, Information Technology and Legal Studies. Its mission is to provide educational opportunities for individuals to acquire knowledge and skills that will help prepare them for rewarding careers in fields with high growth potential. For more information, call toll free 888-526-7973 or visit http://www.swfc.edu/.

Naples International Film Festival Team Up with SWFC Graphic Design Students

Southwest Florida College Graphic Design students have teamed up with the Naples International Film Festival to design creative marketing and promotional materials for this first international film festival. Daniel Herrera was kind enough to grant us an interview as we learn more about NIFF (http://www.naplesfilmfest.com/ ) and the kinds of exciting roles our designers play marketing and helping this fledgling enterprise become successful.

SWFC wishes the Naples International Film Festival, and our outreach contact and mentor Daniel Herrera all the success for this year and succeeding years' film festival.

To learn more about becoming a graphic designer, call us today at (888) 279-2342 or visit our website at http://www.swfc.edu/gd !

Southwest Florida College is an accredited, private institution of higher learning centrally located in Fort Myers, Tampa, Port Charlotte, and includes the Institute of Interior Design located within the Miromar Design Center in Estero. The College has been providing post secondary education to Floridians since 1974 and offers programs in Allied Health, Business, Design, Education, Information Technology and Legal Studies. Its mission is to provide educational opportunities for individuals to acquire knowledge and skills that will help prepare them for rewarding careers in fields with high growth potential. For more information, call toll free 888-526-7973 or visit www.swfc.edu.

SWFC Medical Assisting, Allied Health: Straight From A Student

Make lasting impressions on patients!
Southwest Florida College's Medical Assistant program is designed to expose you to both the administrative and clinical aspects of the modern healthcare environment. We place emphasis on medical theory and terminology as well as teach you the practices and procedures associated with the operation of a healthcare facility. You will also learn in our clinical laboratory classes, where you can apply the knowledge you previously studied and further your training in real-world scenarios. When you successfully complete the program, you can pursue entry-level employment as a medical assistant with private physicians, health clinics, hospitals and nursing homes.

Southwest Florida College features an Associate of Science degree in Medical Assistant that can be completed within a year and a half of study. This degree will focus on fundamental medical courses, such as anatomy and physiology, radiography, and phlebotomy, as well as clinical coursework like clinical procedures and pharmacology. Our Associate of Science degree in Medical Assistant is available at our Ft. Myers, Port Charlotte and Tampa campus locations as well as online for your convenience.

SWFC has a wide variety of specialty affiliations where you could complete yoru Medical Assistant externship - including general practice, pediatric, cardiac, neurology as well as full service clinics and family health centers. Many of SWFC students are hired during their externship.

Medical Assistants are supervised in person with weekly visits from the SWFC externship coordinator, unlike other programs where a student's progress is graded through a phone call.

With an ever-increasing patient community, medical assistants and service technicians are in high demand. Southwest Florida College's Associate of Science in Medical Assistant will equip you with the specialized training to make you stand out in your chosen profession.

To learn more, call us today at (888) 279-2342 or visit our website at http://www.swfc.edu/ah/medassist.asp!

Southwest Florida College is an accredited, private institution of higher learning centrally located in Fort Myers, Tampa, Port Charlotte, and includes the Institute of Interior Design located within the Miromar Design Center in Estero. The College has been providing post secondary education to Floridians since 1974 and offers programs in Allied Health, Business, Design, Education, Information Technology and Legal Studies. Its mission is to provide educational opportunities for individuals to acquire knowledge and skills that will help prepare them for rewarding careers in fields with high growth potential. For more information, call toll free 888-526-7973 or visit http://www.swfc.edu/.

SWFC Allied Health Surgical Technician Program: Straight From A Student

"Surgical Tech" -- The Surgical Technician program is designed to provide students with an academic and clinical background in the field of surgical technology. The program prepares students for entry-level positions in a number of healthcare facilities including hospitals, medical centers, and public and private surgical centers. This program contains a 6 -credit non-paid surgical technician externship that must be completed prior to graduation.

To learn more, please visit http://www.swfc.edu/ah/surgtech.asp.

Southwest Florida College is an accredited, private institution of higher learning centrally located in Fort Myers, Tampa, Port Charlotte, and includes the Institute of Interior Design located within the Miromar Design Center in Estero. The College has been providing post secondary education to Floridians since 1974 and offers programs in Allied Health, Business, Design, Education, Information Technology and Legal Studies. Its mission is to provide educational opportunities for individuals to acquire knowledge and skills that will help prepare them for rewarding careers in fields with high growth potential. For more information, call toll free 888-526-7973 or visit http://www.swfc.edu/.

SWFC Legal Studies Program: Straight from the Students from CSI Class

Southwest Florida College is excited to offer a New CSI Program. Students will learn many aspects of crime scene analysis including crime scene processing in a lab, forensic photography, and crime scene investigations. Students will also be exposed to mock crime scenes to sharpen their skills in identifying, securing, and processing various crime scenes. Students will specialize in the locating, recording, preserving, collecting and processing of physical evidence found at crime scenes.

The CSI diploma can be completed in only nine months. And the instructors are certified crime specialists who are employed in the field of forensics. The curriculum for the Crime Scene Investigation diploma program at Southwest Florida College has recently received Crime Scene Certification Board approval from the International Association for Identification (IAI). To learn more, visit www.swfc.edu/ls today!

Southwest Florida College is an accredited, private institution of higher learning centrally located in Fort Myers, Tampa, Port Charlotte, and includes the Institute of Interior Design located within the Miromar Design Center in Estero. The College has been providing post secondary education to Floridians since 1974 and offers programs in Allied Health, Business, Design, Education, Information Technology and Legal Studies. Its mission is to provide educational opportunities for individuals to acquire knowledge and skills that will help prepare them for rewarding careers in fields with high growth potential.

For more information, call toll free 888-526-7973 or visit http://www.swfc.edu/crime.

Fall Fest is moving to the Fort Myers campus on October 17th!

Students: PUMPKIN PATCH- Fort Myers: The details of Fall Fest have changed. The updated Fall Fest will take place on Saturday, October 17, from 12 p.m. until 3 p.m. at the SWFC Fort Myers campus. The event will include: pumpkin painting; face painting; sno-cones; popcorn; and henna tattoos. Plus, with every student ID, you'll recieve a FREE pumpkin while supplies last. Additional pumpkins will be available for purchase. Entry and parking are free. There will be no: bounce house; dunk tank; obstacle course; carnival games. To get a refund for your Fall Fest ticket purchases, please visit the campus bookstore.

Click here to learn more!

SWFC Criminal Justice Program Students Score Big

Four Criminal Justice Students, Max Tinkey “CJ Fraternity Club President”, Kyle McClinton, Oscar Lopez and Scott Siebert “CJ Fraternity Fundraising Chairman” are members of the American Criminal Justice Association, subchapter of Delta Omega Gamma Zeta, at Southwest Florida College. They journeyed to Richmond, Kentucky to compete in the 2009 LAE Region 5 Conference which was held at Eastern Kentucky University on September 24 through 26, 2009.

The students received awards for their efforts in several competitions. Oscar Lopez placed 2nd in the physical agility test. Max Tinkey placed 2nd in the Police Management examination and 3rd in the Criminal Law examination. Tinkey, Lopez and Siebert placed 1st in the team Firearms Competition. These students competed against regional colleges such as: University of Central Florida, Eastern Kentucky University, Florida State, ITT Tech Alabama, and ITT Tech Jacksonville Florida.

To learn more about Criminal Justice & Legal Studies, visit our program website at www.swfc.edu/ls!

Southwest Florida College is an accredited, private institution of higher learning centrally located in Fort Myers, Tampa, Port Charlotte, and includes the Institute of Interior Design located within the Miromar Design Center in Estero. The College has been providing post secondary education to Floridians since 1974 and offers programs in Allied Health, Business, Design, Education, Information Technology and Legal Studies. Its mission is to provide educational opportunities for individuals to acquire knowledge and skills that will help prepare them for rewarding careers in fields with high growth potential. For more information, call toll free 888-526-7973 or visit http://www.swfc.edu/.

CADD Program: Straight From A Student

Southwest Florida College's Computer Aided Drafting and Design program is designed to prepare you for employment in the technical drafting industry. After successfully completing the program, you will be able to develop technical drawings with both a computer aided drafting software workstation and traditional drafting tools. To learn more, please visit our program page at www.swfc.edu/ca.

Southwest Florida College is an accredited, private institution of higher learning centrally located in Fort Myers, Tampa, Port Charlotte, and includes the Institute of Interior Design located within the Miromar Design Center in Estero. The College has been providing post secondary education to Floridians since 1974 and offers programs in Allied Health, Business, Design, Education, Information Technology and Legal Studies. Its mission is to provide educational opportunities for individuals to acquire knowledge and skills that will help prepare them for rewarding careers in fields with high growth potential. For more information, call toll free 888-526-7973 or visit http://www.swfc.edu/.

Event: Graphic Design Field Trip Video

On Tuesday, August 25th, the Corporate Identity class visited Lee Designs in Fort Myers. Lee Designs is a sign design, construct and installation company of approximately 15 employees. The class had an opportunity to discuss the computer designs with their art director, meet the owner, and tour the facility. Students learned the challenges of designing with type for logos/signage when it pertains to sign construction and installation.

They had the opportunity to see the equipment and artisans at work on both aluminum, neon, and foam construction. What a day to be a designer. Graphic Design is a very broad field and many students were not aware of all of the possibilities as a professional designer.

Thank you, Lee Designs.
Chip McElroy
Program Manager, Instructor

Southwest Florida College is an accredited, private institution of higher learning centrally located in Fort Myers, Tampa, Port Charlotte, and includes the Institute of Interior Design located within the Miromar Design Center in Estero. The College has been providing post secondary education to Floridians since 1974 and offers programs in Allied Health, Business, Design, Education, Information Technology and Legal Studies. Its mission is to provide educational opportunities for individuals to acquire knowledge and skills that will help prepare them for rewarding careers in fields with high growth potential. For more information, call toll free 888-526-7973 or visit www.swfc.edu.

Southwest Florida College: Information Technology Straight from a Student

Careers in Information Technology are on the rise! Southwest Florida College has top-notch programs that will put you in demand for years to come.

Here are a few reasons why you should look to SWFC for training in Information Technology.

1) SWFC's IT students can graduate in as little as a year and a half with associate's degrees in Network Engineering & Administration, Computer Programming & Database Management, or Web Design & Development.

2) Courses are taught by CompTia, Cisco, and Microsoft certified instructors, all of whom have their master's degree in IT.

3) Throughout your training with SWFC, you may become certified in A+ Hardware and Software, Net+, Security+, Linux+, Project+, CCNA, and MCTS.

4) SWFC offers lifetime career placement assistance, so you can be assured of your success far beyond graduation.

See for yourself!

We invite you to get started today -- visit www.swfc.edu/it!

Southwest Florida College is an accredited, institution of higher learning centrally located in Fort Myers, Tampa, Port Charlotte, and includes the Institute of Interior Design located within the Miromar Design Center in Estero. The College has been providing post secondary education to Floridians since 1974 and offers programs in Allied Health, Business, Design, Education, Information Technology and Legal Studies. Its mission is to provide educational opportunities for individuals to acquire knowledge and skills that will help prepare them for rewarding careers in fields with high growth potential. For more information, call toll free 888-526-7973 or visit www.swfc.edu.

SWFC Early Childhood Education Program: Straight from the Students

Elementary Education • Early Childhood Education •
Early Childhood Care & Management

Students will focus on the creation of developmentally appropriate curriculums, and instruction and assessment in their classrooms. Upon completion of the program, the student will have a strong background in the growth and development of young children; understand how children learn; be aware of the diversity in our population; be able to observe children and use the data to plan developmentally appropriate instructional experiences; and understand the roles of the teacher, the family and the school community. To learn more, visit www.swfc.edu/ece today!

Southwest Florida College is an accredited, private institution of higher learning centrally located in Fort Myers, Tampa, Port Charlotte, and includes the Institute of Interior Design located within the Miromar Design Center in Estero. The College has been providing post secondary education to Floridians since 1974 and offers programs in Allied Health, Business, Design, Education, Information Technology and Legal Studies. Its mission is to provide educational opportunities for individuals to acquire knowledge and skills that will help prepare them for rewarding careers in fields with high growth potential. For more information, call toll free 888-526-7973 or visit http://www.swfc.edu/.

SWFC Business Program: Straight from the Students

Business practices are changing almost as rapidly as the technology that drives them. How do you keep up with the pack? You need an education that can teach you to successfully plan and implement all your ventures. Our programs in Business can help educate you for a role in defining business problems, arranging critical information, determining alternatives, and leading the way to solutions.

Learn more about our Business Program by going to www.swfc.edu/bs.

Southwest Florida College is an accredited, private institution of higher learning centrally located in Fort Myers, Tampa, Port Charlotte, and includes the Institute of Interior Design located within the Miromar Design Center in Estero.

The College has been providing post secondary education to Floridians since 1974 and offers programs in Allied Health, Business, Design, Education, Information Technology and Legal Studies. Its mission is to provide educational opportunities for individuals to acquire knowledge and skills that will help prepare them for rewarding careers in fields with high growth potential.

For more information, call toll free 888-526-7973 or visit http://www.swfc.edu/.

Event: SWFC Graphic Design's Digital Portfolio Show A Great Success!

Congratulations to all the Graphic Designers at Southwest Florida College for putting on a tremendous portfolio show for our Summer Term on September 3rd, 2009! Once the employers, family, friends, and students came through, the students removed their laptops and left the rest of their artwork on display in the college library for an entire week. The portfolio show featured fine art, digital art, websites, interactive presentations, all expressing each student's unique abilities and talents. To learn more, please visit the Digital Design/Computer Animation website at www.swfc.edu/gd.

Thank you to all the employers for their support and constructive feedback. A very large thank you to the students for their efforts! To Jan Rhonehouse, from Career Services, for coordinating the event! To the SWFC Library Staff for accomodating this week long celebration of the Graphic Arts! To Mr. McElroy, the Digital Design Program Manager, for all of his assistance, to Mr. David Meo for his outstanding impromptu interview about the purpose of the portfolio show, and to Rodney and Luis for set-up and break down.

What a rewarding job it is to see such diligent and talented students come up through our program. I am very proud to have been a part of helping each student succeed and take a large step toward achieving their dreams of grabbing new opportunities their new skills and knowledge will open for them. I look forward to hearing success stories from our newest graduates and remind you that Career Services is here to help you find employment.



Sincerely,

Aaron Belchamber
Web Design & 3D Animation Instructor
Southwest Florida College

Event: SWFC Club Fair: Get Involved!

Our students here at Southwest Florida College earn their degree through hard work, but that doesn't mean they don't have fun! Check out our recent student Club Fair membership drive -- your future success depends on the network of relationships in business and professional life that will help you find new opportunities for employment, freelance, and access to helpful information to help you advance your career goals. Visit http://www.swfc.edu/ to learn more -- what are you waiting for?!

Southwest Florida College is an accredited, private institution of higher learning centrally located in Fort Myers, Tampa, Port Charlotte, and includes the Institute of Interior Design located within the Miromar Design Center in Estero. The College has been providing post secondary education to Floridians since 1974 and offers programs in Allied Health, Business, Design, Education, Information Technology and Legal Studies. Its mission is to provide educational opportunities for individuals to acquire knowledge and skills that will help prepare them for rewarding careers in fields with high growth potential. For more information, call toll free 888-526-7973 or visit http://www.swfc.edu/.

SWFC Suited for Success Professional Clothing Drive Helps Students Make Great First Impression - Event

Students from Southwest Florida College were invited to participate in a Professional Clothing and Accessory drive called "Suited for Success". "Suited for Success" was a class project created by A. Rene Beadle and Zaida Portier (A2Z Solutions) for a Marketing Management class in the Bachelor's program for Management. This project began in mid July and culminated on Saturday, August 29, 2009 with professional clothing and accessory items being provided directly to students. The purpose of the project was to gather donations and distribute professional attire to students of the SWFC community. This would allow students the opportunity to make a good first impression at an employment interview.

Southwest Florida College is an accredited, private institution of higher learning centrally located in Fort Myers, Tampa, Port Charlotte, and includes the Institute of Interior Design located within the Miromar Design Center in Estero. The College has been providing post secondary education to Floridians since 1974 and offers programs in Allied Health, Business, Design, Education, Information Technology and Legal Studies. Its mission is to provide educational opportunities for individuals to acquire knowledge and skills that will help prepare them for rewarding careers in fields with high growth potential. For more information, call toll free 888-526-7973 or visit www.swfc.edu.

Event: SWFC 1st Annual Guitar Hero Tournament

Fort Myers, Fla. (July 30, 2009) – Southwest Florida College, in conjunction with Play ‘N’ Trade Video Games, will be hosting a Guitar Hero World Tour Tournament.

Think you’re a Guitar Hero Pro? Enter the tournament for a chance to win the grand prize of two tickets to a Blink 182 concert. There will be free pizza, soft drinks and lots of fun! The tournament will be held for three levels of play: medium, hard and expert. All who join have a chance to win!

Other prizes include a second-place prize of an electric guitar and amplifier set or a third-place prize of a $50 gift certificate to Play ‘N’ Trade.

The tournament will be held on Saturday, August 22 on the third floor of Southwest Florida College, Fort Myers campus, located at 1685 Medical Lane in Fort Myers. Sign-in begins at 2:30 p.m. and the tournament begins at 3:00 p.m.

There are only 100 spots available so register early to reserve your spot! To register, please call toll-free 1-888-526-7973, email events@swfc.edu, or text GUITAR to 51684. Minimum age for registration is 16 years old.

Southwest Florida College is an accredited, private institution of higher learning centrally located in Fort Myers, Tampa, Port Charlotte, and includes the Institute of Interior Design located within the Miromar Design Center in Estero. The College has been providing post secondary education to Floridians since 1974 and offers programs in Allied Health, Business, Design, Education, Information Technology and Legal Studies. Its mission is to provide educational opportunities for individuals to acquire knowledge and skills that will help prepare them for rewarding careers in fields with high growth potential. For more information, call toll free 888-526-7973 or visit www.swfc.edu.

Power of perseverance: SW Florida College grads celebrate

I think I can.

If optimism worked for The Little Engine that Could, surely it will work for 426 men and women who graduated Saturday from Southwest Florida College. They are leaving school in the worst economic period since the Great Depression, yet their future success boils down to having a positive attitude.

"Henry Ford once said, 'If you think you can, or you think you can't, you're probably right,' " said Lee County School Board chairwoman Jane Kuckel, who delivered the commencement address at Harborside Event Center.

Southwest Florida College is a career-oriented institution, the region's most diverse college. It has black students, white, Hispanic and Asian. It has teenage students and those who are grandparents. It has those who take the bus to class and those who drive new cars. It has well-to-do students and those who are one paycheck away from homelessness.

Education is the great equalizer.

"We are a colorful group from all different walks of life, different ages and ethnic backgrounds, but we all reached the finish line together," said Laura Allard, 39, of Bonita Springs, who earned an associate's degree in marketing and management.

No one ever told JoAnna Stewart that college would be easy; it was her struggle outside of class that made graduation seem like an impossible goal. She underwent chemotherapy and radiation for sickle cell anemia, sometimes so sick she could barely drag herself to class. But Stewart did, never missing a step. It got easier as June 20, 2009, approached.

"I saw the light at the end of the tunnel, and when I saw the light, I kept pressing," said Stewart, 49, a Lehigh Acres resident who earned a bachelor's degree in management.
The highlight of Saturday's ceremony was President Gregory Jones conferring 36 bachelor's and 295 associate's degrees, along with 85 diplomas and 12 certificates for students completing non-degree programs.

"I have been looking forward to this day all of my life," said 23-year-old Rosanna Sauceda, a Fort Myers resident who earned an associate's degree in graphic design. "I know my family is so proud of me. It got hard toward the end, but looking forward to this day has been my goal."

For those students who have yet to firm up post-graduation plans, the future is uncertain. Matthew Curry, 28, of Port Charlotte isn't sure where he will work, or even if he'll stay in Florida. Early signs, however, are pointing North.

"I haven't been able to find anything in this state," said Curry, who received an associate's degree in computer-aided drafting and design. "Everybody wants a bachelor's degree."

To find out more about Southwest Florida College visit http://swfc.edu.

By Dave Breitenstein • dbreitenstein@news-press.com • June 21, 2009

SWFC Celebrates Grand Opening - Event

Port Charlotte, Fla. (May 19, 2009) – It’s not all about fun and games, but folks sure know how to enjoy themselves. After all, what’s a better occasion for a celebration than a grand opening?

Carnival aroma of cotton candy, barbecue and popcorn filled the air so that you could barely notice the smell of fresh paint from the new building at Grand Oaks Plaza II on Saturday, May 16. That’s when Southwest Florida College held its grand opening celebration.

Everyone was invited to see what makes the new Port Charlotte campus so unique. Guests took tours of the new state-of-the-art classrooms, medical assisting laboratories and surgical technician operating room. An estimated 250 guests shared in the fun and nearly two dozen made appointments to return for more serious reasons – to explore their career options in the fast-growing medical field.

“It’s great, my kids are enjoying it,” said student Bridget Camp on Saturday, who was happy that her children could see where she went to school. Her sons Preston Camp, 5 and Dalton Camp, 9, enjoyed the bouncy twister and bean bag toss games. Other children had their faces painted like tigers and butterflies by Paulli the Clown and stood in line for balloon art of monkeys climbing trees, airplanes and swords.

To date, approximately 100 students attend Southwest Florida College’s Port Charlotte campus, located at 950 Tamiami Trail. Some students are studying to become medical assistants and surgical technicians, while others are taking courses in Medical Billing and Coding Technology, Health Information Technology and, starting in the summer, Early Childhood Care and Management to obtain their Florida Child Care Professional Credential. Even more programs are anticipated for the near future and are currently in the approval process.

“Southwest Florida College has earned a reputation for providing quality career education that leads to jobs in fields with high growth potential,” said Dr. Stephen Calabro, Executive Vice President for Southwest Florida College. “Our presence in Port Charlotte will add to the growing list of educational options for Charlotte County resident and will also extend our reach to other areas as well, such as North Port and Arcadia,” he said.

As a career college, SWFC’s programs are directly related to employment and Southwest Florida College takes it one step further by offering lifetime career placement assistance to all qualified graduates. Faculty members bring both academic preparation and industry experience to the classroom, which also help students make the transition from the classroom to the real world.

For more information or for directions to the new Southwest Florida College, Port Charlotte campus, call toll free (888) 526-7973 or visit www.swfc.edu.
Southwest Florida College is an accredited, private institution of higher learning centrally located in Fort Myers, Tampa, Port Charlotte, and includes the Institute of Interior Design located within the Miromar Design Center in Estero. The College has been providing post secondary education to Floridians since 1974 and offers programs in Allied Health, Business, Design, Education, Information Technology and Legal Studies. Its mission is to provide educational opportunities for individuals to acquire knowledge and skills that will help prepare them for rewarding careers in fields with high growth potential. For more information, call toll free 888-526-7973 or visit http://www.swfc.edu.

DESIGN YOUR FUTURE: INSTITUTE OF INTERIOR DESIGN HOLDS OPEN HOUSE

Estero, Fla. (May 19, 2009) – The faculty and staff at the Institute of Interior Design welcome all those who are interested in the field of interior design to attend an open house on Thursday, June 4. Come learn more about a possible future in the industry of interior design.

The open house is free to the public and offers participants a chance to view students’ work, take a tour, hear about the industry firsthand from guest speaker Pam Durkin, President Elect of the South Florida Chapter of the American Society of Interior Designers, learn about your future in design during the informational session and find out more about financial aid options, such as the $7,000 Smart Choices High School Scholarship, for those who qualify.

Take the next step and start the summer off right, come discover if the Institute of Interior Design is the right college for you. The Institute of Interior Design has a skilled team of professionals and tailored diploma and degree programs that are suited to meet the needs of the industry. Learn more about the bachelor degree program in Interior Design, the associate degree program in Interior Design and Decorating, or the diploma program in Kitchen and Bath design, which is designed with NKBA (National Kitchen and Bath Association) guidelines and approved by the NKBA as a supported school.

The open house will be held on Thursday, June 4 from 4:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Institute of Interior Design, located within the beautifully appointed International Design Center at 10800 Corkscrew Road, Suite 280, in Estero, Fla. Students of the Institute of Interior Design are in direct contact with professional designers and the unparalleled resources that the International Design Center has to offer.

Reservations are required and all are encouraged to attend. To reserve your space, please call Nancy Ashley at 239-221-7249 or email nashley@swfc.edu today.
The Institute of Interior Design is an accredited private institution located within the Miromar Design Center in Estero, Fla. It offers an unparalleled learning environment by surrounding its students with experienced professional designers, exceptional working materials and the resources needed to realize a future in interior design. For more information, call toll free (888) 526-7973 or visit http://www.instituteofinteriordesign.com.

PATTI DENNIS ANNOUNCED AS ENROLLMENT SUPPORT REPRESENTATIVE AND ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF THE GUEST SERVICE CENTER FOR SWFC

Fort Myers and Estero, Fla., (May 19, 2009) – Patti Dennis has been appointed both the Enrollment Support Representative for the Institute of Interior Design at Southwest Florida College and the Assistant Director of the Guest Service Center at Southwest Florida College.

Dennis said her goal in her two new positions is to continue to grow the guest service department in a positive direction and to “reach out to more students and help them transition from the dream of being in the interior design field and helping to make it a reality for them.”

“I would like to see both Southwest Florida College and the Institute of Interior Design continue to grow and change lives,” said Dennis.

Originally from Kansas City, Mo., Dennis began her employment with the college as an admissions representative in January of 2005. In 2006, she was asked to join the guest service department, working first with high school students and then adult students in her position as a guest service representative.

Dennis earned her A.S. degree fashion merchandising and marketing from Manor Fashion Academy in Sacramento, Calif. She also earned a degree in computer networking from Sanford Brown College of North Kansas City, Mo.

“What I like most about Southwest Florida College is that every person is treated with care and respect,” said Dennis. “As a member of this family, I have become an important part of the overall mission to change one life at a time. My position here has a purpose and that purpose is seen every day in our hallways and in the faces of our students.”

In her free time, Dennis enjoys spending time with her family. She loves the beach and likes to explore new things in this area. Recently, she has gotten into kayaking.

“Patti’s positive team player attitude combined with her consistent performance is recognized as a valuable asset not just to the guest service department, but also to the college,” said Allison Parrish, Director of the Guest Service Center for Southwest Florida College.

Southwest Florida College is an accredited, private institution of higher learning centrally located in Fort Myers, Tampa, Port Charlotte, and includes the Institute of Interior Design located within the Miromar Design Center in Estero. The College has been providing post secondary education to Floridians since 1974 and offers programs in Allied Health, Business, Design, Education, Information Technology and Legal Studies. Its mission is to provide educational opportunities for individuals to acquire knowledge and skills that will help prepare them for rewarding careers in fields with high growth potential. For more information, call toll free 888-526-7973 or visit http://www.swfc.edu.

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA COLLEGE PLANS 35TH COMMENCEMENT CEREMONY

Fort Myers, Fla., (May 8, 2009) – A leading local educator will accept an honorary degree and another will deliver the commencement address to 376 students receiving degrees, diplomas, and certificates at Southwest Florida College’s 35th commencement exercise, planned for Saturday, June 20 at Harborside Event Center.

“Graduation marks an important milestone for our students and is the culmination of years of dedication, hard work, and sacrifice,” said Dr. Stephen Calabro, Executive Vice President of Southwest Florida College. “We look forward each year with great excitement as we watch our graduates begin a new chapter in their lives.”

The commencement speaker for the ceremony, Dr. Jane Kuckel, was elected to Lee County school board in November 2000. She earned her bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Miami University, her master’s degree in administration and supervision from Bowling Green State University and her doctorate from Michigan State University in Curriculum and Administration.

Dr. Kuckel has distinguished herself in the field of education for over 30 years and has made invaluable contributions to the children of Lee County by serving on the Lee County school board for the past 9 years. She is a nationally recognized expert in the field and held positions form classroom teacher to college professor.

“Dr. Kuckel has a demonstrated interest in elementary education and it is most fitting to have her as our commencement speaker this year as the College graduates its first class of bachelor’s degree student in early childhood education and elementary education,” said Dr. Calabro.

When Dr. Kuckel retired as assistant superintendent from Lee County Schools, she sought the board seat to continue her commitment to improve the quality of education in Lee County schools. She said her hard work and service has been focused on “preparing today’s students for the challenges of tomorrow.”

SWFC has awarded approximately 10 honorary degrees in past years. This year, the honorary degree recipient will be Kathy Mizereck, Executive Director for the Florida Association of Postsecondary Schools and Colleges. Mizereck has held positions as a high school reading and English teacher. She has earned her bachelor’s degree in English and secondary education from the University of Florida and her master’s degree in curriculum and instruction from the University of Wisconsin– Madison.

Some of Mizereck’s credentials include working with critically low performing schools as Executive Director for the Florida Commission on Education Reform and Accountability; partaking in the School Code Rewrite and Workforce Education Task Force as Director of Legislative Affairs for the Florida Department of Education; and managing the development of teacher certification subject area tests as Project Manager for the Center for Instructional Development and Services.

Since the College was founded in 1974, approximately 4,500 students have graduated with degrees, diplomas and certificates in career fields such as allied health, legal studies, education, business, design and information technology – all of which offer high growth potential. This year’s ceremony will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, June 20 at Harborside Event Center. There will be a reception to follow for the guest speaker and honorary degree recipient. For more information on the event and directions to Harborside Event Center, please call (239) 939-4766.

Southwest Florida College is an accredited, private institution of higher learning centrally located in Fort Myers, Tampa, Port Charlotte, and includes the Institute of Interior Design located within the Miromar Design Center in Estero. The College has been providing post secondary education to Floridians since 1974 and offers programs in Allied Health, Business, Design, Education, Information Technology and Legal Studies. Its mission is to provide educational opportunities for individuals to acquire knowledge and skills that will help prepare them for rewarding careers in fields with high growth potential. For more information, visit http://www.swfc.edu.

SHANNON MACDONALD NAMED AS CAMPUS DIRECTOR

Port Charlotte, Fla., (April 28, 2009) – Shannon MacDonald has been appointed campus director for Southwest Florida College’s new Port Charlotte campus.

MacDonald said her goal in her new position is for SWFC to become a larger part of the community. “What we do is important to everyone,” she said. “We change lives and in today’s economy, it’s great to know that someone is out there willing to help others achieve their goals.”

Originally from Rochester, N.Y., MacDonald began her relationship with the college as a student in 1997, graduating the following year as valedictorian of her class. After earning her A.S. degree, she was hired as a full-time administrative assistant to the executive vice president of the college at the time, Richard Ashley.

Since then, MacDonald has worn many hats at Southwest Florida College, including working as a career services coordinator and career services director. In December of 2006, she became bursar, a position she excelled at for three years.

MacDonald has an associate’s degree from Southwest Florida College and graduated in 1998 as a valedictorian. She earned her bachelor’s degree Summa Cum Laude in executive management from International College. While earning both of her degrees, she also worked full time.

What does she like most about being at Southwest Florida College? Graduation! “Because it’s the pinnacle of a student’s hard work and achievement and I’m always profoundly moved at the ceremony when I reflect on the role that the college has been able to play in reaching a life-changing commitment,” MacDonald said. She went on to say that SWFC has diverse student population. Every employee plays pivotal role ensuring that students meet the goals they set for themselves from the very first admissions appointment.

“Many of our students thought college and a degree were unattainable goals until SWFC showed them otherwise. I am proud and honored to be part of their success.”

When asked what she did in her free time, MacDonald responded that she doesn’t provide herself with a lot of free time. “I am a workaholic and enjoy what I do,” she said. When she does have free time, MacDonald enjoys reading and sitting on the beach in the evening.

Southwest Florida College is an accredited, private institution of higher learning centrally located in Fort Myers, Tampa, Port Charlotte, and includes the Institute of Interior Design located within the Miromar Design Center in Estero. The College has been providing post secondary education to Floridians since 1974 and offers programs in Allied Health, Business, Design, Education, Information Technology and Legal Studies. Its mission is to provide educational opportunities for individuals to acquire knowledge and skills that will help prepare them for rewarding careers in fields with high growth potential. For more information, call toll free 888-526-7973 or visit http://www.swfc.edu.

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA COLLEGE NAMED TRAINING PROVIDER: Federal Stimulus Funds Reduce the Cost of Education for Qualified Applicants

April 28, 2009 – Finding a job often means learning new skills, and mastering those skills often means a trip back to school, where advanced education and professional development can be costly. Some of that expense can be defrayed with student loans – and now with additional help from federal economic-stimulus funds.

Last month, Governor Charlie Crist announced the release of “$165 million in federal economic stimulus founds to local workforce boards for additional job placement and job training for the people of Florida.” Governor Crist stated that the funds would help by providing workforce training for unemployed Floridians and would also help businesses by improving their worker’s skills.

“These federal stimulus funds will be dedicated to a wide variety of training and job placement services,” said Agency for Workforce Innovation Interim Director Cynthia Lorenzo. “One of our aims is to assist Floridians at One-Stop Career Centers around the state.”

Florida Workforce Development Board has approved Southwest Florida College, an accredited, non-profit career college with four area campus, as a training provider.

“Workforce Development has been given a substantial amount of money to be used for workforce training as part of a larger effort to tackle the unemployment situation,” said Dr. Stephen Calabro, Executive Vice President at Southwest Florida College. Depending upon applicant’s eligibility factors and their need, students can receive significant funds for tuition support. Funds are readily available to those who are eligible on a first come, first serve basis.

“The impact of taking advantage of all funding opportunities available to a student from the community is significant,” said Lauren Thompson, Assistant Director of Financial Aid Processing at SWFC. “It allows a student to reduce their overall student loan debt, while possibly opening the door to future opportunities and networks.”

Southwest Florida College has a number of short term programs for careers in high demand fields. The Workforce Development monies, combined with other resources, can substantially reduce the cost of education for qualified applicants.

“Our participation with Workforce Development provides a wonderful opportunity for students to acquire new job skills or improve upon existing skills while they are working towards a diploma or a degree,” said Dr. Calabro.

Individuals interested in receiving training through the College’s affiliation with the Florida Workforce Development Board should call 888-526-7973 to schedule a time to meet with an Admissions Representative at a Southwest Florida College campus. They may also visit their local Workforce Development office as soon as possible.

Southwest Florida College has four campuses located in Fort Myers, Tampa, Port Charlotte and Estero with the Institute of Interior Design located within the Miromar Design Center.
Southwest Florida College is an accredited private institution that has been providing post secondary education to Floridians since 1974. Its mission is providing the education that enables its graduates to pursue successful careers and lead enriched lives. For more information, call toll free 888-526-7973 or visit http://www.swfc.edu.

OPEN FOR TWO MONTHS AND ALREADY EXPANDING: SWFC offers even more opportunities by adding early childhood education into program offerings.

Port Charlotte, Fla. (April 20, 2009) –The fourth and newest Southwest Florida College campus, located in Port Charlotte, opened its doors in February. There are 61 students currently enrolled in programs within the Allied Health field including: Medical Assistant, Medical Billing & Coding Technology, Health Information Technology and Surgical Technician.

Just two months later, Southwest Florida College throws even more into the mix by offering a diploma program in Early Childhood Care & Management.

Upon completion of the program, graduates will earn a Florida Child Care Professional Credential, formerly known as a CDA or a Child Development Associate, through the Florida Department of Children and Families.

For every 20 children in a licensed child care facility, the state requires at least one worker with a Florida Child Care Professional Credential, or a credential equal or greater than the FCCPC. Southwest Florida College is now an approved provider through the Florida Department of Children and Families to offer the FCCPC upon completion of the Early Childhood Care & Management diploma program.

The Early Childhood Care & Management diploma program promotes collaborative learning and critical reflection as a way to develop a community of life-long learners who respect diverse perspectives, make informed decisions, and are responsive to the changing needs of children in our society.

Classes for the new Early Childhood Care & Management program will begin June 29 for enrollment into the summer term. As a career college, SWFC’s programs are directly related to employment and Southwest Florida College takes it one step further by offering lifetime career placement assistance to all qualified graduates. Faculty members bring both academic preparation and industry experience to the classroom, which also helps students make the transition from the classroom to the real world.

The Port Charlotte campus also serves as a regional student service center for the college’s many fully online degree and diploma programs. Financial aid is available for those who qualify. For more information, visit www.swfc.edu or call 1-888-526-7973 to speak with a representative.
Southwest Florida College is an accredited, private institution of higher learning centrally located in Fort Myers, Tampa, Port Charlotte, and includes the Institute of Interior Design located within the Miromar Design Center in Estero. The College has been providing post secondary education to Floridians since 1974 and offers programs in Allied Health, Business, Design, Education, Information Technology and Legal Studies. Its mission is to provide educational opportunities for individuals to acquire knowledge and skills that will help prepare them for rewarding careers in fields with high growth potential. For more information, call toll free 888-526-7973 or visit http://www.swfc.edu.

PAMELA KING ACCEPTS PROGRAM MANAGER POSITION

Fort Myers, Fla., (April 14, 2009) – Pamela King has recently accepted a promotion at Southwest Florida College as the Program Manager for Arts & Sciences/General Education.

King’s new position will enable her to support the faculty in areas such as math, science and English disciplines, in addition to supporting the educational growth of her students.

“The exciting growth in all the academic programs has demanded the increase of what is offered for many students prerequisites and electives,” said King, whose goal it is to develop the General Education Department by increasing the number of talented faculty available to teach innovative courses that support the academic focus of each of the degrees offered at Southwest Florida College.

King has been employed at Southwest Florida College for a little over a year and has held positions in Financial Aid and as a teacher for Freshmen Studies at the College before undertaking her new position as Program Manger.

She has an associate’s degree in architectural engineering and a bachelor’s degree in management of technology, both from Wentworth Institute of Technology in Boston, Mass., as well as a master’s degree in Higher Education from Indiana University in Bloomington, Ind.

In her free time, King enjoys spending time with her husband Kert, and her family members. She enjoys working on her new home and married life. When she can, King can be found windsurfing, boating and scrapbooking.

“I love the positive energy that so many faculty members are putting into action in their classrooms and the innovative initiatives that managers are doing in their departments at Southwest Florida College,” said King. “There is so much encouragement for advancement, training, and just simply trying new things.”

Southwest Florida College is an accredited, private institution of higher learning centrally located in Fort Myers, Tampa, Port Charlotte, and includes the Institute of Interior Design located within the Miromar Design Center in Estero. The College has been providing post secondary education to Floridians since 1974 and offers programs in Allied Health, Business, Design, Education, Information Technology and Legal Studies. Its mission is to provide educational opportunities for individuals to acquire knowledge and skills that will help prepare them for rewarding careers in fields with high growth potential. For more information, call toll free 888-526-7973 or visit http://swfc.edu.

AWARD WINNING INTERIOR DESIGNER TO TEACH AT THE INSTITUTE OF INTERIOR DESIGN

Estero, Fla. (March 9, 2009) – Richard Geary, president of an award winning interior and furniture design firm in Naples, Fla., will teach Furniture Design and Construction at the Institute of Interior Design, located within the International Design Center in Estero, Fla. The class will be held on Tuesdays from 8:30 a.m. to 12:20 p.m. from April 7 through June 16.

Geary has won numerous awards for design excellence in a career spanning 37 years. Recently his firm was a winner in the coveted Sub-Zero and Wolf kitchen design competition. The Geary Design firm typically designs more than 75 percent of the furniture, hardware, rugs and lighting used in design projects.

After attending the school of Architecture and Design at Ohio University where he studied Interior Design, Architecture and Environmental Design, Geary continued his professional education at Harvard Graduate School of Design. He maintains an interior design license in the State of Florida and has practiced throughout the United States, Mexico and in Europe.

Geary has been a valuable adjunct and supporter of the Institute of Interior Design since its inception. He has taught History of Modern Furniture and Furniture Construction at the University of Florida and was a long-time member of its Interior Design Curriculum Advisory Board.

The Institute of Interior Design’s Furniture Design and Construction course will include the theory and practice of furniture design and practical methods of construction as well as the preparation of design documentation and specifications of materials and hardware. The course surveys materials and machinery and covers current production methods.

Upon completion of the course, students will: achieve an understanding of the methods of documentation in furniture design; execute furniture design from concept to working drawings; articulate appropriate material selection, hardware and finishes; exhibit knowledge based on function and end use; understand the functions of the machinery used in furniture construction; know about the processing of wood, metal, stone and glass and how to design with the parameters of the material; comprehend the principles and methods of working with subcontractors and craftsmen to implement their designs; and demonstrate the skills necessary to present and market a furniture design to a client.

The Institute of Interior Design is an accredited private institution located within the Miromar Design Center in Estero, Fla. It offers an unparalleled learning environment by surrounding its students with experienced professional designers, exceptional working materials and the resources needed to realize a future in interior design. For more information, call toll free (888) 526-7973 or visit http://www.instituteofinteriordesign.com/.

SWFC DELIVERS BOOKS TO YOUNGEST READERS

Dr. Melanie Roberts, Director of Education and Ms. Dora Kunz, Program Manager of Education, stand with a selection of books to be donated.

Fort Myers, FL (February 5, 2009) – Southwest Florida College’s faculty, staff and students are helping the Early Learning Coalition of Southwest Florida make sure that children have access to high-quality books in their homes.

Students of the Early Childhood Education and Elementary Education programs at Southwest Florida College, along with faculty and staff, have agreed to begin corresponding with a child in order to improve the child’s literacy skills. For each letter written to the child, students and staff of SWFC will include a book that pertains to the child’s interests.

Since the children range from 3 to 4 years of age, classroom teachers from Early Learning Coalition facilities will gather and distribute letters and books to the parents.

“Children are like little sponges and this is a great tool for parents to read to their child at home,” said Dr. Melanie Roberts, Director of Education at Southwest Florida College.

Dr. Roberts explained how the initiative ties in closely to the curriculum of the Early Childhood Education and Elementary Education programs. The curriculum of these programs requires the student to select appropriate reading materials for various reading levels. Since the children within the Early Learning Coalition facilities are at a lower level of reading, students of SWFC are looking for books that are of high interest with colors, pictures and that use monosyllable sight words such as dog or cat.

In a letter to SWFC, the CEO of the Early Learning Coalition of Southwest Florida, Dr. Kathleen H. Reynolds, wrote that “fostering interest in books can have great positive impact on developing skills in reading and writing.”

The Early Learning Coalition knows “children who come to school ready to achieve have had exposure to lots and lots of conversation and books long before arriving in kindergarten. Unfortunately, many youngsters suffer from limited vocabularies and limited knowledge of how books work, simply due to lack of exposure.”

So far, 28 students, faculty and staff from SWFC are participating in this program. Dr. Roberts is hoping to reach her goal of 50, which would mean supplying the Early Learning Coalition with 150 books in total. She doesn’t think her goal will be hard to reach.

“If we can get 150 books out, it’s a good start, but we would like to do more,” said Dr. Roberts. “It’s amazing how these children don’t have things we take for granted. We are glad to help them.”

Southwest Florida College is an accredited private institution centrally located in Fort Myers, Tampa, Port Charlotte and also includes the Institute of Interior Design located within the Miromar Design Center in Estero. Its mission is to provide an education to men and women thereby enabling them to pursue successful careers and lead enriched lives. For more information, call toll free (888) 526-7973 or visit http://www.swfc.edu/.