SWFC's Tampa Campus Club Carnival a Big Hit!

Southwest Florida College's Tampa Campus held its "Club Carnival" where students were invited to participate in a range of fun activities, win prizes, meet current students participating in student organizations, and enjoy some great food. Some of the student clubs represented with booths and displays were: The I.T. Club, The Allied Health Club, The Criminal Justice Club, Future Business Leaders Organization, Graphic Design Club, and the Education Club.

The Digital Design students designed, produced and printed all of the event banners and graphics. Participating in student organizations will help you network by meeting new people and advance your career.

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/studentcorner.

SWFC Student Loan Debt Management Blog Answers Student Loan Questions

Updated information regarding laws and changes to student loans is available for Southwest Florida College students at our Fiscal Management Blog.  This blog is designed to help students effectively manage their student loans and achieve successful repayment.  We will keep you informed on the latest tools and trends that could impact you.  Visit http://swfcstudentloanmanagement.blogspot.com/ to learn more 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 888-279-2342 or visit www.swfc.edu.

Real People Behind the Scenes: Southwest Florida College Online Program Offers New Degree Opportunities

Meet the real instructors and the support staff behind the Online Programs at Southwest Florida College as they provide new students to the Online Program the basic information of what to expect and how to make the most of their online learning experience.

Video features: Jeffrey Tunney, Denise Mathey, Manny Maestre, Natalie Reese, and Shantha Fountain.

"For any students that are currently taking classes online or at the college, or prospective students that are thinking about joining Southwest Florida College, I welcome you and I want you to know that you will always find that any one of us, from your professors, your Program Managers to your Director of Education will always be available for you via email and phone and we want you to feel comfortable." Says Manny Maestre, Director of Distance Education.

The following programs area available fully online:

• Medical Billing & Coding Technology - Diploma
• Health Care Administration - Bachelor
• Health Information Technology - Associates
• Criminal Justice - Associates
• Early Childhood Care & Management - Diploma
• Management & Marketing - Associates
• Paralegal Studies - Associates
• Management - Bachelor
• Criminal Justice - Bachelor
• Early Childhood Education - Associates

To learn more about our online programs, visit http://www.swfc.edu/online today or call (888) 279-2342.

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.

SWFC Institute of Interior Design: Straight From the Students

Students from the Institute of Interior Design at Southwest Florida College share their thoughts and experiences going through the Interior Design Bachelor's Degree Program. You too can learn from experienced professionals in the field!

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 -- just listen to what these students have to say.

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 www.swfc.edu/interiordesign today.

Southwest Florida College Online Program Overview

The message is clear: Just because you are taking online classes
doesn't mean you are alone.

Getting your degree online can be a very rewarding experience. In this video, Southwest Florida instructors and staff explain the Online Degree Programs while sharing tips to make sure you succeed. You will also hear from a current fully-online student as she shares her experiences and challenges.

The following programs are available fully online:

• Medical Billing & Coding Technology - Diploma
• Health Care Administration - Bachelor
• Health Information Technology - Associates
• Criminal Justice - Associates
• Early Childhood Care & Management - Diploma
• Management & Marketing - Associates
• Paralegal Studies - Associates
• Management - Bachelor
• Criminal Justice - Bachelor
• Early Childhood Education - Associates

To learn more about our online programs, visit http://www.swfc.edu/online today or call (888) 279-2342.

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.

SWFC's 2010 Graduation Video Segments Available on YouTube Channel!

View the videos everyone at the Southwest Florida College 2010 Graduation Ceremony is talking about by visiting our YouTube Channel today!

Below is the "Faculty Advice" video -- a warm-hearted goodbye from our staff and faculty to our wonderful students. View more videos on our YouTube Channel, become a Friend or Subscribe to our YouTube channel 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 888-279-2342 or visit www.swfc.edu.

Mr. John Marazzi receives an Honorary Doctorate Degree

Dr. John Marazzi of John Marazzi Nissan and Audi Jaguar Land Rover of Fort Myers delivered the Commencement Address and also received an Honorary Doctorate Degree in Business Administration at the Southwest Florida College, 2010 Commencement Ceremony held on June 19 at the Harborside Event Center. Dr. Marazzi entered into the automotive business as a car washer at the age of 12. His desire to do right by each and every customer and his passion for building a strong community has led him to become a successful business leader. He demonstrates that hard work and perseverance can turn dreams into realities and therefore set a strong example for the Southwest Florida College graduating class of 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 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 www.swfc.edu.

U.S. Census Bureau Reports Positive Experience Hiring SWFC Students

Gordon Dunn, Recruiter for the United States Census explains the positive experience in hiring Southwest Florida College students to work for the Census.

"Here at Southwest Florida College, I have had a very wonderful experience working with the staff, faculty and the student body," Dunn says in the SWFC Web Video 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 888-279-2342 or visit http://www.swfc.edu/.

Southwest Florida College's Student Clubs Host Rummage Sale!

Two student run clubs at Southwest Florida College will be hosting a Rummage Sale to support students in need. The event will be held on Saturday, July 24 from 7 AM till 4 PM in the covered parking space below the Fort Myers campus on 1685 Medical Lane.
The event is open to the public and anyone is welcomed to rent a table. Concessions will be available for purchase and may include coffee, donuts and baked goods.

The Allied Health Club is fundraising to support children in need with valuable school supplies. Their goal is to support 100 students this year. The IT Club is funding a scholarship for the IT students in order to help them pay for their certification exams.

Vendors will need to arrive by 6 AM to set up. There is a cost of $20 per table and sign-ups need to be done in advance by calling the college at 239-939-4766 and asking for Ms. Levine or Ms. Cohen. Event will be held rain or shine.

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/.

Criminal Justice Program Manager Denise Womer Appears on Fox 4 News Wednesday Morning

Criminal Justice & Legal Studies Program Manager Denise Womer appeared on the Fox 4 News and Entertainment Show "The Morning Blend" on Wednesday morning between 8 and 9 am, on June 2nd.

In an interview with Bill Wood & Carley Wegner, Ms. Womer discusses computer forensics and the curriculum, displays photos of recent student activities, while providing an overview of the CSI, Criminal Justice and Paralegal degree Programs. For more information, you can visit the Program Page at www.swfc.edu/crime.

The video will be available by Fox 4 News the following day, just visit http://www.fox4morningblend.com/videos/95325654.html. To view other videos featuring Denise Womer and other Criminal Justice students, visit our YouTube Channel or click here to view our CJ Student Testimonial video.

Southwest Florida College can educate you on a broad spectrum of coursework encompassing corrections, paralegal studies, law enforcement, terrorism, and private security and investigations. Our classes will provide you with in-depth information about subjects as diverse as juvenile delinquency, criminology, white collar crime, and a student body favorite, organized crime. For more information, please call (888) 279-2342 today!

Southwest Florida College participated in Stonecrabs College Fair Night

The Southwest Florida College Port Charlotte campus participated in the College Fair Night at the Charlotte Stonecrabs baseball game on May 21, 2010. The students and faculty of the Port Charlotte Campus had a blast at the game! Here are some 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 www.swfc.edu.

Southwest Florida College, Tampa Campus, Holds 36th Commencement Ceremony

The Graduation Ceremony of the Southwest Florida College, Tampa Campus, will take place Thursday, June 17, 2010 at The Tampa Theatre.

Tampa, Fla.– An established and motivational football coach, who has been successful in shaping young lives, will accept an honorary degree and deliver the commencement address to 143 students receiving bachelor’s degrees, associate’s degrees and diplomas at Southwest Florida College’s 36th commencement exercise, planned for Thursday, June 17 at The Tampa Theatre.

“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.”

Coach Doug Kay will deliver the Commencement Address and will also receive an Honorary Doctorate Degree in Humane Letters. Coach Kay has had a successful and diverse coaching career as he has coached at the collegiate level, professionally in the U.S.F.L and for the Arena Football League alongside great leaders such as Lou Saban and Steve Spurrier. Coach Kay has been known to be exceptionally motivating, inspirational and has succeeded in his commitment to shape young lives. He sets a strong example for the Southwest Florida College graduating class of 2010.

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 6 p.m. Thursday, June 17 at The Tampa Theatre. For more information on the event and directions to The Tampa Theatre, please call (813) 630-4401.

Southwest Florida College is an accredited, private, institution of higher learning centrally located in Tampa, Fort Myers, 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/.

Southwest Florida College's Education Club Hosts "Future Teachers Helping Teachers" Yard Sale

The Southwest Florida College Education Club, known as the SWFC Awakeners, are hosting a flea market for teachers both in the private and public sectors at the Southwest Florida College, Fort Myers campus on Saturday, June 12 from 9 AM to 1 PM. Teachers can bring their unneeded classroom items or learning materials to sell at the event. There is no cost to participate and teachers keep all the proceeds that they make.

“We want to help teachers make the money and buy the things they need for their classrooms,” said SWFC student and Education Club president, Donna Lauricella. “With the economy the way that it is, we wanted to be sensitive to the expenses that teachers are burdened with year after year of setting up and operating a developmentally appropriate and effective classroom. This sale will give the teachers a chance to sell things they no longer use or need and also purchase things they want, all the while helping each other out.”

Items like wall decorations, classroom materials, manipulatives, idea books, literature, etc., can be bought and sold individually. “We are not making any money on the items that we sell,” Lauricella said.

The Education Club will also be accepting any donations of unopened art and craft supplies, manipulatives, or books for local preschools that are in need. Concessions such as coffee and donuts and other refreshments will be on sale. Money raised through concession sales will also go to support the preschools.

“We hope this event will help to get our name out there and let everyone know that SWFC students are involved and eager to take a place in the educational system here in Lee County.” Lauricella said.

The event will be held on Saturday, June 12 from 9 AM to 1 PM indoors on the third floor of the Southwest Florida College, Fort Myers campus located on 1685 Medical Lane in Fort Myers. Tables will be provided to all teachers. Teachers need to RSVP by Wednesday, June 9 in order to secure a space by emailing educationclub@swfc.edu or calling Donna at (239) 218-8967.

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 www.swfc.edu.

SWFC CADD Student Wins Board of Directors Award at ADDA Competition

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 CADD classes at SWFC would qualify him to enter and earn an award at a prestigious drafting competition.

In December of 2009, Slabosz submitted an original design for a special-use office building to the American Design Drafting Association's 43rd Annual Design Drafting contest. When awards were announced in April, Slabosz was ecstatic to find out he had received the 2010 Board of Directors Award. ADDA International recognized Slabosz for having demonstrated “the skills and knowledge worthy of recognition.”
“My entry was 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.

“The ADDA drafting competition is a wonderful opportunity for students to pull together their skills, demonstrate their knowledge and understanding and to work on a realistic design project as well as showcase our college on a national level”, Engler said.

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.

In December of 2009, Slabosz submitted an original design for a special-use office building to the American Design Drafting Association's 43rd Annual Design Drafting contest. When awards were announced in April, Slabosz was ecstatic to find out he had received the 2010 Board of Directors Award. ADDA International recognized Slabosz for having demonstrated “the skills and knowledge worthy of recognition.”

"My entry was 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.

“The ADDA drafting competition is a wonderful opportunity for students to pull together their skills, demonstrate their knowledge and understanding and to work on a realistic design project as well as showcase our college on a national level”, Engler said.

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.

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 www.swfc.edu.

Southwest Florida College Holds 36th Commencement Ceremony

Graduation Ceremony will take place Saturday, June 19, 2010 at Harborside Event Center.

Fort Myers, Fla. – A well known business leader and entrepreneur will accept an honorary degree and deliver the commencement address to 509 students receiving bachelor’s degrees, associate’s degrees and diplomas at Southwest Florida College’s 36th commencement exercise, planned for Saturday, June 19 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.”

Mr. John Marazzi of John Marazzi Nissan and Audi Jaguar Land Rover of Fort Myers will deliver the Commencement Address and will also receive an Honorary Doctorate Degree in Business Administration. Mr. Marazzi entered into the automotive business as a car washer at the age of 12. His desire to do right by each and every customer and his passion for building a strong community has led him to become a successful business leader. He demonstrates that hard work and perseverance can turn dreams into realities and therefore sets a strong example for the Southwest Florida College graduating class of 2010.

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 19 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 toll free 888-279-2342 .

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/.

Record Growth - SWFC Port Charlotte Campus

The Southwest Florida College, Port Charlotte campus opened its doors in February of last year. Since then, the physical campus has expanded and new classrooms and labs have been added. The build out has made the Port Charlotte campus double in size. New programs as well as some noteworthy personnel have also been added.

Dora Kunz is now the Director of Education for the Port Charlotte campus. Kristen Heermance is now the Associate Registrar and Erin Barnes has been promoted to Assistant Director of Admissions.

There has been a lot of growth in just a short period of time. The Southwest Florida College, Port Charlotte campus is now just short of 300 students.

New programs at the Port Charlotte campus include: Crime Scene Investigation; Early Childhood Care & Management; Criminal Justice; Early Childhood Education; and Management & Marketing. Programs that are also still being offered that were introduced when the campus first opened include: Medical Assistant; Medical Billing & Coding Technology; Health Information Technology; and Surgical Technician.

Medical Billing & Coding Technology; Health Information Technology; Criminal Justice; and Management & Marketing can also be taken fully online.

New personnel

Dora Kunz – Director of Education, Port Charlotte Campus

Mrs. Kunz was hired in September of 2006 as the Program Manager for Early Childhood Education. She began her career as an elementary and middle school teacher as retired as a Principal. Mrs. Kunz holds a master’s degree in Education and has earned posts graduate credits in Educational Administration from Ohio State University.

Kristen Heermance – Associate Registrar, Port Charlotte Campus

Ms. Heermance is currently pursuing her Bachelors degree at Southwest Florida College. She began her career with the institution in July 2007 as a receptionist and was promoted to Associate Registrar in 2009.

Erin Barnes – Assistant Director of Admissions

Mrs. Barnes grew up in Southwest Florida and graduate from Cape Coral High School. She earned a bachelor’s degree in Sociology from Florida State University in 2003. Mrs. Barnes started with Southwest Florida College in March 2007 as an Admissions Representative. In July of 2009 she was awarded Admissions Representative of the Term. She was recently promoted to Assistant Director of Admissions for the Port Charlotte Campus and intends to begin her master’s degree studies in the Fall. “I am very proud to be a part of an institution that says it’s “students come first” and really they really do,” Mrs. Barnes 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 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 www.swfc.edu.

Current Topic

Southwest Florida College Students Design for Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center's Spring Gala.

A group of Southwest Florida College students helped design the Official Program booklet of the Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center (SBDAC) spring Gala, “Race 2 the Finish.” The March 27 event will raise funds to complete the remaining $2 million renovations on its downtown historic building headquarters.

Gala programs play a crucial role in advertising and sponsor appreciation notes. This year’s booklet was designed by Southwest Florida College students in Shell Redfern’s Publication Design class. Ms. Redfern, adjunct professor at the college, is Creative Director of the marketing group, Get Groovy, which works closely with SBDAC.

"This is a terrific opportunity for the students to learn first-hand what it’s like in the real world. From deadlines to working with budgets to last minute changes, this is the real deal. The experience gained from this project cannot be taught in a classroom," said Ms. Redfern.

The partnership benefits both sides, says Jim Griffith, Executive Director and CEO of SBDAC. "It's been a wonderful experience for all involved. The students have great ideas and contributed a lot to our event, both inside and outside of the program they designed," he said. The students will also volunteer at the Gala.

Gala Director, Kimberly Becker, explained this year’s unique approach to the Gala. “Galas tend to be high-priced, strictly black-tie events. But this year we’ve designed a gala fit for this economy. We looked for ways to involve everyone. This year’s Gala will be just what the community needs, an upscale relaxing, outdoor event to celebrate our strengths and look forward to the future,” said Ms. Becker.

Student Christine Johnson enjoyed her experience working with the nonprofit organization. "This was great! It moved us from the imaginary realm to the reality of business. Kim met with us several times and really listened to what we had to say. I saw our suggestions used in the final product - that was the best part. No, actually, the best part is that I designed the back cover!” she 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 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/.

Current Topic

Community Outreach

Nursing Home Visit

For the second consecutive year, students from Southwest Florida College volunteered to visit local nursing homes and spend time with the residents. Headed by James Jones, Freshman Studies Program Manager, the students visited Manor Care and Evans Health Care facilities in Fort Myers on December 19.

For many of the elderly residents, the SWFC students were the only visitors they had this holiday season.

Toys for Tots

The students, faculty, and staff of the Port Charlotte campus participated in the Toys for Tots program this December. The campus collected two boxes full of toys along with two children’s bicycles. Due to the amount of new toys donated, Southwest Florida College was presented with the Commander’s Award by the Toys for Tots organization.

Harry Chapin Food Drive

For the second consecutive year, the Southwest Florida College Allied Health Club sponsored a food drive for the Harry Chapin Food Bank.

Faculty, staff, and students participated to collect over 500 food items that were delivered to the food bank in time for Thanksgiving.

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/.

Compass Reader Winter 2010

Faculty Spotlight

Lorie Darche

Ft. Myers Campus

Program Manager - Business

Business Program Manager, Lorie Darche, began her career at SWFC in 2004. Before that, she worked as a nurse in newborn intensive care for two years in Boise, Idaho. She then moved to Miami and worked at Jackson Memorial Hospital in newborn intensive care as head nurse. Since coming to Ft. Myers in 1984, Darche has worked for Lee Memorial Health System as first manager of Budget and Decision Support, and then as Vice President of Planning and Marketing.

Darche’s academic credentials qualify her to teach all courses in the Business Studies program. She has a bachelor’s degree in nursing, a bachelor’s degree in accounting, a master’s degree in business with a concentration in leadership, and is currently one-term from earning her master’s degree in accounting.

Darche has always had a dream of teaching. “The very best part of what I do each and every day is working with students, both in and out of the classroom,” she said. “It is extremely gratifying to get to know our students and help to challenge them in the learning process to achieve more than they think possible.”

“A benefit of being a business student at SWFC is that you can become immersed in a learning environment that has a very personal touch; engaging with a faculty team that is deeply interested in each student’s growth, both professionally and personally,” Darche said.

Elizabeth Whitmer

Port Charlotte Campus
Instructor - Medical Billing and Coding

With over 23 years in the health care field, Elizabeth Whitmer, RHIT, AHDI-F, brings knowledge and experience to the medical classes at Southwest Florida College.

Prior to coming to SWFC, Whitmer was the Director of Health Information and Privacy Officer for Collier Health Services in Collier County.

She has a plethora of experience as a multi-facility staff member and private health care consultant in a variety of settings. These include hospital inpatient, outpatient, ambulatory services, physician’s offices, psychiatry, cardiology, dialysis, eye surgery centers, as well as in the dental profession.

Supporting the passion of her work, Whitmer has had many educational articles on healthcare management published in newspapers and magazines in the Southwest Florida area, gaining recognition by the state of Florida Health Information Management Association.

Whitmer enjoys setting a good example for her students to follow. “I can remember my own educational mentor, and I wish to give back to the profession. Learning the many facets of health care is difficult; I work very hard to make it digestible,” she said.

Michael Coldwell

Tampa Campus
Subject Area Specialist - Computer Aided Drafting

For those in the Computer Aided Drafting & Design degree program at the SWFC Tampa Campus, no one is more qualified than Subject Area Specialist Michael Coldwell.

A native Floridian, Coldwell spent over twenty years in the US Navy where he held varied positions, such as, aviation electronics repairman, P-3C aircraft in-flight technician, aircraft repair division officer, and quality control officer.

Selected from among 800 applicants, he attended the Navy’s Scientific College degree program where he graduated with a degree in Aerospace Engineering.

After retiring from the Navy, Coldwell spent 15 years involved with the church, teaching volunteers, before he re-entered the technical field. Working for electrical generation and distribution engineering firms, he was involved with working on projects for the Kennedy Space Center, Disney World, and other large companies.

The Tampa campus acquired Coldwell as Subject Area Specialist for the CADD program in 2006. “Teaching has long been my interest,” Coldwell said, “When I teach, I try really hard to boil down complex ideas or procedures into bite-size chunks of information that students can readily understand.”

In fact, one of his recent students said that, “Mr. Coldwell is an excellent instructor, and his method of teaching makes it easy to learn.”

Kathy Heidrich

Institute of Interior Design
Full-Time Faculty - Interior Design

Full-time Interior Design instructor, Kathy Hedrich, has been active in the field since she graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Interior Design from Central Michigan University in 1992. She began her career in a small kitchen and bath firm, and after five years with that company, Hedrich opened her own business titled “Cabinets by Design, LLC.”

Her career at Southwest Florida College began in February 2007 after her sister suggested she look into teaching. “I googled ‘interior design programs in Southwest Florida’ and up popped the SWFC website,” Hedrich remembers. “I had always wanted to teach, but never thought of teaching at the college level.”

A believer in the hands-on approach, she tries to include projects that promote creativity and encourage participation rather than the standard reading, writing, and test-taking. “I look for the ‘spark’ in each individual student and help them find their niche,” she said. “Interior Design is a natural avenue for creativity, and learning should be exciting and passionate.”

As an instructor in an ever-changing field, Hedrich is constantly working to improve her knowledge. She is currently working on a master’s degree in sustainable design education at Prescott College, and recently received her Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Accredited Professional credential.

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/.

Compass Reader Winter 2010

Student Highlights

Shilo Johnson

Ft. Myers, Criminal Justice

Criminal Justice graduate, Shilo Johnson, earned his associate’s degree in 2006 and is currently employed as a deputy sheriff by Lee County Sheriff’s Office. “I love what I’m doing,” Johnson said, “it’s the job of my dreams and the career I’ve always wanted.”

Originally from Texas, Johnson moved to Florida in 2002, and was looking into colleges when he received a flyer in the mail from Southwest Florida College. He chose to major in criminal justice because he always wanted to get involved with law enforcement.

Johnson enjoyed his time at SWFC, and credits the college with his success in his career. “The faculty was great and the instructors really taught me a lot of useful information,” he said.

While getting his degree, Johnson worked six days a week, was a full-time student, and took care of his daughter. “It was definitely a challenge, but in the end it was worth it.” He credits his family with offering support and encouragement while he was in school.

Johnson advises others that “no matter how hard it is, and how many obstacles you have to overcome, stick with it, and never give up. A degree will certainly help you get the job that you’ve always wanted.”

Christina Nunez

Port Charlotte, Medical Assisting

Christina Nunez recently became a resident of Florida. She moved here in June of 2008 with her family and three children from Wilmington, Massachusetts.

Nunez worked in an office setting for ten years, five of which were spent as an administrative assistant to the president of a labeling company. However, after the family settled in Florida, Nunez got a new job and was laid off nine months later. “I figured it was the perfect time to go back to school, do what I really wanted with my life, and start a new career,” she said.

While surfing the web she found SWFC, and it was exactly what she was looking for in a college. “I fell in love with the school and program right away. It was just what I needed; the hours, the location, the school were just perfect.”

What really cemented her decision to come to SWFC, was how professional everyone was and the small classroom setting. “I like how you get a more personal response from your instructors and you don’t get lost in the chaos as you would at a larger school. You get more interaction in your education,” she said.

Nunez is currently working on her associate’s degree in medical assisting. She chose a program in the medical field because she has always enjoyed helping people and making a difference in someone’s life.

Scheduled to graduate in December 2011, Nunez will be the first one in her family to graduate from college.

Kristin Sciarrino

Tampa, Digital Design

Kristin Sciarrino was living in New York as of September of 2009, when her family decided to move to Florida because of a great financial opportunity. Due to the move, she began researching schools from New York which she described as a horror show. “There were so many different schools, but my major was very hard to come by. Until I found Southwest Florida College,” she said.

Sciarrino found SWFC while searching on the Internet and was interested immediately. “They had a great program for my major, and I knew I could easily advance, so I felt they were a good choice.”

Passionate about art and design, Sciarrino is currently enrolled in the Digital Design program at SWFC. “I feel that the college has the program that can take me from amateur to advanced designer.” As a visual learner she loves that the classes at SWFC are hands-on, especially projects and assignments.

Currently a part of the work study program at SWFC, Sciarrino expects to complete her associate’s degree in June of 2011. “If you have a passion for something, whether it is pursuing a medical career of just putting your artwork to good use, nothing will happen unless you have the initiative to pursue your dream,” she advised to those interested in Southwest Florida College.

Cynthia DeSantis

Institute of Interior Design

Interior Design graduate, Cynthia DeSantis, began her education at Southwest Florida College before the program was moved off campus to the Institute of Interior Design. She graduated in 2008 with an associate’s degree in Interior Design & Decorating.

DeSantis got her first taste of interior design when she renovated an apartment she bought for her family in a run-down building. “The whole apartment was so damaged and filled with garbage; it was a perfect picture of an abandoned building. I just saw the apartment different in my mind,” she said.

When she decided to improve her skills by earning an education, DeSantis was “scared to death, but each of my instructors took time out of their busy schedules to offer any individual help I needed,” she said. “I went to SWFC to learn a career, and I graduated with a new self confidence.”

DeSantis credits Program Manager Linda Petersen and instructor Kathy Hedrich on the superior education offered to students. “They taught us what we needed in the workplace to be an interior designer.” When the program moved to the Miromar Design Center in Estero, it gave and continues to give, each student the opportunity to be in and around vendors and interior designs, which is a huge plus,” she 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 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 www.swfc.edu.

Compass Reader Winter 2010

Student Highlights

Tampa

Jennie Gonzalez began her education in Paralegal Studies at SWFC in January 2008, and a month later, Career Services found her a job at a law firm in Plant City.

When the economy got bad and Gonzalez was laid off, the Career Services team found her a part-time job working for a probate attorney.

Scheduled to graduate this year, her ultimate career goal is to work with a firm that will help her exceed in the legal field.

Ft. Myers

Wendy Davis started at SWFC in 2009, and will graduate June of this year with dual degrees in Network Engineer & Administration and Computer Programming & Database Management. She is now A+ certified.

Career Services helped place her in a two-person IT department where she gets to work with hardware repair, software installation, set ups, programming, and customer service. Davis said Career Services was “terrific at making contact with my new boss. They sent my resume and acted as my personal representative and cheerleader throughout the interview process.”

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/.

Compass Reader Winter 2010

Employer Spotlight: Eye Associates

Trudy Olander, clinical supervisor for Eye Associates, recently began a working relationship with Southwest Florida College.

Eye Associates has been in Fort Myers for over 25 years and provides expert adult and senior eye care specializing in cataracts, glaucoma, and diabetic eye care. They currently have 27 employees and doctors between their Fort Myers and Naples locations.

When Olander had a position available in the billing department, she contacted SWFC. “I wanted to work with SWFC because we were looking for someone that had completed a medical billing and coding course with the most recent updated information,” she said.

After contacting Career Services, Olander was provided with six candidates that met all her needs, from which she hired a supervisor for Eye Associates.

“It is early in our working relationship with SWFC,” Olander said, “however, I can tell by the caliber of the candidates that were at the interviews, they were confident, skilled, poised with obvious education. SWFC will be my first place to look for any future
employees.”

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/.

Compass Reader Winter 2010

Employment Update

Congratulations to these Southwest Florida College graduates and students who have been placed in their chosen career fields. Great Job!

Tampa:

Early Childhood Education
Monica Carney - Orient Road Daycare, VPK Teacher
Loucinda Deagan - Children’s Kastle, Teacher’s Aide
Sharleen Sacco - Dover Head Start, Substitute Teacher
Candy Vannatter - Nanny’s Play Patch, Owner
Jennifer Williams-Waples - Kids Zone, Asst. Teacher

Graphic Design

Camille Fritz - J&G Photo Graphics, Graphic Designer
William Harris - J&G Photo Graphics, Graphic Designer

Management & Marketing

Adriana Agudelo - Verizon, Customer Service Rep.
Stanislava Dobreva - Tampa Convention Center
Monica Johnson - Aprile Chiropractic, Management
Michelle Mills - Lee Roy Selmons, Food Prep Chef
Michelle Nelson - JP Morgan Chase, Loss Mitigation
Yasaira Sanchez - Aris Financials, Administrator
Marie Smith - Office Product Solution, Customer Svc. Mgr.

Medical Assisting

Milka Hernandez - Hillsborough County Health Dept.
Sarah Smallwood - Marquez Medical Clinic, Check-Out
Maritza Torres - Moore Clinical Research, Med. Asst.

Paralegal Studies

Lilibet Lopez - Perez & Associates Law Firm, Admin. Asst.
Jennie Gonzalez - Michael Heider Law Firm, Paralegal
Nancy Holmes - Edward Jones & Company, Office Admin.

Ft. Myers, Port Charlotte, Estero:

Criminal Justice

Tanisha Grey - Department of Juvenile Justice, Officer
Algee Johnson - DCF, Child Protective Investigator

Early Childhood Education

Jennifer Lee - 1st Baptist Academy, Pre-VPK Teacher
Veronica Lewis - Lee County Schools, ESE Teacher Asst.

Graphic Design

Adam Smith - Graphic Design Solutions, Designer

Health Information Technology

Jesse Jones - Eye Associates, Billing Supervisor
Stacy Cooper - Associates in Dermatology, Processor

Information Technology

Wendy Davis - First Assembly of God, IT Help Desk
Lamar Lewis - Quality Life Center, IT Support
Heather Schneck - Paramount Transportation

Interior Design

Elizabeth Valdez - Roche Bobois, Customer Service

Management & Marketing

Christopher Cooley - BC & Sons, Customer Care
Alena Solmo - Ann Taylor Loft, Shift Manager

Medical Assistant

JoAnn Mora - Dr. DelValle Office, Medical Assistant
Olivia Roberts - Eyelid Surgery Center, Medical Asst.

Medical Billing & Coding

Angela Biondolillio - Alert Respiratory Services, Biller
Kassandra Messenger - NASA Neurosurgery Spine Assoc.

Surgical Technician

Jemmie Cassin - Lee Memorial, Heart Telemetry Tech.
Krystal Murray - Advanced Dermatology, Surgical Tech.

Certain classes were taken by students through Southwest Florida College's online classes.

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/.

Compass Reader Winter 2010

Campus Events

Old School Basketball

The second annual Old School Basketball Tournament took place on November 20 at the Skatium in Fort Myers and featured four different teams.

Weeks before the event, students organized teams, and built support through friends and club members. Members of the college also organized a team to represent the faculty and staff of Southwest Florida College. Students broke into three groups: Yellow, Blue, and Navy, while faculty were represented by the color Black.

The Old School theme was prevalent throughout the evening as 70s and 80s music filled the Skatium, and participants and spectators dressed in Old School attire. Door prizes were handed out to fans, and Management and Marketing freshman, Barrett Williams, awed the audience with his rendition of the national anthem at halftime.

The first game was close with the Navy team victorious over the Yellow team with a 37 to 32-point win. In the second game, the faculty held their own against the Blue team, but ended up losing 32 to 42. In the third game, the Yellow team overcame the faculty, with a final score of 42 to 16.

The championship game was close, with the Blue team edging out the Navy team 22 to 18 to take the win.

To keep up-to-date on the upcoming March Madness event, log onto http://www.swfc.edu/.

GIP Event

The faculty and staff of the SWFC Tampa campus celebrate their student’s success with the Graduate in Progress (GIP) ceremony. Recognized students must have successfully completed 48 credit hours towards graduation to be eligible, which is usually a half-way point toward their degree.

“The benefit of the GIP ceremony is to encourage students to complete their degree and support them as they strive to meet their goals,” says Danice Donaldson, Arts & Sciences Subject Area Specialist. According to a census, 90% of students that participate in the GIP program will graduate with their degree.

ADDA Competition Entry

David Slabosz, second-year Computer Aided Drafting & Design student has submitted an original design 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. He submitted five drawings, which delineated the foundation, floor, roof, framing, and electrical drawings.

Slabosz completed his drawings using the college’s Architectural Desktop 2010 and Auto CAD 2010 programs, which he learned during his training at SWFC. “Probably at least 150 hours went into the set of drawings, so a lot of drafting time was needed,” he said.

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.”

Winners of the contest will be announced by late February 2010 and awards will be presented at the ADDA Annual Conference in Louisville, KY, on April 12, 2010.

Fall Fest

Over 150 students, staff, family, and friends attended the Southwest Florida College Fall Fest 09 on October 17 at the Fort Myers campus.

A large pumpkin patch was set up and students and their children could pick out a pumpkin to paint and decorate on site. Henna tattoos, face painting, nail design, and a fall photo scene were also on hand for students and their kids to enjoy.

Carnival foods such as cotton candy, popcorn, and snow cones were sold by the Future Business Leaders, Criminal Justice Club, and Allied Health Club to help support the student clubs on campus.

Boo Fest

The Institute of Interior Design celebrated Halloween by hosting a party and costume contest. Students, faculty, and staff dressed up in costumes ranging from a flamenco dancer to a monk.

After a spooky dinner including hot dogs, themed music, and dessert, students were encouraged to perform a catwalk for the judges. Students explained their character as they strutted in front of the judges, while some took it to the extreme and stayed ‘in character’ the entire evening.

Dr. Melanie Roberts, Director of Education, and Linda Hamilton of the Miromar Design Center in Estero were two of the judges. Sandra Moyers, dressed as a zombie prom queen was awarded third place. Abbey Roloff, as Kate Gosselin dressed as a witch took second, and Drama Queen Sandra Rosenthal won first place. Each winner received a gift certificate, and all participants received a tote from the Miromar Design Center.

Harvest Fest

Four days before Halloween, the Port Charlotte campus opened its doors to students and their families so that they could safely celebrate the holiday.

The campus was decorated to provide scares and delights as the children went trick-or-treating in the classrooms. Faculty and staff dressed up to hand out candy.

Visitors each left with a complimentary pumpkin that they had painted. The college was visited by kids dressed in an array of costumes — from fruit to elephants.

Pictures with Santa

‘Tis the season at Southwest Florida College and to demonstrate feelings of good cheer, the Fort Myers, Port Charlotte, and Tampa campuses all offered students and community members complimentary pictures with Santa Claus.

Fort Myers

Spearheaded by Student Activities Coordinator, Pam King, the Fort Myers campus was turned into a winter wonderland for the arrival of St. Nick. Management student, Larry Horton, offered his services as Santa, Allied Health Program Manager, Liz Levine, played Mrs. Claus, and LRC director, Jenny Contakos, was the Grinch who stole Christmas.

The Education Club, headed by instructor Manny Maestre, transformed a classroom into a backdrop for the story, the Polar Express, complete with fallen snow and white cliffs. The students then performed a reading of the story to visiting children.

At day’s end, over 100 families visited with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Linda Smith, a current student, said that her “kids loved having their pictures taken with Santa and the Grinch, and my daughter still talks about it. Thank you for putting a smile on my child’s face.”

Tampa

The students and visitors at the Tampa campus were treated to more than just Christmas cookies and movies as they waited for their turn with Santa, who was played by CADD Program Manager, Michael Coldwell. The Criminal Justice Department assisted visiting children and their families in making their own fingerprint identity cards as part of Operation Identification.

Port Charlotte

At the Port Charlotte campus, instructor Tom Pear put on the Santa suit, and entertained visiting children and students with the help of his elves. Waiting children were entertained with coloring and holiday treats.

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/.

Compass Reader Winter 2010