Foundation News 2026 Issue 1

FSW radiologic technology students and faculty celebrate the opening of the new lab as colorful confetti fills the room.

Advancing Radiologic Technology Education

FSW State College celebrated a major milestone with the opening of the new radiologic technology lab, made possible by $2.2 million in state funding and a valued partnership with Canon Medical Systems.


Supporting Those Who Served

Through a long-standing partnership with Enterprise Mobility, FSW celebrated the reopening of its Veterans Services Center. The redesigned space offers support to student veterans and their families transitioning from military life to college life. It ensures that former military professionals have access to the resources, expertise and welcoming environment they deserve. FSW is a designated Military Friendly School and a Purple Heart College.


Transforming Nursing Education Through Giving

Susan Bernath and Jerry Schroer are making a lasting impact on FSW through a enerous $200,000 gift that honors their daughter, Allison, who passed away. Susan devoted more than 25 years to teaching nursing at FSW, and as a child, Allison often joined her mom in the classroom, even serving as a “real-life example” during lessons on childhood growth and development. Their gift established the endowed Allison Schroer Nursing Scholarship, which provides ongoing support to Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) students. In addition, they are funding FSW’s first virtual reality training system for nursing, giving students innovative tools to prepare for real-world patient care, ensuring Allison’s legacy will inspire generations to come.


Opening Doors to a Brighter Future

Through generosity from the Bobby Nichols Fiddlesticks Charity Foundation (BNFCF) two Lee County high school graduates have a brighter future thanks to the Earl Holland Memorial Scholarship at FSW. As teen parents, Daniel and Lesly overcame significant challenges through the school district’s Young Parent Education Program and with support from the Children’s Advocacy Center (CAC) of Southwest Florida. The scholarship they received was created through gifts from BNFCF members in memory of Earl, a long-time member. It supports clients of five local charities, including CAC, that focus on children and families


Connecting Students to Career Success

FSW celebrated the grand opening of a Career Connection Center location on the Collier County campus, which was made possible with a $250,000 grant from the Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation. The center provides students with opportunities for career development, programming and personalized support services. It bridges the gap between academic achievement and career readiness.


A Partnership That Builds Opportunity

Suncoast Credit Union Foundation’s recent gift helps prepare new K-5 teachers, expands the FSW CarePantry and strengthens opportunities for FSW student athletes. “We count on this generous and innovative community partner to support our students in challenging times. Their philanthropy helps build the bench strength of local school districts with our talented education graduates,” said Dr. Jeff Allbritten, FSW president. Suncoast Credit Union Foundation provided the 2015 lead gift to build FSW’s great sports arena. Their executive director, Jeff Kunberger, serves on the FSW Foundation board.


Investing in Health Care Careers

Greater Fort Myers Chamber of Commerce Women in Business committee’s impact initiative gave a hand-up to FSW students pursuing health care careers, donating $31,768 to cover the cost of tuition, exams, books and uniforms.

Representatives from FSW and the Greater Fort Myers Chamber of Commerce pose with a ceremonial $31,768 check supporting students pursuing health care careers.

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