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Mental Health Care

CenterstoneAvailable for Lee, Charlotte, Collier, Hendry, and Glades counties regardless of ability to pay, place of residence, or age. Call 239-208-6390 for more information and to make an appointment.Services for adults and youth include: Psychiatric medication management Person-centered mental health support Recovery-oriented substance use care Community-based specialty programs Below are links to different types of mental health resources.Hotlines & Text LinesMental Health Resources

Anna Haney-Withrow Named Director of the New Institute of Innovative and Emerging Technologies at Florida SouthWestern State

Anna Haney-Withrow Named Director of the New Institute of Innovative and Emerging Technologies at Florida SouthWestern State College Aug 12, 2024 AUGUST 12, 2024 - FORT MYERS, FLA - Anna Haney-Withrow has been named director of the new Institute of Innovative and Emerging Technologies (IIET) at Florida SouthWestern State College (FSW). In her new role, Haney-Withrow will play a pivotal part in fostering a collaborative and innovative culture within FSW and the broader community. Haney-Withrow brings a rich background in teaching and learning design, with a proven track record of leadership in both the private sector and academia. Her deep thinking and boundless energy are directed toward educational innovation and the development of cross-sector partnerships. Continuing her work in the humanities, Haney-Withrow integrates artificial intelligence and other advanced tools to deepen students' engagement with art, literature, and philosophy. Her commitment to education focuses on maintaining a dynamic relationship between students and teachers, ensuring that human-centered pedagogy and values remain central to technological advancement. The IIET at FSW is dedicated to inspiring learning and fostering innovation by leveraging emerging technologies and strategic partnerships. The Institute's mission is to prepare our diverse community for an interconnected global workplace by empowering human-driven solutions and enhancing FSW’s agility and adaptability. “As the pace of technological innovation accelerates, higher education institutions must become more agile and collaborate with industry to address skill gaps,” said Haney-Withrow. “The IIET aspires to be a multifaceted hub for research, development, training, and community engagement in emergent technologies. By fostering a collaborative and innovative culture, the Institute will promote skill development and streamline institutional processes, positioning FSW as a leader in the implementation of new technologies.” The IIET will support FSW's strategic initiatives to advance a world-class educational experience and prepare students for a globally competitive workforce through investments in state-of-the-art facilities and technology infrastructure, comprehensive hardware and software resources, robust community outreach, and development of a cutting-edge curriculum. By establishing the IIET, FSW aims to inspire learning, foster innovation, and form strategic partnerships to prepare our diverse community for an interconnected global workplace. The Institute will empower human-driven solutions, enhancing FSW's agility and adaptability while providing leadership in the Southwest Florida community and beyond. ##### Florida SouthWestern State College is Southwest Florida’s largest and most affordable institution of higher education. Annually serving nearly 20,000 students globally, FSW offers a variety of nationally-ranked, career-focused academic programs with two- and four-year degrees and professional certifications, several with 100 percent licensure pass and job placements rates. Study and travel abroad opportunities are available for students through FSW’s Center for International Education. Students are also active in clubs and programs catered to their interests. Visit www.FSW.edu for more information. Last Updated: October 3, 2025 Back to News Archives

Innovative 3D Model Enhances Simulation Healthcare Training at FSW Prepares Students to Care for Patients with Down Syndrome

Innovative 3D Model Enhances Simulation Healthcare Training at FSW Prepares Students to Care for Patients with Down Syndrome Jul 22, 2024 JULY 22, 2024 – FORT MYERS, FLA. – Florida SouthWestern State College’s (FSW) Center of Healthcare Training and Simulation Excellence recently introduced Gwen, a groundbreaking 3D model of a 7-year-old girl with Down Syndrome developed by LifeCast Body Simulation, into its School of Health Professions simulation training. Gwen joins the impressive array of training tools at FSW's Lee Campus, enhancing the educational experience for FSW School of Health Professions students. Gwen is the first model of her kind in North America and simulates real-life scenarios crucial for medical training, particularly in procedures like intubation and ventilation. Her anatomical features—such as a smaller jaw, larger tongue, and shorter neck—challenge students to master the specialized care required for patients with Down Syndrome. This hands-on approach equips students with invaluable skills, preparing them for the complexities they will encounter in clinical practice. "Training with Gwen provides a unique opportunity for our students to delve into the nuances of managing a challenging airway," said Jessica Golda, director, Corporate Training and Simulation Education at FSW. "Beyond technical skills, Gwen facilitates a deeper understanding of associated medical conditions like sleep apnea, congenital heart disease, vision and hearing issues, immune disorders, hypothyroidism, blood disorders, and ear infections. We are excited about Gwen's potential to revolutionize our simulation training and education." For more information about Gwen and advanced simulation training at Florida SouthWestern State College, contact Golda at Jessica.Golda@fsw.edu. #### Florida SouthWestern State College is Southwest Florida’s largest and most affordable institution of higher education. Annually serving nearly 20,000 students globally, FSW offers a variety of nationally-ranked, career-focused academic programs with two- and four-year degrees and professional certifications, several with 100 percent licensure pass and job placement rates. Study and travel abroad opportunities are available for students through FSW’s Center for International Education. Students are also active in clubs and programs catered to their interests. Visit www.FSW.edu for more information. Last Updated: October 3, 2025 Back to News Archives

Florida SouthWestern State College Accepting Fall 2024 Applications Classes Begin August 19

Florida SouthWestern State College Accepting Fall 2024 Applications Classes Begin August 19 Jul 17, 2024 July 17, 2024 - FORT MYERS, FLA - Florida SouthWestern State College (FSW) is still accepting applications for the Fall 2024 semester. Fall classes begin Aug. 19. Students can choose from 66 degree and certificate programs, including FSW’s newest programs in Supply Chain and Logistics Management, Advanced Medical Assisting, Social Media Communication, and Physical Therapist Assistant, which will begin in January 2025 pending accreditation by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE). Despite increasing inflation rates, FSW’s tuition rates are the same as they were in 2014, and with numerous financial aid, scholarship and grant opportunities, 76% of FSW students graduate debt free. To apply for the Fall 2024 semester or to learn more about FSW’s programs, visit www.fsw.edu/admissions. ##### Florida SouthWestern State College is Southwest Florida’s largest and most affordable institution of higher education. Annually serving nearly 20,000 students globally, FSW offers a variety of nationally-ranked, career-focused academic programs with two- and four-year degrees and professional certifications, several with 100 percent licensure pass and job placements rates. Study and travel abroad opportunities are available for students through FSW’s Center for International Education. Students are also active in clubs and programs catered to their interests. Visit www.FSW.edu for more information. Last Updated: October 3, 2025 Back to News Archives

Florida SouthWestern State College Launches New Social Media Communication Certificate Program

Florida SouthWestern State College Launches New Social Media Communication Certificate Program Jul 9, 2024 JULY 9, 2024 – Fort Myers, FL – Florida SouthWestern State College (FSW) will launch a new Social Media Communication College Credit Certificate (CCC) beginning this Fall 2024 semester. The program is tailored for those eager to master media communication, marketing, and public relations across diverse platforms, including print, television, the internet and social media. The Social Media Communication CCC at FSW offers students a comprehensive understanding of media literacy, writing and composition, technical communication, web design basics, communication studies, social media management, digital marketing, search engine optimization (SEO) and public relations. "This certificate program is ideal for anyone passionate about social media, content creation, SEO or digital marketing," said Dr. Jennifer Summary, FSW communication studies professor. "Our curriculum is crafted to meet the demands of today's digital age, preparing students to thrive in roles across various industries." A unique feature of the Social Media Communication Certificate is its flexibility. Students can complete this program concurrently with an Associate in Arts (AA) degree. The AA degree is the desired degree for seamless transfer to complete a bachelor's degree at another Florida state college or university. FSW also offers bachelor's degree options such as the Bachelor of Applied Science in Supervision and Management, which aligns well with marketing and media management career paths. For more information about the Social Media Communication CCC at FSW, visit www.fsw.edu/soas. Students can apply for FSW’s Fall 2024 semester through July 29. To apply for Fall 2024, visit www.fsw.edu/admissions. ##### Florida SouthWestern State College is Southwest Florida’s largest and most affordable institution of higher education. Annually serving nearly 20,000 students globally, FSW offers a variety of nationally-ranked, career-focused academic programs with two- and four-year degrees and professional certifications, several with 100 percent licensure pass and job placements rates. Study and travel abroad opportunities are available for students through FSW’s Center for International Education. Students are also active in clubs and programs catered to their interests. Visit www.FSW.edu for more information. Last Updated: October 3, 2025 Back to News Archives

Say Hello to Student Financial Services (SFS)

Say Hello to Student Financial Services (SFS) Jul 2, 2024 We are excited to announce that effective July 1st, Financial Aid and Student Accounts/Cashier will be rebranded as Student Financial Services (SFS). This new structure will provide a one-stop shop for students to manage their financial aid, accounts, tuition balances, and make payments. This area is located on the 2nd floor of Taeni Hall on the Lee Campus. Payments will still be accepted at the cashier window during business hours or at the 1st floor payment kiosk. Our goal with this rebranding is to greatly improve our ability to meet student's needs and develop better, more efficient processes for managing student finances. Last Updated: July 2, 2024 Back to News Archives

FSW Dental Program Graduates Celebrate 100 Percent Pass Rate

FSW Dental Program Graduates Celebrate 100 Percent Pass Rate May 15, 2023 MAY 15, 2023 – FORT MYERS, FLA. – Even with the COVID pandemic and Hurricane Ian bookending their educational experience, all 17 of Florida SouthWestern State College’s (FSW) Dental Hygiene program 2023 graduates have passed the National Board Dental Hygiene Exam (NBDHE). “FSW’s Dental Hygiene faculty prepare our students to apply critical thinking and evidenced-based care through the application of rigorous didactic examinations, laboratory competencies and clinical performance evaluations throughout the program,” said Karen Molumby, FSW Dental Hygiene Program Director. “The diligence and hard work by the faculty and staff in the dental hygiene program has ensured years of success on the National Dental Hygiene Board Examination (NBDHE). We are proud of our students and their academic accomplishments.” The Associate in Science degree in Dental Hygiene at FSW is fully accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation. Dental Hygiene students take the NBDHE in March while enrolled in their last academic semester at FSW. Approximately 94% of FSW’s Dental Hygiene program graduates remain in Southwest Florida and work in local dental offices and facilities following graduation. To learn more about FSW’s Associate in Science in Dental Hygiene program, visit www.fsw.edu/academics/programs/asdentalhygiene. #### Florida SouthWestern State College is Southwest Florida’s largest and most affordable institution of higher education. Annually serving nearly 22,000 students globally, FSW offers a variety of nationally-ranked, career-focused academic programs with two- and four-year degrees and professional certifications, several with 100 percent licensure pass and job placements rates. Study and travel abroad opportunities are available for students through FSW’s Center for International Education. Students are also active in clubs and programs catered to their interests. Visit www.FSW.edu for more information. Last Updated: May 15, 2023 Back to News Archives

College Operating Procedures

Welcome to the Florida SouthWestern State College Policies and ProceduresCollege Operating Procedures (COP) at Florida SouthWestern State College are procedures for faculty, staff, and members of the college community, ensuring consistency, compliance with laws and policies, and the establishment of proper internal controls. COPs are developed to ensure consistent application across various college functions, aligning with Board-approved policies and complying with federal, state, and local laws. They establish standards for behavior and operations within the college community. COPs provide a framework and standards for how faculty, staff, and the broader college community should conduct themselves. They serve as a resource for interpreting various workplace situations, including job performance, decision-making, interpersonal interactions, and business operations management.Approved COPs are centrally maintained by the Vice President of Business Operations and Technology. The College Operating Procedure Manual is made available on the college's website, organized by major divisions for easy access. Accessibility standards, such as ADA compliance, are adhered to in formatting. COPs are reviewed biannually.Overall, COPs play a crucial role in promoting consistency, compliance, and effective management within Florida SouthWestern State College. They serve as a valuable resource for all members of the college community, helping to establish behavior and decision-making in various contexts. By using the navigation boxes to the left, you may view all procedures within each volume by clicking on the appropriate area and referring to the resulting page.College Operating Procedures Contact: Jason Dudley VP, Business Operations and Technology/CIO jdudley1@fsw.edu (239) 985-8368 or extension 11868

Marketing and Media

Site Search Search COP # Title Approved/Reviewed 02-0201 Soliciting Media Coverage 1/10/2025 02-0202 Media Inquiries 1/9/2025 02-0205 Requests to Advertise to Students Faculty and Staff 1/9/2025

Academic Affairs/Provost

Site Search Search COP # Title Approved/Reviewed Academic Improvement Trust Fund 03-0201 AITF Process 11/1/2010 Academic Organization 03-0102 Department Chairs 2/12/2025 Assessment 03-0302 Program Evaluations Review 2/14/2025 03-0304 Student Surveys 2/14/2025 Committees 03-0403 Standing Committee Process 2/14/2025 Course Related 03-0602 Class Attendance, Excused Absence 6/19/2025 03-0603 Class Scheduling 2/14/2025 03-0604 Common Course Syllabus 6/19/2025 03-0605 Course Deletions - 5-Year Rule 2/14/2025 03-0606 Instructional Materials Adoption 6/19/2025 03-0609 Authorized Individuals in Classroom 6/19/2025 03-0612 Individualized Study 6/19/2025 03-0614 Recording Classroom Lectures Policy 10/27/2015 Degrees 03-0702 University Partnerships 2/12/2025 Exams 03-1004 Final Exams Schedule 2/14/2025 Faculty 03-1101 Adjunct Faculty Adjunct and Concurrent Faculty (Orientation, Supervision, Professional Development, and Evaluation) 2/12/2025 03-1105 Faculty Office Hours 2/14/2025 03-1106 Faculty Qualifications & Credentialing 2/14/2025 03-1107 Faculty Reassignment Time 2/12/2025 03-1109 Faculty Senate 2/12/2025 03-1112 Faculty Professional Development (FPD) Travel Fund 6/19/2025 FSW Online 03-0801 Online Certifications 1/10/2025 03-0802 Online Course Design 1/10/2025 03-0805 Online Instruction 1/10/2025 Institutional Research Planning and Effectiveness 03-1601 Institutional Review Board 2/14/2025 03-1604 Institutional Substantive Change Procedure 2/14/2025 Learning Resources 03-1301 Library Services Lending Policies 6/19/2025 Registrar 03-1701 Student Records Procedures 6/19/2025 03-1712 Release of Student Information 6/19/2025 03-1713 Priority Registration 6/19/2025 03-1714 Credit Review 6/19/2025 03-1715 Annual Calendar Procedure 2/12/2025 Standards 03-1402 Conflict of Interest (Academic Standards) 6/1/2010 03-1403 Copyright, Intellectual Property 6/19/2025 Students 03-1501 FTE Exemptions to International Students 2/14/2025 03-1502 Institutional Standards of Academic Progress 2/14/2025 03-1503 Academic Integrity Policy 6/19/2025

District BOT and President

Site Search Search COP # Title Approved/Reviewed 01-0103 DBOT Agenda Item Due Dates and Procedures 11/25/2024 01-0104 Accessibility and Anti-Harassment 11/19/2024 01-0105 Service Animals 11/25/2024 01-0109 President Award for Exemplary Service 11/25/2024 01-0110 Low Powered Vehicles 11/25/2024 01-0111 Fundraising 12/10/2024 01-0112 Freedom of Speech and Expression 12/2/2024

Facilities Planning and Management

Site Search Search COP # Title Approved/Reviewed 07-0701 Receiving 1/20/2021 07-0702 Building Construction Code Compliance 1/20/2021 07-0707 Performance of Preventative Maintenance 8/14/2018 07-0710 Processing of Motor Vehicle Certification Checklist 7/1/2009 07-0712 Processing of Work Order 12/16/2020 07-0715 Release of Drawings to other FSW Dept or Outside Agents 1/20/2021 07-0716 Owner Direct Purchase Program 10/21/2010

Give Kids a Smile Day Provides Free Dental Services at FSW

Give Kids a Smile Day Provides Free Dental Services at FSW Mar 6, 2023 MARCH 6, 2023 – FORT MYERS, FLA – The Dental Hygiene program at Florida SouthWestern State College (FSW) will host its annual Give Kids A Smile Day from 8 a.m. – 1 p.m. on Thursday, March 23 and Friday, March 24, in Building A on the FSW Lee Campus, 8099 College Parkway, Fort Myers. Children ages three to 17 will receive free dental services on a first-come first-served basis. Services that will be offered at no charge include dental cleanings, x-rays, dental sealants and a dental examination. Health educational activities, wellness assessments and child safety education will also be provided. FSW’s 2022 Give Kids A Smile Day event provided approximately $26,000 in free dental services to 85 children in the Southwest Florida community. For more information about Give Kids a Smile Day, call the FSW Dental Hygiene Clinic at (239) 985-8334. ##### Florida SouthWestern State College is Southwest Florida’s largest and most affordable institution of higher education. Annually serving nearly 22,000 students globally, FSW offers a variety of nationally-ranked, career-focused academic programs with two- and four-year degrees and professional certifications, several with 100 percent licensure pass and job placements rates. Study and travel abroad opportunities are available for students through FSW’s Center for International Education. Students are also active in clubs and programs catered to their interests. Visit www.FSW.edu for more information. Last Updated: March 6, 2023 Back to News Archives

FSW Honors Class of 2023 Graduates with Two Commencement Ceremonies

FSW Honors Class of 2023 Graduates with Two Commencement Ceremonies Apr 28, 2023 APRIL 28, 2023 – FORT MYERS, FLA – Florida SouthWestern State College (FSW) will hold its Spring 2023 commencement ceremonies on Friday, May 5 in the Suncoast Credit Union Arena. More than 1200 graduates have registered to participate in this year’s commencement ceremonies. Commencement will be split into two ceremonies and will be held as follows: 10 a.m. - School of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences; School of Health Professions; and some Associate in Arts degrees 2 p.m. - School of Business and Technology; School of Education; School of Pure and Applied Sciences; Dual Enrollment; and remaining Associate in Arts degrees Graduates will receive guest tickets, and anyone without a guest ticket will not be permitted inside. The Suncoast Credit Union Arena has enhanced security measures for all arena events including walk-through metal detectors and bag restrictions. These security measures will be in place during FSW’s commencement ceremonies. Outside flowers, balloons, air horns and noisemakers of any kind are prohibited inside the arena. Guests are encouraged not to bring bags into the arena. This includes backpacks, purses, briefcases, duffle bags or coolers. Guests that choose to bring a bag will be able to bring in the following: Bags that are clear plastic, vinyl or PVC and do not exceed 12? x 6? x 12”. One-gallon clear plastic freezer bag (Ziploc bag or similar). Small clutch bags, approximately the size of a hand, with or without a handle or strap can be taken into the Arena with one of the clear plastic bags. Small bags must not exceed 4.5” x 6.5”. An exception will be made for medically necessary items after proper inspection. Guests will be asked to return non-approved bags or other prohibited items to their vehicle prior to arena entry. There is no check-in location for prohibited bags or items at the arena. For a full list of prohibited items, visit https://www.fswarena.com/prohibited-items/. #### Florida SouthWestern State College is Southwest Florida’s largest and most affordable institution of higher education. Annually serving nearly 22,000 students globally, FSW offers a variety of nationally-ranked, career-focused academic programs with two- and four-year degrees and professional certifications, several with 100 percent licensure pass and job placements rates. Study and travel abroad opportunities are available for students through FSW’s Center for International Education. Students are also active in clubs and programs catered to their interests. Visit www.FSW.edu for more information. Last Updated: April 28, 2023 Back to News Archives

Auxiliary

Site Search Search COP # Title Approved/Reviewed 08-0102 Funds Derived from Auxiliary Enterprises 1/20/2021 08-0103 Use of Alcoholic Beverages 12/31/1969 08-0104 Auxiliary Enterprises 1/20/2021 08-0105 Financial Aid Bookstore Integration Process 1/20/2021 08-0106 Use of College Name Marks and Seal 1/20/2021 08-0801 Use of College Facilities 6/7/2022

Student Services

Site Search Search COP # Title Approved/Reviewed Admissions 06-0101 Student Admissions Policies and Procedures 2/17/2020 06-0102 Residency for Tuition Purposes 2/17/2020 Counseling Services 06-0604 Institutional Standards of Academic Progress 2/2/2021 Student Life 06-0701 Admin of Student Government Association and Student Clubs Organizations 2/17/2020 06-0702 Student Activity Fee Budget Development 9/25/2025 Student Services 06-0301 Financial Aid Packaging Guidelines 2/2/2021 06-0802 Student Code of Conduct 2/2/2021 06-0803 Student Academic Grievance 3/25/2025 06-0804 Student Written Complaint Non-Academic 2/2/2021 06-0805 Substitution Policy for Students with Disabilities 3/3/2025

Technology Services

Site Search Search COP # Title Approved/Reviewed 02-0401 Technology Passwords 12/1/2025 02-0402 Non-Disclosure Agreement(1) 11/14/2013 02-0403 Web Site Privacy 2/4/2011 02-0404 Security Incidents 2/1/2010 02-0405 Technology Acceptable Use 4/29/2019 02-0406 Technology Acquisition and Replacement 2/4/2011 02-0407 File Sharing Procedure 2/4/2011 02-0408 Electronic Data Preservation 11/14/2013 02-0409 Email Policy 11/25/2013 02-0410 Artificial Intelligence (AI) Acceptable Use 11/7/2025

Risk Management

Site Search Search COP # Title Approved/Reviewed 09-0101 Insurance Requirements for Vendors Service Providers and Professional Services 6/27/2024 09-0102 Process to Develop or Revise COP 1/29/2025 09-0103 College Sanctioned and Non-Sanctioned Camps, Clinics, and Activities 5/18/2022 09-0104 College Vehicle Use, Personal Vehicle Use for College Business, and Driver’s License Verification 10/14/2025 09-0105 Records Retention and Disposition 12/31/1969

Results

Archive

https://www.fsw.edu/news/archive/2015/10

Mental Health Care

https://www.fsw.edu/mentalhealthcare

Anna Haney-Withrow Named Director of the New Institute of Innovative and Emerging Technologies at Florida SouthWestern State

https://www.fsw.edu/news/detail/3273

Innovative 3D Model Enhances Simulation Healthcare Training at FSW Prepares Students to Care for Patients with Down Syndrome

https://www.fsw.edu/news/detail/3267

Florida SouthWestern State College Accepting Fall 2024 Applications Classes Begin August 19

https://www.fsw.edu/news/detail/3264