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FSW Chapter of the Association of Florida Colleges

About the Association of Florida CollegesThe AFC is the professional association for employees at the 28 Florida College System institutions. It serves as the advocacy organization on substantive issues of importance to college personnel. Issues such as funding, retirement, continuing contracts, and developmental education are legislative priorities advocated by the AFC Legislative Committee and the AFC contract lobbyists. The AFC provides opportunities to network with those who have similar interests or job responsibilities statewide. It is the place where professionals can turn for professional development, to establish a new network, and find answers to tough questions relating to higher education in the State of Florida. Think of being given the opportunity to not only read and talk about the legislative process, but having the chance to actually impact the results. Consider getting involved in a group that offers you unlimited ways to be a leader, develop a new skillset and be recognized by your peers for your efforts.Purpose of the FSW Chapter of the AFCSupport the Florida SouthWestern State College Vision, Values and Mission;Collaborate in a collegial and professional manner among faculty, administration and staff at all levels;Disseminate information regarding pertinent legislation and present the opinion of AFC members on important legislative matters to College administrators, college/community leaders and local and state legislators;Encourage and facilitate professional growth, service and developmental opportunities for members;Enhance the “One College” philosophy bringing all employees together for a common purpose; andPromote enhanced communication and collaboration between Florida SouthWestern State College and other colleges and universities within the state university system.Discounts and Access for MembersAccess and discounts to the following:Health InsuranceRental Car Discounts: Avis, Budget, Dollar, Enterprise and HertzTuition Discounts: Capella UniversityDiscounts to Orlando Magic Basketball Games: AFC Members save on the gate price and avoid StubHub or other website feesTicketsAtWork.com: Discounts and special offers to popular theme parks and entertainment attractions nationwide!Working Advantage: A discount services program offering savings on Broadway tickets, movie tickets, sporting events, hotels and theme parks.Professional and Personal BenefitsProfessional Development: Develop and hone skills in leadership, public speaking, advocacy, and interpersonal relationships.Access to information on issues and programs that affect higher education, the state college system, and you.Opportunities to attend workshops and conferences learning new skills and sharing your knowledge others. Present and showcase your knowledge and best practice ideas at local, regional, and statewide conferences.Opportunities to apply for AFC partnership scholarships and grants to continue your education.Connections with colleagues both at your college and colleges around the state.A voice in issues that affect your college and you as a college employee or retiree. Attend AFC meetings, ask questions and voice your opinion on issues that impact you, your institution, and your students. Your voice Matters!Collaboration in advocacy efforts: You directly benefit from the advocacy strengths of the Association.Lifelong friendships with others having the same interests.Opportunities to give back through local and statewide service projects.ContactEmail: afc@fsw.edu AFC-Florida SouthWestern State College ChapterExecutive Board Members 2018-2019Maisy Adams, President: jamaisa.adams@fsw.eduTim Maricle, President Elect: tmaricle@fsw.eduAmy English, Past President: Amy.English@fsw.eduPam Macander, Treasurer: Pamela.Macander@fsw.eduMcKenzie Cassidy, PR Representative: mcassidy1@fsw.eduJackie Beard, Membership Chair: Jackie.Beard@fsw.eduAshleigh Valero, Hendry/Glades Center Representative: avalero@fsw.eduTiffany Small, Thomas Edison Campus Representative: tsmall@fsw.eduVacant positions: Secretary, Collier and Charlotte Campus Representatives

Novelist Maile Chapman to Appear at FSW

Novelist Maile Chapman to Appear at FSW Sep 20, 2016 SEPTEMBER 20, 2016 – FORT MYERS, FLA. – Novelist Maile Chapman will hold a book signing and reading at the Florida SouthWestern State College (FSW) Thomas Edison Campus in Fort Myers at 4:30 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 26, in the Rush Auditorium, Building J. The event is free and open to the public. Chapman is the author of the novel “Your Presence Is Requested at Suvanto,” short-listed for the Guardian First Book Award and a finalist for the PEN Center USA literary award in fiction. Her stories have appeared in A Public Space, Dublin Review, Fairy Tale Review, Best American Fantasy, and GRANTA Online, among others. Chapman received her MFA in Fiction from Syracuse University and a PhD in English from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. She has been a fellow at the New York Public Library’s Dorothy and Lewis B. Cullman Center for Scholars and Writers as well as a Fulbright Grantee to Finland. She teaches in the English department and MFA program at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, and serves as editor of Witness magazine. This project is sponsored in part by the Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs, the Florida Council of Arts and Culture and the State of Florida (Section 286.25, Florida Statutes). It is coordinated by the Florida Literary Arts Coalition and FSW Writes, an FSW faculty group that plans writing events for FSW students, employees and the public. “We are happy to partner with the Florida Literary Arts Coalition to bring incredible authors such as Maile Chapman to the college to share their work with the southwest Florida community,” said Dr. Scott Ortolano, FSW English professor. Copies of the book are currently available for purchase at the FSW Thomas Edison Campus bookstore and will also be available for purchase during the event. For more information, contact Dr. Ortolano, at (239) 489-9472 or sortolano@fsw.edu. #### Florida SouthWestern State College is Southwest Florida’s largest and one of the most affordable institutions 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. Students are also active in clubs and programs catered to their interests. FSW debuted its intercollegiate athletics program in January 2016. Visit www.FSW.edu for more information. Last Updated: September 20, 2016 Back to News Archives

Delta Alpha Pi International Honor Society – Theta Zeta Chapter

Delta Alpha Pi is an academic honor society founded to recognize high-achieving students with disabilities who are attending colleges (including community colleges) and universities as undergraduate or graduate students. This dynamic organization celebrates and supports academic achievement, leadership, and advocacy for post-secondary students with disabilities. Students initiated into Delta Alpha Pi International Honor Society must meet the following criteria:All students must:Present with a documented disability and work with one of the faculty or staff members in the Office of Disability Services, or self-identify as an individual with a disability.Demonstrate an interest in disability issues.Undergraduate students must have:Completed a minimum of 24 credits.Earned an overall Quality Point Average of 3.10 on a 4.00 scale. Our purpose:Because of the negative stereotyping associated with disability, students have been reluctant to identify themselves publicly. Delta Alpha Pi Honor Society presents an opportunity to change that perception by recognizing students with disabilities for their academic accomplishments. In addition, this Honor Society facilitates the development of skills in leadership, advocacy, and education for participating students.Delta – D for Disability, but also the triangle, a symbol of strength. Members of Delta Alpha Pi demonstrate strength as leaders on campus to help break down the barriers of negativism. Also, they serve as mentors and role models for other students with disabilities.Alpha – A for Achievement. Alpha is the beginning and academic achievement must come first. But also, for advocacy because students must advocate for themselves before they can advocate for others. Members of Delta Alpha Pi enhance advocacy skills for themselves and for the rights of all individuals with disabilities to be included fully in society.Pi – P for Pride, pride in academic achievement and in other accomplishments, not just as students with disabilities but as members of the university community. Pi is a mathematical symbol that we all learned to use in elementary arithmetic classes. So Pi is an appropriate symbol for education. Members of Delta Alpha Pi participate in activities designed to educate the community and society regarding the need to apply the principles of universal design in learning.Connect with us on Bucs Corner!

Phi Theta Kappa

Phi Theta Kappa is the largest honor society in American higher education with 1,280 chapters on college campuses in all 50 of the United States, Canada, Germany, the Republic of Palau, Peru, the Republic of the Marshall Islands, Federated States of Micronesia, the British Virgin Islands, the United Arab Emirates and U.S. territorial possessions. More than 2.5 million students have been inducted since its founding in 1918, with approximately 135,000 students inducted annually.Phi Theta Kappa is recognized as the official Honor Society for community colleges by the American Association of Community Colleges. The mission of Phi Theta Kappa is to recognize academic achievement of college students and to provide opportunities for them to grow as scholars and leaders. PTK Chapters at FSW Omicron Epsilon Thomas Edison (Lee) Campus Alpha Upsilon Nu Collier Campus Alpha Tau Eta Charlotte Campus Beta Tau Pi Hendry/Glades

KWVA Sustains Scholarship Pledge to FSW Veteran Students

KWVA Sustains Scholarship Pledge to FSW Veteran Students Nov 30, 2015 Members of Cape Coral’s Korean War Veterans Association (KWVA) of Southwest Florida Chapter 155 presented the Florida SouthWestern State College (FSW) Foundation with a generous contribution to their scholarship endowment benefitting veterans. In September 2014, the KWVA established a scholarship endowment worth $15,050 to support veterans returning to school for a degree or to obtain skills. After two consecutive semesters of contributions, including last week’s gift of $3,600, the endowment is now valued at $21,150. “Returning veterans are interested in finding work in this market. Taking classes at FSW helps them supplement skills they learned during their service,” said Bob Kent, treasurer for KWVA Chapter 155. “With the scholarships we provide, FSW is a perfect fit for them.” “We are finding that veterans are choosing FSW because our programs are workforce based,” said Dr. Lou Traina, Vice President of Institutional Advancement. “After two years they leave with an associate’s to find a local job or stay with us to earn a bachelor’s in nursing, teaching or business administration. Thank you KWVA for supporting our veterans.” An average of 400 veterans receive benefits at FSW each year and last month the college was the first in Southwest Florida to install special veteran’s parking spaces. Many organizations and individuals are choosing to establish a scholarship endowment with the FSW Foundation. Through this financial arrangement, a donor has control over the specific terms of the fund. For more information, visit www.fsw.edu/foundation. About the FSW Foundation: Since 1966, the Florida SouthWestern State College Foundation has been enhancing the quality of higher education for FSW students and faculty. The FSW Foundation has awarded $1.2 million for student scholarships and $700,000 in academic support to the college annually since 2011. The Foundation’s focus is attracting and managing private contributions from individuals, organizations, businesses and other private foundations to support the college’s mission. To learn more about the non-profit, tax-exempt FSW Foundation or to make a gift, visit www.fsw.edu/foundation. Last Updated: November 30, 2015 Back to News Archives

Korean War Veterans Achieve Scholarship Fund Goal for FSW

Korean War Veterans Achieve Scholarship Fund Goal for FSW Oct 8, 2021 OCTOBER 8, 2021 – FORT MYERS FLA – The Korean War Veterans (KWV) Association, Southwest Florida Chapter 155, recently presented the Florida SouthWestern State College (FSW) Foundation with a check for $10,000, fulfilling their endowed scholarship fund goal. The group began supporting FSW students with scholarships in 2007 and in 2011 decided to raise the funds needed to create a legacy for their group and ensure their scholarship would be permanent. A social media post in August by KWV Chapter 155 President Bob Kent of their $1,000 annual donation to FSW Foundation led to the group’s fulfillment of their goal. The daughter of the late John “Mouse” Kloeker, a former member of KWV Chapter 155, saw the post and filled the group’s goal gap with the donation, made in memory of Kloeker. “I was so surprised she saw it and contacted me about donating,” Kent said. “We are so excited to have this completed and to honor Mouse.” KWV Chapter 155 funded their yearly donations to FSW through various fundraisers and donations by members. “We are so pleased to honor this group for their achievement and for their dedication to providing scholarships at FSW,” said Keith Callaghan, FSW Foundation Executive Director. “Not only have they served our country, but they will continue serving our students for years to come.” #### About the FSW Foundation, Inc.: The FSW Foundation, Inc. is a 501 (c) 3 charitable organization and a direct support organization for Florida SouthWestern State College. Visit Foundation.FSW.edu to learn more. Last Updated: October 20, 2021 Back to News Archives

F.A.Q.'s

➢ How do I get started?Please find our New Student Instructions HERE.➢ Which benefit should I use?Chapter 30: Montgomery GI Bill® Active Duty (MGIB-AD)Chapter 31: Veteran Readiness and Employment (Chapter 31)Chapter 33: Post-9/11 GI Bill® (Chapter 33)Chapter 35: Dependents Educational Assistance (Chapter 35)Chapter 1606: Montgomery GI Bill® Selected Reserve (MGIB-SR) ➢ How do I apply for benefits?You will need to complete the V.A. Educational Benefits Application HERE. After you submit your application, you will receive a Certificate of Eligibility from the V.A. in the mail within 30 days. Once you receive this document: Please provide the Office of Veteran Services with a copy of your Certificate of Eligibility. You will then need to request that your enrollment at FSW be certified to the V.A. by submitting a Veteran Deferment Form. V.A. benefits cannot be processed without this request. The Veteran Deferment Form is completed through your Student Portal under the Home Tab, at the bottom of the page under “additional links.”If you have used previously used your V.A. benefits at another institution, you will need to complete a Request of Change of Program or Place of Training Form:VA Form 22-1995 (For Veterans)VA Form 22-5495 (For Dependents)➢ When should students expect to receive B.A.H. (Housing Allowance) payments?Disbursement of payments varies by benefit chapter. The Department of Veteran Affairs typically pays on the first of every month for the previous month. For example, you’ll receive a check in February for the month of January, meaning that you will not receive your housing allowance until the month following your classes being certified by a School Certifying Official.For the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding payment dates and amounts, students should always contact the GI Bill® Education Hotline. They can be reached at 1-888-442-4551. ➢ How does the Veteran Deferment Form work?Students must submit a Veteran Deferment Form via their Student Portal every semester. Once the form runs through its various checks for registration, courses, and eligibility, you will be notified via email if your request was approved or denied.Please note that a deferment is not a method of payment. The deferment allows our office to extend the tuition due date, allowing the V.A. or student an extended period of time to send payment. It is the student’s responsibility to submit this form every semester AND whenever there is any kind of changes made to your schedule (add/drop/withdraw from a course). In the event that the V.A. does not pay, the student remains responsible for payment of the associated tuition and fees of their enrollment. Please click HERE for more information. ➢ What must a V.A. student do in order to receive V.A. education benefits? Students must be working toward an approved degree or certification program in order to receive V.A. benefits. Once the Veteran Deferment Form is received, Academic Advising will review the student’s schedule to ensure all classes the student plans to take are required for their chosen degree. This will avoid the possibility of overpayment for classes not required. Students will not be paid for courses repeated to earn a higher grade unless they receive a grade that is not considered “passing.”➢ Are students utilizing V.A. benefits entitled to priority registration? Yes, veterans are granted priority registration. Please see the Official College Calendar for specific dates and the most up to date information: FSW Academic Calendars. ➢ Does the V.A. Office at FSW offer Work-Study opportunities? The VA work-study allowance is available to persons receiving V.A. approved funding for at least 3/4-time basis under the following programs:Post-9/11 GI Bill®— (38 U.S.C. Chapter 33) (Veterans and transfer-of-entitlement recipients)Montgomery GI Bill®—Active Duty (38 U.S.C. Chapter 30)REAP ParticipantsMontgomery GI Bill®—Selected Reserve (10 U.S.C. Chapter 1606)Post-Vietnam Era Veterans’ Educational Assistance Program (38 U.S.C. Chapter 32)Dependents’ Educational Assistance Program (38 U.S.C. Chapter 35) Eligible dependents under 38 U.S.C. Chapter 35 may use work-study only while training in a StateNational Call to Service ParticipantsVocational Rehabilitation & Employment Program — (38 U.S.C. Chapter 31) As a work-study student, you will earn an hourly wage equal to the federal minimum wage or your State minimum wage, whichever is greater. If you are interested in applying for V.A. work-study, please reach out to Steve or Ian for more details. ➢ Will I still receive V.A. benefits if a portion of my tuition and fees is already met through state or institutional waivers? The VA is considered the last method of payment. If you are awarded a scholarship or any other aid that is specific to tuition and fees, the remaining portion is what will be reported to the V.A. when using the Post-9/11 GI Bill®. This also includes employee tuition scholarships and waivers. For example: Your tuition and fees are $1,000. You are receiving a scholarship for tuition and fees for $500. The amount our office would report to the V.A. is the remaining unpaid portion of $500. ➢ I am eligible for financial aid; can I use it alongside my V.A. benefits?Yes. We encourage all students to complete a FAFSA application. Scholarships and grants do not need to be paid back. There are additional expenses such as books, housing, etc., that financial aid can oftentimes cover when V.A. benefits do not. Our dedicated Financial Aid team is available to answer any questions you may have and assist you in explaining your options with any aid package you’ve been offered. ➢ What do I need to be aware of as a student transferring to FSW?A transfer student must have transcripts from previous colleges forwarded to Florida SouthWestern State College prior to transferring, including Military Transcripts. The Veterans Administration (V.A.) must give credit for all previous credits earned. The VA requires that we evaluate all transcripts, including the Joint Service Transcripts, within a student’s first two semesters. Failure to have the certification finalized will delay the veteran’s benefit check(s). You can find instructions on how to request your J.S.T. transcripts HERE.➢ I have used my V.A. education benefits at another institution. How do I transfer them to FSW?To change from one school or training program to another, individuals receiving benefits under the Post-9/11 GI Bill®, MGIB-AD, MGIB-SR, VEAP, or REAP will need to submit a VA Form 22-1995 “Request for Change of Program or Place of Training” to the Regional Processing Office serving your state.Individuals receiving benefits under the Dependents Educational Assistance Program will need to submit VA Form 22-5495. Upon completing these forms, please be sure to provide the Office of Veteran Services at FSW your confirmation number for our records. ➢ What is Veteran Readiness and Employment? Veteran Readiness and Employment (previously known as V.A. Vocational Rehabilitation) serves students with service-connected disabilities who need to change job fields in order to and other items necessary for attendance at FSW. The Vocational Rehabilitation Program is designed to assist veterans toward a goal in finding suitable employment. More information is available HERE. ➢ I’m in the Florida National Guard and I’ve heard they will pay for my tuition. How do I access that program? Recommended Florida National Guard enlistees may be eligible for funding under Florida's tuition assistance program Educational Dollars for Duty (EDD). Contact the Florida National Guard Education Services Office. Once approved, please provide your EDD Authorization Form to the Bursar's Office on the Lee Campus.➢ What are the Standards of Academic Progress for students utilizing V.A. benefits at FSW?Veterans are required to meet the same standards of academic progress as all students at FSW. Students are considered in Good Academic Standing if they earn and maintain a 2.0 or higher cumulative GPA. Students who do not maintain a 2.0 may be place on Academic Warning. Students who do not earn a cumulative or term GPA of 2.0 or higher while on Academic Warning are placed on Academic Probation for one semester and will have to work with their advisor prior to registering for future semesters. Students who do not earn a 2.0 term GPA while on Academic Probation are suspended for one semester. Students may petition their suspension to continue their enrollment by completing an Academic Progress Petition obtained from the Florida SouthWestern State College advising web-page at www.fsw.edu/advising.FSW is required to notify the VA when a student using VA education benefits has been place on Academic Suspension. The law requires that educational assistance benefits to Veterans and other eligible persons be discontinued when the student ceases to make satisfactory progress toward completion of his or her training objective. Benefits can be resumed if the student reenrolls in the same educational institution and in the same program. In other cases, benefits cannot be resumed unless VA finds that the cause of the unsatisfactory attendance, conduct or progress has been removed and the program of education or training to be pursued by the student is suitable to his or her aptitudes, interests, and abilities. In this case the student will need to reapply to use their benefits with the VA. ➢ What degrees or certificate programs can I pursue as a student under the V.A. Office at FSW? The Florida Bureau of State Approving Agency has approved Florida Southwestern State College for veteran education and training. Students must be working towards one of our degree or certificate programs in order to receive V.A. benefits. We encourage students to work closely with their academic advisor to ensure that the classes they plan to take are required for the degree/certificate selected. Only classes required for the student’s degree will be certified for V.A. funding.➢ I am using Post-9/11 GI Bill®. Does the V.A. pay for all tuition and fees?If you are receiving 100% benefit level, the V.A. will pay for all the in-state tuition charges for classes that have been approved as required for your degree or certificate program. If you are not considered at 100% benefit level, your payments will be prorated accordingly.The VA will only pay for fees that are required to be paid by all students. The tuition rate at FSW for residential classes contains a parking fee of $2 per credit hour. As of Fall 2020, this parking fee is credited to the account of students who do not use the parking facilities on campus.The VA determines that the parking fee is not something that they will pay for any student. Other non-standard fees, such as multiple attempt charges and book charges, are also not covered by the V.A. ➢ How can I find out how many months of education benefits I have remaining?You can view this information if you have an eBenefits account. You can also call the V.A. Education Benefits hotline at 888-442-4551 to receive an update on the status of your remaining eligibility.➢ What happens if I fail a class? Will I owe the V.A. money?If you fail a class, the grade you receive counts, negatively, towards graduation in your curriculum. Therefore, you are not required to repay any V.A. benefits you received for that class. You may retake the class to receive a passing grade that will count towards graduation and during that time you can receive V.A. benefits.➢ What happens if I add, drop, or withdraw from a class? In the event that you add, drop, or withdraw from a course, this information must be reported to the FSW VA Office. Students should always consult with the V.A. School Certifying Official before withdrawing from a course as there may be repercussions and debt a student may incur due to the withdraw. Withdrawals and grades of “W” are retroactive to the beginning of the term, and the V.A. does not pay for courses in which the student receives a grade of “W.”You may owe money to FSW or the Veteran Affairs Office, depending on when you add, drop, or withdraw from a course. You will be responsible for reimbursing the V.A. if an overpayment occurs. If you require assistance with a debt letter, please contact the V.A. Debt Management Center. ➢ I’m a transient student using VA education benefits. What do I need to do?Transient or Guest students using VA education benefits at FSW must provide the Veteran Services office a copy of your Certificate of Eligibility and a ‘Parent School letter’ from your home school confirming which degree program you are working towards and what classes have been approved to take at FSW. Please contact the School Certifying official at your home institution to request this information. A Florida Shines approval may be used in lieu of a Parent School letter. *GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government Web site at https://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill.

Acclaimed Novelist to Speak at FSW

Acclaimed Novelist to Speak at FSW Sep 15, 2015 SEPTEMBER 15, 2015 – PUNTA GORDA, FLA – The Florida Literary Arts Coalition (FLAC) presents a reading by novelist Andrea Chapin at 4:30 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 28, at the Florida SouthWestern State College (FSW) Charlotte Campus, 26300 Airport Rd., Punta Gorda. Chapin will give a reading from her first novel, The Tutor, which imagines a year in the life of William Shakespeare. The reading is open to the public. Chapin has been an editor for art, movie, theater, and literary magazines, including The Paris Review, Conjunctions, and The Lincoln Center Theater Review, and has written for More, Redbook, Town & Country, Self, Martha Stewart Living, Marie Claire UK, and other publications. Her work as also appeared in several anthologies, and she was the co-editor of The Honeymoon's Over: True Stories of Love, Marriage & Divorce (Warner Books). Chapin taught fiction writing workshops at NYU's SCPS for ten years. She is also a private book editor and has edited over 200 books, novels and memoirs. A limited number of books will be available for purchase during the reading. This project is sponsored in part by the Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs, the Florida Council of Arts and Culture and the State of Florida. For more information, contact John Pelot, FSW English professor, at jpelot@fsw.edu. About the Florida Literary Arts Coalition: Founded in 2004 by Anhinga Press, Fiction Collective 2, and the University of Tampa Press, the Florida Literary Arts Coalition is a network of writers, teachers, editors, publishers, and sympathetic institutions collaborating to advance new writing and independent publishing throughout the state and region. #### Florida SouthWestern State College is Southwest Florida’s largest and one of the most affordable institutions of higher education. Annually serving more than 22,000 students globally, FSW offers a variety of nationally-ranked, career-focused academic programs with two- and four-year degrees, and professional certifications. Students are also active in clubs and programs catered to their interests. FSW will debut its intercollegiate athletics program in the fall 2015. Visit www.FSW.edu for more information. Last Updated: September 15, 2015 Back to News Archives

FSW Veterans Benefit from Scholarship Endowment

FSW Veterans Benefit from Scholarship Endowment Apr 10, 2015 Members of Cape Coral’s Korean War Veterans Association (KWVA) of Southwest Florida Chapter 155 proudly presented Florida SouthWestern State College President Jeff Allbritten with their annual donation for veteran scholarships. The KWVA donates $1,000 to the College each year to help a veteran student. They also contributed $2,500 to a scholarship endowment established in 2014 – now totaling $17,500 – so other veterans can attend FSW in the future. “The KWVA believes that it’s important for our veterans to have access to educational opportunities so they will be able to enter the Southwest Florida workforce with the most relevant and competitive skills,” said Bob Kent, treasurer for KWVA Chapter 155. “We created the endowment to help our fellow veterans. It will be on record long after we’re all gone.” Omar Ortiz received the Korean War Veterans scholarship this year. A veteran of Operation Iraqi Freedom, Ortiz served active duty in the U.S. Army for five years before transitioning to the U.S. Army Reserves to go to college. He is a full-time student at FSW who also works part-time. Ortiz said he never would’ve been able to devote as much time to studying if not for the scholarship. “The scholarship decreased my financial burdens and allowed me to focus more time and energy to my classes instead of working longer hours,” he said. “I want to thank the KWVA for their contributions and their commitment in facilitating the success of fellow veterans.” Ortiz will graduate this summer with his Bachelor of Applied Science in Public Safety Administration degree from FSW. He plans on working in emergency medicine. FSW serves an average of 500 students receiving veteran’s benefits each year. All of these students can apply for various forms of financial assistance with the help of the Office of Veterans Affairs. “Veterans attending FSW train in a variety of fields,” said Dr. Louis Traina, Vice President of Institutional Advancement. “They proudly serve our country and then work throughout Southwest Florida as paramedics, nurses, firefighters, and more. We are thankful to have them.” About the FSW Foundation: Since 1966, the Florida SouthWestern State College Foundation has been enhancing the quality of higher education for FSW students and faculty. The FSW Foundation has awarded $1.2 million for student scholarships and $700,000 in academic support to the college annually since 2011. The Foundation’s focus is attracting and managing private contributions from individuals, organizations, businesses and other private foundations to support the college’s mission. To learn more about the non-profit, tax-exempt FSW Foundation or to make a gift, visit foundation.fsw.edu. About FSW: Florida SouthWestern State College is Southwest Florida’s largest and one of the most affordable institutions of higher education. Annually serving more than 22,000 students globally, FSW offers a variety of nationally-ranked, career-focused academic programs with two- and four-year degrees, and professional certifications. Students are also active in clubs and programs catered to their interests. FSW will debut its intercollegiate athletics program in the fall 2015. Visit www.FSW.edu for more information. Last Updated: April 10, 2015 Back to News Archives

SWFL Construction Industry Lecture Series at FSW

SWFL Construction Industry Lecture Series at FSW Feb 24, 2016 Florida SouthWestern State College (FSW) will host the Construction Specifications Institute’s (CSI) Florida Southwest Chapter Lecture Series on Monday, March 14. A national association comprised of 13,000 volunteers across more than 140 local chapters, CSI’s mission is to improve the quality of construction specifications through sharing best practices, promoting standards, and offering educational opportunities and certifications. The upcoming lecture series is a learning and networking opportunity for industry professionals, as well as FSW students in the School of Business and Technology who will be admitted free of charge. “We are very thankful and excited to be partnering with Florida SouthWestern State College,” said CSI Florida Southwest Chapter President Michelle McIntyre. “The event is an educational and networking opportunity for industry professionals. For students, it’s great to hear local experts discuss real-world construction topics and meet potential employers.” The CSI lecture series will feature four speakers and one panel discussion on March 14 from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. in U-102 on the Thomas Edison (Lee) Campus. The lectures will focus on hazards in the built environment. The cost is $75 per person and will include a boxed lunch. A Juried Student Design Competition and subsequent awards ceremony, sponsored by Studio AD Architect, will begin at lunch. Local students will display original designs to be judged by faculty, architects, general contractors and industry specialists. Speakers include Chris Pacitto, PE, from Velocity Engineering Services; Jack Snider, CSP, LAC, and GC from AMRC Environmental; Laura Frye, AHC, CSI, CCS, and FDA from Stanley Security; a joint presentation from Aaron Haak and George Knot, board certified attorneys from the firm Knott, Ebelini and Hart; Bob Koenig from Chris-Tel Construction; Tyler Pattack from Parker, Mudgett and Smith Architects; and Tamara Kaminski from Discovery Village at the Forum. Professional architects and contractors will have the opportunity to earn Continuing Education credits towards renewing certifications. The FSW School of Business and Technology is able to host the CSI Florida Southwest Chapter Lecture Series thanks to a Workforce Development and Education Grant from the Bank of America. CSI event sponsors include AMRC Environmental; BSI EHS Services and Solutions; Owen-Ames-Kimball, Co.; Lee Drywall, Inc.; Manhattan Road and Bridge; Jones Structural Engineering; Studio AD Architect; WCG Wright Construction Group; Stanley Security; and Chris-Tel Construction. Register online at https://buy.flint.com/7r7LDVWbd36. For more information about the FSW School of Business and Technology, visit www.fsw.edu/sobt. The Florida Southwest Chapter of CSI meets on the second Thursday of each month inside the Islamorada Fish Company in Bass Pro Shops at Gulf Coast Town Center. More information can be found at floridasw.csinet.org. About the FSW Foundation: Since 1966, the Florida SouthWestern State College Foundation has been enhancing the quality of higher education for FSW students and faculty. The FSW Foundation has awarded $1.2 million for student scholarships and $700,000 in academic support to the college annually since 2011. The Foundation’s focus is attracting and managing private contributions from individuals, organizations, businesses and other private foundations to support the college’s mission. To learn more about the non-profit, tax-exempt FSW Foundation or to make a gift, visit www.fsw.edu/foundation. Last Updated: February 24, 2016 Back to News Archives

Group Tours

We appreciate your interest in scheduling a group tour at Florida SouthWestern State College and hope to accommodate your group’s visit request! The length of campus tour varies by location, typically does not exceed 1 hour and 30 minutes. Tours are led by a student ambassador who will provide a walking tour of the campus, information and literature regarding FSW, admissions and enrollment. Fill out this form to tell us more about your group. Someone from the Office of Admissions will contact you after submission to provide scheduling assistance. Group Tour Registration First Name: Last Name: Phone Number: Email: Group Name: Group Type: ----- High School Middle School Elementary School Non-traditional 18+ years of age or older Other Please be aware that not all aged group will have access to all locations on campus (i.e. Housing facilities) Group Size: Number of chaperones: Minimum of 1 chaperone per 25 high school studentsMinimum of 2 chaperones per 20 middle and elementary school students Campus: ----- Thomas Edison (Lee), Fort Myers Charlotte, Punta Gorda Collier, Naples Hendry Glades Curtis Center, LaBelle Requested Tour Date and Time: Group Tours are scheduled at the following times Monday, Thursday, or Friday Guided tours are available for groups larger than 15. Reservations for group tours MUST be requested at least three weeks in advance. Secondary Tour Date and Time: Special Requests: Additional Comments:

Join Phi Theta Kappa

Phi Theta Kappa’s mission is to recognize academic achievement of college students and to provide opportunities for growth as a scholar and leader.Membership in Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society guarantees you access to benefits that will recognize your outstanding academic accomplishments and provide you with the competitive edge that helps ensure future success. These benefits are unmatched by any other collegiate honor society.Membership recognizes your academic successPhi Theta Kappa Golden Key Membership PinPhi Theta Kappa Membership Certificate and ID CardRecognition during college induction ceremonyNotation of membership on your college transcriptRecognition by wearing Phi Theta Kappa commencement regalia during college graduation and other official ceremoniesPress release announcing your academic achievementMembership empowers you with a competitive edge$90 million in national scholarship opportunitiesTransfer ScholarshipsOpportunity to be published in Phi Theta Kappa's anthology, Nota BeneOpportunities to develop research and servant leadership skills by participating in Honors in Action programming with the local chapterOpportunity to become part of a network of nearly 3 million fellow scholars and servant leaders on more than 1,285 campuses worldwidePersonalized letters of recommendation for scholarships and employmentTo be eligible for membership: You must have completed at least 12 hours of coursework that may be applied to an associate degree.You must generally have a grade point average of 3.5.You must receive an invitation to membership from the chapter at the college where presently enrolled.You must adhere to the moral standards of the society.To find out if you are eligible for Phi Theta Kappa membership, contact your local chapter advisor.

Kappa Delta Epsilon

Kappa Delta Epsilon was organized March 25, 1933 in Washington, DC and was established at FSW in 2009. Kappa Delta Epsilon (KDE) is an honorary educational fraternity which supports the cause of education by fostering a spirit of fellowship, high standards of scholastic attainment and professional ideals among its members. The Delta Zeta Chapter in the School of Education at FSW is an active group engaged in preparing more than 300 members for the teaching profession. Members of this prestigious honors fraternity participate in and serve the community in a number of ways including partnering with the Boston Red Sox during their Spring Training to “Knock Literacy Out of the Park” and working with the Ronald McDonald house.KDE Application (PDF)AdvisorDr. Joyce Rollins

FSW Earns Six AFC Awards

FSW Earns Six AFC Awards Nov 19, 2015 Each year, the Association of Florida Colleges (AFC) holds its fall convention to give the state’s 28 colleges the opportunity to gather, exchange ideas, discuss challenges and recognize the winners in the AFC’s Communication and Marketing Commission Awards of Excellence competition. This year, Florida SouthWestern State College (FSW) earned six awards: First Place for Best College Magazine (Spyglass) and for Best Bang for the Buck; Second Place for Article in a College-Produced Publication (Spyglass), Display/Presentation Board and Exemplary Practice; and Third Place for Direct Mail Piece/Campaign. Jennifer Young, public relations and marketing associate at FSW, was presented the Unsung Hero Award for Region IV. She is the college’s AFC Chapter President. Last Updated: November 19, 2015 Back to News Archives

Academic Integrity & Misconduct

Florida SouthWestern State College recognizes that adherence to high principles of academic integrity is vital to the academic function of the College. Therefore, the entire academic community shares the responsibility for establishing and maintaining standards of academic integrity. Key tenets of academic integrity:Shared Responsibility: Both faculty and students must ensure academic honesty. Student Obligations: Students are expected to understand and adhere to the standards. Unacceptable Conduct: Includes cheating, plagiarism, fabrication, and other dishonest behaviors. Importance: Academic integrity is critical for honest reflection of student knowledge and abilities. Once a faculty member has information that an academic integrity violation has occurred, the faculty member should inform the student, request a meeting to discuss the allegations, and submit an Academic Misconduct Report. Please see the Academic Integrity Policy or the Student Handbook for more details.Submit an Academic Misconduct Report

Veteran Benefits

GI Bill® Comparison ToolFor information about education benefits and an interactive comparison tool, please visit https://www.vets.gov/gi-bill-comparison-tool/.GI Bill® Education HotlineYou can speak to a VA education benefit customer services representative by calling 888-GIBILL1 (888-442-4551). The Education Hotline is open between 7 a.m. - 6 p.m. Central Time, Monday-Friday.‘‘GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government Web site at https://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill."Post 9/11 GI Bill® (Chapter 33)If you have at least 90 days of aggregate active duty service after September 10, 2001, and are still on active duty, or if you are an honorably discharged Veteran or were discharged with a service-connected disability after 30 days, you may be eligible for this VA-administered program.Post-9/11 GI Bill® provides up to 36 months of education benefits, generally payable for 15 years following your active duty release. The 15-year time limitation for using Post-9/11 GI Bill® benefits is eliminated for Veterans who left active duty on or after January 1, 2013, and qualifying dependents (Fry Scholarship children who became eligible on or after January 1, 2013, and all Fry Scholarship spouses).Based on your entitlement percent, tuition and fees are paid directly to the school for all public school in-state students. There may be some non-standard fees that the VA will not cover (e.g. parking fee). You are responsible for any amount not paid by the V.ATransfer your Post-9/11 GI Bill® BenefitsThe transferability option under the Post-9/11 GI Bill® allows Service members to transfer all or some unused benefits to their spouse or dependent children. The request to transfer unused GI Bill® benefits to eligible dependents must be completed while serving as an active member of the Armed Forces. The Department of Defense (DoD) determines whether or not you can transfer benefits to your family. Once the DoD approves benefits for transfer, the new beneficiaries must apply for them HERE. Your spouseOne or more of your childrenAny combination of spouse or childFamily members must be enrolled in the Defense Eligibility Enrollment Reporting System (DEERS) and be eligible for benefits at the time of transfer to receive transferred benefits.Montgomery GI Bill® Active Duty (Chapter 30)Eligible Service members may receive up to 36 months of education benefits. The monthly benefit paid to you is based on the type of training you take, length of your service, your category, any college fund eligibility, and if you contributed to the $600 buy-up program. You usually have 10 years to use your MGIB benefits, but the time limit can be fewer or more years, depending on the situation.Students receiving benefits under Chapters 30 are required to verify enrollment every month by either calling 1 (877) 823-2378 or going to the WAVE system. Montgomery GI Bill® Selected Reserve (Chapter 1606)The MGIB-SR program provides education and training benefits to eligible members of the Selected Reserve, including the Army Reserve, Navy Reserve, Air Force Reserve, Marine Corps Reserve and Coast Guard Reserve, and the Army National Guard and the Air National Guard. Eligibility for this program is determined by the Selected Reserve components and V.A. makes the payments.You may be entitled to receive up to 36 months of education benefits if you: Have a six-year obligation to serve in the Selected Reserve signed after June 30, 1985. If you are an officer, you must have agreed to serve six years in addition to your original obligation. For some types of training it is necessary to have a six-year commitment that begins after September 30, 1990.Complete your initial active duty for training (IADT).Meet the requirement to receive a high school diploma or equivalency certificate before completing IADT. You may not use 12 hours toward a college degree to meet this requirement.Remain in good standing while serving in an active Selected Reserve unit. You will also retain MGIB-SR eligibility if you were discharged from Selected Reserve service due to a disability that was not caused by misconduct. Your eligibility period may be extended if you are ordered to active duty. Your eligibility for the program normally ends the day you leave the Selected Reserve.Students receiving benefits under Chapters 1606 are required to verify enrollment every month by either calling 1 (877) 823-2378 or going to the WAVE system. Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance (Chapter 35)The Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance (D.E.A.) program, also called Chapter 35, offers education and training opportunities to eligible dependents of Veterans who are permanently and totally disabled due to a service-related condition or of Veterans who died while on active duty or as a result of a service-related condition. The Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance (D.E.A.) program offers education and training opportunities to eligible dependents of Veterans who are permanently and totally disabled due to a service-related condition or of Veterans who died while on active duty or as a result of a service-related condition.You must be the son, daughter, or spouse of:A Veteran who died or is permanently and totally disabled as the result of a serviceconnected disability. The disability must arise out of active service in the armed forces.A Veteran who died from any cause while such permanent and total service-connected disability was in existence.A Service member missing in action or captured in line of duty by a hostile force.A Service member forcibly detained or interned in line of duty by a foreign government or power.A Service member who is hospitalized or receiving outpatient treatment for a service connected permanent and total disability and is likely to be discharged for that disability. This change is effective December 23, 2006. Additional Scholarship Opportunities for dependents:The State of Florida has a Scholarship for Children and Spouses of Deceased or Disabled Veterans. The Scholarships for Children and Spouses of Deceased or Disabled Veterans (CSDDV) provides an award to dependent children or unmarried spouses of qualified Florida veterans. Information regarding eligibility requirements and how to apply can be found HERE.Veteran Readiness and Employment (Chapter 31)Eligible Veterans and Service members may apply for either Veteran Readiness and Employment (previously known as Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment) benefits or for Education/Career Counseling online through eBenefits. It’s simple to apply. Just follow these steps:Log in to your eBenefits accountSelect “Additional Benefits” from your DashboardSelect “Veteran Readiness and Employment Program” - be sure to read the program information and to update your contact information - and apply for either the “Veteran Readiness and Employment Program” or “Education/Career Counseling” If it is determined that you are eligible, you will be invited to attend an orientation session, in-person, at the nearest V.A. Regional OfficeService members who have a disability that began or became worse during active duty and who have not yet received a service-connected disability (S.C.D.) rating do not need to wait to apply. See VA Form 28-0588 for further instructions For Service members: Ill or injured Service members who have not yet received a S.C.D. rating do not need to wait to apply. Service members expecting a discharge that is other than dishonorable who possess a V.A. memorandum or Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) rating of 20 percent or more-as well as Service members currently going through a Physical Evaluation Board-may be eligible to receive Veteran Readiness and Employment services.*GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government Web site at https://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill.

Homeless Students and Foster Care Resources

Care Services supports Florida SouthWestern State College students impacted by the foster care system or who are experiencing homelessness. The liaisons listed below are here to provide support and assistance to those students making the transition from a structured care system into an independent living setting. Lee County Human and Veteran ServicesResources for Individuals with DisabilitiesLee County Housing AuthorityCareerSource Southwest FloridaSalvation ArmyCommunity CooperativeUnited Way 211 Lee County Homeless CoalitionFlorida Department of Children and families Lutheran Services FloridaChildren’s Home SocietyFamily Initiative, IncFlorida Baptist Children’s HomeNational Youth Advocate ProgramChildren Advocacy Center Goodwill of Southwest Florida ACT Center Harry Chapin Food Bank Youth Haven Valerie’s House Scholarships for Foster Students Laces of LoveChildren’s Network of SWFL Big Brothers and Big SistersRonald McDonald House Charities, SW Florida Guardian Ad Litem Found. 20th Judicial Court Guardian Ad Litem for Children National Center for Homeless Education Scholarship for HomelessDr. April PalmerAssociate Vice President, Student Life 239-489-9067 apalmer1@fsw.edu Ashley Myatt-ChisumDirector, Care and Adaptive Services 239-432-5236 ashley.myatt-chisum@fsw.edu

FSW Student Kelly Maguire Named Coca-Cola Academic Team Gold Scholar

FSW Student Kelly Maguire Named Coca-Cola Academic Team Gold Scholar Apr 16, 2020 APRIL 16, 2020 – FORT MYERS, FLA — Florida SouthWestern State College student Kelly Maguire has been named a 2020 Coca-Cola Academic Team Gold Scholar and will receive a $1,500 scholarship. The Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation sponsors the Coca-Cola Academic Team program by recognizing 50 Gold, 50 Silver and 50 Bronze Scholars with nearly $200,000 in scholarships annually. Each scholar also receives a commemorative medallion. Maguire is a member of the FSW Honors Scholar Program, the FSW Leadership Academy, the FSW Campus Activities Board, Phi Theta Kappa (PTK), the National Society for Collegiate Scholars (NSCS), and she is a founder and president of FSW’s chapter of the Active Minds club, a nationally known mental health organization. “It feels a bit surreal to be named a gold scholar,” Maguire said. “I was shocked when I read the award letter, and thrilled at the same time. I have struggled with self-confidence and believing that I am worthy of something as huge as this, but I think it came at the perfect time for me. The times of darkness have helped me appreciate so much more of the light that exists in this world, and for that, I am most grateful.” “The Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation has a long history of providing financial assistance to outstanding students at community colleges,” said Jane Hale Hopkins, President of the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation. “We are proud to partner with Phi Theta Kappa and make it possible for deserving students to achieve their educational goals.” Students are nominated for the academic team by their college administrators. Selection is based on academic achievement, leadership, and engagement in college and community service. “We thank the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation for recognizing these student leaders and for investing in their futures,” said Dr. Lynn Tincher-Ladner, President and CEO of Phi Theta Kappa. “Scholarships like these are integral to the success of these students in reaching their educational and career goals.” Phi Theta Kappa is the premier honor society recognizing the academic achievement of students at associate degree-granting colleges and helping them to grow as scholars and leaders. The Society is made up of more than 3.5 million members and nearly 1,300 chapters in 11 nations, with approximately 240,000 active members in the nation’s colleges. Learn more at ptk.org. #### 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. FSW debuted its first Women’s Volleyball program in Fall 2019. Visit www.FSW.edu for more information. Last Updated: July 1, 2020 Back to News Archives

Poet Dan Albergotti to Appear at FSW

Poet Dan Albergotti to Appear at FSW Feb 3, 2017 FEBRUARY 3, 2017 – FORT MYERS, FLA. – Award-winning poet Dan Albergotti will hold a book signing and poetry reading at the Florida SouthWestern State College (FSW) Thomas Edison Campus in Fort Myers, 4:30 p.m. on Monday, Feb. 27, in the Rush Auditorium, Building J. The event is free and open to the public. Albergotti is the author of The Boatloads and Millennial Teeth as well as a limited-edition chapbook, The Use of the World. His poems have appeared in The Cincinnati Review, Five Points, The Southern Review, The Virginia Quarterly Review, and two editions of the Pushcart Prize, as well as other journals and anthologies. A graduate of the MFA program at UNC Greensboro and former poetry editor of The Greensboro Review, Albergotti is a professor of English at Coastal Carolina University in Conway, South Carolina. This project is sponsored in part by the Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs, the Florida Council of Arts and Culture and the State of Florida (Section 286.25, Florida Statutes). It is coordinated by the Florida Literary Arts Coalition and FSW Writes, an FSW faculty group that plans writing events for FSW students, employees and the public. Copies of the book are currently available for purchase at the FSW Thomas Edison Campus bookstore, and they will also be available for purchase during the event. For more information, contact Dr. Scott Ortolano at (239) 489-9472 or sortolano@fsw.edu. #### Florida SouthWestern State College is Southwest Florida’s largest and one of the most affordable institutions 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. Students are also active in clubs and programs catered to their interests. FSW debuted its intercollegiate athletics program in January 2016. Visit www.FSW.edu for more information. Last Updated: February 3, 2017 Back to News Archives

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