Included in the now-approved state budget is $19 million for Florida Polytechnic University, funds earmarked for the school’s continued growth and student success initiatives.
The funding aims to help Florida’s youngest member of the state university system continue to grow and enhance its student success programs, which are also aimed at supporting the school’s growth.
Of the funding, $10 million is included in the budget for Florida Poly’s new Student Achievement Center. With the latest infusion, legislative support for the new Center has reached nearly $28 million.
The new Student Achievement Center is designed to serve as a hub for student support and engagement, providing a variety of services and resources to support academic success, career planning, professional development and other engagement opportunities.
The $85 million project will include a 138,400-square-foot facility.
“Florida Poly has become an important driver of student success and economic development in our region,” said Sen. Colleen Burton, who represents part of Polk County. “The Student Achievement Center will strengthen that role by providing students with the resources, support, and opportunities they need to thrive in today’s fast-changing world.”
This year’s $10 million allocation to the new Center follows the Legislature’s previous $12 million investment last year and $5.7 million in 2024.
The approved budget also includes $7.5 million in nonrecurring funding for the school’s “Rising to 3,000” initiative supporting the school’s goal to reach 3,000 students by 2030. The Legislature also slotted $1.5 million for operational support.
“This investment is a powerful vote of confidence in the role Florida Poly plays in advancing Science, Technology, Engineering, Math, and Medical education and workforce development. We are grateful to the Florida Legislature and our local delegation for their continued support and belief in our mission,” Florida Poly President Devin Stephenson said.
“These funds will help us expand opportunities for students, strengthen our campus, accelerate our growth and prepare the next generation of solution seekers, problem solvers and tech leaders.”
Added Rep. Jennifer Canady: “Florida Poly continues to open doors for students while strengthening the talent pipeline that will shape Florida’s future economy. Supporting the University’s growth means investing in opportunities that will help drive progress across our state for years to come.”
Florida Poly’s Board of Trustees sees the latest investments as a significant step in supporting the university’s next phase of development and institutional advancement.
“Florida Poly’s trajectory has never been stronger,” Board Chair Beth Kigel said.
“With growing enrollment, expanding academic programs, stronger industry partnership and bold plans for the future, the University is poised to reach new heights. These resources will help boost that momentum and further establish Florida Poly as a premier destination for STEM+M education, research, and discovery.”
While the Legislature has approved the upcoming state budget, it remains subject to line item vetoes by Gov. Ron DeSantis ahead of the budget taking effect July 1.