The Florida Legislature approved essential funding for transformational investments in Florida Polytechnic University during the 2024 legislative session.
LAKELAND, Fla. – Florida Polytechnic University received essential funding in the state budget for the 2024-25 fiscal year, which was passed by state legislators on March 8.
With this important investment, the state is affirming support for Florida’s all-STEM university as it continues to demonstrate its exceptional value by producing high-demand, low-supply graduates and serving as an overall economic driver. The University plans to use the operational enhancement dollars to fund academic program growth, strengthen student services, and grow both the faculty and student bodies.
Florida Poly’s 2024-25 funding includes:
“We appreciate the Polk County delegation and legislative leadership for supporting Florida Poly’s key growth initiatives and our continued efforts to advance Florida’s high-tech economy,” said Dr. Randy K. Avent, the University’s president. “Our value to the state is driven by the hard work of our remarkable students and faculty, and our success is evident through our impressive rankings and outstanding graduate achievements.”
The Student Achievement Center will play an integral role in enhancing students’ educational needs. The new facility will focus on resources dedicated to student success, including accommodations for career and internship services. It will feature study spaces, an auditorium, collaborative multimedia spaces, and be home to faculty and staff fully dedicated to helping students successfully complete their degree and transition to the workforce.
“Through our investment in Florida Polytechnic University, we are not only cultivating a pipeline of highly skilled graduates to meet the critical demands of our state's workforce, but also igniting economic growth and securing Florida's leadership in STEM disciplines," stated State Senator Colleen Burton.
The additional resources from the Legislature will also fortify recruitment and retention initiatives, attracting more top-tier students from across Florida and the nation. These efforts aim to reinforce Florida Poly's standing as the No. 1 public college in the Southeast.
"Florida Polytechnic University is uniquely positioned to significantly impact Florida's economy by producing high-tech talent crucial for our state,” said Brian Lamb, chair of the Florida Board of Governors. "The funding approved by the Florida Legislature serves as a crucial investment in filling the void identified by the Florida Council of 100's 'Project Sunrise,' addressing the 80,000 unfilled STEM-specific jobs. By nurturing a pipeline of high-tech professionals, Florida Poly not only prepares students for careers but also empowers them to shape the future of our state, propelling our workforce towards growth and ensuring Florida's competitiveness in STEM fields."
The increased funding will not only help advance Florida Poly’s mission to provide excellent core STEM degrees but will also support the impactful growth the University is experiencing in terms of its student body, world-class faculty, academic programs, state-of-the-art facilities, and industry partnerships.
"Florida Poly continues to pave the way for technological excellence and innovative education. As our region continues to attract economic growth, by cultivating the kind of in-demand talent that plays a crucial role in driving progress in Polk County and the entire state of Florida, Florida Poly continues to be a key player in the overall success of our students and future workforce," stated State Representative Josie Tomkow.
The budget, which remains subject to line-item vetoes by Gov. Ron DeSantis, will take effect with the July 1 start of the 2024-25 fiscal year.
For the most recent University news, visit Florida Poly News.
About Florida Polytechnic University: Florida Polytechnic University is ranked the number one public college in the Southeast Region for three years in a row and a top 20 public engineering program without a Ph.D. in the nation. It is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, and a member of the State University System of Florida. Florida Poly is the only state university dedicated exclusively to STEM and offers ABET-accredited degrees. Florida Poly is a powerful economic engine within the state of Florida, blending applied research with industry partnerships to give students an academically rigorous education with real-world relevance. Florida Poly’s iconic Innovation, Science, and Technology Building, designed by world-renowned architect Dr. Santiago Calatrava, has won more than 20 global awards and was named one of the 16 most breathtaking buildings in the world. Connect with Florida Poly.
Contact: Lydia Guzmán
Director of Communications
863-874-8557 (office)
863-327-9762 (cell)
lguzman@floridapoly.edu
