Polk County high school principals learn about a high-tech lab during a tour of the Barnett Applied Research Center at Florida Polytechnic University on Thursday, April 3.
Nearly 50 high school principals from across Polk County, Florida, experienced firsthand the exceptional future that awaits the state’s brightest students at Florida Polytechnic University.
Gathering for their quarterly meeting at the Lakeland campus on Thursday, April 3, the administrators explored the institution’s state-of-the-art facilities, dynamic learning atmosphere, and innovative curriculum that are the hallmarks of Florida’s only all-STEM university.
The group of principals was treated to a tour of campus, including the high-tech labs at the Barnett Applied Research Center, bustling academic activity inside the Innovation, Science, and Technology Building, and the modern, top-quality housing for students living on campus.
“I think this is a great idea,” said Todd Bennett, principal at Auburndale Senior High School. “It allows us to better understand the students we can help plug in and provide the opportunities to get them in the right places, and I know better now Florida Poly is a great opportunity.”
Dr. Andy Oguntola, Florida Poly’s assistant vice president of enrollment management, said the University was honored to host the administrators’ meeting. He emphasized the value of providing an in-depth look at Florida Poly’s premier STEM education, ensuring the leaders can guide talented students toward the unparalleled opportunities available at the University.
“About 70% of high school principals in Polk County had never been here, so we wanted to take the time to meet with them and talk about our enrollment process, how affordable we are, and our scholarship opportunities,” Oguntola said. “But most importantly, we want to build partnerships for the future.”
Gina Williams, principal at Winter Haven Senior High School, was among the attendees experiencing the campus for the first time.
“I’m very impressed – the facilities are very modern, and I believe it matches the standard of STEM education,” Williams said. “I think it’s very important to tour local universities because I believe it helps us encourage our students to go to school here.”
Oguntola said nothing can convey Florida Poly’s uniqueness as well as an in-person visit.
“We talk about it and market it, but when you get on our campus, it’s a whole different experience because you get to see it all firsthand,” he said. “You get to meet our leadership and our professors walking by. You can see students studying and everything that we have to offer.”
The University will welcome Polk County’s high school career coaches on Thursday, April 10, offering them the same opportunity to learn about Florida Poly’s top-notch STEM programs for their students.
Contact:
Lydia Guzmán
Director of Communications
863-874-8557
