Office of the President

Office of the President

Thank you for your interest in Florida Tech and the Office of the President.

Our university thrives on the strength of its community, and I am proud to lead a dedicated, driven and dynamic group of individuals who are passionate about higher education and student success. We believe in the power of collaboration and the importance of every voice in our community. Your engagement, questions, and contributions are not just welcome but vital as we work together to shape the future of Florida Tech.

I encourage you to connect with me on social media and welcome you to bring your questions, concerns and ideas to my attention by sending a message to president@fit.edu.

 

Messages from the President
Presidential Perspectives — November

Presidential Perspectives — November

Hello, Panthers!

I love this time of year. It’s when we pause to remember the things for which we are thankful on the cusp of a season of warmth and cheer that merrily reminds us of the value of our colleagues, friends, family and partners.

We at Florida Tech have so much to be thankful for, such as our hardworking and talented faculty and staff, amazing students and outstanding alumni.

The Roman philosopher Cicero wrote, “Gratitude is not only the greatest of virtues, but the parent of all the others.” So I have two questions for you: First, what are you grateful for in your life? Second, how do you demonstrate that gratitude?

Gratitude can be an incredibly inspirational force. motivating us to reach out in friendship or in partnership to improve our communities and contribute to the well-being of others in meaningful ways.

Stacy and I are grateful for the countless ways the Panther community shows up to help one another. Your support is more than a gift: You strengthen Florida Tech.

Together, we can fuel creativity and innovation, empowering a brighter tomorrow for our students during a time that celebrates generosity.

Happy Thanksgiving—and Go Panthers!

Sincerely,

John Nicklow, Ph.D.
President

Presidential Perspectives — October 2025

Presidential Perspectives — October 2025

Hello, Panthers!

I was at Clemente Center recently, and this impressive facility is one of the places where we prove the notion that outstanding scholars can also be outstanding athletes.

This Fall our scholar-athletes have been demonstrating that idea far and wide as they just keep winning!

After thrilling playoff runs last season, our men’s and women’s soccer teams returned with as much intensity, passion and athleticism as ever and find themselves ranked among the best in the nation.

As of early October, our men’s soccer team was top 20 and was unbeaten in its first eight games! Our women’s soccer team was also ranked top 20 and has been playing some stifling defense, holding teams scoreless in two of that three-game run.

The athletic excellence goes beyond the pitch. Florida Tech volleyball, coming off its historically good season, was 3-1 so far in Sunshine State Conference play, its best start in more than a decade.

And at an early October meet, the men’s and women’s swim teams posted a combined 17 first place finishes in their resounding overall wins. Seventeen!

What is so exciting about this success is that it reflects just how deep our quest for excellence runs here at Florida Tech. Whether in the classroom or pool, on the field or at the lab, Panthers push themselves to achieve the greatness they know is within them.

I’ll see you in the stands, where we can shout together, “Go Panthers!”

Sincerely,

John Nicklow, Ph.D.
President

Presidential Perspectives — September 2025

Presidential Perspectives — September 2025

Hello, Panthers!

The Olin Engineering Complex is the heartbeat of our university’s science and engineering enterprise.

Within these walls, our students are earning a first-class education that is preparing them to change our world for the better and launching them into careers of consequence.

Our faculty are pursuing meaningful research in this building, as well, making critical contributions to industry and science while lighting the way for the next generation of discovery.

Albert Einstein said, “The important thing is to never stop questioning,” and that essential concept has been at the core of a Florida Tech education across seven decades.

Our students and faculty ask the difficult questions and then commit themselves to the hard work of finding the answers. Those answers take the form of discovery that innovates and inspires across our classrooms, labs and campus.

I’m so proud of the you, the people of Florida Tech, as you continue to prove that a STEM education is a great foundation for whatever comes next in life.

I’ll see you around campus—and Go Panthers!

Sincerely,

John Nicklow, Ph.D.
President

Presidential Perspectives — August 2025

Presidential Perspectives — August 2025

Hello, Panthers!

I have four words for you: It’s time to shine!

The new academic year is here, and we are so glad to have everyone back. Like me I know you are looking forward to exciting things to come.

It was a great pleasure welcoming our new students as well as our returners over the past several days. As media accounts of our move-in noted, there was an impressive and friendly array of volunteer hands helping everyone get settled in their residence halls and ready for the Fall semester.

It was wonderful to meet so many supportive parents and other family members, as well.

There are lots of new things to see and do this year! One of the biggest, literally, is our new Crimson Crossing residence complex rising out of the ground at the main campus entrance. This 500-plus bed, state-of-the-art facility should be complete in time for next academic year. I am sure everyone is going to love it!

And speaking of campus improvements, have you noticed our beautification project has taken…root? New landscaping, dazzling with its vibrant colors, is in full bloom from one side of Florida Tech to the other, a wonderful addition that all can enjoy.

As we proceed into our first week, here’s a piece of advice for our students: get involved. Find new friends and new interests in student organizations; explore your curiosity with research; participate in athletics and intramurals; or find other opportunities. I promise there are many.

This is not just a great way to expand your social circle and get the most out of your college experience. Engaged students stay in school and earn better grades, studies have found. We want that for you!

So again, welcome back everyone. Let’s make this academic year one for the books! Good luck and I’ll see you around campus.

Go Panthers!

Sincerely,

John Nicklow, Ph.D.
President

Past Messages from President Nicklow