Office of the President

Hello, Panthers!

It has been an amazing few days as we’ve wrapped up Homecoming and Family Weekend 2026!

There were all kinds of fun activities, from our Homecoming Fest to our HoCo two-miler. It was clear a great time was had by all!

We hosted a sold-out Alumni Awards Gala where Florida Tech honored a “Sea of Stars,” and some incredible alumni were presented distinguished recognition.

We also hosted a sold-out Athletics Hall of Fame Induction ceremony, where perseverance and excellence were the keywords of the day.

Speaking of perseverance, our alumni are great examples of this important trait.

And how students persevere at Florida Tech, otherwise known as “student retention,” is everyone’s business. We all have a role to play in retention.

From Willie Gibson greeting everyone at lunchtime in Panther Dining Hall to Dr. Cat Nanney working one-on-one with students in Student Affairs to Professor Tim Muth engaging students in the classroom: everyone can do their part to support student retention.

We want all of our students to work hard earning their education, have great support, and one day graduate to become alumni stars.

That’s all for now. I’ll see you around campus.

Go, Panthers!

Sincerely,

John Nicklow, Ph.D.
President

Hello, Panthers!

It’s well known that Florida Tech provides an excellent education that accelerates our graduates to careers of consequence, but did you know your university has an incredible effect on the regional and state economy, as well?

Florida Tech annually generates $1.6 billion in economic impact from spending by the university and its students and alumni.

Here are a few more stats, because the numbers best tell the tale:

• Florida Tech’s economic activity creates more than 12,000 jobs.
• Our economic ripple effects produce more than $512 million in total wages and salaries.

And perhaps most impressive:

• Each graduating class of Florida Tech contributes $1.1 billion to the economy of Florida over 30 years.

You can read about the full economic impact of your university on our web site. Check it out.

And tell your friends and family what business and industry already know: The educational investment at Florida Tech pays outstanding returns for years to come.

Go Panthers!

Sincerely,

John Nicklow, Ph.D.
President

Hello, Panthers!

We are ready to roll! With a new year comes fresh opportunity and great chances to grow. But first, a question: What kind of year will it be for you?

This Fall promises to be the most exciting start to an academic year in memory! First, our new Crimson Crossing residence hall is up and running at the front door to campus. This 556-bed, state-of-the-art facility is the largest single investment in student life in our history.It stands as a monument to Florida Tech’s commitment to providing the best resources possible for students.

And there’s so much more to come! More about that as we talk together throughout this academic year.

But now, allow me to offer a piece of advice I often share: get involved. Join student organizations, research clubs, athletics and intramurals, or other groups. You’ll meet new people and make friends. And remember that that engaged students stay in school and earn better grades. It’s a proven fact!

So welcome back, everyone! Let’s make it a great year of working hard and working together. Florida Tech is here for you.

Best of luck, and I’ll see you around campus. Go Panthers!

Sincerely,

John Nicklow, Ph.D.
President

Hello, Panthers!

Another academic year is done, and what a fantastic year it has been!

On May 9^th, we celebrated Spring 2026 Commencement, and it was truly a celebration to be remembered.

Family and friends cheered as 1,950 students earned Florida Tech degrees. These new Panthers for Life demonstrated their tenacity and strength over their time here to get to Saturday’s excitement.

Why? Because a Florida Tech degree is always earned.

At Commencement, we talked about the power of attitude. When good attitude is coupled with the skills, knowledge and experiences that our new alumni have earned – anything is possible.

It all starts with a good attitude. You don’t have to buy it. You don’t have to build it. You just have to find it inside yourself, believe in it, empower it.

Further proving that attitude determines your altitude, commencement keynote speaker Winston Scott thrilled the audience with tales of his time walking in space.

The retired U.S. Navy fighter pilot and shuttle astronaut encouraged the new grads to work hard and reach for the stars. Those are words of wisdom for us all!

I will see you again in August. Have a great summer and Go Panthers!

Sincerely,

John Nicklow, Ph.D.
President