KEY WEST, FL, April 9, 2026— The College of the Florida Keys (CFK) invites the community to an evening of student-crafted cuisine and art. Culinary & Clay: A Mud Pi Celebration takes place on Thursday, April 23 from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the Tennessee Williams Theatre on CFK’s Key West Campus. This year’s celebration includes a tasting of five international dishes, plus a sneak preview of the 2026 CFK Spring Art Show with music and a cash bar. The tasting menu is posted to the event page: https://www.cfk.edu/events/

The event pairs savory dishes prepared by CFK culinary students with one-of-a-kind ceramic plates handcrafted by students in CFK’s Mud-Pi ceramics club. Each guest selects their own ceramic plate for the tasting and takes it home as a keepsake.

A sneak preview of the CFK Spring Art Show featuring students’ work in underwater photography and ceramics will be on display at the event. Art pieces will be available for purchase starting April 27 at the Spring Art Show exhibit in CFK’s Learning Resource Center.

There are only 100 seats; tickets are $49 in advance and $65 at the door. Tickets may be purchased in advance until Monday, April 20 by contacting CFK’s Business Office at 305-809-3186 or by visiting the office located in the main lobby of Building A on the Key West Campus.

Additional ceramic pieces and food items will be on sale during the event. Proceeds from the event and sales will benefit the Mud-Pi ceramics club and the culinary program.
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For more information about the event, contact (305) 809-3515.

KEY WEST, FL, April 2, 2026— Retired U.S. naval aviator Commander John Picco brings his unique experiences and insights to The College of the Florida Keys’ (CFK) VIP Series on Thursday, April 16 at 7 PM. The community is invited to "Top Gun to Combat: Real Training, Real Missions, Real Lessons" where the Commander will share true stories about how relentless preparation and the "train like you fight" ethos deliver split‑second execution in combat.

Drawing on 28 years in naval aviation, the Commander will share vivid firsthand experiences to demonstrate the essential role of calculated risk‑taking, pushing to the edge and just past it, and owning results with no excuses. His presentation will highlight how high‑intensity training, trust in your wingman, and trust in yourself create a mindset where mission success is all that matters.

Picco is a Villanova University graduate and TOPGUN-trained pilot with over 3,000 hours in the F/A-18 Hornet and Super Hornet, 900 arrested carrier landings across six carriers, and 80 combat missions. A few of his more memorable assignments include flying with the VFA-195 Dambusters in Japan, shaping global maritime strategy at NATO Headquarters in Brussels, Belgium and serving the U.S. Ambassador as the Naval Attaché in Bogotá, Colombia. His final post was in Key West as the Director of Current and International Operations at JIATF-South.

Since retiring from the navy in 2020, he has served as a Financial Advisor with the Southernmost Edward Jones office in Key West. John is active in local charities and military affairs, continuing a life defined by service. He is married to Melissa, and they have two children attending Key West High School.

Now in its twelfth season, the CFK VIP Series showcases the views, ideas, and perspectives (VIP) of speakers with local, regional, and national prominence. The 2026 series is sponsored by David and Annette Curry, Essential Net Solutions, and First Horizon Bank.

Event Details:
Date: Thursday, April 16, 2026
Time: Doors open at 6:00 PM; presentation begins at 7:00 PM
Location: CFK’s Key West Campus at the Tennessee Williams Theatre
Format: 50-minute presentation followed by 10 minutes for questions and answers
Tickets: $5 at the door; free for CFK and Monroe County school students
For more information, call 305-296-9081 or visit www.cfk.edu/VIP.

KEY WEST, FL, March 31, 2026— The College of the Florida Keys (CFK) is offering three summer terms designed to support students with flexibility and momentum to achieve their degrees or certificates. New and returning students looking to accelerate their progress can apply and register for CFK’s Summer 2026 terms by May 1.

Students can choose from three summer terms:

• Accelerated Six-Week Term: May 18 to June 29
  For students who want to move fast and focus deeply, the six-week term offers on-campus, online, and hybrid course formats. In less than two months, students can complete full credit hours and stay on track or get ahead.

• 100% Online 12-Week Term: May 18 to August 10
  Spanning most of the summer, this fully virtual term is built for students who need flexibility without sacrificing progress. Students can balance work, family, summer activities, and coursework on their own schedule while earning credits toward their goals.

• Summer Kickstart Program - Eight-Week Head Start for New Students: June 3 to August 10
  Designed specifically for students new to college, the eight-week Summer Kickstart Program offers three foundational courses: English Composition I, Preparing for Student Success, and Introduction to the Teaching Profession. Available in a hybrid-flexible format, students can participate in person at the Key West Campus or join virtually, an ideal launchpad for arriving at the first full semester confident, prepared, and with credits already in hand.

Students can apply and register online or visit CFK’s “One Stop Summer Shop” in person. The event runs from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. at the Key West Campus on Wednesday, April 29, and at the Upper Keys Center in Key Largo on Thursday, April 30. Attendees can meet with CFK staff, explore degree and certificate programs, and get personalized guidance on financial aid, payment plans, and scholarships. Plus, the application process can be handled on the spot. New students who attend will have their $30 application fee waived and receive a $100 Kickstarter Scholarship.
To learn more or begin the application process, visit www.cfk.edu/futurestudents/.

New students seeking personalized guidance are welcome to contact Marissa Owens, Manager of Recruitment, at [email protected] or 305-809-3207.

KEY WEST, FL, March 11, 2026—The College of the Florida Keys (CFK) invites the community to CFK’s VIP Series March presentation Thursday, March 26 at 7 PM on the Key West Campus. Jonathan Rizzo, Warning Coordination Meteorologist at NOAA's National Weather Service Key West office, will present: “Science, Technology and Operational Advances in Meteorology Since the 1935 Labor Day Hurricane — How Would a Historic Hurricane Event in the Florida Keys be Communicated Today?”


Rizzo’s presentation takes a compelling look back at the catastrophic 1935 Labor Day Hurricane, one of the most powerful storms to strike the United States and Florida Keys. Rizzo will guide the audience through the severe limitations meteorologists of that era faced in predicting and communicating its impact. Against that backdrop, he will trace nearly a century of technological advancement in hurricane science, from the earliest computer-based weather modeling and radar systems to today’s satellite imagery, Hurricane Hunter aircraft, and artificial intelligence-driven forecasting tools.


The presentation will also examine the growing role of social science in hazardous weather messaging and how forecasters communicate risk in ways that motivate action. He will close with a forward-looking scenario: if a Category 5 hurricane mirroring the track and intensity of the 1935 storm were approaching the Florida Keys today, how would public safety officials and residents be warned?


As Warning Coordination Meteorologist, Rizzo is responsible for public outreach and preparedness coordination across Monroe County and its municipalities. He serves as a deployment-ready meteorologist during tropical cyclone emergency operations, providing direct weather support to decision-makers during activations. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Meteorology from Florida State University.
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Now in its twelfth season, the CFK VIP Series showcases the views, ideas, and perspectives (VIP) of speakers with local, regional, and national prominence. The 2026 series is sponsored by David and Annette Curry, Essential Net Solutions, and First Horizon Bank.

KEY WEST, FL, March 6, 2026— The College of the Florida Keys (CFK) invites the community to its 60th Anniversary Gala on Friday, March 27, from 6:00 to 10:00 p.m. at the historic Fort East Martello in Key West. The “Infinite Horizons”-themed event will bring together employees, alumni, partners, supporters, and friends of the College to celebrate six decades of educational excellence, community collaboration, and service to the Florida Keys.

​Guests will enjoy Caribbean cuisine, cocktails, live music, and dancing, along with an Historical Exhibit showcasing the College’s journey from its 1965 beginnings to today’s thriving hub of learning and opportunity. The evening will also feature live and silent auctions offering adventure and travel experiences, dining, art, and more.
Proceeds from the 60th Anniversary Gala will benefit scholarships, academic and workforce programs, and vital initiatives that empower CFK to continue transforming lives and creating a lasting positive impact.

“Please join me and let’s celebrate our collective efforts to lift up our community over the past six decades,” said Dr. Jonathan Gueverra, CFK President and CEO. “CFK continues to train and educate the workforce that fuels our economy. We provide residents of every age with opportunities for education and growth. CFK has long served as a cornerstone for progress in the Florida Keys. Look to the future with us.  We remain inspired and our theme says it all – ‘Infinite Horizons.’  CFK is even more committed than ever to opening doors of opportunity for every resident of the Keys.”

More information, tickets, and sponsorship packages are available at: https://www.cfk.edu/60/60th-anniversary-events/. or contact Dr. Lana Gaspari, Vice President of Advancement and CFK Foundation Executive Director, at 305-809-3214 or [email protected].

KEY WEST, FL, February 25, 2026— The College of the Florida Keys (CFK) named the Ocean Reef Community Foundation (ORCF) as the inaugural honoree of its new tradition to recognize an individual or organization for outstanding contributions to the College and the broader community. ORCF was selected for its exceptional partnership, dedicated community service, and commitment to expanding educational opportunities in the Florida Keys.

ORCF has provided vital support for several initiatives that have expanded CFK’s capacity to serve the Upper Keys community. Beyond help in funding construction of the Upper Keys Center (UKC), ORCF has backed everything from CFK-led COVID-19 vaccination efforts in the county to the establishment of a "last dollar” scholarship program, the ORCF Building Bridges Scholarship.

ORCF support enabled CFK to launch an annual Community Day at the UKC in 2025, modeling it after the longstanding tradition at the Key West Campus. The 2026 event grew to welcome more than 35 community organizations, student clubs, and academic programs. Recent ORCF grant funding enhanced the UKC student experience through the purchase of a Public Address System, refrigerator, and ice maker for the student lounge to provide comfort and convenience for students during long days of studying and extracurricular involvement.

“As we celebrate our 60th anniversary, we are especially grateful for exceptional partners like the Ocean Reef Community Foundation,” said Dr. Jonathan Gueverra, CFK President and CEO. “Their contributions have been essential to expanding the educational, workforce, and economic development opportunities available to our community.”
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For more information about partnering with CFK or donating to the CFK Foundation, contact Dr. Lana Gaspari, Vice President of Advancement and CFK Foundation Executive Director, at 305-809-3214 or [email protected].

KEY WEST, FL, February 19, 2026— Registration is open for The College of the Florida Keys (CFK) six-week continuing education course, Rock through the Ages: History of Rock and Roll. All are welcome to join as Andrew Riddles guides students through a musical journey over the decades that shaped America's most historic genre - Rock & Roll. The course will be held on Wednesdays from March 4 through April 15, 2026 (no class March 18) at 6:00 - 8:00 PM.

The course will highlight a journey through time to explore the evolution of rock and roll from the 1950’s to today. Topics will cover a look behind the hits at the tales behind legendary tracks and artists. Students will experience the music, discover what set rock and roll apart, and discuss how rock mirrored and influenced society.

The fee is $142 and seats are limited. To register today, visit the Enrollment Office in Building A on CFK’s Key West Campus at 5901 College Road on Stock Island. To learn more, visit: https://www.cfk.edu/academics/continuing-education/, or call Melissa Hertzog at 305-809-3156.

CFK’s Continuing Education department offers a wide range of non-credit classes and seminars designed to help lifelong students fulfill their potential, both personally and professionally.

KEY WEST, FL, February 13, 2026— Bidding is now open in the virtual silent auction for the fourteenth annual Seaside Soirée, The College of the Florida Keys (CFK) Foundation's signature fundraiser providing vital support for CFK students and programs. The auction runs from today, Friday, February 13, through Friday, February 27, closing at 8:30 p.m. during the live event at the Islander Resort in Islamorada.

The auction is open to anyone, anywhere whether attending the event or not. By opening bidding beyond the dance floor, the CFK Foundation aims to maximize community participation and impact for CFK students across the Keys.
Items up for bid span a range of price points and include adventure and travel experiences, dining and catering packages, art, jewelry, books, and more. The auction is live now at:

 https://www.silentauctionpro.com/bidonlinegrid.php?groupId=1795. New items may be added throughout the bidding period, so visitors are encouraged to check back often. Registered bidders will receive email notifications about auction activity, including alerts if they are outbid.

"For 60 years, The College of the Florida Keys has been opening doors for students across our community," said Dr. Lana Gaspari, CFK Vice President of Advancement and CFK Foundation Executive Director. "This year, we're not just celebrating that legacy. We're building on it."

The CFK Foundation's annual fundraiser benefits students through scholarships and academic program support while bringing the community together for an evening with neighbors, colleagues, and friends. There are three ways companies, organizations, and individuals can participate and make a difference:

1. Bid: Register for the virtual silent auction and bid on items.
2. Reserve a table or buy an individual ticket: Gather a group of 10 and join the celebration in person at the Islander Resort.
3. Become a sponsor: Sponsor the 60th Anniversary, which includes recognition benefits at both the Seaside Soirée and 60th Anniversary Celebration.

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"Every bid, every ticket, and every sponsorship represent something bigger than supporting an event," added Dr. Gaspari. "Each one is an investment in a student's future and in the next 60 years for the College and our community."

To learn more and support the Seaside Soirée fundraising efforts, visit CFK.edu/soiree or contact Dr. Lana Gaspari, CFK Vice President of Advancement and CFK Foundation Executive Director, at [email protected] or 305-809-3214.

KEY WEST, FL, February 5, 2026— The College of the Florida Keys Academy (CFK Academy) will host virtual office hours and an onsite tour with the Principal, Dr. Ja-Ronika Veldheer, on Thursday, February 12. Virtual office hours will be held via an online meeting room from 12:00-12:30 p.m. and the onsite tour will be from 5:30-6:00 p.m. at CFK Academy. At both events, Dr. Veldheer will answer any questions about the A-rated, tuition-free public charter high school, its academic offering, and application process.

Those interested to attend one or both can register via email to [email protected] before 12:00 p.m. on February 12th for access to the online meeting room and/or to register for the onsite tour.
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CFK Academy focuses on college and career readiness with a science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) and Career Technical Education (CTE) curriculum. Teachers use a Project-Based Learning (PBL) approach to give students hands-on engagement beyond the traditional classroom and better develop critical thinking and communication skills.

CFK Academy students are encouraged to earn college and high school credit simultaneously through the College’s Dual Enrollment program. College classes are conveniently located on the same campus as the high school. Motivated students can graduate with their high school diploma as well as an associate degree, certificate, and/or industry certification.

There is no cost to attend the CFK Academy, including the college level classes, potentially saving families tens of thousands of dollars.

The CFK Academy has earned an “A” grade from the Florida Department of Education (FDOE) since it opened in 2023. FDOE’s school grading system pulls from various student success metrics, including student achievement, learning gains, graduation rates, acceleration success, and focus on students who need the most support.

Applications are now open for grades nine through 12 for the 2026- 27 school year and can be found online at CFK.edu/CFKAcademy. Space is limited. Applications are due by February 24 and a lottery will be conducted on February 26.

KEY WEST, FL, February 5, 2026— The College of the Florida Keys (CFK) is set to strengthen its nursing program and expand support for future nurses with a $100,000 contribution from Lower Keys Medical Center (LKMC) that unlocked matching funds through the state’s Linking Industry to Nursing Education (LINE) grant. Through LINE, CFK is working to help address Florida’s critical nursing shortage by supporting nursing faculty, acquiring state-of-the art nursing simulation mannequins, and providing student scholarships to eligible students.

Established by the Florida Legislature in 2022, the LINE grant program is a competitive, matching grant that incentivizes partnerships between nursing education programs and healthcare providers to recruit faculty, expand program capacity, and graduate job-ready nurses in response to the growing nursing shortage in the state.

“Our strong relationship with The College of the Florida Keys is vital to the development of future clinical leaders in the Lower Keys,” said Drew Bigby, Chief Executive Officer of Lower Keys Medical Center. “This donation helps to continue the education programs offered by the College. We are proud to have many CFK graduates providing quality care at LKMC and serving our community.”

LKMC, located adjacent to CFK’s Key West Campus, has served for decades as the primary clinical training site for CFK nursing students in the Lower Keys. Many graduates transition directly into full-time registered nurse positions at LKMC upon licensure.

“This partnership with Lower Keys Medical Center exemplifies the power of collaboration to address critical workforce needs,” said Dr. Jonathan Gueverra, CFK President.  “LKMC’s commitment is vital to the pipeline of skilled healthcare professionals who will serve our island community for years to come."

The LINE grant funds will support student enrollment and faculty, while LKMC’s matching contribution will be used to provide scholarships to reduce financial barriers for eligible students in CFK’s Associate and Bachelor of Science in Nursing programs.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​ The LKMC scholarships are now openat https://cfk.academicworks.com/opportunities/3555 and applications are due by March 8, 2026.
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For more information about donating to the CFK Foundation to benefit CFK students and programs, contact Dr. Lana Gaspari, CFK Vice President of Advancement and CFK Foundation Executive Director, at 305-809-3214 or [email protected].