KEY WEST, FL, December 1, 2025— The College of the Florida Keys (CFK) Foundation received an $80,000 gift from John D. Parce to fund the James Robert and Eleanor Ryan Parce Scholarship for Nursing, a tribute established in memory of his parents.

Since its creation in 2020, the scholarship has supported aspiring nurses pursuing their Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) degree at CFK. The latest contribution ensures the scholarship will continue supporting students to achieve their nursing degrees while honoring the Parce family's commitment to education and the Florida Keys community.

The merit- and need-based scholarship awards up to $16,000 to one qualified nursing student over the entire length of the program. While open to all eligible applicants, preference is given to students aspiring to become flight nurses.

"The impact of Mr. Parce's generosity cannot be measured by the dollar amount of his donation. This gift is a catalyst that will positively change lives for individuals and families," said Dr. Jonathan Gueverra, CFK President and CEO. "The Parce family's dedication to our CFK community, especially our students, creates a lasting impact that will strengthen healthcare in our community."

Recipients must be enrolled in at least nine credit hours per semester, maintain a minimum 2.75 GPA, complete a FAFSA for the applicable academic year, and meet satisfactory academic progress standards.

Mr. Parce served as a member of the CFK Foundation Board of Directors from 2021 to 2024, furthering his family's legacy of supporting education in the Florida Keys.
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Students can apply for the scholarship at: https://www.cfk.edu/discover/cfk-foundation/scholarship-info/.
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].

KEY WEST, FL, November 20, 2025— The College of the Florida Keys (CFK) announced its "Fast Track to Spring" event will be offered on Wednesday, December 3 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. at both its Key West Campus and Upper Keys Center. Throughout the day, personal appointments are available to help prospective students get registered and access financial resources to support their academic and career training goals.
 
Spring semester classes begin January 9 and new students who participate in “Fast Track to Spring” will have their application fee waived, a savings of $30, and receive a $100 Kick-Starter Scholarship.
 
Future students and their families will be able to connect directly with knowledgeable CFK staff to receive information about degree and certificate options as well as financial aid, payment plans, and scholarships. Personalized guidance through the application process will also be available.
 
Prospective students are encouraged to bring the following items, if readily available, to expedite the admissions process:

• Sealed official transcripts (college and high school)
• Two forms of proof of Florida residency (such as a Florida driver’s license and Florida vehicle registration)
• Official test scores (SAT, ACT, and/or PERT)

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For more information about the opportunities available at CFK, visit the College’s website at cfk.edu or contact Marissa Owens, CFK Manager of Recruitment, at [email protected] or call 305-809-3207.

KEY WEST, FL, November 19, 2025— The College of the Florida Keys (CFK) has been awarded $2,284,000 in grant funding from the U.S. Department of Education under the Title III Strengthening Institutions Program (SIP). This five-year award will enable CFK to significantly expand virtual learning capacity and will introduce additional on-campus support services for students.

Title III SIP is a competitive federal initiative designed to help colleges expand their capacity to serve low-income students by providing funds to improve academic quality, institutional management, and fiscal stability.

“This grant will allow the College to make significant investments in student success at CFK,” said Dr. Brittany Snyder, CFK Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. “By expanding our virtual offerings and prioritizing critical needs, more students can access quality higher education and complete their degrees.”

The funding will support initiatives through 2030, including enhanced technology infrastructure for virtual instruction and the establishment of dedicated student wellness services on campus. These resources will be particularly valuable for CFK’s geographically dispersed student population across the Florida Keys.
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For more information about Student Success Services, please contact: [email protected] or (305) 809-3196.  

KEY WEST, FL, November 18, 2025— The College of the Florida Keys (CFK) was granted initial accreditation by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) on November 6, 2025. CFK earned accredited status after completing the Accelerated Process for Initial Accreditation and demonstrating it meets all HLC foundational requirements, which include eligibility requirements, criteria for accreditation, assumed practices, obligations of membership, and compliance with federal regulations.
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Founded in 1895, HLC is a private nonprofit accrediting agency and the nation’s largest institutional accreditor recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. HLC accredits approximately 1,000 colleges and universities in the United States. Recent Florida legislation allows colleges and universities to pursue accreditation with an accreditor other than the previously required agency, the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

CFK is among the first public institutions in Florida to reach this milestone with another institutional accreditor. Since 1968, the College has been accredited by SACSCOC. While CFK is currently accredited by both SACSCOC and HLC, work is underway to make HLC the College’s primary accreditor with the U.S. Department of Education.

“This initial accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission is a significant milestone. It reflects the quality and caliber of our academic and career training programs,” said Dr. Jonathan Gueverra, CFK President and CEO. “HLC’s stamp of approval confirms the dedication of our employees to improving student success every day and demonstrates our ongoing commitment to excellence and continuous improvement for our students and community.”

HLC’s quality standards focus on institutional mission, integrity, ethical conduct, teaching and learning quality, resources and support, evaluation and improvement, and institutional effectiveness in planning and resource management. The commission expects accredited institutions to provide evidence of quality education programs, maintain strong evaluation and improvement practices, and ensure ongoing compliance with standards to promote continuous institutional improvement.

Accreditation is an ongoing relationship. As a member of HLC, CFK will participate in ongoing reviews for compliance with HLC standards and is committed to continuous improvement of its institution, providing high-quality education to students.

“We are always thrilled to welcome new members into the HLC community, and look forward to a partnership that will benefit students and the future of higher education,” said HLC President Barbara Gellman-Danley.

KEY WEST, FL, November 5, 2025— The College of the Florida Keys (CFK) honored veterans as part of its festivities on Community Day on Saturday, November 1 at the Key West Campus. CFK President Dr. Jonathan Gueverra delivered his annual Salute to Veterans, honoring Major Edward Coy and Sargeant Terrence Varney, both U.S. Army veterans who graduated from CFK and are now College employees.

CFK President Dr. Jonathan Gueverra’s 2025 Salute to Veterans:
“This Veterans Day, please take a moment to reflect on the sacrifices that our service members bear for all Americans and for the principles of democracy. I salute all veterans as well as current service members, including my son Julius, who is serving in the Navy. I express my sincerest thanks to them and their families for their dedication and commitment, and for their continued service to protecting our freedom wherever they are deployed.

Our heroes continue to serve in a variety of ways that benefit our communities. The Florida Keys and the College have indeed benefitted from the contributions of many veterans over the years. Each one deserves special recognition. Today, I salute two veterans in the CFK Family: U.S. Army Major Edward Coy and U.S. Army Sargeant Terrence Varney—both CFK employees and alumni, each with distinct stories of service.

Major Edward Coy
Ed enlisted in the Army right out of high school in 1973—seeking military service as a path to develop character and to provide for the family he intended to start with his high school sweetheart and new bride Denise. Shortly after basic training, he joined the 1/75th Ranger Regiment and moved to the 24th Infantry Division in Fort Steward, Georgia while starting a family.

In a pivotal moment, young Ed found himself in legal trouble after accidentally driving through a roadblock. Fortunately, a Catholic priest and base Chaplain, came to his defense, convincing law enforcement to drop charges. Grateful for his kindness, Ed developed a friendship with the priest, which inspired a new purpose in his military career. Ed added the role of Chaplain to his other soldier duties, providing spiritual counseling, emotional support, and moral guidance to countless service members and their families struggling with challenges ranging from depression and marital problems to PTSD and suicide. He worked stateside and throughout the world on multiple tours including Korea, Egypt, Jamaica, Nicaragua, Honduras, and Guatemala.

Initially retiring in 1992 as a Sargeant First Class, he was called back in 2006 to serve as the Chaplain Major deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan, along with assignments to support soldiers and their families in Kentucky, Washington, D.C. and surrounding regions.

Ed retired in 2016 as a Major following 30 years of service, receiving distinctions including the Armed Forces Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal with two stars, Meritorious Medal, Army Commendation and Achievement Medals, Army Defense Service Medal, Combat Action Badge, and Airborne Badge.

Upon his second retirement in 2016, he and Denise moved to the Keys, their favorite vacation destination. With boating as a retirement priority, Ed wanted to learn how to operate diesel engines. He enrolled in CFK and earned an associate degree in Marine Engineering, Management, and Seamanship. He was recruited back to the classroom after graduation, this time as an adjunct instructor. Ed also worked as the Veterans Affairs Coordinator in the College’s Financial Aid Office for one year, helping veterans, active-duty service members, and their dependents maximize their military education benefits like the G.I. Bill to earn college credentials. Today, he is a full-time faculty member in the marine engineering program, which serves many veteran students developing new skillsets and goals. Ed uses his Army Chaplain experience to provide support and guidance to his students beyond teaching the curriculum—including fostering camaraderie and community via the Veterans Student Club, which he founded two years ago.

Sargeant Terrence Varney
Like Ed, Terry enlisted in the Army right out of high school, setting forth on a career that would provide opportunities to develop skills and character, support a family, and serve our nation. Already equipped with basic technical skills after years of working for his father’s electrical and plumbing business, Terry started as an aviation mechanic in Bangor, Maine. He performed maintenance and repairs on aircraft, including structural, powertrain, and avionics systems, to ensure they are safe and operational. Noticing his talent and potential, his superiors promoted him to flight crew.

Terry served as a dual status technician in the Army National Guard as well as a fulltime soldier—participating in missions from both divisions, as duty called. His service included multiple deployments to Germany and Iraq.

The first half of his aviation career was dedicated to air combat duties. As the Unit Training Advisor, he ensured all members of the Huey helicopter flight crew were prepared to carry out complex assault missions. After 12 years, Terry’s career shifted to 14 years of medevac work, serving as the Crew Chief responsible for maintenance and security of the Black Hawk aircraft. While not typically required for his role, Terry enrolled in Combat Lifesaver School, acquiring essential trauma care skills that were put to use in critical rescue missions.

In between medevac deployments, Terry’s family grew quickly upon marrying wife Kelly, becoming stepfather to a son and a daughter in 2004, and welcoming another daughter in 2006.  

In 2018, Terry retired as Staff Sargent E6. He earned two Air Medals as well as Master Aviator Wings during his 26 years of service. The family moved to Key West to enjoy retirement. Afraid he may spend too much time fishing, Kelly encouraged him to enroll in diving classes. He ultimately earned two associate degrees at CFK—in Diving Business Technology and Marine Engineering, Management, and Seamanship. After graduation, Terry stayed with the College, working as a lab technician before becoming the Dive Facilities Manager. In his role, he interacts with many students in CFK’s various marine programs, making special connections with veteran students who lean on him for extra support and guidance.

It is with great honor that on this Veterans Day 2025, The College of the Florida Keys and I salute U.S. Army Major Edward Coy and U.S. Army Sargeant Terrence Varney. They exemplify the vast bravery, talent, and selflessness of the U.S. military. Thank you for your continuous service to our country, state, and community. May your achievements, sacrifice, and generosity serve as an inspiration for all.”

KEY WEST, FL, October 30, 2025— The College of the Florida Keys (CFK) will present how Monroe County high school students can get a head start on college at a virtual information session on Wednesday, November 5 at 5:30 p.m. All students and their parents/ guardians are invited to explore the Dual Enrollment program and learn about the pathways to and benefits of simultaneously earning college and high school credits at no cost to the student, potentially saving families thousands of dollars.

The virtual event will cover the advantages of taking Dual Enrollment classes, requirements to participate, and the application process.
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Interested students and parents can sign up for the event and learn more about the Dual Enrollment program by visiting the CFK’s website at www.CFK.edu/DE. For more information, contact Marissa Owens, Manager of Recruitment, at [email protected] or 305-809-3207.

KEY WEST, FL, October 21, 2025— The College of the Florida Keys’ (CFK) Institute for Public Safety (IPS) held a graduation ceremony for the Basic Law Enforcement Academy #93 on October 15 at the Tennessee Williams Theatre on the CFK Key West Campus. Sixteen cadets successfully completed the 770-hour training program, and upon passing the State Officer Certification Exam, each will be eligible to become a Florida Law Enforcement Officer.
 
Through partnerships with the Key West Police Department (KWPD) and the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office (MSCO), all graduates have already secured employment. During the ceremony, Monroe County Sheriff Rick Ramsay swore in seven cadets and KWPD Chief Brandenburg swore in nine cadets.
 
Cathy Torres, CFK Director of the Institute for Public Safety, recognized top performing graduates with accolades. The leadership award was given to James H. Metzger while Christopher L. Cahill was recognized for academic achievement. The “Top Gun” shooting skills award went to Aaron C. Dixon, and the physical fitness award was shared by Lola Basulto Jamie and Bradley Fox. The “PIG” award, which recognizes pride, integrity, and guts, went to Danielle M. Fasulo.
 
CFK’s law enforcement officer program satisfies the training requirements of the Florida Department of Law Enforcement and the Criminal Justice Standards and Training Commission. CFK is currently accepting applications for two upcoming training academies:
 
·       Basic Law Enforcement Academy #96, at the Upper Keys Center starting in January 2026 and ending in November 2026 – applications are due by December 12, 2025
·       Basic Law Enforcement Academy #97, at the Key West Campus starting in May 2026 and ending in November 2026 – applications are due by April 16, 2026
For more information about CFK’s Institute for Public Safety, visit the College’s website at https://www.cfk.edu/academics/academic-departments/institute-for-public-safety/. 

KEY WEST, FL, October 13, 2025— The College of the Florida Keys (CFK) is accepting applications for spring semester scholarships to help both new and returning students achieve their educational goals affordably. Students must be admitted to the College and registered for spring 2026 semester classes to qualify for scholarships. The deadline to apply is Sunday, November 2, 2025.

Thousands of dollars in scholarships are available across a wide range of academic programs and backgrounds. Students may apply for all scholarships for which they qualify. Scholarship descriptions and eligibility requirements can be viewed on the College’s website at cfk.edu/discover/cfk-foundation/scholarship-info/.

"Scholarships can transform a student’s college experience by easing financial stress and enabling them to fully focus on their education." said Dr. Lana Gaspari CFK Vice President, Advancement and Executive ‘Director, CFK Foundation. “We strongly encourage every eligible student to take advantage of these life-changing opportunities and apply for as many scholarships as possible.”

CFK’s spring semester begins January 10.

For more scholarship information and guidance, contact Shania Duarte-Vera, CFK Coordinator of Scholarships and Donor Relations, at [email protected] or 305-809-3153.
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In addition to scholarships, further resources to help students pay for college, such as federal financial aid and tuition payment plans, can be found on CFK’s website at cfk.edu/paying-for-college/.

KEY WEST, FL, October 9, 2025— The College of the Florida Keys (CFK) is partnering with the Key Largo and Marathon chambers of commerce to help high school students navigate the college application process. The free "Ready, Set, COLLEGE!" workshops will provide guidance on college applications, essay writing, and financial aid for students, families, mentors, and guidance counselors.

Key Largo “Ready, Set, COLLEGE!” Workshop presented by the Key Largo Chamber of Commerce
Tuesday, October 21, 5:30–6:30 p.m.
CFK Upper Keys Center Auditorium
106040 Overseas Highway, Key Largo

Marathon “Ready, Set, COLLEGE!” Workshop presented by the Marathon Chamber of Commerce
Wednesday, October 22, 5:30–6:30 p.m.
CFK Middle Keys Center, Room 5204
350 Sombrero Beach Road, Marathon


CFK faculty will share proven strategies for crafting compelling college admission and scholarship essays. Parents, mentors, and guidance counselors will learn how to effectively evaluate student writing and provide constructive feedback.

The second half of each workshop will demystify college financing through federal grants, loans, scholarships, and payment plans. CFK financial aid staff will provide hands-on assistance with completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), the critical first step for accessing federal and institutional financial aid.

“These workshops represent our continuing commitment to assure that higher education is accessible to every student in the Florida Keys," said Dr. Jonathan Gueverra, CFK President. "Our local chambers of commerce are one of many partners who help us to bring college preparation resources directly to families."
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Both events are free and open to all high school students and their supporters. For additional information about “Ready, Set, COLLEGE!,” contact CFK at 305-296-9081.

KEY WEST, FL, October 8, 2025— The College of the Florida Keys Foundation honored both scholarship donors and recipients at its 13th annual Scholarship Social in the Tennessee Williams Theatre on the Key West Campus. For the academic year 2024-25, the CFK Foundation awarded 289 scholarships totaling $245,297. 

Beyond the numbers, the highlight of the event was when students shared personal stories about life-changing opportunities that the CFK Foundation scholarships made possible:

For Wendy Behler, a CFK Culinary Management student and recipient of a Key West Woman’s Club Scholarship, it’s a story of pursuing her culinary education with a heartfelt mission: to build a baking business alongside her daughter, Rebecka. While homeschooling Rebecka, Wendy discovered their shared passion for baking, especially apple pies. Wendy realized this was the foundation for a meaningful future they could create together where they could bake, serve their community, and share love through their culinary creations. The scholarship is helping Wendy gain the professional training and business knowledge needed to make the dream come true and build a path forward that celebrates Rebecka’s unique gifts and bright spirit.

“I want my children to be happy every day,” Behler declared. “Rebecka wakes up happy every morning and loves everyone. If she can live a life of baking and giving love to others through this, I think that will be a wonderful life that we can do together.” ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

For Leandro Macias, a CFK Nursing student, it’s a deeply personal story of when a doctor abandoned him and his mother as she succumbed to cancer. That heartbreaking moment gave Leandro purpose to dedicate his life to helping those in need so others would not be left helpless like he was.

“Receiving a scholarship is more than financial help; it shows me that people believe in me and in the nurse I will become,” shared  Macias, recipient of scholarships from the Rotary Club of Key West, Hemingway Look-Alike Society, Dr. Kevin Mallinson and Robert Hansen (Julie Eckard Nursing Scholarship), Key West Masonic Lodge, Ed Hummell, and the late Dr. William Seeker (Sue and Albert Seeker First Generation in College Scholarship). “Because of scholarships, I can continue to follow my dream and prepare to give back to others, just as I have been supported.”

Kaitlyn Mears, a CFK Associate of Arts student and member of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society since freshman year, shared her dream to earn a Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering. As the recipient of the Board of Trustees Scholarship, Mears shared her gratitude and her drive to live her best life.

“This scholarship has allowed me to pursue experiences that help me grow academically and personally,” said Mears. “From the bottom of my heart, thank you for investing in me and so many others. Your belief in us fuels our ambition and helps turn our dreams into realities.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​”

For more information about opportunities to support student scholarships and programs at the College, contact Dr. Lana Gaspari, CFK Vice President of Advancement and CFK Foundation Executive Director, at 305-809-3214 or [email protected]. Gifts to the CFK Foundation are tax-deductible.

Scholarship opportunities for the spring semester are available and applications are due by November 2, 2025. Details about CFK scholarships can be found on the College’s website at https://www.cfk.edu/discover/cfk-foundation/scholarship-info/.
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For assistance with scholarships, contact Shania Duarte-Vera, CFK Coordinator of Scholarships and Donor Relations, at 305-809-3153 or [email protected].