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].

KEY WEST, FL, February 04, 2026— The College of the Florida Keys (CFK) is accepting applications for summer semester scholarships to help students achieve their educational goals affordably. Students must be admitted to the College and registered for summer 2026 classes to qualify for scholarships. The deadline to apply for most scholarships is Sunday, March 29, 2026.

Thousands of dollars in scholarships are available to support students across a wide range of academic programs and backgrounds. Students may apply for as many and 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/.
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“We strongly encourage every student to explore available scholarships and take advantage of these life-changing opportunities," said Dr. Lana Gaspari CFK Vice President, Advancement and Executive Director, CFK Foundation. “Eligible students should apply for as many scholarships as possible to ease financial stress so they can fully focus on their education.”

CFK’s summer semester begins May 18.

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, February 3, 2026— With endless conflicting diet and nutrition advice flooding social media, The College of the Florida Keys (CFK) invites the community to the next CFK VIP Series presentation – “The Best Diet and Other Myths About Nutrition” – on Thursday, February 19, at 7:00 p.m. at CFK’s Key West campus.

Featuring licensed dietitian and nutritionist Leigh Pujado, MS, CNS, LDN, this timely presentation will trace the evolution of nutrition science, revealing where dietary guidance went off track launching decades of fad diets that often did more harm than good. Ms. Pujado will include a bit of biochemistry to show how the body actually responds to different foods to help inform choices that support lasting health rather than chasing the latest trend.
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“There’s so much noise online about what we should and shouldn’t eat,” said Pujado, who operates the clinical practice, Hibiscus Nutrition, in Key West. “My goal is to help people understand the science so they can filter out the myths and focus on what truly nourishes their bodies.”

Pujado brings a whole-person, integrative approach rooted in functional medicine and evidence-based medical nutrition therapy. Her practice focuses on personalized dietary planning, laboratory analysis, lifestyle modification, and how to cook the foods that will help you thrive.
Event Details: 

Date: Thursday, February 19, 2026
Time: Doors open at 6:00 p.m.; presentation begins at 7:00 p.m.
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
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 202 series is sponsored by David and Annette Curry, Essential Net Solutions, and First Horizon Bank.

Watch the event live on CFK's Facebook page: 
The event  be streamed live on CFK’s Facebook pageat https://www.facebook.com/TheCollegeoftheFloridaKeys/. Simply go to the CFK Facebook page at 7:00 p.m. and click on live stream when it starts. 

For more information, call 305-296-9081 or visit www.cfk.edu/VIP.

About Leigh Pujado: Leigh Pujado, MS, CNS, LDN, holds a Master of Science in nutrition, the Certified Nutrition Specialist® (CNS) designation from the American Nutrition Association, and a Licensed Dietitian-Nutritionist (LDN) state license.

KEY WEST, FL, January 30, 2026— The College of the Florida Keys (CFK) and the CFK Foundation invite the community to “Swords and Tails: A Seaside Soiree” on Friday, February 27 at the Islander Resort in Islamorada from 6:00 – 10:00 p.m.

At this special 60th anniversary edition of the beloved Seaside Soiree, elegance meets impact as we showcase the College’s historical exhibit featuring 60 years of thriving together with the community. Guests will enjoy fine dining, cocktails, music, dancing, and community spirit in support of CFK students and programs.

Tickets and sponsorship packages are available for the fundraiser on the College’s website at www.cfk.edu/soiree.
Following tradition, the College will hold a virtual silent auction during the two weeks leading up to the event, from February 13 through 27. Open to all throughout the Keys, Florida, and beyond, the virtual silent auction offers an opportunity to support the College’s fundraising efforts. To participate in the silent auction and/or purchase tickets for the Seaside Soiree, create an account here: https://www.silentauctionpro.com/signinregisterolb.php?groupId=1795&olbreturn=/memberhome.php?groupId=1795&ks=1.

All proceeds of the event and auction will benefit the students and programs at CFK.
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Sponsor of CFK’s 60th Anniversary, including the 2026 Seaside Soiree, include Essential Net Solutions, Ajax Building Company, First State Bank, Capital City Consulting, Gray Robinson Consulting, Mote Marine Laboratory, Mason Investments, Sheldon Suga, Florida Keys Media, Keys Citizen, Keys Weekly, Bob & Rose Littlejohn, and Spottswood Companies.  
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To contribute auction items or donations to the CFK Foundation, contact Dr. Lana Gaspari, CFK Vice President of Advancement and CFK Foundation Executive Director, at [email protected] or 305-809-3214.