CFK Capstone Showcase puts student innovation on display April 29

CFK students exhibit and discuss real-world projects at a previous CFK Capstone Showcase. 

KEY WEST, FL, April 24, 2026— The College of the Florida Keys (CFK) invites the community to attend its annual Capstone Showcase where graduating students will present final projects addressing real-world challenges across a wide range of fields. The event will be held Wednesday, April 29, from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m. in the CFK Library / Learning Resource Center on the Key West Campus. Admission is free and open to the public.

Students will walk visitors through their research, insights, and solutions to give a firsthand look at the practical skills and critical thinking they’ve developed at CFK. These students developed their projects in capstone courses as part of the Bachelor of Applied Science in Supervision and Management and the Bachelor of Science in Marine Resource Management.

The projects reflect CFK’s advanced academic offerings and diverse career pathways. The showcase includes 19 projects ranging from hospitality, business, marine science, and Florida’s fish and wildlife resources to educational fundraising, real estate, experiential learning, and government.


“What’s special about the capstone students, beyond their high level of work product, is that every student has an inspirational backstory, every one of them,” commented Dr. Kelly Penwell, CFK Assistant Professor, Business, Education, and Hospitality.

“Once you know their stories, the capstone journey transcends teaching. You become their mentor and help bring out their best,” added Dr. Matthew R. Semcheski, CFK Faculty, Marine Resource Management.

Community members, employers, current and prospective students, and CFK alumni are all encouraged to attend. For employers in Monroe County, the showcase offers a unique opportunity to connect with job-ready graduates and observe the caliber of talent emerging from CFK’s programs.

For more information, contact: Dr. Kelly Penwell: [email protected].