The 2025 Santa Fe College Convocation began with a ballet performance and a song, setting the stage for the event held on August 22 at the Jackson N. Sasser Fine Arts Hall. The gathering included faculty, staff, students, and stakeholders.
Santa Fe College President Paul Broadie addressed attendees, emphasizing the institution’s ongoing commitment to student success as it introduces Vision 2030, its new five-year strategic plan. “Santa Fe, you are that light,” Broadie said. He added, “We keep students at the center of everything we do. Like we did with the 37 seamless degree tracks to transfer into the University of Florida. We’ll keep finding ways to support our students. I’ll keep talking to our impressive student body to hear what they need to improve their learning experience.”
Dustin Portillo, entrepreneur and author of “It’s Okay To Be An Idiot,” served as keynote speaker. Drawing from his background as a former Ronald McDonald clown, Portillo encouraged those present not to let work outweigh enjoyment and concluded by having participants reach out via phone calls to contacts nearby.
The convocation focused on “Organizational Resilience.” Initiatives highlighted included an academic master plan designed for more tailored student experiences and mentorship opportunities. Programs targeting labor market needs were also featured, such as a Heavy Diesel Mechanic Training and Certification Program and activities at the Ralph W. Cellon Jr. Institute for Skilled Trades and Advanced Manufacturing.
Santa Fe College Foundation President Rod Smith underscored support systems in place for students: “Santa Fe students, we have your back,” Smith said.
President Broadie announced plans for a new automotive training facility expected to break ground in 2025 and be completed by 2027. He also revealed additional faculty hires in response to increasing enrollment.
The college received recognition through recent awards including a Carnegie Classification as an Opportunity College and the inaugural 2025 “Impact and Success Award” for the Southern Region from the Association of Community College Trustees (ACCT). SF was one of five colleges recognized nationwide. Broadie commented on these honors: “We don’t chase those; we just do our work,” he said. “We don’t look for these; they look for us. It’s an acknowledgement that the work this college is doing is above and beyond.”
Internal recognitions during the convocation went to Professor Clay Smith (English), Joseph Jester (Executive Assistant to the VP for Student Affairs), and Athletics Director Chanda Stebbins with the “You Are Santa Fe” award for their impact on students and campus life. The Mathematics department received an “Impact” award under Chair Adam Christopherson for advancements in student outcomes.
