New College of Florida is preparing to allow faculty and staff to carry firearms on campus if the state expands the Guardian Program to “enhance student, faculty, and staff safety.”
The college announced its plans to participate in the program pending Gov. Ron DeSantis’ signing of HB 757, which would extend the Guardian Program — long used in K-12 schools — to colleges and universities.
Under the program, selected faculty and staff could voluntarily undergo extensive state-mandated training and serve in a limited defensive role alongside campus police. The Legislature approved the measure largely along party lines, with Republicans arguing the expansion strengthens campus security while Democrats raised concerns about allowing more firearms on campus.
“At New College, we are proud to lead the nation in campus safety,” New College of Florida President Richard Corcoran said. “This program reflects a serious, forward-thinking commitment to preparedness and proactive safety, with an almost ten-year track record of proven success.”
The Guardian Program requires 144 hours of training, along with psychological evaluations, background screening and annual reauthorization. New College officials said the program will operate under the direction of campus law enforcement, with coordination from Sheriff’s Offices in Sarasota and Manatee counties. Campus police will retain full command authority during emergencies, with trained guardians serving in support roles.
“New College is elated to join this program,” Board of Trustees Chair Debra Jenks said. “We applaud the leadership of the Governor and the Legislature in expanding the Guardian Program, and are more than ready to be a part of it to take our student, faculty, and staff safety to another level.”
The school sent an email to faculty and staff encouraging those interested to email Chief Legal Counsel David Brickhouse, who will coordinate the process with Police Chief Jennifer Coley to ensure that all legal, procedural and safety standards are fully met. The email, signed by Corcoran, emphasized that participation would be voluntary and limited to qualified personnel.
The Guardian Program was originally created after the 2018 Parkland school shooting as part of a broader school safety package, and HB 757 must be signed by DeSantis before taking effect.
“At its core, this program reflects the strength of a community that looks out for one another,” Corcoran wrote. “By offering this opportunity, New College is reinforcing its commitment to a safe, secure, and supportive environment; one where our shared responsibility for safety helps sustain the academic mission we all serve.”
