Takeaways from Tallahassee — Breaking down silos

Education Commissioner Henry Mack announced a broad reorganization of the Florida Department of Education’s leadership team, including a new Chief of Staff and expanded roles overseeing the department’s programs, policy, research, communications and finances.

Mack said the changes are intended to improve coordination across the department and strengthen collaboration among its education and workforce-development programs.

“As Florida continues to lead the nation in education, our organizational structure must support effective collaboration, informed decision-making, and exceptional service to Florida’s students, adult learners, families, and education leaders and lawmakers,” Mack said. “These talented leaders bring extensive experience, a deep commitment to public service, and a shared vision for educational excellence and freedom. I am honored to welcome these leaders to drive impact and deliver on the education and economic agenda of the Governor.”

Senior Chancellor Paul O. Burns will take on an expanded role overseeing all of the department’s program offices and divisions. Those include Florida Colleges; Career, Technical and Adult Education; Vocational Rehabilitation; Blind Services; the Commission for Independent Education; the Division of Public Schools; Safe Schools; School Choice; and Early Learning.

The department said the arrangement is intended to strengthen coordination across Florida’s pre-K-20 education and workforce systems.

Burns joined the department in 2018 as Deputy Chancellor of Educator Quality after nearly 20 years working in education. He became Chancellor of Public Schools in January 2023, overseeing programs serving nearly 2.8 million students, and was elevated to Senior Chancellor in August 2024. He earned his doctorate from Saint Louis University.

Flannery Sloan has been appointed Chief of Staff and will serve as Mack’s principal adviser. She will oversee and coordinate departmental functions, work plans and communications while helping advance the state’s education policy agenda.

Before joining the department, Sloan worked at the U.S. Department of Labor in Congressional Affairs and the Employment and Training Administration. She previously worked at Turning Point Action. Sloan earned a bachelor’s degree in civic and economic thought and leadership from Barrett, The Honors College at Arizona State University.

Katerina Maroney has been named Chancellor of the Division of Early Learning. Maroney has more than 20 years of experience working on early-learning programs in Florida and has served in several roles at the department and the division since 2005. She most recently served as Deputy Director of Programs and Policy.

Former Chief of Staff Steven Koncar will become the department’s Chief Strategy and Policy Officer. In the newly created role, he will oversee the Office of Legislative Affairs and the Division of Accountability, Research and Measurement.

Before joining the department, Koncar held several positions in state and federal government. He earned his law degree from Marquette University Law School.

Jay Menees has been named Vice Chancellor of Research and Policy. He will coordinate the department’s research efforts, oversee efforts to integrate data with agencies including Florida Commerce and help modernize the department’s approach to data quality and transparency.

Menees most recently served as Senior Policy Director for higher education and the economy at the America First Policy Institute in Washington. He holds a doctorate in higher education administration and policy from the University of Florida.

Travis Jordan has been named Chief Marketing and Communications Officer, an expanded position intended to oversee the department’s communications, stakeholder engagement and public-awareness initiatives.

Jordan has more than 15 years of experience in marketing and communications across higher education, state government and economic development. He previously held senior positions at Emory University, Miami Dade College, Western Carolina University and Enterprise Florida. He also previously served in a statewide marketing role with the Department of Education.

Jordan holds a master’s degree in global strategic communications from Florida International University.

Cassie Edwards, who has served as Director of Communications, will remain with the department as Senior Adviser for Strategic Communications.

Suzanne Pridgeon has been promoted to Chief Operations and Financial Officer. She will oversee the department’s legislative and operating budgets, Public Education Capital Outlay budget, Florida Education Finance Program allocations and student financial aid. Her expanded portfolio also includes the budgets and operations of the department’s offices and divisions.

Pridgeon will continue overseeing the department’s day-to-day administrative operations, including personnel, accounting, purchasing and procurement, general services and emergency management.

She has worked at the department since 2000 and has served as Deputy Commissioner since 2019.

Additional information is available on the department’s leadership page.

___

Coming up, the usual assortment of news, intel, and observations from the week that was in Florida’s capital city by Peter Schorsch, Drew Wilson, Drew Dixon, Liam Fineout and the staff of Florida Politics.

But first, the “Takeaway 5” — the Top 5 stories from the week that was:

— Take 5 —

The Flock rebellion — Gov. Ron DeSantis is delivering on a promise to remove automated license plate reader (LPR) cameras from state rights-of-way, with the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) ordering localities to pull the cameras within 30 days. Additionally, FDOT says it will move more quickly to remove cameras, made by Flock Safety, Axon and other brands, that it perceives to constitute an “immediate safety concern” or to be “causing an unsafe condition.” The memo, authored by Assistant Secretary Will Watts, roots the agency’s authority in Statute 316.0777. That law gives the FDOT jurisdiction over the tools used by local governments.

Shutting the door — Florida’s Board of Governors has barred students without legal immigration status from enrolling at any state university. The 17-member panel approved the change unanimously without debate during a meeting at Florida Gulf Coast University. The restriction is effective for the 2027-28 academic year and makes Florida the largest state in the nation to close publicly funded higher education to that group. As amended, the state’s General Admissions regulation provides that a person unlawfully present in the country “shall not be eligible for initial enrollment in any state university.” It applies to schools that have not accepted every academically qualified applicant over the prior two academic years.

In for the win … kinda — DeSantis has made his peace with the modified version of his original plan to eliminate homestead property taxes for the first $250,000 in home value, and says he is going to help get Amendment 3 passed on November’s ballot. “I think I’m going to be involved,” he said at Cecil Field in Jacksonville. “I’ll be involved somehow. I don’t know if it’s going to be, like, barnstorming and holding campaign events.” DeSantis told reporters in June that “what the Legislature did wasn’t my proposal.” But he seems to have come around since, even though even now he says he’s not “going to lead a PC and do all this and conduct the fundraising across the state.”

Hyperscale hyperdrive — Data centers remain front-and-center in the lead-up to Election Day, with U.S. Sen. Ashley Moody coming out in favor of local control, GOP Governor nominee Byron Donalds tying them to Florida’s future and the space economy, and Democratic rival David Jolly turning Donalds’ support into an attack ad. Florida’s current Governor even got in on the action by floating a Special Session for lawmakers to take up the AI and medical freedom bills they snubbed earlier this year.

Reforms at work? — A new study finds that Florida policyholders paid nearly $3 billion less for homeowners and auto insurance in 2025 than in 2024. Commissioned by the American Property Casualty Insurance Association (APCIA) and titled Florida’s Legal Reforms: Lower Insurance Costs and Less Litigation, the study found that changes to Florida law related to lawsuits in the 2022-2023 legislative years have stabilized and strengthened the state’s property insurance market, lowering costs for consumers and reducing excessive litigation. Moore Actuarial Consulting and James Lynch Casualty Actuary conducted the study.

— Lady Columbia in Lake City —

“What’s it look like we’re doing? It’s manifest destiny! You can’t fight it and neither can I!”

Last week, Florida continued to commemorate America’s 250th anniversary, and DeSantis was in Lake City to unveil a statue of Lady Columbia — the representation of manifest destiny most commonly depicted in the painting “American Progress” by Prussian-born artist John Gast — to honor the people and events that shaped the nation.

“I was proud to unveil the latest in a series of statues commemorating America’s 250th anniversary. Today, we honored the history and legacy of Florida’s pioneer spirit by unveiling a statue of Lady Columbia in Lake City, the seat of Columbia County. The Lady Columbia statue stands on a pedestal depicting the Sunshine State’s iconic symbols, landscapes, and historic moments. Be sure to stop by next time you are in Lake City,” said DeSantis.

Preserving Lady Columbia, who in many ways is considered the predecessor to Uncle Sam, in Columbia County adds an extra layer of patriotism and symbolism, given the county’s history. It was a waypoint between the Spanish missions in St. Augustine and Tallahassee; the railroad turned the town into a regional hub for timber and agriculture; and during World War II, the community became a site for military training. History has happened in its backyard.

It feels right for Lady Columbia to call Lake City her home.

“A timeless beacon of freedom, Lady Columbia represents America’s progress and inspires us with hope,” added Secretary of State Cord Byrd.

“The pedestal of this monument celebrates our state’s proud heritage, honoring Florida’s unique role in shaping the greater American story. I encourage all Floridians to visit this and the other statues we’ve unveiled as part of America250FL.”

— Rural projects, big bucks —

Gov. DeSantis has approved nearly $15.6 million for infrastructure improvements and development plans in Florida’s small and rural communities.

Some 23 rural areas across the state will be getting a share of the funding, which will help pay for community projects and other essential infrastructure improvements. The funding is coming from the state’s Small Cities Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and Community Planning Technical Assistance (CPTA) Grant programs.

“Florida’s success begins with strong communities,” said Secretary of Commerce J. Alex Kelly.

“Under Gov. DeSantis’ leadership, Florida is investing in projects that improve critical infrastructure, strengthen local economies and create new opportunities for Florida families, job seekers and job creators to thrive — getting communities the resources they need to support long-term economic growth and build an even brighter future.”

Kelly oversees FloridaCommerce, the state’s economic development agency that distributes much of the funding approved by DeSantis. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development provides much of the funding for the Small Cities CDBG and CPTA programs.

Both programs provide funding for infrastructure projects, such as road and housing development, that benefit low- and moderate-income residents. They also help develop strategic plans designed to address economic challenges.

The funding headed to municipalities will support sewer lift stations, water-supply facilities, drainage improvements and plans for parks and recreation, transportation, tourism, technical assistance and economic development, among dozens of other services.

— I am the Egg Man —

Thousands of underprivileged families will have access to free eggs as a result of a federal settlement between egg producers and the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ).

Attorney General James Uthmeier announced that nearly 5.7 million eggs are being delivered to food banks to assist low-income households thanks to Florida’s share of the settlement stemming from allegations of price manipulation by those egg producers.

“Eggs are a breakfast staple, not a luxury,” Uthmeier said during a news conference. “When the price of a carton goes up, working families feel it every week at the checkout line. Today 5.67 million eggs are moving to food banks and pantries in every Florida county — at no cost to households, food banks, or taxpayers. That is affordability you can measure.”

The Grade A egg distribution is a direct result of a joint investigation by the DOJ and a bipartisan coalition of 17 state Attorneys General, including Florida’s, into daily price quotations for eggs. The quotations were linked to the Urner Barry price index, which affects the egg prices set by grocers. That investigation into price manipulation was launched late last year.

Under the settlement, egg producers agreed to distribute 53 million eggs to food banks nationwide at no cost and pay states a combined $3.3 million. Florida has distributed 21 truckloads of eggs over the past several weeks. The final delivery concluded Wednesday.

— Horrific —

Attorney General Uthmeier’s office is accusing two people of keeping four children locked in a truck cab for six years, abusing them as they hauled freight between Florida and Georgia.

During a news conference, Uthmeier outlined the case against 37-year-old Tamra Marshon Stewart of Jacksonville and 51-year-old Keysha Monique Epps of Atlanta in what he called “one of, if not the most horrific cases our team has ever had to work on.”

Uthmeier and officials with the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) and the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office say tips led investigators to find that Stewart and Epps kept the four children captive in the cab of a semi-tractor-trailer rig. They are accused of sexually and physically abusing them and subjecting them to other forms of mistreatment.

“They were malnourished,” Uthmeier said. “They weren’t cleaned, and they weren’t given showers.”

Uthmeier said the two suspects routinely transported the four children on routes between Miami and Atlanta.

“They would leave the kids locked in this rolling dungeon,” Uthmeier said.

Stewart is charged with two counts of sexual battery by a person in familial custodial authority, two counts of lewd and lascivious molestation of a child under 12, two counts of battery of a child by expelling certain fluids or materials, two counts of child neglect with bodily harm, and two counts of child neglect causing permanent disfigurement.

— While my pine gently weeps —

Florida’s pine forests would like to avoid Beetlemania.

Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson and the Florida Forest Service are accepting applications through Oct. 9 for the 2026 Southern Pine Beetle Assistance and Prevention Program. The federally supported program is open to non-industrial, private forest landowners across 44 northern Florida counties — the pest’s known range in the state.

“Southern pine beetle activity has remained relatively low in Florida in recent years,” said Rick Dolan, Director of the Florida Forest Service. “Active forest management can both protect individual stands and reduce the risk of widespread outbreaks.”

That is not necessarily a cue to relax: outbreaks in Alabama, Georgia and other neighboring states have destroyed thousands of acres of pine timber.

The program pays incentives to landowners who need to thin overcrowded pine stands for the first time. It also offers partial reimbursement for prescribed burning, mechanical underbrush treatments and planting longleaf or slash pine instead of loblolly pine, the beetle’s preferred species. Applications will be evaluated and ranked, and some reimbursement rates have increased this year to reflect higher costs.

Since its 2005 debut, the program has been used on more than 222,000 acres and has assisted thousands of landowners. Simpson called those small landowners “the backbone of our state’s forest industry.”

Applications and details are available at FDACS.gov/SPBPrevention.

— Fuego in Tallahassee —

Last week, CFO and State Fire Marshal Blaise Ingoglia, whose office aims to support Florida’s first responders as they risk their lives, proudly announced the arrest of Tallas Salavas Bradley following an arson investigation into a fire that caused approximately $100,000 in property damage.

The Tallahassee Fire Department requested assistance from the Department of Financial Services Bureau of Fire, Arson, and Explosives Investigations (BFAEI) with an origin-and-cause investigation, which led to the arrest.

“Anyone willing to put others in harm’s way by setting fires deserves nothing less than being put behind bars. Floridians should feel safe in their communities and not have their lives or property threatened by criminals. I applaud the work of the arson investigators on this case, as this criminal will now face the fullest extent of the law,” Ingoglia said.

BFAEI detectives determined that the fire had been intentionally started, and surveillance video confirmed that Bradley had made false statements during his interview.

Bradley also had a prior arson conviction for which he was sentenced to 10 years in prison. A potential repeat offender.

Bradley of Tallahassee (we had to — sorry) was arrested on Aug. 10 and charged with arson and making false reports to law enforcement authorities. If convicted, Bradley could face up to 35 years in prison.

— Prep now, grateful later —

Prep while you still easily can.

This week, CFO Ingoglia made his way to the home of the NFL’s reigning AFC South champs in Duval County for the ninth stop on his statewide hurricane preparedness tour.

Hurricane season runs from June 1 through Nov. 30, but its peak falls between August and October.

Since the start of the 2026 tour, the Department of Financial Services’ Division of Consumer Services has provided 23,310 Floridians, including 2,455 Duval County residents, with key takeaways and safety information for hurricane preparedness.

“Florida is fortunate that we have not been impacted by any major storm yet this year; however, this does not mean that preparedness efforts should slip from our minds. Even if a storm is set to make landfall in another part of the state, the impacts of that storm can be wide-reaching and require swift action to keep your family safe.”

“Take time now to review storm safety information before you get the severe weather alert on your phone. Don’t wait for the warning; have your emergency plan ready now,” Ingoglia said.

Some basic tips for newbies: Before a storm arrives, check your home and flood insurance coverage; conduct a home inventory with photos and videos of both the inside and outside; keep important documents in a waterproof box; and have cash on hand.

“Hurricane preparedness is a shared responsibility between first responders and citizens in our community. Taking proactive steps today can make us better equipped for a hurricane,” said Atlantic Beach Police Chief Victor Gualillo.

After a storm hits, report any damage to your agent or insurance company. Make any emergency repairs needed to prevent further damage and document the work. Watch for fraud and scams, and verify the licenses of any contractors or adjusters you may work with. Before signing a contract with a public adjuster, call the Consumer Services helpline at 1-877-MY-FL-CFO to see whether the department can help.

— Instagram of the week —

— Yes, you still need a hurricane kit —

September is Florida Preparedness Month, the state government’s annual reminder that hurricane season has been here for three months already, and the slowpokes have no excuses for not prepping yet.

DeSantis issued the proclamation this week, while the Florida Division of Emergency Management reiterated the basics: Know your evacuation zone, make a household plan, and build a kit with enough food, water, medications, and other essentials to last up to seven days.

Residents should also keep vehicles at least half full — or electric vehicles half charged — and remember that evacuating may mean traveling tens of miles, not hundreds. Anyone who depends on electricity for medical care or requires round-the-clock assistance should register in advance with Florida’s Special Needs Registry.

There is even less excuse for postponing the supply run now. Since July 2025, batteries, fire extinguishers, portable generators and many other disaster-preparedness items have been permanently exempt from Florida sales tax.

“Floridians should take this opportunity to ensure they are prepared for the remainder of hurricane season,” said FDEM Executive Director Jared W. Perdue. “FDEM encourages residents to know their evacuation zone, make a family disaster plan and build an emergency kit to save time, money and stress now – before a storm threatens the state.”

Yes, Floridians have heard all of this before. We will hear it again next year, too, because the cone of uncertainty is not a shopping list — and the moment it appears is a terrible time to remember that everyone else needs bottled water and D batteries.

— Play wise —

Florida’s gambling regulator and Lottery operator are spending September reminding players that the point is entertainment — not a financial plan with better graphics.

The Florida Lottery and Florida Gaming Control Commission are partnering for Responsible Gaming Education Month, urging Floridians to set a spending limit, understand the odds and walk away when playing stops being fun.

The rest is blunt: Don’t spend what you can’t afford, don’t treat gambling as income and don’t buy Lottery products for anyone younger than 18. A scratch-off is a diversion, not a retirement account.

“Responsible gaming education is an important part of helping Floridians make informed decisions and keep gaming fun,” Florida Lottery Secretary Reginald D. Dixon said. “The Florida Lottery is committed to providing players with the information and resources they need to make informed decisions and play responsibly.”

Gaming Control Commission Executive Director Alana Zimmer added, “Understanding the risks, recognizing the signs of problem gambling, and knowing where to turn for help can make a meaningful difference. We appreciate the Florida Lottery’s partnership in making responsible gaming resources more visible and accessible throughout our state.”

Anyone concerned about their own gambling or someone else’s can call 1-833-PLAYWISE (1-833-752-9947) for confidential support, information and referrals, or visit PlayWise.org.

— Forensic files —

Fifty-three years after two teenage sisters were killed in the Keys, a bloodstain and a family tree have given investigators a name.

The Florida Department of Law Enforcement and Monroe County Sheriff’s Office have identified David Allen Snyder as the suspect in the May 1973 killings of Marguerite “Maggie” Jenkins, 18, and Mary Jenkins, 16. The New Jersey sisters traveled to Key West for vacation and were last seen hitchhiking on Stock Island. Their bodies were found the following day near U.S. 1 in Key Largo.

The original investigation produced no suspects. In 2018, FDLE developed additional markers from a partial male DNA profile recovered from a bloodstain on one victim’s underwear, but a national database search found no match.

Five years later, FDLE’s forensic genetic genealogy program and Othram Inc. developed a more detailed DNA profile. Genealogists built family trees that pointed to Snyder. A DNA sample collected from one of his relatives this year confirmed the identification, according to FDLE, and investigators established that Snyder had lived at Key West addresses between 1972 and 1974.

Snyder died in Idaho in 2008, foreclosing a trial and any courtroom verdict.

“Whether a violent crime was committed two days ago or two decades ago, FDLE will use every resource and technology available to search for answers for the victims and their families,” FDLE Commissioner Mark Glass said.

— LINE goes up —

On Thursday, the Florida Board of Governors approved $6 million from the Linking Industry to Nursing Education (LINE) fund for 23 proposals from 10 universities within the State University System of Florida.

The LINE program, established in 2022, is a competitive grant program that provides dollar-for-dollar matching funds to participating institutions partnering with healthcare providers. It aims to incentivize collaboration to meet local, regional, and statewide demand for nurses and to contribute funding for scholarships, faculty recruitment, equipment purchases, and simulation centers to increase capacity in high-quality nursing education programs.

“Thanks to the leadership of Governor DeSantis and the support from the Florida Legislature, the State University System is directly tackling critical nursing workforce needs in Florida,” said System Chancellor Ray Rodrigues.

“Through meaningful partnerships between our universities and healthcare systems throughout the state, we are enhancing our nursing programs with hands-on learning and ensuring our graduates provide exceptional care for Floridians in all stages of life.”

The 2026-27 funds are projected to produce more than 2,100 nursing scholarships and allow nearly 1,000 additional students to enter nursing programs across the university system. The $6 million will be shared across the 23 proposals from Florida A&M University, Florida Atlantic University, Florida Gulf Coast University, Florida International University, Florida State University, University of Central Florida, University of Florida, University of North Florida, University of South Florida, and University of West Florida.

— Lasting legacy —

The legacy of late state Sen. Dorothy Hukill is opening doors in Washington, starting with University of Florida junior Brandon New.

New, an Oviedo native and 2024 Oviedo High School graduate, is the inaugural recipient of the Dorothy L. Hukill Scholarship, created this year by the foundation bearing the former lawmaker’s name. The annual award helps Florida college students interested in public service attend The Fund for American Studies’ eight-week Summer program in Washington, D.C.

New spent the Summer studying business and government relations, interning with the National Association of Business Political Action Committees and taking six credits through George Mason University. He also earned the program track’s Outstanding Student Award. At UF, New is studying finance, pre-law and public service and has been involved with the Bob Graham Center for Public Service and several student organizations. Earlier this year, he interned in the Florida House.

“This Summer was truly a life-changing experience,” New said. “I leave Washington with new friendships, a stronger professional network, a deeper understanding of public policy, and an even greater desire to continue my career in public service.”

The scholarship honors Hukill, the first in her family to attend college, a former public school teacher who later served in local government and in both chambers of the Florida Legislature. She died of cancer in 2018 while serving in the Senate.

Her son, Jonathan Hukill, said education and public service “were at the heart” of his mother’s life. Now, New gets to carry that heart into the next chapter.

Applications for the 2027 TFAS D.C. Summer Program are open now. Florida residents are encouraged to apply for the Dorothy L. Hukill Scholarship to participate in the program at DCinternships.org.

— What’s your GPA? —

Step right up and claim your prize.

This week, Florida TaxWatch announced 10 winners of the 2026 Government Productivity Awards (GPAs). The program recognizes enterprising state employees whose groundbreaking work has improved state services, boosted productivity and, most importantly for our wallets, saved Florida taxpayers money. Over the program’s 30 years, more than 16,000 nominations have been submitted, with state employees credited with saving or maximizing nearly $10 billion in state funds.

The GPAs are made possible by the presenting sponsor, Kyra Solutions Inc., and the vision of the late J.E. Davis and A.D. Davis, co-founders of Winn-Dixie Stores Inc. and Florida TaxWatch.

“The Government Productivity Awards are a one-of-a-kind program that functions to recognize, reward, and replicate the success of Florida’s most innovative employees. In both my roles at Kyra Solutions – the presenting sponsor – and Florida TaxWatch, I would like to congratulate all the outstanding 2026 award winners and thank them for their dedicated service to the Sunshine State,” said Piyush Patel, CEO, Chair and founder of Kyra Solutions.

“It is our pleasure to present Florida TaxWatch’s Government Productivity Awards, recognizing and honoring the incredible work, innovative ideas, and ingenuity of our state workers that save millions of taxpayer dollars each year,” added Florida TaxWatch President and CEO Jeff Kottkamp.

“Congratulations to these dedicated and hard-working award winners whose accomplishments benefit all Floridians and will influence future government professionals to strive for excellence.”

— Not so niche —

Repeat on lock.

This week, Florida A&M University (FAMU) is celebrating its second consecutive year as the nation’s No. 1 Historically Black College and University (HBCU) in Niche’s 2027 Best HBCU Schools in America rankings. Not public HBCUs — all HBCUs.

FAMU ranked first among the 73 HBCUs Niche evaluated and received an A- overall Niche grade. Niche, an online service that connects colleges with aspiring higher-ed students, bases its rankings on factors including analyses of academic, admissions, financial and student-life data from the U.S. Department of Education, along with millions of reviews and surveys from students and alumni.

“Being named the nation’s No. 1 public HBCU by Niche for the second consecutive year affirms what we have always known: FAMU is distinctive,” said FAMU President Marva B. Johnson.

“This ranking carries particular weight for us because Niche’s methodology is built on the voices of students themselves – and that is exactly where FAMU places its focus, first and always. Our students experience a university where academic excellence, opportunity, tradition, and community converge – not by accident, but by design.”

According to Niche, FAMU stands out for its vibrant and engaging campus community, strong sense of pride and tradition, rich cultural heritage and family-like environment, where students can develop mentorship and leadership skills while being challenged academically.

“The students have spoken, and this recognition affirms the strength of the FAMU experience from their perspective,” added Vice President for Student Affairs William Hudson Jr. “We are proud to be recognized as the nation’s No. 1 HBCU, but we see this distinction as both an honor and a responsibility. We will continue listening to our students, investing in their experience and working every day to exceed their expectations. Their success and satisfaction remain at the heart of everything we do.”

FAMU received an A in student life, A- grades in academics and professors and a B in housing. The housing grade is an improvement from last year, a bump that could reflect residence-hall expansion and construction efforts.

— Top of class —

It’s been a good year for Florida State University (FSU) graduates: More than ever, they earned their degrees within four years.

FSU posted a record number of four-year graduates this year, with 82% of its students earning their degrees within that time frame. It’s the highest four-year graduation rate achieved in the State University System. That’s a 4-percentage-point increase from the 2025 record mark of 78%.

The FSU Office of Institutional Research reports that the latest four-year graduation rate would tie the University of Michigan for seventh-best among public universities nationwide.

In addition to the four-year rate, FSU maintained its six-year graduation rate and set a new record among students who transferred to the university from other schools in the Florida College System.

“An 82% four-year graduation rate is an extraordinary achievement and a new record for FSU and the State University System of Florida. We have been very intentional about investing in student success, from advising and academic support to scholarships and other resources that help students stay on track,” said FSU President Richard McCullough.

“I could not be prouder of our students or the faculty and staff whose commitment to them has made FSU one of the very best public universities in the country.”

The past half-decade has brought steady improvement among FSU graduates. The four-year rate was 73% in 2021 and has jumped 9 percentage points to the current 82%. The six-year graduation rate is now 86%, and nearly 85% of transfer students from within the State College System earn their degrees within three years of transfer, the highest rate in the state.

— IGC for you —

The ultimate civics lineup is here.

This week, the Institute for Governance and Civics (IGC) at Florida State University (FSU) announced its exciting Fall 2026 lineup, which aims to offer active students and the 850 community opportunities to engage with nationally recognized voices and explore ideas shaping civic life, all while promoting the ideals of liberty through research, education and discourse.

The series kicks off Sept. 10 with “Defining the Path Forward for Civil Dignity,” featuring author, columnist and commentator David Brooks in conversation with FSU President McCullough and moderated by IGC Director Ryan Owens. The event intends to provide audience members with perspectives on civil dignity in public life.

“This Fall’s programming represents an exceptional opportunity for our entire campus and community,” said Owens.

“We welcome students from across Florida State University, faculty and staff, local leaders, and members of the community to join us. By bringing accomplished leaders and influential voices to Tallahassee, we are opening the door to important ideas, thoughtful questions, and conversations that strengthen civic education for everyone.”

Other presentations include Mark Bauerlein with “How the Humanities Lost Their Way and How They Can Be Revived” on Sept. 15; Manhattan Institute senior fellow and Bloomberg Opinion columnist Allison Schrager with “Measuring and Managing Risk” on Oct. 7; and Adam Szetela with “Meet the Censors Inside America’s Publishers” on Nov. 17.

The full lineup, registration details and additional updates can be found here.

— Serendipity —

North Florida truly has an underrated art scene. For evidence, look no further than Tallahassee State College (TSC), which this week showcased a new exhibition by award-winning artist Terrie Corbett — “Serendipity.”

The exhibition opened with a free public reception, where attendees could explore Corbett’s work with oil and wax in the two new series — “Meditation” and “Chaos” — on display.

Corbett also works with materials including graphite, charcoal, kiln-fired glass and collage.

“I am an artist, working in different mediums, whose work is abstracted from nature, poems, songs, or my own inner landscape. My joy is in the journey, creating multiple layers until the painting reveals itself. When looking ‘beyond the familiar,’ viewers can draw on their own experiences, where a color, shape, or gesture may trigger a memory or feeling—not unlike listening to instrumental music that evokes feelings of happiness, sadness, or nostalgia,” said Corbett.

“I’m so grateful for the opportunity to display my work at the Fine Art Gallery at Tallahassee State College. Makers and viewers alike are grateful for this beautiful gallery space.”

So maybe you’ve seen her work and didn’t even know it.

Corbett’s work has been exhibited across the country, featured in major art publications and recognized with numerous awards. Her work is also part of permanent collections at the Florida State University Museum of Fine Arts, the Florida Department of State’s Division of Arts and Culture, and the state House.

“Serendipity” will be on display Monday through Friday from 1 to 4 p.m. through Oct. 8. Admission to the gallery and parking on TSC’s campus are free.

— Happy Labor Day —

You work hard. You deserve to play hard too. Happy Labor Day!

As Summer unofficially winds down, Labor Day weekend still offers plenty of ways to make that hard-earned time off count.

Tonight, maybe check out The Sevens, a Wakulla County-based acoustic duo known for strong vocals and harmonies, original songs and unique twists on covers, over an ice-cold beer at Amicus Brewing from 6 to 9 p.m. Not much farther down the street, Oyster City is hosting Ethan Kyllonen from 7 to 10 p.m.

At 8 p.m. Sunday, the great local record store Real Cool Time Records is hosting underground names such as Hotline TNT, The Icks, Canine Denim and Red Mustang. For something a little less punk, though, you can always enjoy the smooth notes of East Town Get Down with Charlie Brown Band TLH at The Hub at Feather Oaks from 6 to 9 p.m. Sunday.

But we know what’s on your mind: college football. Week one is here (not that Week zero nonsense), and the 850 has some action in the air. At 3 p.m. Sunday, South Carolina State makes its way to the Orange Blossom Classic at Hard Rock Stadium to take on the Rattlers. Vegas isn’t too hot on FAMU, though: The Rattlers are +680 on the moneyline and 18.5-point underdogs, in case you want to get on the Hard Rock energy this weekend.

After what was, at best, an underwhelming performance from the Noles last week, FSU faces its first big test of the season as it hosts fellow ACC school (which still feels strange to us) No. 19 Southern Methodist University. FSU is a 2.5-point underdog, but the line isn’t as ugly as one might expect based on last year’s record, nor as dire as FAMU’s matchup. The game is scheduled for Monday at 7:30 p.m.

FSU is +125, with the over/under at 53.5. We bring all this up because, for some fans, that might be the one silver lining of the game.

— Capitol Directions —

Labor Day travelers — Down arrow — Between filling the tank and firing up the grill, they’ll need to pick up an extra shift to afford the day off.

Ron & Byron — Up arrow — Two years after the Trump-induced breakup, the endorsement is in — even if somebody’s face hasn’t gotten the memo.

Hecklers — Down arrow — America’s Governor has four months left. Get it in while you can.

Angie Nixon — Up arrow — When the haters come for you, remember: At least you never ate dog food on camera.

James Uthmeier — Up arrow — The Tallahassee restaurant scene verdict survives strict scrutiny.

Byron, Jim, Sam — Up arrow — Does a $7.1 billion surplus buy us a 60-day Session this time?

FDEM — Down arrow — Mismanaging an invented emergency during hurricane season makes us shudder at the thought of a real one.

Jason Brodeur — Up arrow — Six years later, that campaign promise still has a dial tone.

Don Gaetz and Jason Pizzo — Up arrow — Public service is a contact sport, and they weren’t afraid of a few grass stains.

Alex Kelly — Crossways arrow — All that water-carrying for a prize package one rung above BK Dymacels and a trip to Universal.

Jeff Brandes — Up arrow — At least somebody is thinking a couple moves ahead.

Daniella Levine Cava — Up arrow — It’s easy to take swings from the cheap seats; she’s stepping up to the plate.

Florida TaxWatch — Up arrow — They’ve turned government efficiency from an oxymoron into an award category.

Florida’s mosquito-control professionals — Up arrow — Dengue doesn’t stop at county lines, and neither do they.

Metz Husband & Daughton — Up arrow — A successful Orlando outing and a Senate policy ringer make for a pretty good week.

Mike Norvell — Down arrow — A win is a win, but that paycheck should buy prettier ones.

The Violet Stone — Up arrow — The only Philly in Florida just hosted a Florida Man summit.

The post Takeaways from Tallahassee — Breaking down silos appeared first on Florida Politics – Campaigns & Elections. Lobbying & Government..

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