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During the Tech Coast Conference, FSCJ was presented with a $7,500 scholarship award in partnership with Keiser University to support Information Technology students.

The scholarship presentation highlights the strong collaboration between higher education institutions and the Northeast Florida technology community, as well as the continued investment in developing the next generation of IT professionals. These funds will provide financial support and educational opportunities for students pursuing careers in high-demand technology fields.

"We are grateful to receive this scholarship support each year, as it directly benefits our students and helps reduce financial barriers while encouraging continued excellence in technology education," said Dean of Information Technology Programs Sha’Kia Riggins.

The Tech Coast Conference brings together technology leaders, educators, industry partners and innovators from across the region to discuss emerging trends, workforce development and the future of technology. FSCJ's participation reinforces its commitment to preparing students with the skills needed to succeed in today's rapidly evolving digital economy.

The Career Employees' Council (CEC) is the representative voice for the Career employees of FSCJ, with the goal to be committed to the continuous development of a collaborative work environment whereby the value and respect of Career employees are elevated through increased recognition, involvement and opportunities to achieve a higher degree of excellence. In this spirit, we put a "spotlight" on one of our members each month.

August's Career Employees' Council (CEC) spotlight features Workforce Education Department Coordinator Samantha Burkitt. Samantha’s dedication and commitment help support the success of FSCJ’s Career Certificate Programs and she has been a valued member of the FSCJ family since December 2020 and will celebrate six years with the College this December.

In her role, she provides essential support for Career Certificate programs by assisting with scheduling, faculty forms, budgeting, instructor hiring and supporting the Dean of Workforce Education. One of Samantha’s favorite aspects of her position is witnessing student growth and success. She enjoys seeing students progress in their chosen fields and working alongside colleagues to strengthen programs that prepare learners for rewarding careers.

As an active member of the College community, Samantha demonstrates the CEC's objectives through teamwork, collaboration and service. She serves as a communication link between Career Certificate programs and the Dean, supports coworkers across the department and College, and consistently strives for excellence in serving students and colleagues.

Samantha’s educational journey reflects her commitment to lifelong learning. She earned her Associate in Arts degree from St. Johns River State College in 2008 and is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Business Administration at FSCJ. In addition to her daily responsibilities, Samantha serves on the Medical Assisting BILT Committee, contributing her expertise to support workforce-focused initiatives and program development.

When she is away from work, Samantha enjoys spending quality time with her husband exploring new destinations through cruising, one of their favorite ways to travel. They are also enthusiastic Disney World fans and enjoy visiting the parks whenever possible. In her downtime, Samantha loves reading, finding relaxation and adventure within the pages of a good book.

Our spotlight seeks to showcase a CEC representative from each campus/center at least once a year. Nominations for the spotlight may be directed to the CEC Publicity Committee Chair Vanessa Gordon at CEC@fscj.edu. Learn more about CEC on our SharePoint website, https://fscj.sharepoint.com/teams/CareerEmployeeCouncil.

As students and faculty come back to campus this fall, another familiar event is making its return: the Collegewide Open House.

Previously held as an annual summer event, most recently at South Campus in June 2025, the Collegewide Open House will take place this year on Saturday, November 14, at the Downtown Campus.

The annual event showcases FSCJ’s dynamic academic programs, supportive student services and engaging co-curricular opportunities. This year’s move to the fall follows the successful launch of Campus Discovery Days, a spring semester series held across four separate days at four locations that highlighted the unique character and offerings of the College’s campuses and centers. Together, the Collegewide Open House and Campus Discovery Days, along with other recruitment initiatives, will create a synchronized wave of community engagement, helping prospective students and their families explore all that FSCJ has to offer.

The most recent Open House welcomed more than 800 prospective and incoming students. Attendees had the opportunity to talk with program representatives, attend college readiness sessions, apply to the College, meet with advisors, and register for classes. This fall’s event will offer the same valuable experiences at our convenient, centrally located campus on State Street.

We are excited about the year ahead and encourage you to stop by the Student Affairs and Enrollment Management table during breakfast at Convocation to sign up for Open House and/or Campus Discovery Days. Faculty and staff are encouraged to get involved by serving!

Upcoming events for August:

13: City of Atlantic Beach Resource Fair
18: FSCJ with The Opportunity Project
19: FSCJ with Daniel Kids
19: Jacksonville Waves FSCJ Appreciation Night
26: Financial Aid Night: Level the Playing Field Academy

The Student Recruitment Office welcomes your ideas and partnership opportunities. To share suggestions or learn more, email fscjrecruitment@fscj.edu. Add Dive into Manta Rays Nation in the subject line.

Tales from the Trails

Student recruitment doesn’t always fit neatly between the lines of a Monday through Friday schedule. Our staff often spend evenings and weekends connecting with prospective students. Some events are small, others draw larger attendance. Some are conversational, while others are full of energy. Pictured here is a panoramic view from a recent community outreach event, taken by Student Recruiter Shakura Jackson at the annual Historic Eastside Back-to-School Rally held at Matthew Gilbert Middle School.