Photo: Alex McKnight
Florida Polytechnic University welcomed its first students in fall 2014, just two years after its creation. First to open: The Innovation, Science and Technology Building.
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Press Release
Florida Polytechnic University to graduate its 1st four-year class
LAKELAND, Fla. – More than 200 Florida Polytechnic University undergraduate and graduate students will be receiving degrees, as Florida’s newest public university graduates its inaugural class.
Florida Poly’s Spring 2018 Commencement will be held at 3:30 p.m. on Friday, May 4 at the RP Funding Center (Youkey Theater), located at 701 W Lime St., Lakeland.
Established in 2012 as an innovative university dedicated entirely to STEM (science, technology, engineering and math), Florida Poly is focused on graduating students who are lifetime employable and ready to be the leaders of high-tech industries. Classes began in fall 2014 with hundreds of students taking a chance on a brand-new institution with a hands-on approach to teaching, and a learning environment that encourages them to think big and challenge the status quo.
“These students believed in Florida Poly’s mission before the doors even opened,” said Florida Poly President, Dr. Randy K. Avent. “They have come a long way since, and the university has grown with them. We are proud of their journey with Florida Poly and know they’re prepared to make an impact on the world.”
The commencement speaker will be Dr. Jeffrey Wadsworth, who will be awarded an honorary degree by Avent.
Wadsworth recently retired as president and CEO of Battelle Memorial Institute, the world’s largest nonprofit research and development organization, executing about $6 billion of work annually and employing about 22,500 people. He has previously overseen the management or co-management of seven national laboratories of the U.S. Departments of Energy and Homeland Security.
The ceremony will also feature an address by the State University System Chancellor Marshall Criser and student speaker Chris Dowdy. Dowdy, who is from Lakeland, is graduating summa cum laude with a degree in mechanical engineering.
Dowdy says he’s humbled to be representing his class and the university at commencement and says he’s thankful for the many opportunities made available to him.
“Florida Poly has given me tremendous opportunities,” said Dowdy. “From the faculty to staff and administration, I’m excited about honoring everyone who made it all possible. There’s no doubt the hands-on experience we have gained at Florida Poly has positioned us well to be future leaders in our fields.”
About Florida Polytechnic University:
Florida Polytechnic University is an accredited member of the State University System of Florida, dedicated exclusively to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics). The University is a powerful economic engine within the state of Florida, blending applied research with industry partnerships to give students an academically rigorous education with real-world relevance. The campus is located in Lakeland, Florida along the I-4 High Tech Corridor. Connect with Florida Poly.
