(Bradenton, Fla., September 17, 2024) — State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota (SCF) is proud to mark our 67th Anniversary on Sept. 17, 2024.

SCF has graduated more than 61,500 students in our community and provides high-quality education, training and programming. From associate and bachelor’s degrees to non-credit courses and certificates— students of many generations, backgrounds and pursuits have begun their higher education journeys at SCF, where they can learn, grow and build a better life for themselves and their families.

SCF started as Manatee Junior College in Bradenton, where our first president, Dr. Samuel R. Neel, Jr., oversaw our first classes. Later, we became Manatee Community College and now SCF, where we’re focused on student education and fulfilling the workforce needs in the region. Students can take day, evening and weekend classes at their convenience online or at our three locations in Bradenton, Lakewood Ranch and Venice. They can develop practical skills and earn a degree or certificate needed to gain fruitful employment and achieve success in the workplace.

This July, Tommy Gregory, J.D. joined as our seventh president. President Gregory continues to support our mission of leading with excellence in education, job preparation and program growth. He remains committed to working together with our faculty, staff, students, partners, volunteers and the community, listening to our needs, creating innovative programming, and paving a bright future for all to succeed in today’s workforce and beyond.

SCF students enjoy our outstanding professors and instructors, smaller-sized classes, academic and recreational clubs, campus events and ongoing guidance toward graduation and future employment. Community residents, children and employees also benefit from personal enrichment, continuing education and professional development experiences, including music and theater performances, intramural sports games, low-cost dental clinic care, library and learning center, collegiate schools, camps, academies, special events, workshops, courses and other engaging activities throughout the year.

This fall, we’re proud to serve nearly 8,000 credit-seeking students, most in college for the first time pursuing an associate in arts degree and planning to transfer to a university. A record 187 associate in science-seeking nursing students are enrolled this fall and preparing for nursing careers, thanks to partnerships with our local healthcare providers and other supporters. We’re also continuing our expansion into additional areas, including the development of our new Parrish location, thanks to funding from the Florida legislature and donor support.

At SCF, we meet you where you are. We’re Everyone’s college.

To learn more about SCF, visit SCF.edu.