Originally Posted on MySuncaost

The first students accepted into Gator Engineering at State College of Florida, Manatee Sarasota joining the ribbon cutting celebration for the new Gator Den, a study area for the students who have been accepted into the University of Florida Gator Engineering at SCF program.

Students, faculty, donors, and representatives from the University of Florida were on hand as SCF President Dr. Carol Probstfeld kicked off the celebration at SCF Venice. Participating in the Gator Engineering program was the “easiest yes” of her presidency, she said.

“The aspect of this program that really excites me is the ability for these students to build and maintain their ties to our region through internships and the relationships they develop with our local companies,” Dr. Probstfeld said. “With our partners at the UF Innovation Station, these Gator Engineering students will be able to find local opportunities and bring their skills back to our region after they finish in Gainesville.”

Gator Engineering develops pathways for students to be admitted to UF’s College of Engineering while starting their education at SCF. The students take their coursework at SCF until they complete their necessary math and science courses and then move to UF to continue their engineering education.

The program wouldn’t be successful without community support. SCF Foundation worked with the Charles and Margery Barancik Foundation and the Gulf Coast Community Foundation to help make the program a success.

Video published on SunCoast News Network