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To My Fellow Seahawks and Supporters of Broward College:
The fall semester is here and I’m excited to welcome everyone back to our campuses and centers. Whether you are a new or returning Seahawk, the semester is full of possibilities for academic success and meaningful experiences. There is so much for students to discover at Broward College, whether it’s something like taking an internship opportunity or getting involved on campus with a student club/organization.
This fall is a little bit different because we’re also celebrating the 66th anniversary of the creation of Broward College. We’ve come a long way from the empty tracts of land that became the Junior College of Broward County. From that first class of 701 students, we’ve grown to serve more than 51,000 students annually and preparing them for success in their careers. You can read more about the College's recent accomplishments in the newly published 2024-25 Annual Report.
For all the successes that Broward College has had up to now, my focus is on the future and taking us to the next level. My investiture as the eighth President and CEO of Broward College will take place on Sept. 5, and I’ll be using the opportunity to share my vision on how we will be the #1 destination for academic excellence. I hope you’ll be able to join me on this important occasion, whether at one of the watch parties on our three main campuses or the livestream. You can find more information about the investiture HERE.
I hope to see you around one of our campuses or centers. My ongoing commitment, as my schedule allows, is to hold regular forums where you can directly share your feedback on how we can make Broward College an even better place to learn and work. As always, please feel free to contact me directly at officeofthepresident@broward.edu.
Go Seahawks!
Torey Alston
President and CEO
The following are agenda items approved by the Broward College District Board of Trustees at its August 26, 2025, regular meeting.
This month’s student spotlight focuses on Merin Babu, who serves as President of the Campus Activities Board (CAB) at the A. Hugh Adams Central Campus in Davie.
Where are you from?
I’m from Florida, with roots in India.
What’s your major?
Biology (Pre-Med track).
What advice would you give to incoming students?
Get involved early, maybe even the first day! Join clubs, attend events, and connect with people; you never know what opportunities will open up when you step out of your comfort zone and just lead with your heart. There’s always something happening on campus and so many chances to meet new people and new things. Take advantage of the resources available, whether it’s for your studies, personal growth, or just getting support when you need it. And definitely explore the amazing food options on and around campus!
What is the best part about being a BC student?
The sense of community; I truly can’t stress that enough. The events, the organizations/clubs made for the development of the community, and the opportunities to connect with others make the experience so enriching. Coming from a high school environment that was more restricted, BC has been freeing and exciting. The professors here are incredibly knowledgeable, helpful, and deeply invested in their students’ growth, which makes learning both challenging and rewarding.
What’s one important thing you learned outside the classroom while at BC?
I’ve learned the importance of networking and building relationships. If it weren’t for me taking the whim and just going up to talk to people, I wouldn’t have found so many opportunities or the amazing friends I hold dear now. From events like Club Rush to casual gatherings, even simple moments where people came together, like cultural events or socials with food, gave me the chance to meet like-minded people and form meaningful connections.
If you would like to nominate a student to be featured, please email us at mediarelations@broward.edu
This month’s faculty/staff spotlight focuses on Wayne Boulier, the Dean of the Institute of Public Safety (IPS). Boulier joined Broward College as an adjunct instructor in 2005, became a full-time instructor in 2012 and in 2024 was appointed as the permanent Dean of IPS after serving in the role on an interim basis.
What is the best part of working at Broward College?
Hands down:
What is one thing you’ve accomplished working at Broward College that you’re most proud of?
Humbled might be a better understanding of the pride I feel, in being the first graduate of IPS to sit in the Dean’s seat of IPS and set a vision forward. BC has afforded so many opportunities and opened so many doors for my family and me. I am on a mission to pay it forward. #BCProud
Are you a morning person or a night owl – and why?
Most definitely a morning person, especially early morning before sunrise. I enjoy the calmness before the day begins.
What is your favorite food?
Indian food, especially lamb korma, followed by tacos and then any seafood.
What would you do if you won the lottery?
Set up a foundation to assist Broward youth with their educational dreams, set a trust up to assist my family when I am gone.
If you would like to nominate a faculty or staff member to be featured, please email us at mediarelations@broward.edu
This month’s alumni spotlight focuses on Gary Blocker from the Class of 1995. He serves as Chief of the Wilton Manors Police Department.
Gary Blocker grew up in South Florida and is a proud native Floridian. As a young adult fresh out of high school, he was searching for an educational path that was accessible, high-quality, and affordable. His aspirations at the time included becoming either an educator or a police officer. Broward College, known then as Broward Community College (BCC), had a strong reputation in the community, which made it a natural choice for him as he embarked on his college and career journey.
As a student-athlete, Blocker faced the challenge of balancing academics with athletics. “This cultivated the necessary discipline and commitment within myself to support my classroom success, and how to persevere through challenges I encountered," he said. "These pressures placed upon me built the foundation that prepared me for future endeavors and challenges.”
Another defining aspect of his college experience was the friendships he formed—both at Broward College and through the Broward College Institute of Public Safety Police Academy. These relationships became long-term professional and personal connections that contributed to his development and future opportunities. Among the people who made a lasting impact on Chief Blocker was Ms. Luck, a compassionate supporter of the baseball team. Her kindness was especially meaningful during a tragic time when one of his teammates was killed due to gun violence. Ms. Luck’s support helped Blocker and his teammates navigate that difficult period. He also remembers a professor from the Criminal Justice Program whose engaging teaching style resonated with him and further fueled his interest in law enforcement.
Resources like academic advising and career counseling services helped him stay focused and introduced him to broader career possibilities in public service. Blocker credits that access to well-equipped learning centers and libraries also significantly enhanced his educational experience. Although Blocker did not start his college journey on scholarship, he was fortunate to have parents who supported his education financially. His coach, Mike Hutch, encouraged him to excel both academically and athletically, and to be a good teammate and person. With the support of his professors, coaches, parents, and mentors, Chief Blocker eventually earned an athletic scholarship, which eased the financial burden on his family and supported him through graduation.
After earning his A.A. degree in 1994, Blocker continued his education at Florida Atlantic University (FAU), attending both the Boca Raton campus and FAU classes held at BCC’s Central campus. The foundation he received at the college prepared him well for his final two years at FAU. Upon graduation, he entered the law enforcement profession and returned to Broward College twice for significant training—first through the Police Service Aide Academy and later through the Police Academy at Broward College Institute of Public Safety (BC IPS). The instructors, structure, and culture at BC IPS equipped him with the skills and experience needed to begin his career, first as a PSA and then as a sworn officer. IPS remained his primary source for professional development throughout his career and for law enforcement across Broward County.
“Simply put,” Blocker said, “Broward College built the son, husband, father and law enforcement professional I am today, and I remain grateful to Broward College and their professional staff.”
If you would like to nominate an alumnus to be considered for a Spotlight, please send an email to alumni@broward.edu
There’s always something exciting going on at Broward College’s campuses and locations. These are just some of the recent highlights of what our students, faculty and staff have been up to around the College:
If you have something that is newsworthy happening on your campus, in your classroom or on stage, please let us know - send us an email at mediarelations@broward.edu
Here are some fun facts and info about Broward College that you may not know.
