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My Fellow Seahawks and Supporters of Broward College:
We're well into the spring semester, and as always, it's an exciting time at Broward College. Have you checked out Panku, our award-winning literary and arts magazine? If not, now is the perfect time in light of the recent news, that for the second consecutive year, we have been recognized in the National Council of Teachers of English's Recognizing Excellence in Art and Literary Magazines (REALM) program. Panku's Spring issue was recognized as "Superior" out of the 456 schools that applied to REALM in 2025. This recognition is a testament the dedicated students who have made the magazine a stand out during its 62-year lifespan, and I congratulate them on their hard work.
Broward College is always focused on providing students the best learning environment. That's why we're deep into a project that re-envisions Buildings 56 and 57 on North Campus as a state-of-the-art STEM, nursing, A.I. and engineering complex. This new facility will accommodate more students and include space for 10 science labs, four nursing labs, a health assessment lab, a cybersecurity lab, and other learning spaces. This project is a major undertaking, and last year we received $7.7 million in funding from the Florida Legislature. I've been traveling to Tallahassee and working with lawmakers to secure additional investments and ensure the project moves along smoothly. When complete, the complex will allow us to meet the needs of students who are looking to enter high-demand fields.
I would also like to highlight how Broward College fuels the Broward County economy. A recent study by labor market analytics firm Lightcast found that in fiscal year 2023-24, Broward College had an annual economic impact of $2.4 billion on the county, supporting more than 25,000 jobs. That represents an increase from $1.7 billion in 2020. This means that one out of every 59 jobs in Broward County is supported by the College, our students and more than 80,000 alumni.
Other findings from the study included:
This data demonstrates that a Broward College education not only prepares students to compete in the 21st-century global economy, it helps Broward County share in that prosperity. We will continue to build on these successes as part of our shared vision to be the #1 destination for academic excellence, and working together, I know we will achieve many great things in 2026.
As we head into spring break, I hope everyone takes the opportunity to rest, recharge, and return ready to end the semester on a strong note and keep that momentum going into summer and fall. I know we will make 2026 a memorable year for all Seahawks.
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 February 17, 2026, regular meeting.
Broward College is moving steadily toward the launch of our new Student Information System (SIS), Banner, which will replace the long-standing CID platform. This transition is an important step in modernizing the tools we use to support students, streamline operations, and enhance the overall experience for faculty and staff.
Several key milestones have already been achieved. This past fall, Financial Aid and Admissions began major configuration and data-loading activities in preparation for the 2026–2027 academic year. This foundational work continues into early 2026, including activities related to admissions, financial aid packaging, and student communications. Longer-range efforts—such as degree audit, advising, registration, and fee payment—will begin later in the project cycle.
During this time, the core project team, along with functional leads and subject matter experts from departments across the College, have also been actively training in Banner and preparing job aids and training materials that will guide end users through the transition. Training is already underway, and additional information about training opportunities will be shared in the coming weeks and months as we move closer to implementation.
The progress to date reflects the dedication and hard work of the project team and the many staff members contributing their expertise. We will continue to provide monthly updates in this newsletter as we move toward a successful transition to the new SIS.
Visit the SIS website.
This month’s student spotlight focuses on Alex Ellis, who serves as President of the Student Government Association for the Judson A. Samuels South Campus in Pembroke Pines.
Where are you from?
Originally from Jamaica, now living in Florida.
What’s your major?
Economics.
What advice would you give to incoming students?
My advice to incoming students is to get involved on campus early, try making connections with your
peers and or with faculty, or even utilizing resources that BC offers to help you succeed. Doing this will
make your experience even greater.
What is the best part about being a BC student?
The great community and so many tools for personal and academic growth, such as leadership
programs, student organizations, career services, tutoring and countless others.
What’s one important thing you learned outside the classroom while at BC?
I learned how important it is to collaborate and lead, as well as to raise my voice for the campus
community.
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 Mario Vazquez, Ed.D., an academic advisor at the Judson A. Samuels South Campus in Pembroke Pines who also works as an adjunct professor of art. He has been with the College for 20 years.
What is the best part of working at Broward College?
The best part of working at Broward College is our diverse, vibrant community and collective dedication to student success, both in and out of the classroom. Over the past 20 years, collaborating with passionate, motivating colleagues has deepened my commitment to our students and our campus community. Each interaction is an opportunity to make a lasting difference. I enjoy participating in campus events that bring our students and staff together, such as our ongoing beautification projects at the South Campus. I am proud to support Broward College’s legacy and strive to be the #1 destination for academic excellence. I look forward to continuing to serve our Broward College community for many years to come.
What is one thing you’ve accomplished working at Broward College that you’re most proud of?
My experience at Broward College has been transformative, enabling me to realize my dream of serving as both an academic advisor and adjunct professor. In the classroom, I immerse students in the visual arts and teach them how art shapes history and culture. I inspire students to pursue their academic goals and champion their growth. As an academic advisor, I collaborate with an outstanding and dedicated team of professionals. We guide students from enrollment to graduation, empowering them to continue their education, launch their careers, and ultimately make a lasting, positive impact on our society.
Are you a morning person or a night owl – and why?
I am a morning person. I enjoy meditating and exercising before dawn. I plan on living for 100+ years, at least in my mind. My great-grandfather made it to 107, so my goal is not unrealistic. I follow daily mindful practices and research Blue Zones for longevity pointers.
What is your favorite food?
My favorite food is my mom’s homemade fried breaded shrimp.
What would you do if you won the lottery?
If I won the lottery, I would travel the world to learn more about different cultures, traditions, and languages, and share my discoveries with students. Most importantly, I would establish an Art Fund for Broward College students who need art supplies, so they can create without financial barriers. I would also help them showcase their work online for global exposure on different platforms. I believe the arts unite people, transcend boundaries, and connect us through shared emotions.
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 Clarissa Reyes of the Class of 2022.
Born in Brooklyn and raised in Broward County, alumna Clarisse Reyes has forged a determined path, pushing through obstacles and consistently seeking challenging academic and professional goals. After graduating in 2022, she earned her bachelor’s from FAU and is now pursuing a Juris Master at Florida State University. She credits Broward College for instilling resilience, patience, and a strong support system that shaped her success.
Where did you grow up and what motivated you to attend Broward College?
I was born in Brooklyn, NY, but was raised in North Lauderdale, FL. I chose Broward College because it just made sense for me at the time. It was close to home, which made balancing school and life so much easier. I also liked the fact that there were so many classes and programs to choose from. I felt like I had room to explore and figure out what direction I wanted to go in. And of course, affordability was a big factor. Broward College gave me the chance to get a great education without putting myself into huge debt, and that was really important to me.
Can you tell us about one or two moments that stand out about your time at the College?
One moment that stood out to me was when I was taking a Philosophy class at Central Campus (I wish I remembered the professor’s name), I had a moment in the class where everything clicked for me. I knew I was meant to finish college even though I had doubts sometimes, I felt like I was headed in the right direction with my major because I changed it a few times and I felt very confident because the professor was proud of my work. This was in 2014. Another moment that was memorable was that in 2019 I was pregnant, still working on my AA degree and I was the only pregnant lady in class who was visibly pregnant, and I was considered more of a non-traditional student as I was working full time in my late 20s, pregnant, and still pursuing this degree. My classmates were always so helpful, and my professors were very accommodating.
Did you have any favorite professors or people at the College who were important to you as a student?
I will never forget one of my last advisors, Andre Stroman! He kept me motivated and pep talked me because even though I was almost at the finish line, he made sure I stayed hungry for it. I was discouraged for multiple reasons but having an advisor like him really kept me feeling confident and excited about finally qualifying for graduation.
Were there any particular resources at the College that were important to you when you were a student?
The library and I were best friends! Every weekend and in the evenings after work I would go to the library to utilize the computers, check out necessary books, and get free tutoring for the math classes that I needed them for. I am forever grateful for every tutor who sat with me for hours making sure that I was set up for success.
Were you a scholarship recipient as a student? If so, how did that assist you?
I was not a scholarship recipient, but I did receive other financial aid such as Pell grants and loans and the Financial Aid Office staff was always so prompt and helpful every step of the way when it came to anything financial aid related.
Where did you go after Broward College? What was your path? How did what you learn at the College prepare you for your path?
After graduation in December 2022, I started at Florida Atlantic University to pursue my bachelor's degree, and I graduated earlier this year in 2025. I am now in my 2nd semester in Law School at Florida State University College of Law pursuing my Juris Master degree in HR Employment Law & Risk Management. What I learned at Broward College really paved the way for me to be successful in my current academic adventures. I learned patience, how to be resilient, and how to accept any challenges that I am faced with.
What do you wish other people knew about Broward College, something you think is a best kept secret or a something that makes our college standout among other institutions?
One thing I wish more people knew about Broward College is how supportive the community really is. The professors and staff genuinely care about helping students succeed, and that makes such a big difference when you’re figuring out your path. It’s not just about taking classes; it’s about having people in your corner who want to see you do well. I think that sense of encouragement and connection is what sets Broward College apart from other institutions, and it’s something I’ll always appreciate. There is something for everyone at Broward College.
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.
