Innovation and STEM excellence take over Capitol during Florida Poly Day

TALLAHASSEE, Fla., March 21, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Florida Polytechnic University showcased its commitment to innovation in the Rotunda at the State Capitol, engaging legislators, staff, and visitors with an immersive display highlighting academic excellence and industry-driven STEM education.

Florida Poly Day at the Capitol, held on March 20, provided a prominent platform to highlight the University's unique position as the state's only public university exclusively dedicated to STEM disciplines. The event featured an interactive exhibit showcasing Florida Poly's cutting-edge programs, research, and economic impact.

President Devin Stephenson led the University's delegation, engaging with policymakers to discuss Florida Poly's mission and its role as a vital asset to Florida's education and economy. He emphasized the critical importance of continued investment in the University's growth to keep pace with the increasing demand, propelled by its rising reputation.

"Florida Poly Day at the Capitol is a tremendous opportunity to share our bold-thinking approach to STEM education with leaders from across the state," Stephenson said. "As Florida's premier STEM university, we are preparing the next generation of pioneers and problem-solvers who will fuel Florida's economic future. I'm incredibly proud to showcase the remarkable work happening at our institution and to share our story with the decision-makers who influence the direction of higher education and industry in our state."

Attendees experienced some of the University's innovations firsthand through a virtual reality demonstration of student-created games, highlighting the talent and ingenuity of Florida Poly students. In addition, a wide array of promotional materials and informational resources was available to help illustrate Florida Poly's significant contributions to the state's economic development.

"STEM is the big thing for us. It's all we do, and we want to make sure every representative and senator knows that's what we care about more than anything," said Dimitry Tsetsekas, a graduate student and member of the Student Government Association who attended the event. "For us at Florida Poly, it's not just about making degrees to print degrees. We're here to make the best of the best better. If any other school can do that, I'd love to see them try, but right now we're beating them all."

Florida Poly graduates earn the highest salaries one year after graduation among all institutions in the State University System while also carrying the least amount of student debt, according to MyFloridaFuture.

With University trustees, leadership, and dozens of students in attendance, the event underscored Florida Poly's commitment to academic excellence in STEM, strengthening industry partnerships, and equipping students with the skills needed to thrive in Florida's high-tech fields.

"The best reason to be part of this day was to witness once again the caliber of our students and how impressive each of them is," said Patrick Hagan, Florida Poly trustee. "These students already have jobs waiting for them and the representatives were very impressed by the fact that most of them are staying in Florida, building the economy."

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SOURCE Florida Polytechnic University