Hotel JacarandaJuly 3, 2025 – On Monday, June 30, 2025, Governor Ron DeSantis signed the 2025-2026 budget and approved funding for South Florida State College (SFSC). The College will receive $1 million for the “Enduring Student Impact” initiative and $500,000 for the Hotel Jacaranda.

The College would like to thank Governor Ron DeSantis for his approval and consideration, and Senate President Ben Albritton, Senator Erin Grall, Representative Kaylee Tuck, Representative Vanessa Oliver, and Commissioner of Education Anastasios Kamoutsas for their support and hard work in securing state funds for SFSC.

Funds from the “Enduring Student Impact” initiative will support the continued impact and enhancement of the College’s Division of Student Services, ensuring it remains a vital resource for student engagement, success, and well-being.

“As budget constraints continue to impact institutions across the state, we are especially grateful to our legislative delegation for their support for higher education and their efforts in advocating for us,” said Fred Hawkins, president of SFSC. “Their support reinforces the value of the Florida College System and its 28 institutions, which remain committed to student success, workforce development, and fiscal responsibility all while maintaining the same tuition rates since 2014.”

The funds for the Hotel Jacaranda will support the consistent preservation needs that the facility requires. The SFSC Foundation board will evaluate and prioritize the spending of the $500,000 allocated for its care.

“We are incredibly grateful to Governor DeSantis and the Florida Legislature for this $500,000 investment in the Hotel Jacaranda. This funding will allow us to address critical infrastructure needs, beginning with much needed HVAC improvements,” said Emily Dabolt, executive director for the SFSC Foundation. “The Jacaranda is an important community asset, and these funds will help to ensure it continues to serve our students, tenants, and the broader community for years to come.”

For more information on SFSC, visit southflorida.edu, and for information on the Hotel Jacaranda, visit hoteljac.com.