Polk State achieves Florida Collegiate Purple Star Campus status

After more than a yearlong process, Polk State College is now an institution recognized for its commitment to military members and their families.

Recently, the Florida Department of Education designated Polk State as a Florida Collegiate Purple Star Campus. The purpose of the Collegiate Purple Star Campus is to recognize colleges that demonstrate a commitment to supporting military families, which include active-duty members and veterans.

“To be recognized as an institution that supports those who have served to ensure our freedom is an honor and a testament to Polk State’s commitment to military members and their families,” President Angela Garcia Falconetti exclaimed. “We are extremely grateful and committed to providing a quality higher education to veterans and their families who have sacrificed so much.”

Founded in 2023 by the Florida Department of Education, the distinction lasts for three academic years. For Polk State, the endeavor began in November 2023 under Interim Director for Student Financial Services Rob Plummer. Plummer was hired in May 2023 as Coordinator for Veterans Services.

“We are incredibly honored to receive the Purple Star designation from Florida’s Department of Education,” Plummer said. “This recognition reflects our commitment to supporting military-connected students and their families. It is a testament to the dedication of our staff and leadership who work every day to ensure that our campus remains a welcoming and inclusive environment for those who have served the greatest country in the world.”

Polk State now stands among 12 institutions within the Florida College System that have earned the Florida Collegiate Purple Star Campus designation. The College supports more than 400 active-duty members, reservists, National Guard members, veterans, and their family members annually. For military members, families, and veterans interested in Polk State, more information can be found here.

“We’re proud to stand with our military community,” Plummer added. “This designation affirms our continued efforts to honor their service through education and support.”