At FGCU, we believe that great universities nurture great communities and vice versa. Our enthusiasm for public engagement through conferences, lectures, workshops, community partnerships and a wide range of educational programs enriches life on campus and throughout Southwest Florida.
Enlightening Lectures
From global warming to political pondering, wetlands conservation to the roots of the Delta blues, FGCU’s largely free public lecture series know few bounds. A sampling:
- Bernard and Susan Master Moonlight on the Marsh Lecture Series: The world’s top ecology experts address the impact of climate change on Southwest Florida. FGCU’s Harvey Kapnick Education and Research Center at Naples Botanical Garden provides the perfect setting.
- Community Speaks Lecture Series: This eclectic educational series explores everything from blues history and compelling new books to the emotional lives of undocumented and mixed-status students.
- College of Arts & Sciences Lecture Series: International thinkers weigh in on a wide range of current events from a global perspective.
- Liebert Lecture Series: Why can’t we all just get along? This series asks international experts on global security, foreign policy, political corruption and terrorism how to achieve world peace.
- Rachel Carson Distinguished Lecture Series: Seeing the natural world through the eyes of Silent Spring author and biologist Rachel Carson inspires this series, presented by our Center for Environment and Society.
Educational Programs
Looking to live healthier? Embrace the classics? Maybe introduce your kids or grandkids to the wonders of STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics)? FGCU has an educational program for that.
- Continuing Education and The FGCU Academy: Southwest Florida’s premier provider of public and private sector professional training also offers a wide range of non-credit lifelong learning courses in the arts, business, government, law, philosophy, religion and world affairs through its The FGCU Academy.
- Whitaker Center for STEM Education: STEM initiatives include internships and mini-grants for FGCU students and a wide variety of K-12 programs, from summer camps, nature walks and research opportunities to the SunChase Solar Go-Kart Challenge.
- Wings of Hope: Each year, FGCU students help thousands of 4th- and 5th-graders from local elementary schools gain knowledge and appreciation of Southwest Florida’ natural world.
Business & Civic Partnerships
- Campus Conference Programs: Each summer when most students depart, the FGCU campus fills with on-site conventions, athletic camps and overnight corporate retreats. Where else can you find lodging with picturesque views, nature trails, athletic fields and a resort pool, private lake and beach, all within a short drive to golf and shopping?
- Eagles Connect: Our students enhance their education and leadership skills by giving to others through community service. The Eagles Connect website opens the door to more than 300 pre-approved non-profit agencies where credit is given to those who serve their community.
- Small Business Development Center: Lutgert College of Business sponsors this forum where small business owners can discuss issues with experienced consultants, share marketing tips and learn the basics of government contracting.
