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Liam Payne, the British singer, songwriter, and former member of the global sensation One Direction, tragically passed away on Nov. 3, at the age of 31. The loss of a vibrant, talented artist whose journey had only just begun to unfold in new and exciting ways.

Professor Mike Nabors teaches at FSC about the world of sports media, an industry he’s been a part of for more than 30 years. Recently, he’s released his second book, entitled “Don’t Quit Pivot,” which aims to drive others to chase their dreams and pursue their passions.  In the book, Nabors writes, “The goal [of this book] is to pass on the idea that the ability to move from one career to something better for you is attainable for everyone.”

FSC’s track and field team is running full speed into one of its strongest seasons in years. With new school records, a positive team culture, and rising freshman talent, the team is determined to stand out. 

Many students dream of traveling the world. Senior Erika Ljutich turned this dream into a reality. While balancing a full course load, Ljutich has managed to visit over ten countries and several U.S. territories — some by herself — proving that travel is for everyone. Ljutich’s love for travel started long before she arrived at FSC. Her first international trip, when she was only in high school, sparked a lifelong passion.

FSC’s annual dance show, Kinetic Connections, is slated to take the stage from March 28 - 30. Directed by Associate Professor Dance Program Coordinator Erin LaSala Phillips, the show will be a part of the Festival of Fine Arts as it has been in the past, coming together with other programming to showcase the diverse artistic talents of students and faculty.

The future of The U.S. Department of Education is facing significant uncertainty as the White House pushes forward with a strategy to restructure the agency. On Feb. 4, the White House outlined a two-pronged approach to downsizing the department. The initial phase targets programs that were not explicitly created by Congress, making them easier to eliminate. However, the department’s major functions— such as Title I funding for low-income schools, IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act) and the federal student loan system —are protected by congressional statute, meaning any major structural changes would require legislative approval.

Dr. Shameka Shelby, a dedicated member of the Chemistry Department, is stepping into a new leadership role in the fall. Starting in September, Shelby will serve as Florida Southern’s Deputy Chief of Staff and Associate Vice President for Inclusive Excellence. Shelby has been a faculty member at FSC for over a decade. She serves as the Department Chair of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Physics. She has also taken an active role in the creation and facilitation of the Race, Culture and Ethnic Studies minor. Through her passion and mentorship, she’s made an impact on many. Fortunately for students, Shelby will still teach one class a semester.

FSC Athletics started out the year strong with a special recognition from the NCAA. Florida Southern College was named a finalist for the prestigious NCAA Division II Award of Excellence, an award that honors schools for their outstanding community service initiatives led by student athletes

Florida Southern is entering an exciting new chapter based on growth and transformation, with the most notable being the expansion of the Ashley Gibson Barnett Museum of Arts (ABG). Formerly the Polk Art Museum, the building has recently received a new name, benefactor and makeover. Set to open its doors to the public on Jan. 18, the 14,000 square foot expansion comes after nearly 30 years of planning and fundraising.  “This is a really exciting moment for our entire community, academic and beyond,” said Dr. Alexander Rich, the executive director and chief curator of the AGB. “We are developing an innovative, intentional, academic and community space that I can’t wait for our whole community [to see].”

The Lakeland Linder International airport has a lot of exciting new expansion that’s expected to benefit both FSC students and the Lakeland community. With new flight routes coming to the airport and other expansion efforts, patrons can expect more travel options and greater convenience right in Lakeland.