Florida Polytechnic University celebrates a record-breaking graduation, awarding over 330 STEM degrees and marking a transformative new chapter under President Devin Stephenson.
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| In Lakeland, Florida, over 330 graduates received STEM degrees at Florida Poly’s largest commencement yet, signaling growth and a tech-driven future for the university. Image: FPBT |
Lakeland, Florida, USA — May 6, 2025:
Florida Polytechnic University marked a historic moment on Sunday, May 4, as it hosted the largest commencement ceremony in its history, awarding degrees to more than 330 graduates at the RP Funding Center in Lakeland. As Florida’s only all-STEM public university, the event underscores its growing impact in fueling the state’s high-tech industries with top-tier talent.
The milestone celebration marked the first graduation overseen by Florida Poly’s new president, Dr. Devin Stephenson, whose leadership signals a renewed commitment to innovation, academic excellence, and workforce readiness. In his commencement address, Stephenson highlighted the resilience and ambition that define this new generation of graduates.
“Success is not just about intelligence or talent,” Stephenson said. “It’s about grit, adaptability, and an unrelenting commitment to growth. You’ve already proven you have what it takes to thrive in a rapidly changing world.”
The ceremony featured a keynote address from Ray Rodrigues, chancellor of the State University System of Florida, who encouraged graduates to embrace failure as a stepping stone, remain lifelong learners, and disconnect from distractions to engage fully with life’s challenges and rewards.
Among those honored was computer engineering graduate Akilah Dixon of Land O’ Lakes, who shared the emotional weight of the moment. “It hasn’t sunk in yet, but I’m glad that four years of hard work have finally come to an end. It’s just an exciting feeling I can’t describe,” she said.
Student speaker Raúl Lopez, a computer science graduate who will soon begin his career as a full-stack software engineer at Bank of America in New York City, inspired fellow graduates to carry forward the spirit of innovation and individuality.
“The world’s greatest innovators weren’t given permission—they believed in their potential and made their own way,” Lopez said. “Let’s carry that fire forward—not to fit in, but to stand out.”
As Florida Poly continues to expand its role as a leader in STEM education, the success of its graduates reflects a commitment to building a future-ready workforce poised to drive technological advancement and economic growth in Florida, the U.S., and beyond.