Florida SouthWestern State College (FSW) is a public college in Fort Myers, Florida, United States. It is a member of the Florida College System.
History FSW was established in 1962 as Edison Junior College, named after Thomas Edison, who spent winter months in Fort Myers. Its first campus opened in 1965. The school rebranded several times, reflecting changes in its mission and academic offerings. It became a baccalaureate-granting institution in 2008, when it was renamed Edison State College. In 2014, the college adopted its current name, cutting ties to Edison and aligning with its expanded geographic reach.Rosenburg-Douglas, Katherine (July 7, 2014). "Goodbye Edison, hello Florida SouthWestern State College". Naples Daily News. Retrieved September 8, 2024.
Academics FSW offers both associate and baccalaureate degrees, and several vocational certificate programs, focusing on healthcare, business, technology, and education. FSW is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Campuses The main campus is located in Fort Myers, and covers . The college also has additional campuses, including the Charlotte Campus in Punta Gorda, which opened in 1997 and is the largest campus at . The Collier Campus, located in Naples, opened in 1992 on a site. Additionally, the Hendry/Glades Curtis Center in LaBelle serves as a hub for outreach programs. Hendry/Glades Curtis Center also offers classes for degree seeking students and classes for credits like its sister campuses that are part of FSW College system. It serves the students in both Hendry and Glades counties as well as students from other campuses and counties.
Athletics FSW reestablished its athletics program in 2014 under the "Buccaneers" moniker. Teams participate in the Suncoast Conference of the Florida State College Activities Association and the National Junior College Athletic Association. The 3,500-seat Suncoast Credit Union Arena opened in 2016 and is home to the basketball and volleyball teams, as well as the City of Palms Classic high school basketball tournament.Dorsey, Dave (November 28, 2016). "'Masterpiece' Suncoast Credit Union Arena set to open at FSW". Naples Daily News. Retrieved September 8, 2024. Baseball and softball teams play at City of Palms Park.
Notable alumni Charles Ghigna, poet and children's author Matt Hudson, member of the Florida House of Representatives Tina Wainscott, romance and suspense novelist Fuzzy Zoeller, professional golfer Keon Ellis, professional basketball player for the Brooklyn Nets Jan Hooks, comedian and actress, former Saturday Night Live cast member.
References
External links
Athletics website