Photo courtesy New College of Florida Facebook.

Reflecting on the transformational semester that is coming to a close, I am filled with appreciation for the tireless efforts of our faculty and students as we scale New College of Florida into the very best liberal arts school in the country. The dedication of our team and their commitment to our mission has made New College stand out in the face of the current crisis facing higher education.

While many colleges and universities have fallen prey to indoctrination and a lack of educational freedom and choice, New College is emerging as a beacon of true liberal arts and great thinking. We are pressing against the forces that have plagued other institutions, resisting fruitless degree programs, crippling student debt and a disregard for civil discourse. New College is different. 

At New College, we understand the true value of a liberal arts education. In a world filled with noise and lacking accountability, we need spaces where intellectual curiosity and ambition can thrive. We need individuals who know how to think critically about our future and are equipped with high character and great achievement to take on the challenges we collectively face in our society and culture. This is the power of a liberal arts education, and this is the power of New College.

Our success goes beyond academic achievements. We have experienced growth in enrollment, with a more diverse student body on campus. We have established a competitive intercollegiate athletics program that brings new energy and school spirit to student life. We are expanding our masters programming to feature world class Marine Mammal Science and partnering with organizations like Mote Marine Laboratory to enhance our data science and visualization program. These initiatives will positively impact the blue economy associated with the Sarasota Bay.

As President, I am committed to upholding the rich history and founding principles of New College. It is my mission to affirm the promise of possibility, progress, growth and opportunity for our entire student body. The faculty, administration and I are proud of the course we are charting, and in 2024, you will witness even more progress as we embark on a campus master plan to provide the academic, residential and recreational facilities necessary to reach our most ambitious goals for intentional expansion. 

New College of Florida is redefining the narrative of education by standing firm in the long-standing tradition of a classic liberal arts education. We are dedicated to becoming the greatest liberal arts honors college in the country by bringing together great thinkers, teaching students how to think critically for themselves and fostering a sense of community and collaboration among our students, faculty and business leaders. 

By prioritizing true liberal arts and critical thinking, New College is leading the way in higher education, and there is no place I would rather be than right here, right now, making a lasting impact. 

Richard Corcoran is President of New College of Florida.

Photo courtesy New College of Florida Facebook.