CF to host Application Day, Monday, June 23, at the Wilton Simpson Citrus Campus

The College of Central Florida invites anyone thinking about college to attend Application Day on Monday, June 23, from 4-6 p.m. at the Wilton Simpson Citrus Campus, 3800 S. Lecanto Highway, Lecanto.

At this event, future students may apply to the college with no fee, start the financial aid application, speak with advisors about program and degree options, and tour the campus. The college will give away free CF merchandise and attendees may enter to receive a scholarship to cover tuition for one class at the in-state rate. Students interested in Health Sciences programs including EMS, Nursing and Respiratory Care may participate in a Q&A session.

Additional Application Day events will be held Thursday, June 19, from 4-6 p.m. at the Jack Wilkinson Levy Campus, 15390 N.W. Highway 19, Chiefland, and Saturday, June 21, from 9-11 a.m. at the Ocala Campus, 3001 S.W. College Road, Ocala.

For more information, visit CF.edu/AppDay.

CF to host Application Day, Saturday, June 21, on the Ocala Campus

The College of Central Florida invites anyone thinking about college to attend Application Day on Saturday, June 21, from 9-11 a.m. at the AdventHealth Center for Nursing on the CF Ocala Campus, 3001 S.W. College Road.

At this event, future students can apply to the college with no fee, start the financial aid application, speak with advisors about program and degree options, and tour the campus. The college will give away free CF merchandise and attendees may enter to receive a scholarship to cover tuition for one class at the in-state rate. Students also may choose to take a placement test, which starts promptly at 8 a.m. at the Bryant Student Union. Prospective nursing students will be invited to take a tour of the new AdventHealth Center for Nursing.

Additional Application Day events will be held Thursday, June 19, from 4-6 p.m. at the Jack Wilkinson Levy Campus, 15390 N.W. Highway 19, Chiefland, and Monday, June 23, from 4-6 p.m. at the Wilton Simpson Citrus Campus, 3800 S. Lecanto Highway, Lecanto.

For more information, visit CF.edu/AppDay.

Frank Lloyd Wright expert to speak at CF Appleton Museum of Art’s June 7 Free First Saturday

The Appleton Museum of Art, College of Central Florida, invites the community for an art-filled day on June 7 during Free First Saturday, featuring a special presentation on Frank Lloyd Wright.

Enjoy free admission to the Appleton from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Visitors are invited to explore the museum’s permanent collection, special exhibitions and get creative with hands-on art activities in the Artspace.

In the auditorium at 2 p.m., author and historian Dr. Wayne Wood will present “Frank Lloyd Wright and His Influence on Florida Architecture.” This entertaining program gives the audience an in-depth understanding of Frank Lloyd Wright’s vast influence on Florida’s architectural history. Widely regarded as one of the foremost chroniclers of Northeast Florida history, Wood has been called the “undisputed godfather of preservation in Jacksonville.” An author, historian and artist, he founded Riverside Avondale Preservation and Riverside Arts Market. He has published 15 books on Northeast Florida.

Special exhibitions on view include: “What If Eye: Fifty Years of Exploration with Ummarid ‘Tony’ Eitharong,” sponsored by Fine Arts for Ocala (FAFO), as well as “Strength and Resilience: Works by Carmen Rojas Ginés and Naomi Shanti.” It’s the last weekend to visit “Framing Tokyo: Joel Bustamante’s Architectural Photography,” on view in the museum’s Balcony Gallery for Florida Artists.

Support local by grabbing a bite from The Dancing Empanada food truck, featuring delicious, made-from-scratch empanadas, and learn more about CAMPUS USA and Humane Society of Marion County at their partner tables.

This Free First Saturday is supported in part by CAMPUS USA Credit Union, Marion Cultural Alliance and National Endowment for the Arts.

The Appleton Museum, Artspace and Store are open Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sunday, noon-5 p.m. A campus of the College of Central Florida, the Appleton Museum of Art is located at 4333 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala, east of downtown on SR 40 (exit 352 east off I-75 or exit 268 west off I-95). Parking is free. For more information, call 352-291-4455 or visit AppletonMuseum.org.

Topics and concepts presented at this event are for discussion purposes only and are not intended to espouse, promote, advance, inculcate, or compel individuals to believe the topics or concepts presented therein. Nor do they constitute endorsement of such topics or concepts by the College of Central Florida, its Board of Trustees, or any of their officers, employees, or agents.

CF to hold commencement ceremonies May 9

The College of Central Florida will hold its 2025 commencement ceremonies on Friday, May 9, at the World Equestrian Center, Expo Center 1, 1750 N.W. 80th Ave., Ocala.

The first ceremony at 10 a.m. will recognize graduates receiving baccalaureate degrees, Associate in Science degrees and certificates. The second ceremony at 2 p.m. will celebrate graduates receiving Associate in Arts degrees.

For ease of access, attendees are advised to use the second entrance on State Road 40, heading west. Complimentary parking will be available, and guests are encouraged to arrive early to ensure enough time is allotted for parking.

Both ceremonies will be livestreamed on the college’s official YouTube page.

Rebecca Perkins, a member of CF’s inaugural Dental Hygiene class, will be the student speaker at the morning ceremony. Amber Battillo, an Associate in Arts graduate, will be the student speaker at the afternoon ceremony.

For more information, visit CF.edu/graduation.

‘Godzilla’ double feature and more for CF Appleton Museum of Art’s May 3 Free First Saturday

The Appleton Museum of Art, College of Central Florida, presents a fun day of activities on the upcoming May 3 Free First Saturday.

Admission to the museum is free from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Guests are invited to explore the permanent collection and special exhibitions and enjoy family-friendly artmaking activities in the Artspace.

In celebration of the special exhibition, “Framing Tokyo: Joel Bustamante’s Architectural Photography,” join us for a double-feature film screening beginning at 11 a.m. in the auditorium. Following a brief introduction by Appleton staff, the screening will begin with the original Japanese “Godzilla” (1954), followed by “The Return of Godzilla” (1984), that restarts the storyline and picks up after the original film. The “Framing Tokyo” exhibition spotlights Tokyo’s striking skyline, and viewers might recognize several featured skyscrapers in the 1984. Like photographer Joel Bustamante, director Koji Hashimoto was drawn to the dynamic architecture of Shinjuku, a special ward of Tokyo, using special effects to depict Godzilla (or Gojira) wreaking havoc on these iconic buildings. Admission to the films is free as part of Free First Saturday; no reservations needed to attend.

Other special exhibitions on view include: “To the MAX: Magnolia Art Xchange’s 10-Year Anniversary,” “What If Eye: Fifty Years of Exploration with Ummarid ‘Tony’ Eitharong,” both sponsored by Fine Arts for Ocala (FAFO), as well as “Strength and Resilience: Works by Carmen Rojas Ginés and Naomi Shanti.”

Support Ocala’s local small businesses and stop by Michelle’s NY Style Hot Dogs and The Donut Express food trucks, serving delicious treats. While you’re there, make a difference and donate blood with LifeSouth Community Blood Centers, also onsite throughout the event.

This Free First Saturday is supported in part by CAMPUS USA Credit Union, Marion Cultural Alliance and National Endowment for the Arts.

The Appleton Museum, Artspace and Store are open Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sunday, noon-5 p.m. A campus of the College of Central Florida, the Appleton Museum of Art is located at 4333 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala, east of downtown on SR 40 (exit 352 east off I-75 or exit 268 west off I-95). Parking is free. For more information, call 352-291-4455 or visit AppletonMuseum.org.

Topics and concepts presented at this event are for discussion purposes only and are not intended to espouse, promote, advance, inculcate, or compel individuals to believe the topics or concepts presented therein. Nor do they constitute endorsement of such topics or concepts by the College of Central Florida, its Board of Trustees, or any of their officers, employees, or agents.

CF announces Going Gator UF partnership

The College of Central Florida now is offering students the Going Gator partnership, designed for learners who want to earn an Associate in Arts degree at CF and then have guaranteed admission to transfer to the University of Florida.

Tuition at CF is about half the cost of a Florida public university, making CF a smart economical option for students to start their academic journey. CF also offers support systems including small class sizes, award-winning faculty and free tutoring and counseling available for every student. More than half of CF students are enrolled in the Associate in Arts degree, which prepares them to transfer to a university after two years at CF.

“Our Associate in Arts degree is our largest and most popular program,” said Dr. Jim Henningsen, CF president. “For many local students, the dream of attending a prestigious Florida university is only possible by getting an affordable, quality education at CF for the first two years. This new partnership with the University of Florida offers students a guided pathway from day one to set them up for success.”

Through the Going Gator partnership, qualifying students have guaranteed transfer admission into 19 pathways in the UF College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, from English to history to sciences and more. Once admitted to the Going Gator program, CF students must continue to meet the eligibility criteria such as good academic standing and progress in their selected academic pathway. As a top public university, UF’s admission process is highly competitive, and this partnership ensures CF graduates have a clear path to attaining that top-tier education.

“At the University of Florida,” said CLAS Interim Dean Dr. Mary Watt, “we are committed to expanding access to world-class education, and the Going Gator partnership with the College of Central Florida is a testament to that mission. By providing a seamless transition for CF students into UF’s College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, we are ensuring that more talented and dedicated learners have the opportunity to achieve their academic and professional goals. We look forward to welcoming these students into the Gator Nation and supporting their continued success.”

For more information about the Going Gator transfer partnership, visit CF.edu/UF.

About the College of Central Florida:
The College of Central Florida is committed to providing a full range of educational programs, offering high-quality, affordable education across three counties and online. CF offers more than 170 academic pathways in a variety of fields to prepare students for meaningful careers and successful futures.

CF Webber Gallery to host ‘The Pastel Odyssey’

More than 40 works showcasing pastel as a fine art medium will be on view in “The Pastel Odyssey,” an exhibition by the Pastel Society of Central Florida at the CF Webber Gallery May 19-June 19.

“The CF Webber Gallery is excited to host this stunning selection of pastel works by 17 Central Florida artists that highlight the depth, versatility and expressive nature of the medium,” said Jacqueline Bozman, Webber Gallery coordinator.

The Pastel Society of Central Florida is a member of the International Association of Pastel Societies, an organization committed to fostering growth through educational workshops and exhibition opportunities for pastel artists of all levels.

The community is invited to an opening reception on Thursday, May 29, from 4-6 p.m.

The Webber Gallery is located at the CF Ocala Campus, 3001 S.W. College Road. Hours are 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday-Thursday and admission is free. For more information, visit www.CF.edu/Webber or call 352-854-2322, ext. 1664.

Topics and concepts presented at this event are for discussion purposes only and are not intended to espouse, promote, advance, inculcate, or compel individuals to believe the topics or concepts presented therein. Nor do they constitute endorsement of such topics or concepts by the College of Central Florida, its Board of Trustees, or any of their officers, employees, or agents.

CF to host Dual Enrollment Discovery Night

College of Central Florida invites current middle and high school students to learn how to earn college credits through the CF Dual Enrollment program. Students and parents can get details about this opportunity to earn college credits and even complete a college degree while in high school and will hear from a panel of current students. Attendees are invited to come early for a campus tour and pizza.

The Dual Enrollment Discovery Night on Thursday, April 10, 4:30-6:45 p.m. at the CF Ocala Campus Ewers Century Center, 3001 S.W. College Road, will feature: Campus tours, 4:30-5 p.m.; welcome and pizza, 5-5:30 p.m.; opening presentation and parent Q&A, 5:30-6 p.m.; and student panel discussion, 6-6:45 p.m. Registration is requested at CF.edu/DESessions.

About the College of Central Florida:
The College of Central Florida is committed to providing a full range of educational programs, offering high-quality, affordable education across three counties and online. CF offers more than 170 academic pathways in a variety of fields to prepare students for meaningful careers and successful futures.

CF Appleton Museum of Art Announces 2025 Summer Art Camp Schedule – Register Now!

There’s no better place to have a creative, art-filled summer than at the Appleton Museum of Art, College of Central Florida. Ocala’s biggest art camp returns with a full schedule of half-day camps for ages 5-17.

Campers will discover the work of renowned artists, experiment with a variety of materials and try out new techniques to create masterpieces. Art camps are led by professional art educators and teaching artists, who will guide campers through fun, themed projects.

“Appleton summer art camps sell out quickly since our expert educators are engaged teachers delivering classes within a world-class museum environment,” said Jason Steuber, Appleton director. “It means so much to see former Summer Art Camp students now as parents bringing their own children in for classes. Our decades of experience make camp a summer tradition destination.”

Summer Art Camp is appropriate for all skill levels. Register now at AppletonMuseum.org. Spaces fill quickly. Discounts are available for current Appleton members at the Family/Dual Level or above. For questions about Summer Art Camp, contact AppletonEducation@cf.edu.

2025 Summer Art Camp Schedule

June 2-13 (Two-Week Camps)

  • Dig Into Clay – Two-Week Camp (Ages 8-12), 1-4 p.m.
    In this two-week camp, learn the basics of hand building with clay and the art of glazing. Pinch pot, coil pot and slab construction will be used to make fun pieces to take home. $290 Appleton members; $330 nonmembers. Instructor: Dawn Bergstrom
  • Outdoor Landscape Painting – Two-Week Camp (Ages 13-17), 1-4 p.m. In this two-week camp, leave the classroom behind and use the Appleton’s beautiful grounds as your painting studio. We’ll take portable easels and paints outside to practice your painting skills “en plein air,” or, in the open air. Please note, the class may also work indoors, depending upon the weather. $290 Appleton members; $330 nonmembers. Instructor: Jordan Shapot

June 9-12 (Four-Day Camp)

  • Fun at CF Vintage Farm – Four-Day Camp (Ages 8-12), 9 a.m.-noon
    Let your art be inspired by the horses, cows and chickens at this special art camp at CF Vintage Farm, located on County Road 475. Paint and sketch outside under a majestic oak, plus get indoor studio time in the Vintage Farm classroom. This camp meets Monday-Thursday, only. $165 Appleton members; $185 nonmembers. Instructor: Michel Yeuell

June 16-20 (One-Week Camps)

  • Color Wonderful (Ages 5-7), 9 a.m.-noon
    Explore and celebrate all the colors of the rainbow this week, from shades and tints to primary and secondary colors. Use a variety of media to create your own colorful world. $145 Appleton members; $165 nonmembers. Instructor: Kio Weber-Lee
  • Shells and Sandcastles (Ages 8-12), 9 a.m.-noon
    This week, create art influenced by the secrets of the sea. Imagine yourself snorkeling through the beautiful water. What treasures would you discover? Make a ceramic sandcastle, fish print, and create art with shells. $145 Appleton members; $165 nonmembers. Instructor: Jeanne Baines
  • Florida’s Wild Wetlands (Ages 8-12), 1-4 p.m.
    From turtles and frogs to lizards and more, you’ll be surprised by the incredible wildlife that call Florida’s wetlands home. This week, use a variety of materials and your own creativity to create artwork inspired by the creatures found in this unique habitat. $145 Appleton members; $165 nonmembers. Instructor: Tasha Strigle

June 23-27 (One-Week Camps)

  • Art Detective (Ages 5-7), 9 a.m.-noon
    How do artists do that? Design your own magnifying glass and search for ways to create art while you discover the mysteries of Mona Lisa while making your own self-portrait. $145 Appleton members; $165 nonmembers. Instructor: Trish Perkins
  • Art Safari (Ages 8-12), 9 a.m.-noon
    Journey to Africa’s Kalahari Desert in search of the “Big Five:” lions, leopards, rhinoceroses, elephants and African buffalos. Bring home an elephant sculpture, a drawing of a leopard and other works of art to remind you of your safari experience. $145 Appleton members; $165 nonmembers. Instructor: E. Marie Fielding
  • Saddle Up (Ages 8-12), 1-4 p.m.
    Calling all horse lovers! This week, immerse yourself in the world of these majestic animals. Draw, paint, and even create a design for your own boots while you learn about the history of the horse in art. $145 Appleton members; $165 nonmembers. Instructor: TBA

July 7-11 (One-Week Camps)

  • Storybook Art (Ages 5-7), 9 a.m.-noon
    Stories are as timeless as the artwork they inspire. In this enchanting class you’ll bring stories to life. Let your imagination soar as you create with an array of art materials and techniques. $145 Appleton members; $165 nonmembers. Instructor: Vanessa Zumba-Gonzalez
  • Reinventing the Canvas (Ages 8-12), 9 a.m.-noon
    Art doesn’t have to be on a canvas this week! With a little imagination, your painting surface can be almost anything. After this class you’ll see creative options everywhere you look. $145 Appleton members; $165 nonmembers. Instructor: Maritzabel Jauregui-Rodriguez
  • Drawing and Painting Portfolio Development (Ages 13-17), 1-4 p.m.
    Explore a variety of drawing and painting techniques that will develop your skills and ignite your creativity. Learn how to expand your range and create an artistic portfolio that showcases your talents. $145 Appleton members; $165 nonmembers. Instructor: Lisa Russo

July 7-18 (Two-Week Camp)

  • Dig Into Clay (Ages 8-12), 9 a.m.-noon
    In this two-week camp, learn the basics of hand building with clay and the art of glazing. Pinch pot, coil pot and slab construction will be used to make pieces to take home. $290 Appleton members; $330 nonmembers. Instructor: Jamie Roche

July 14-18 (One-Week Camps)

  • Groovy and Glowing (Ages 5-7), 9 a.m.-noon
    It’s hip and happening at the Appleton this week! Make art that’s super cool and even glows in the dark. Don’t miss the fun! $145 Appleton members; $165 nonmembers. Instructor: Vanessa Zumba-Gonzalez
  • Funky Sculpture (Ages 8-12), 1-4 p.m.
    Do you like to build things? You’ll be working with an assortment of fun and unconventional materials this week to make sculptures. $145 Appleton members; $165 nonmembers. Instructor: E. Marie Fielding
  • Skulls and Skeletons (Ages 13-17), 1-4 p.m.
    Practice your observational drawing skills using a variety of skeletons for reference. Learn about light and shadow, shapes and relationships, and the basic drawing skills that are essential to every work of art. $145 Appleton members; $165 nonmembers. Instructor: Lisa Russo

July 21-25 (One-Week Camps)

  • Glow Up (Ages 5-7), 9 a.m.-noon
    Let your creativity shine and make cool art that glows in the dark! $145 Appleton members; $165 nonmembers. Instructor: Trish Perkins
  • Meow Masterpieces (Ages 8-12), 9 a.m.-noon
    This week, campers will explore how artists have captured cats in their work and create their own feline-inspired masterpieces. Get ready for a purr-fectly creative adventure! $145 Appleton members; $165 nonmembers. Instructor: Elisa Adelman Rodriguez
  • Doggy Days (Ages 8-12), 1-4 p.m.
    This week won’t be ruff — it’ll be paws-itively amazing! Have a howling good time creating art inspired by man’s best friend. Get ready for a tail-wagging adventure! $145 Appleton members; $165 nonmembers. Instructor: Vanessa Zumba-Gonzalez

July 28-August 1 (One-Week Camps)

  • Critter Fun (Ages 5-7), 9 a.m.-noon
    Learn all about a variety of animals this week, while creating art that you’ll treasure! $145 Appleton members; $165 nonmembers. Instructor: TBA
  • Splat! (Ages 8-12), 9 a.m.-noon
    What can you do with paint? Brush it, blend it, dab it, dribble it, stipple, layer and mix — we’ll explore it all this week. Get ready to experiment, create and have a colorful adventure! $145 Appleton members; $165 nonmembers. Instructor: TBA
  • Outside the Lines (Ages 8-12), 1-4 p.m.
    Love to draw and want to learn more? Learn about using color, perspective, shading and realism to make drawings come alive. Explore different materials while expanding your drawing abilities. $145 Appleton members; $165 nonmembers. Instructor: Maritzabel Jauregui-Rodriguez

August 4-8 (One-Week Camps)

  • Space Cadet (Ages 5-7), 9 a.m.-noon
    Calling all intergalactic explorers — prepare for lift off! You’re headed to a galaxy of your own creation in a miniature space vehicle you design. Your artwork will be out of this world! $145 Appleton members; $165 nonmembers. Instructor: Maritzabel Jauregui-Rodriguez
  • Architecture FUNdamentals (Ages 8-12), 9 a.m.-noon
    What does an architect do? Learn about design, creativity and problem-solving through fun drawing and painting projects. $145 Appleton members; $165 nonmembers. Instructor: Michel Yeuell
  • Pixels and Blocks (Ages 8-12), 1-4 p.m.
    Harness your inspiration from your favorite block-based video game in a world of pixels, blocks, creativity and imagination! Build your own universe while exploring new art techniques with like-minded enthusiasts. $145 Appleton members; $165 nonmembers. Instructor: Deborah Horvath

The Appleton Museum, Artspace and Store are open Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., and Sunday, noon-5 p.m. Admission is free on the first Saturday of each month. A campus of the College of Central Florida, the Appleton Museum of Art is located at 4333 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala, east of downtown on SR 40 (exit 352 east off I-75 or exit 268 west off I-95). Parking is free. For more information, call 352-291-4455 or visit AppletonMuseum.org.

College of Central Florida to host Levy financial aid workshop

The College of Central Florida invites future college students, including high school seniors and their families, to a free financial aid workshop at the CF Jack Wilkinson Levy Campus, 15390 N.W. Highway 19, Chiefland, on Tuesday, April 1, from 6-8 p.m.

CF Financial Aid staff will present a short informational session on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), answer questions, and provide assistance for students to complete the free application online at the event.

All incoming CF students are encouraged to submit the FAFSA, which is required for student loan, grant and scholarship applications.

For more information, visit CF.edu/FAFSAworkshop or call 352-658-4077.