Jonathan VanSteenburg, who has cerebral palsy, uses adaptive communication devices to interact with people in person and online. He hopes to use a degree in computer science to design software that is more user-friendly for people with disabilities.

Cpl. Jeremy Izquierdo now has a Florida State degree to pair with his badge. While working nights patrolling the Tallahassee campus with the FSU Police Department, Izquierdo earned his bachelor’s degree in public safety & security. He graduated from FSU Panama City’s distance learning program in December 2015, specializing in law enforcement operation.

Patrick Stewart has been active since he was a child enjoying activities at the Boy & Girls Club and as a sailor through the Navy’s Morale, Welfare and Recreation program. Now, the Recreation, Tourism and Events graduate is helping locals and tourists stay active as the sports and special events coordinator at the Panama City Beach Convention & Visitors Bureau.

When Frank Hall decided to follow his sister’s footsteps to attend FSU Panama City, he had no idea he was starting a family legacy. Now his daughter, Alexandria, also is enjoying the benefits of smaller classes with the comforts of home.

When Carson Flowers (psychology, ’18) chose FSU Panama City, it created a new bond between the college junior and her parents. Thomas (social science, ’97) and Sherry (elementary education, ’91) Flowers also had chosen the branch campus because of the home-like feel and waterfront view.

Debra Spradley and her son already shared a love of math; now they will share an alma mater. Matthew Spradley started studying computer science this fall as a freshman at FSU Panama City.

A business administration major turned robot programmer is offering her skills to inspire the next generation of women to reach for their dreams. Jessica Haley and others with STEM Institute are developing a local chapter of Girls Who Code to help close the gender gap in computer science.

Sarah Grace Bennett likes to help families let loose and have fun. As a summer intern at Seahaven Beach Resorts, the Panama City native manages Lil’ Shark’s Club for guests ages 4 to 15. The internship is the final requirement before earning her bachelor’s degree in Recreation, Tourism and Events.

Natasha Allen refuses to settle for less. Competitive by nature, she always strives to be her best. This year, she became the first in her family to earn a college education. After serving as president of the Black Student Union and promoting campus diversity, she graduated May 3 with a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration.

In fall 2014, Ana Cortez left her Lakeland home to attend FSU Panama City to study Business Administration. Faced with meeting new people and becoming familiar with a new city, she has turned her passion into a student organization: Project Runway.