Introduction:
Daytona State College is a public college located in Daytona Beach, Florida. With a student population of over 20,000, it offers a wide range of academic programs and extracurricular activities to its students. From its rich history to its unique campus features, Daytona State College has a lot of fun and interesting facts worth exploring. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at some of the most fascinating facts about Daytona State College.
A Brief History of Daytona State College
Daytona State College has a long and storied history that dates back to 1957 when it was first established as Daytona Beach Junior College. Over the years, the college has undergone several name changes, including Volusia County Community College and Daytona Beach Community College, before finally settling on its current name, Daytona State College, in 2008.
One interesting fact about the college’s history is that it was originally located on the campus of what is now Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. In 1961, the college moved to its current location on International Speedway Boulevard. The campus has since expanded to include additional locations throughout the region.
Another fascinating aspect of the college’s history is its ties to the space program. In the 1960s, NASA chose Daytona Beach as the location for its Lunar Landing Research Facility, which was used to train astronauts for their missions to the moon. Daytona Beach Community College (now Daytona State College) played a vital role in this endeavor by providing training facilities and support staff for the program.
Unique Campus Features
Daytona State College’s campus is home to several unique features that make it stand out from other colleges and universities in the area. One of the most notable features is the Mori Hosseini Center, which houses the Southeast Museum of Photography. The museum is home to a collection of over 3,500 photographs, including works by some of the most renowned photographers in history.
Another interesting feature of the campus is the News-Journal Center, which serves as a hub for the college’s performing arts programs. The center includes a 464-seat theater, a black box theater, and several rehearsal and performance spaces. It hosts a variety of performances throughout the year, including plays, musicals, and concerts.
The campus is also home to a unique sculpture garden, which features several pieces of art created by local and national artists. The sculptures are spread throughout the campus, providing a beautiful and inspiring environment for students, faculty, and visitors alike.
Notable Alumni
Daytona State College has produced many notable alumni over the years, including politicians, business leaders, and professional athletes. One of the most famous alumni is Vince Carter, a former NBA All-Star who played for several teams, including the Toronto Raptors and the Orlando Magic. Carter attended the college for one year before transferring to the University of North Carolina.
Another notable alumnus is Carl Lentz, a former pastor at Hillsong Church in New York City. Lentz attended the college in the 1990s before becoming a prominent figure in the Christian community.
Daytona State College has also produced several successful business leaders, including William D. Johnson, the former CEO of Progress Energy, and James W. Heavener, the founder of the Heavener School of Business at the University of Florida.
Diverse Student Body
Daytona State College is known for its diverse student body, which includes students from all walks of life and from around the world. According to the college’s website, the student body includes individuals from more than 100 countries.
In addition to its diverse student population, Daytona State College is also known for its commitment to inclusivity and accessibility. The college offers a range of programs and services to support students with disabilities, including assistive technology and specialized counseling services.
Another interesting fact about the college’s student body is that it includes a large number of non-traditional students. Many of the students at Daytona State College are older adults who are returning to school to pursue a degree or certification. The college offers a range of flexible scheduling options, including online and evening classes, to accommodate the needs of these students.
Additionally, the college is home to several student organizations and clubs that cater to a wide range of interests and backgrounds. These groups provide students with opportunities to connect with others who share their passions and to engage in a variety of extracurricular activities, including community service projects, cultural events, and sports.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, Daytona State College is a vibrant and diverse institution that has a rich history and many unique features. From its ties to the space program to its commitment to inclusivity and accessibility, the college offers a range of opportunities for students to learn, grow, and thrive. Its notable alumni and diverse student body are a testament to the college’s commitment to excellence and its mission to provide a high-quality education to all who seek it.