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Dr. Devin Stephenson Recognized Again as a Leading Business Figure in Florida

Dr. Devin Stephenson, the president of Florida Polytechnic University, has continued to cement his reputation as a significant business leader by earning a spot on Florida Trend magazine's esteemed "Florida 500" list for the second consecutive year. This annual recognition celebrates the state's most influential leaders across various sectors including business, education, and technology, highlighting those who shape the future through visionary innovation and impactful initiatives.

Under Dr. Stephenson's leadership, Florida Polytechnic University has made substantial strides in its mission to provide top-notch STEM education and foster economic development in Florida. This fall, the university achieved a record enrollment of 1,931 students, marking a 10% increase compared to the previous year, and is projected to reach 3,000 students by the year 2030. This remarkable growth is a testament to the institution's commitment to attracting students interested in engineering, technology, and related fields.

In addition to its growth in student numbers, Florida Polytechnic University has been recognized for its academic excellence. According to the 2026 U.S. News & World Report Best Colleges Rankings, the university was named the No. 1 public college in the South for the fifth year in a row, demonstrating consistent quality in education. Moreover, it stands out as the No. 3 best value public school in the region and is celebrated among the top 30 public engineering programs nationally, all without offering a Ph.D. program. This is a remarkable accolade for a university that is still relatively young.

As Dr. Stephenson reflects on this achievement, he emphasizes the collaborative efforts of the faculty, staff, and students at Florida Poly. "Being included on this list again reinforces the outstanding work taking place across our campus every day. Florida Poly continues to thrive because of our bold-thinking faculty, staff, and students who are committed to progress and excellence," he stated.

Since taking on his presidency, Dr. Stephenson has overseen significant infrastructure developments that enhance the educational experience. Among these are the Gary C. Wendt Engineering Building, which offers state-of-the-art research laboratories and collaborative workspaces, and the Public Safety and Campus Operations Center, both scheduled to open this year.

Furthermore, progress is well underway for the Student Achievement Center (StAC), backed by a substantial $12 million in state funding toward the construction of an $85 million facility. This new center will become a vibrant hub designed to support student life, career development, and academic success.

"We're growing with purpose. Each new facility signifies an investment in our students' futures and in Florida's economy," Dr. Stephenson added. He believes that as the campus grows, so will its ability to produce highly skilled graduates, expand research opportunities, and strengthen partnerships critical for keeping Florida Polytechnic University at the forefront of STEM education.

The Florida 500 list is the result of thorough research and analysis conducted by Florida Trend, which chooses honorees based on their leadership achievements and their broader impact on Florida's economic landscape and quality of life. Dr. Stephenson's inclusion for a second year reinforces not only his personal accomplishments but also the ongoing transformation at Florida Polytechnic University, preparing the next generation for the future of high-tech industries.

As Florida faces an evolving economic landscape, visionary leaders like Dr. Devin Stephenson are essential for driving progress and ensuring that institutions like Florida Poly continue to serve as catalysts for innovation and growth.