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Florida Southern College: Celebrating Milestones in Education and Heritage

On October 22, 2026, Florida Southern College commemorated two pivotal achievements—the opening of the Ben and Missy Albritton Citrus and Horticulture Complex and the rededication of the Miller Planetarium. This momentous occasion was not just a celebration of infrastructure but a remarkable investment in science, education, and the art of preservation.

The event brought together a notable audience, including Florida Senate President and alumnus Ben Albritton and his wife Missy, alongside officials from the state and local community, College leadership, alumni, and various partners from the community. The gathering featured an unveiling of a dedication inscription honoring the Albrittons, a ceremonial greenhouse raising, and a ribbon-cutting for the newly modernized planetarium.

The new Albritton Citrus and Horticulture Complex is crucial to bolstering Florida Southern's long-standing ties to the state's citrus industry and agricultural education. Having studied horticulture during his time as a student, Ben Albritton recognizes the potential in newly empowered students following in his footsteps. This complex is set to foster an environment that encourages practical learning, scientific inquiry, and agricultural innovation.

During the greenhouse raising, attendees participated in a symbolic gesture by signing a steel beam that will be integrated into the structure of the new complex. This act highlights the collaborative efforts of the College, its leaders, and community supporters towards advancing agricultural education in Florida. Once completed, the facility will consist of four new greenhouses designed for hands-on learning and experimentation.

Moreover, the state funding allocates resources to improvements within the Polk Science building, focusing on structural upgrades and the restoration of its greenhouse facilities. Additionally, donations from private entities will aid in renovating labs, enhancing the infrastructure for scientific instruction and research.

Dr. Jeremy Martin, President of Florida Southern College, conveyed gratitude toward the State of Florida and Polk County legislators for facilitating these opportunities for students and the local community. The acknowledgment of Ben and Missy Albritton’s enduring commitment to education and agriculture was emphasized as especially meaningful during the celebration.

The festivities also spotlighted the Miller Planetarium, where President Jeremy Martin spearheaded the rededication and ribbon-cutting ceremony. Significant technological advancements, including new audiovisual tools, have transformed the planetarium into an immersive educational environment suitable for students, families, and visitors alike.

Recognition was also given to Senator Colleen Burton and Representative Jennifer Canady for their role in securing state funds for Florida Southern College over the years. The restoration of the planetarium has been financially supported by state funding, the National Park Service's Save America's Treasures initiative, and private donations, all aimed at preserving historical landmarks while equipping them for contemporary educational needs.

Dr. Keith Berend, Chairman of the College’s Board of Trustees, shared insights about the significance of the reopening of the Planetarium, highlighting that it fulfills a vision held by many for decades. Serving as a historic educational hub, the planetarium continues to bridge Florida Southern’s legacy with new learning opportunities for future generations.

Furthermore, the Albritton Citrus and Horticulture Complex serves as a pivotal link to Florida Southern's esteemed history in citrus education, with the school once being home to the nation’s only bachelor’s degree dedicated solely to this field. To witness this legacy alive for new students excites many and enhances the College’s commitment to agricultural education.

Both the Albritton Citrus and Horticulture Complex and Miller Planetarium stand as pillars of Florida Southern's dedication to preserving legacy while fostering scientific exploration and student engagement. Founded in 1883, Florida Southern College is the oldest private college in the state of Florida, boasting a robust academic framework with over 70 undergraduate programs and graduate offerings in business, education, nursing, and physical therapy. The institution prides itself on a student-to-faculty ratio of 14:1 and recognition in several national rankings, underscoring its commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and value.

In a community where history, education, and engagement intertwine, Florida Southern College continues to set the stage for future advancements while honoring its past.