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College of Central Florida

Ocala, FL

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Quick Facts

1957
Founded
Public college
Type
10,854
Total Students
$106M
Endowment
(2024)
Baccalaureate/Associate's Colleges
Classification
President: James Henningsen

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About College of Central Florida

Empowering Central Florida for over 65 years through accessible, community-focused education.

The College of Central Florida (CCF) stands as a cornerstone of accessible higher education, proudly serving Citrus, Levy, and Marion counties since its establishment in 1957. As a public college, CCF is deeply rooted in its mission to empower a diverse student body, currently numbering over 10,800, through quality academic and vocational programs. Known for its commitment to community growth and development, CCF provides a vibrant learning environment that fosters both intellectual and personal advancement for its students.

CCF's rich history is marked by significant milestones, beginning as Central Florida Junior College with just 320 students in temporary facilities. A pivotal moment came in 1966 with the merger of Hampton Junior College, which was established in 1958 as one of Florida's first Black two-year colleges. This union underscores CCF's enduring legacy of inclusivity and expanding educational opportunities. The institution evolved, becoming Central Florida Community College in 1971 to better reflect its dedication to comprehensive community education, before adopting its current name, College of Central Florida, in 2010.

From its initial 60-acre Ocala campus, which has since grown to 140 acres, to the expansion of its Wilton Simpson Citrus Campus to 98 acres with facilities like the Citrus Learning and Conference Center, CCF demonstrates a steady commitment to providing modern resources for its students. Under the leadership of President James Henningsen since 2012, the college continues to build on its foundation, offering a supportive and dynamic experience for students aiming for career advancement, transfer to a four-year university, or lifelong learning. With a substantial endowment of $0.1 billion, CCF is well-positioned to continue its vital role in the region's educational landscape.

Key Highlights

  • Founded in 1957, celebrating over 65 years of public higher education.
  • Serves over 10,854 students across Citrus, Levy, and Marion counties.
  • Historic merger in 1966 with Hampton Junior College, one of Florida's pioneering Black two-year colleges.
  • The Ocala campus has significantly expanded from its original 60 acres to 140 acres.
  • Operates with an endowment of $0.1 billion, supporting its educational mission.
  • The Wilton Simpson Citrus Campus features a state-of-the-art Learning and Conference Center, opened in 2009.

Timeline

1957
Central Florida Junior College established
1958
Classes began for CFJC; Howard Junior College (later Hampton Junior College) opened
1966
Hampton Junior College and Central Florida Junior College merged
1971
Institution renamed Central Florida Community College
1996
Free-standing Wilton Simpson Citrus Campus opened
2009
Citrus Learning and Conference Center opened at the Citrus Campus
2010
Officially changed name to College of Central Florida
2012
James Henningsen assumed role as college president
🏛️
69 Years
of Excellence

Leadership

James Henningsen
President

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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