Community College | Public 2-year
South Florida State College
Transforming Practices, Strengthening Outcomes, and Sustaining Momentum
Download Full Case Study (PDF)Improving Sustainability of Grant Funded Initiatives at South Florida State College
The Problem
South Florida State College is a public community college in Florida with campuses in Highlands, DeSoto, and Hardee counties. The college is part of the Florida College System, offering over 70 programs. Over 60% of students enrolled are Pell Grant eligible, and around the same percentage attend part-time.
The Action
The chief business officer (CBO) recognized a need to strengthen the integration of grant-funded initiatives into budget development practices. There was a need to better align grant opportunities with the college's strategic and operational goals. The CBO wanted to be better prepared with well-informed 'asks' when donors or funders expressed interest in contributing to the institution. South Florida State College began by modifying the Budget Builder templates to meet its institutional needs.
The Results
“There are two mindsets around grants. One is that any money is good money. The other acknowledges that grant opportunities and activities need to align with the organization's goals and the outcomes we're trying to achieve. We are trying to operate with the second mindset.”
Peter S. ElliottVice President for Administrative Services
