Stetson University Earns 2026 Education Leader of the Year in Florida
Stetson University has become the first educational institution in Central Florida to receive the 2026 Education Leader of the Year award. The honour comes from the Central Florida Pledge, recognizing the university's dedication to inclusivity, respect, and student-focused learning. President Christopher F. Roellke, PhD, led the effort by signing the pledge—a move no other university in the region had made since its launch in 2024.
Founded in 1883, Stetson is the oldest private university in Central Florida. Under Roellke's leadership, it has expanded programs that prioritize student success, community engagement, and a sense of belonging. These efforts align closely with the Central Florida Pledge, which unites over 6,000 individuals and organizations committed to treating others with dignity.
Roellke was the first university president in the region to sign the pledge. He also added Stetson's name to The Pledge Business Network, reinforcing the institution's support for its principles. More than 100 students from the university's fraternities and sororities joined him in signing.
The award specifically highlights Stetson's active demonstration of the pledge's values. Marc McMurrin, President & CEO of the Ginsburg Family Foundation, praised the university's strong regional ties and its fair, humane treatment of students. No other educational institution in Central Florida had previously signed the pledge or earned this recognition.
Stetson's award marks a milestone for both the university and the Central Florida Pledge. The recognition confirms its role in promoting a respectful, inclusive academic environment. With Roellke's leadership and student involvement, the institution continues to set an example for higher education in the region.
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