When Anastasios “Stasi” Kamoutsas became Polk State College’s sixth president on July 6, his work started with the people, not a distant vision. A Miami native, grandson of Cubans who fled communism and firstW generation college graduate raised by a hardworking single mother, he calls education the great equalizer that “opens doors, creates possibilities and empowers individuals to achieve the American Dream.” That deep-rooted belief now guides his leadership of Polk County’s

The Black and White Photography class at Polk State College is far more than its name suggests. This foundational film course is a gateway to mastering the art and science of photography, offering students hands-on experience with 35-mm cameras, film processing and darkroom techniques that are unique in Polk County. Under the guidance of Professor Sarah Brewington, students like Candace Knoebel, Michael Comings, and Ean Pennypacker are discovering the timeless craft of film p

For many, college can mean the beginning of independence. Independence meaning the start of making your own decisions. It may mean your first time buying textbooks, or paying tuition, or paying for where you sleep at night. Independence meaning you have your responsibilities and difficulties that are all yours to handle. With Polk State College’s student efforts, independence does not mean you are alone. In fact, two particular and very special initiatives at the school were