MADISON, FL – When Caroline Wynn first stepped onto the campus of North Florida College, she brought more than determination, she brought generations of rural resilience. A graduate of James Madison Preparatory School and the daughter of long-time farming family in Hamilton County, Wynn was the first in her family to attend college. 

Last spring, she proudly became the first college student to graduate in her family. Now, she’s continuing to break new ground as a student in NFC’s inaugural Bachelor of Applied Science in Organizational Management program, while also beginning her professional journey as an employee in the North Florida College Foundation, where she once served as a work-study student. 

“NFC didn’t just prepare me for college, it prepared me for life,” said Wynn. “It gave me a place to belong, the chance to grow and the confidence to keep reaching for more. Being able to earn my degree right here at home, surrounded by the people who believed in me, that’s something I’ll carry with me forever.” 

A College That Leads and Lifts

For the fourth consecutive reporting year, North Florida College holds the highest graduation rate in the Florida College System, an impressive 64.9 percent compared to the statewide average of 44.1 percent. NFC measures success using the standardized 150 percent completion rate, the same benchmark used across Florida’s system to track academic progress and fund institutional performance.

While serving Florida’s largest rural service district covering Hamilton, Jefferson, Lafayette, Madison, Taylor and Suwannee counties, NFC has mastered the art of ensuring its students, largely from low socioeconomic backgrounds, are successful.
  • 52% of students in this reporting cohort received Pell Grants
  • 64% were first generation college students, just like Wynn

In communities where higher education can feel out of reach, NFC offers a different message: You belong here, and you can succeed.

A Full-Circle Story of Student Success

Wynn’s journey embodies the heart of NFC’s mission. In March 2023, she attended NFC’s Open House event, where she was awarded a scholarship that helped launch her college career.

While at NFC, Wynn gained real-world experience as a work-study student in the College Foundation, building skills in nonprofit operations and leadership. She was honored at NFC’s “First to Stand” First Generation Celebration and inducted into Phi Theta Kappa for academic excellence. After earning her associate in arts degree in Spring 2025, she accepted a part-time position with the Foundation and now joins the inaugural cohort of NFC’s Bachelor of Applied Science in Organizational Management, a workforce-focused program preparing students for leadership roles in business, government, and health care sectors.
 
“Achieving the highest graduation rate four years in a row shows that our students aren’t just completing degrees, they’re preparing for the workforce,” said David Dunkle, Dean of Workforce and Economic Initiatives. “With programs like our new Bachelor of Applied Science in Organizational Management and a growing number of workforce-focused degrees, NFC is equipping students like Caroline for leadership roles in the industries that drive our region forward.”
Why It Works

Behind NFC’s graduation success is a strong, student-focused support system built for learners from all backgrounds. 

Proactive advising, early alert outreach, free tutoring, and skill-building workshops help students stay on track academically. NFC’s Mentor Program connects students with caring faculty and staff, while personalized financial aid support and targeted scholarships ease financial stress. Signature events like Open House, First to Stand, and Grad Fest build community. The NFC Career & Transfer Center offers job opportunities and provides valuable experience and career connections for upcoming graduates. At NFC, students aren’t just numbers. They are known by name and supported every step of the way. 

“North Florida College is incredibly proud to lead the Florida College System in graduation rates for the fourth consecutive year,” said Dr. Jennifer Page, Vice President of Academic Affairs. “This milestone is a testament to the perseverance and talent of our students across our six-county rural service area, many of whom are the first in their families to attend college. It also speaks to the power of our dedicated faculty and staff as they all go above and beyond to ensure every student has the guidance and encouragement they need to succeed. Their unwavering commitment is changing lives and strengthening the future of our region.” 

A New Generation of Rural Leadership

As Wynn enters NFC’s new bachelor program and continues her work with the Foundation, she’s charting a new path not only for herself but for future students from farms, small towns and first-generation families like hers. 

In its fourth year leading the state in graduation rates, North Florida College stands as proof that when access, commitment and community come together students don’t just enroll. Like Wynn, they complete, achieve and lead.

###

Caroline Wynn smiles as she prepares to cross the stage and accept her diploma for an Associate in Arts Degree

Standing among fellow expectant graduates at the NFC Spring 2025 Commencement Ceremony, Caroline Wynn smiles as she prepares to cross the stage and accept her diploma for an Associate in Arts Degree.

In recognition for her academic excellence Caroline Wynn was inducted into the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society during its Rose Ceremony

In recognition for her academic excellence Caroline Wynn was inducted into the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society during its Rose Ceremony. Standing with her is PTK Sponsor, Philip Wilkerson.

NFC Students (L to R) Jack Agee and Caroline Wynn celebrate Caroline’s accomplishment of becoming a soon-to-be first generation graduate at NFC’s First to Stand Celebration

NFC Students (L to R) Jack Agee and Caroline Wynn celebrate Caroline’s accomplishment of becoming a soon-to-be first generation graduate at NFC’s First to Stand Celebration.