As one of the largest and most forward-thinking colleges in the nation, and a recipient of the prestigious Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence, Valencia College seeks to redefine the role of its campuses in a hybrid learning era. Amid funding constraints, the College seeks a master plan that reimagines its campuses as dynamic, welcoming environments while making the most of existing facilities. Our facilities strategic plan strengthens campus cohesion by identifying opportunities for renovation and adaptive reuse, improving dated and aging spaces, enhancing student services hubs, and ensuring that academic and social spaces better serve hybrid learning.
Through an extensive process of campus walk-throughs, student engagement sessions, and collaborative workshops, the planning team gains deep insight into the institution’s needs. The resulting SFP not only addresses space optimization for new academic programs but also redefines how Valencia College encourages students, faculty, and staff to stay, connect, and thrive in a hybrid world.
Valencia College’s commitment to accessibility, student success, and regional economic impact drove a master plan that balances aspirational projects with pragmatic, phased improvements. A renewed emphasis on open space and recreation enhanced campus livability, creating more opportunities for social interaction, relaxation, and wellbeing. Public and partnership engagement are embedded in campus planning to ensure facilities serve both students and the surrounding community. A network of visible and easy-to-navigate Welcome Centers provide a central point for student services, wayfinding, and community engagement. A flexible capital planning strategy ensured that facility investments align with evolving academic and operational priorities. Strategies for technical education expansion recognized the state’s workforce development goals, positioning Valencia College to respond proactively to emerging opportunities. A data-driven approach informed space planning, ensuring that academic, student service, and operational areas are effectively utilized and adapted to future needs. Resiliency planning addressed long-term environmental stewardship through adaptive reuse, resource efficiency, and strategic infrastructure improvements. Joint workshops with the University of Central Florida and other stakeholders ensured shared campus spaces, enhancing their function for both institutions.
