Prime is a quantity.
Unique, a product unachievable by any two other numbers. 2, 3, 7 …
Prime is a quality.
Excellent, of the highest caliber. Outstanding, Choice, Top-Notch…
In both quantity and quality, this column features Prime Examples of what makes us Florida Tech.
Tradition is passed down from generation to generation. A custom, a behavior, a belief that connects and grows. For one reason or another, traditions last. Their longevity indicates quality and reliability, badges of prestige and trust. Time-tested and -honored, classic yet evolving, traditions adapt to survive while holding fast to the essence that has sustained them.
At Florida Tech, we honor, celebrate and strengthen traditions—both those longstanding that have shaped who we are and those of tomorrow, just getting started.
Here are a few prime examples.
2 Anniversaries to Celebrate
CLEMENTE CENTER
October 2026 marks 25 years since the Charles and Ruth Clemente Center for Sports and Recreation first opened its doors. To mark the anniversary, the Clemente Center will host celebratory events—such as a Clemente Fit Games competition, a fall Bench Press Challenge, an open house for incoming students and more—throughout the 2026-27 academic year.
ABA ONLINE
For 20 years, Florida Tech has provided premier educational opportunities to current and future behavior analysts across the globe through ABA Online. Since founder Jose Martinez-Diaz first pioneered remote broadcasting of behavior analysis classes at Florida Tech in 2006, ABA Online has expanded its offerings from solely professional certificates to a host of bachelor’s and master’s degrees and continuing education certifications.
2 Foundations Refreshed
CLEMENTE COURT UNVEILING
Florida Tech Athletics unveiled the Clemente Center court’s new look at a campus open house in June.
“This exciting update represents the continued growth and pride of Florida Tech Athletics and will serve as the centerpiece for countless moments in the Clemente Center for years to come.”
Christina Hardman, associate athletic director for external operations
PANTHER PARKING
Over the next several months, the university is adding more than 500 parking spaces on campus to provide more room for Panther vehicles.
Crimson Crossing: +150 resident student spaces
Sunrise Center: +35 resident student spaces
L3Harris Commons: +150 resident student spaces
Varsity Training Center (VTC): +105 commuter student spaces
Church Next Door: +100 resident student spaces
3 Campus Customs
NEW-STUDENT ORIENTATION
During Orientation week Aug. 8–14, Florida Tech welcomed more than 1,400 new students to campus with a full schedule of events, including the President’s Welcome and Convocation, Late Night Breakfast, Pick Your Passion breakout sessions and the classic Color Wars.
FOUNDERS DAY
On Sept. 18, students, faculty and staff gathered in the Clemente Center intramural gym to celebrate Florida Tech’s 68th anniversary at the annual Founders Day Ice Cream Social.
HOMECOMING: SAVE THE DATE!
From Oct. 18–24, you’re invited to celebrate HOCO ’26, a week of Panther Pride and campus tradition featuring classic events, such as the annual Alumni Awards Gala, HOCO 2-miler and Homecoming Fest.
This piece was featured in the fall 2026 edition of Florida Tech Magazine.
