🧑🎓 WHO: Okaloosa Technical College, Director Jon Williams, Superintendent Marcus Chambers
📢 WHAT: Received the Collegiate Purple Star Campus designation
📅 WHEN: Announced November 17, 2025
📍 WHERE: OTC campuses across Okaloosa County
❗ WHY: The college met all state criteria for providing strong support systems for military members, veterans, and their families
Okaloosa Technical College (OTC) has officially been designated a Collegiate Purple Star Campus by the Florida Department of Education— a recognition that affirms the school’s strong, ongoing commitment to serving active-duty military members, veterans, and their families. This distinction, which is awarded only to colleges that demonstrate exceptional support for military-affiliated students, highlights OTC’s role as a major educational hub for one of the most military-connected regions in Florida.
The designation was confirmed through a formal notification by Kathryn S. Hebda, Chancellor of the Florida College System. In her letter, Chancellor Hebda stressed the state’s commitment to becoming the most military-friendly state in the nation and commended OTC for meeting every statutory requirement set forth by legislation enacted in 2023. The Collegiate Purple Star initiative, created by the Florida Legislature and signed into law by Governor Ron DeSantis, recognizes colleges that establish clear and effective pathways for military families transitioning into higher education and workforce training.
To be considered for the Collegiate Purple Star Campus designation, institutions must demonstrate a comprehensive support system for military-affiliated students. In its award letter, the Department of Education confirmed that OTC successfully met all required criteria, including:
A designated military liaison who provides guidance, support, and personalized assistance to military students and their families.
A dedicated military webpage with resources, program information, financial guidance, and support contacts.
A student-led transition program designed to help incoming military-affiliated students acclimate academically and socially.
Professional development training for faculty and staff addressing the unique needs, challenges, and experiences of military-connected students.
Priority registration for service members, veterans, and their families to ensure they can enroll in classes that fit their schedules and commitments.
Because OTC met these requirements at all campus locations, it will hold the Purple Star designation for the next three academic years.
Jon Williams, Director of Okaloosa Technical College, expressed deep pride in the recognition and emphasized how closely aligned the honor is with OTC’s mission:
“We are proud to share news of this distinction with the high percentage of military families already being served in our college, as well as those who will be transitioning to our community in the future,” Williams said. “OTC provides high-quality, hands-on training to all students. However, those who have served our great country with such bravery and honor will always have priority here at OTC.”
Williams noted that many OTC programs—such as aviation, cybersecurity, emergency services, and skilled trades—directly support industries where veterans often excel due to their background and experience.
Superintendent Marcus Chambers praised the OTC staff for their ongoing commitment and said the Purple Star designation reflects the culture of the entire district:
“Okaloosa County is home to one of the largest military populations in the state, and supporting our military families is woven into the fabric of our school district,” Chambers said. “This designation is a testament to the outstanding work of Jon Williams and the entire OTC team. Their commitment ensures that military-connected students receive the guidance, resources, and respect they deserve as they pursue their education and career goals.”
Chambers also noted that the award aligns with the district’s broader mission to support the men and women stationed at Eglin Air Force Base, Hurlburt Field, Duke Field, and the many retired service members who call Okaloosa County home.
With this recognition, Okaloosa Technical College will:
Be listed on the Florida Department of Education’s official roster of Collegiate Purple Star Campuses.
Receive an official digital badge for display on the college’s website, printed materials, and campus signage.
Continue expanding its support services and outreach efforts as part of its commitment to military-connected students.
College officials say they will use the designation as a catalyst to develop additional programming for veterans and service members, including career transition workshops, enhanced academic advising, and partnerships with local military installations.
For more information about Okaloosa Technical College and its programs, visit www.otcollege.net.
Pro Communi Bono
St. Francis De Sales, Ora Pro Nobis!
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