As Stetson University opens a new academic year, the university is proud to share the inaugural President’s Report—a new annual tradition that keeps alumni and the broader community connected to campus life.

This first edition, presented in video format, offers a look back at the highlights of the 2024–25 academic year—from Opening Convocation to Commencement—celebrating the moments, achievements and people who define the Stetson experience.

For alumni near and far, this new tradition is a meaningful way to stay engaged and see the impact of the Hatter community in action.

August 23 | Meet the Football Team

August 28 | Stetson Night with the Daytona Tortugas

September 1 | University Offices Closed for Labor Day

September 20 | Football Tailgate: Family & Friends Weekend

October 17 | Fall Internship & Career Expo

October 20-26 | Homecoming Week

November 1 | Stetson Law's 125th Anniversary Celebration

November 7 | Doug & Margaret Lee Day of Service

Get ready to join us October 24–26 for a weekend full of Stetson spirit, tradition and connection. Registration will be available in the next few weeks, so make sure to secure your spot. When you check in on campus during Homecoming weekend, you’ll receive this year’s exclusive registration gift, along with a coupon for 20% off a single item at the Stetson Bookstore, which can be used on most merchandise, including Stetson Hats!

Check out what's on the Homecoming schedule so far and stay tuned for even more events and activities to come!

Construction is well underway on Hulley Tower, and it’s amazing to see how much progress has been made by the start of the academic year. After several weeks of activity, the tower’s structure is now visible—and the crane was removed just days ago.

By Homecoming, visitors will be able to see nearly the full height of the tower, with the exception of the belfry, and exterior brickwork. The project is on track to be fully completed in early 2026. 

Video credit: Ted Beiler, Pigeons View Photography

Want to see the progress in real time?

With classes starting tomorrow, students are purchasing textbooks and preparing for the start of the academic year. Right now, we know that several Stetson students are unable to buy the textbooks they need due to financial constraints. 

Thanks to alumni, family, and friends, we are already halfway to our goal of helping 50 students, but 25 more still need your help.

For many students, the cost of course materials can become a barrier that prevents them from continuing their education. Your gift today can remove that barrier and give a Hatter the chance to learn, grow and thrive.

Every dollar raised by August 21 will directly support students in purchasing their textbooks for the Fall semester. To give, select “Alumni Book Award” in the Designation field.

As part of this year’s Homecoming festivities, we’re excited to host the first-ever Homecoming Hatter market, a special event where students, alumni, faculty, staff and local creators can sell handmade crafts, showcase small businesses and celebrate school pride. Apply to be a vendor at no cost!

Catch a baseball game at the Jackie Robinson Stetson Night on August 28. You can purchase discounted tickets with code SU. To enter the code hit the "filter" icon to the right of the "seat map" button. If purchasing tickets onsite, show a Stetson ID at the gate to receive the discount or call the Daytona Tortugas for more information.

It’s Stetson Law’s quasquicentennial anniversary! Our community is invited to join Florida’s first law school as we celebrate its 125 year history. There will be five themed eras throughout the Gulfport campus. (1900-1925, 1925-1950, etc.) Each era will inform the music, decor, and cocktails in each of the spaces. It’s a once-in-125-years party. This event is open to all Hatters!

Fall Internship & Career Expo is open to both students and alumni. On the job hunt or wanting to see what other opportunities are out there? Mark your calendar for the 2025 Fall Internship & Career Expo hosted by Career Success. No registration is required.

School of Music 2025-2026 Season Pass sales are live now. Want to enjoy all our concerts for the year? Purchase a season pass! Becoming a Season Pass holder comes with extra benefits and perks. Find out more and get yours today at the button below.

Meet Jessily Ramirez ’08, Keynote Speaker of this year's Convocation. Jessily is the founder of CureAI Insights, a boutique advisory practice specializing in human-centered design and the implementation of Artificial Intelligence offerings to improve human health.

Scott Boore ’76 has served as president of the Stetson University Alumni Board since 2022. As Scott officially concludes his term as president, we know he will continue to be a valued resource for the board and the new president, Joanna "JJ" Payette ’06 (left in photo). We extend our heartfelt thanks for his service and invite you to read a portion of his reflections on the role:

"Reconnecting with my alma mater has been one of the most meaningful and fulfilling experiences of my life. Serving the past eleven years, as a member of the Alumni Board, and later, Alumni Board President, deepened my appreciation for the university’s mission and community that shaped me. I’ve been honored to also serve on the Board of Trustees, where I’ve seen firsthand the dedication and vision that continue to drive Stetson forward. 

Being involved isn’t just about titles or meetings—it’s about relationships. It’s about reaching out to others, listening to their stories, and building a network rooted in shared values and mutual respect. I encourage all alumni to find their own way to reconnect. You’ll be surprised by how rewarding it can be—both for you and for those you impact."

Read Scott's reflection in full on one of our social media channels. 

Kevin Winchell ’07, MBA ’14 was recently named Executive Director of Charlottesville Community Bikes (CCB) in VA. Kevin joins CCB from Stetson University, where he led the civic and community engagement team, partnering with local non-profits to address economic, racial, health, educational and climate challenges. With his extensive leadership experience and demonstrated societal impact, Kevin is poised to lead CCB into its next phase.

Lorna Jean Hagstrom MBA ’64, (sitting in photo) was awarded Trustee of the Year at Adventist Health System’s 27th Annual Conference on Mission in Maitland. She has served on the AdventHealth DeLand Foundation Board for 25 years and most recently as board president. In recognition of her unwavering commitment and dedication, the award was named in her honor: the Lorna Jean Hagstrom Community Spirit Award.