MADISON, FL – North Florida College marked an exciting milestone on Oct. 14 with a Groundbreaking Ceremony for its new Community Center, officially named the Innovative Community Access & Networking (ICAN) Center. The 4,800-square-foot facility will serve as a regional hub for digital access, workforce training, and community connection, expanding opportunities for work, education and health monitoring across Madison County and the surrounding rural region.

College leaders, members of the NFC District Board of Trustees and representatives from the project’s contracting team gathered for the celebration. Board Chair Ricky Lyons, Vice Chair Billy Washington and Trustee Michael S. McWaters joined NFC President Dr. Jennifer Page and members of the management team David Dunkle, Tyler Coody, Micah Rogers, Dani Mays and Lynn Wyche to commemorate the occasion.

“The ICAN Center represents a major step forward in helping our region grow stronger, be more connected and better prepared for the future,” said Ricky Lyons, Chair of the NFC District Board of Trustees. “This new facility will provide life-changing opportunities for individuals across Madison County and our neighboring communities.”

Connecting Communities Through Access and Innovation

Funded primarily through a $4 million award from the Florida Capital Projects Fund – Multi-Purpose Community Facilities Program, with an additional $225,124 in local support, the project represents a total investment of $4.2 million in rural infrastructure and community advancement. The program is federally supported by the U.S. Department of the Treasury and administered through the Florida Office of Broadband.

“This Community Center represents North Florida College’s ongoing commitment to empowering our region through access, opportunity, and innovation,” said Dr. Jennifer Page, NFC President. “For many in our community, access to reliable internet, technology and professional spaces can make all the difference in pursuing education, healthcare or career goals. This new center will help ensure that everyone, no matter where they live or what their circumstances, has the tools they need to succeed.”

A Hub for Education, Workforce, and Wellness

Located on NFC’s Madison campus, the ICAN Center will feature:

  • Public computer and high-speed internet access
  • Private pods for telehealth and virtual meetings
  • A business hub and conference center with video-conferencing capabilities
  • Flexible training and classroom spaces for community and workforce education
  • Open meeting areas for civic and professional collaboration

The facility will be designed with ADA accessibility, energy-efficient Variable Refrigerant Flow HVAC systems and an available generator hookup to maintain internet access and power during outages, ensuring community connectivity even in emergencies.

When complete, the Center will accommodate up to 157 users at one time and serve more than 100,000 residents across NFC’s six-county service area all within a Florida-designated Rural Area of Opportunity.

“Reliable connectivity and space for collaboration are essential in today’s world,” said David Dunkle, Dean of Workforce and Economic Initiatives and Chief Academic Officer. “This center will give our community the tools and environment to thrive, whether that means completing coursework, hosting a local meeting or attending a virtual healthcare appointment.”

Bridging the Digital Divide in Madison County

According to U.S. Census Bureau data, 25% of Madison County residents do not own a computer, and 35% lack access to the internet with poverty rates significantly higher than the state average. The ICAN Center aims to close that gap by offering a centralized, technology-equipped environment for digital access, education and telehealth.

Community input played a vital role in the project’s development. In a 2023 Madison County survey, nearly 77% of respondents reported a need for greater access to online education and job-seeking resources. The Center will also host community training in areas such as resume building, digital literacy, CPR, nutrition education and health screenings, in partnership with organizations like CareerSource North Florida.

Building for a Brighter Future

Construction of the ICAN Center is led by Gray Construction Services, Inc., a North Florida-based contractor known for its excellence in community and educational facility projects. Clemons Rutherford & Associates Architects of Tallahassee designed the facility, bringing extensive experience in creating accessible, energy-efficient, and forward-thinking public spaces.

Construction is expected to be completed by late 2026. Once open, the ICAN Center will serve as a cornerstone of NFC’s mission to strengthen local opportunity through workforce development, health access, and lifelong learning.

“This is an investment not only in infrastructure,” added Dr. Page, “but in people in their ability to learn, connect and build better lives. The ICAN Center truly embodies North Florida College’s vision to stand together as a community and create a stronger North Florida.”

For more information about North Florida College and its community initiatives, contact News at 850-973-9453 or news@nfc.edu. Visit us online at www.nfc.edu.

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