The Florida House of Representatives has introduced House Resolution HR 8111, designating January 27, 2026, as "Florida Gulf Coast University Day." This resolution honors Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU), which was established in 1991 to provide higher education and workforce development in Southwest Florida. Since opening in 1997, FGCU has grown to serve over 16,000 students and offers a wide range of academic programs, including undergraduate, master's, and doctoral degrees. The university is recognized for its commitment to service learning, having contributed over 4.9 million hours to the community, and for its innovative approach to education, particularly through initiatives like The Water School.

The resolution highlights FGCU's leadership, particularly under President Dr. Aysegul Timur, and its role in preparing students for successful careers while fostering civic engagement and environmental consciousness. It also notes the university's strong alumni network, which has contributed to the local economy, and its athletic programs that have gained national recognition. The resolution concludes by expressing the intention to present a copy to Dr. Timur as a token of appreciation for FGCU's contributions to the region and its commitment to student success.