Dr. James J. Annarelli

A Letter from the President of Eckerd College

Welcome to Eckerd!

Eckerd was, from its inception, envisioned as a college like no other where an unwavering commitment to the traditional liberal arts and sciences would be wedded to progressive and innovative approaches to learning. Throughout its history, the programs of the College have
manifested the interdisciplinary, experiential, international, and intergenerational commitments that are central to the College’s educational philosophy.

An Eckerd College education connects students, faculty, and staff through a shared passion for learning and a deep commitment to the exploration of the world around us. Eckerd faculty and staff pride themselves on not simply credentialing graduates with bachelor’s degrees but cultivating well-informed, thoughtful, critically reflective, engaged, and responsible individuals and global citizens whose pursuit of learning will span their lifetimes.

Our beautiful campus, situated along the shores of Florida’s Boca Ciega Bay, offers our nearly 2,000 students—from 53 U.S. states and territories and 39 countries—a unique opportunity to expand in creative ways the frontiers of learning in the arts and sciences. At Eckerd College, learning is not limited to the classroom. Indeed, students are encouraged to participate in the myriad internship, service learning, field-based research, and global learning opportunities we offer. They also are invited to participate in the many cocurricular activities on campus that foster community and a sense of belonging for all.

It is often said that Eckerd College changes lives and Eckerd graduates change the world. May you be drawn into our enriching intellectual community in ways that stretch your critical skills, sharpen your intellect, enhance your sense of global and environmental responsibility, and inspire you to work toward a more just and humane world.

Best regards,

James J. Annarelli, Ph.D.
President