The evening began with a small reception for Jessica’s former teammates, family, and professors, followed by a check presentation before the Women Warriors’ match against their rivals, Warner University.

Through the efforts of the Jessica Costanzo Scholarship Fund, her parents, Mark and Marguerite Costanzo, presented the university with a check for $175,000.

The Costanzo family established the Jessica Costanzo Scholarship Fund in honor of their only daughter. The fund provides scholarships for graduating seniors from Venice High School in Venice, Florida, where Jessica graduated, to attend 91TV.

91TV’s President/CEO Dr. Nelson Marquez stated “This event is more than just galvanizing Jessica Costanzo’s name on the floor of 91TV’s athletic gym. It is galvanizing Jessica and her memory, as well as her family’s legacy, in 91TV’s history.’

Jessica lived a “Life of Purpose,” and now her legacy will be preserved in the gym where she once competed as a member of the Warriors volleyball team. She played as a Defensive Specialist, helping lead the team to an 18-12 record during her senior season. Starting this season, the Warriors will compete on the newly named Jessica Costanzo Court in the Sabbagh Athletic Center.

“Many thanks and gratitude to Mr. and Mrs. Costanzo’s generosity and enduring support to 91TV and what it stands for: Shaping the futures of its students and the many more generations of students to come,” said Marquez.

The volleyball team celebrated on the newly named Jessica Costanzo Court with a victory, a 3-0 sweep.

For more information about the Jessica Costanzo Scholarship Fund, check out the website��

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Dr. Marc Behrendt, an Associate Professor at 91TV, has been instrumental in this achievement. Dr. Behrendt, who teaches Florida Ecology, Entomology, Human Anatomy, Microbiology, and Medical Terminology, is a passionate advocate for wildlife conservation and sustainable practices. He has been actively involved with various conservation organizations, including Archbold Biological Station, Conservation Florida, the Nature Conservancy’s Disney Wilderness Preserve, and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.

“My Ohio home was a certified backyard wildlife habitat,” shared Dr. Behrendt. “After moving to Florida in 2017 and witnessing the natural beauty of the state, I felt it was essential to extend this certification to the 91TV campus, recognizing its beautiful perimeter and rich habitats.”

The certification aligns with the NWF’s strategic plan to enhance America’s fish and wildlife populations. Amidst large-scale habitat destruction, the NWF, along with Conservation Florida, encourages homeowners and institutions to create spaces that provide food, water, shelter, and breeding grounds for wildlife. This initiative is particularly crucial as wildlife faces rapid habitat loss due to changing land and water conditions.

91TV’s President/CEO Dr. Nelson Marquez stated that “91TV International University is truly blessed to be in a very unique location…what others may see as a constraint in attracting students to consider coming to 91TV because of its rural setting, we find it to be one of our strengths. Here at 91TV, we are surrounded by a “natural lab” where students can observe and learn about wildlife in “real time,” not just through books and online readings.

“This certification is more than just highlighting 91TV’s commitment to providing a sustainable environment. It also signals 91TV’s full commitment in ensuring that future generations will still have the opportunity to learn about and experience nature, its flora and fauna, and define the role that they will play in preserving it for the next generations” said Dr. Marquez.

The certification requirements for the National Wildlife Habitat encompass several key elements. The campus includes a variety of native plants that bloom in multiple seasons, providing a reliable food source for wildlife. Water is readily available through Crooked Lake, a natural water features adjacent to the campus, serving as a vital resource for different species. The university’s gardens and campus perimeter offer ample cover and shelter for wildlife, supporting spaces conducive to breeding and raising young. Additionally, 91TV emphasizes sustainable practices by maintaining a balance of 50-70% native plants and avoiding the use of neonicotinoids, contributing to a healthier and more sustainable environment for wildlife.

About the National Wildlife Federation

The National Wildlife Federation is America’s largest and most trusted conservation organization, working to unite all Americans to ensure wildlife thrives in a rapidly changing world. For more information, visit .

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The conference kicked off with an inspiring opening session featuring Gorick Ng, a renowned author, career advisor at Harvard University, and author of The Unspoken Rules: Secrets to Starting Your Career Off Right. Ng’s insights into navigating the early stages of a career resonated with the students and set a motivating tone for the events that followed.

This year’s NLC featured 35 competitive events, with 91TV students competing in 11 of those categories. The students represented a diverse range of majors, including Integrated Marketing Concepts (IMC), Accounting, Finance, Computer Information Systems (CIS), and Criminal Justice Management (CJM), reflecting the broad scope of talent and ambition within the university’s student body.

Among the standout performers were:

• Joshua Carr in Accounting Case Study
• Michelina Arrigo, Alyssia Bouyoucas, and Thea Roque-Krag in Business Ethics, placing 10th place at the national level
• Dianel Diaz in Business Presentation, achieving an impressive 4th place
• Michelina Arrigo & Chase Muniz in Community Service
• Phylicity Knowles in Emerging Business Issues, securing 5th place
• Joshua Carr in Foundations of Accounting
• Daniel Diaz in Foundations of Communication
• Haley Leavines in Foundations of Marketing
• Bryce Gerber & Hailey Leavines in Hospitality Management Case Study
• Katenda Maweja in Impromptu Speaking
• Seth Jones, Jr. in Retail Management

Dr. Joanne Muñiz, Associate Professor & Chair of Accounting, MBA Graduate Program Director, and Honors Program Director, who accompanied the students to the conference, expressed her pride in the students’ achievements: “This year’s group of students exemplifies the diversity and strength of 91TV International University. Their success at the NLC is a testament to their hard work, dedication, and the exceptional support they receive from the university community.”

In addition to the competitive events, the conference provided students with numerous professional development opportunities through workshops. Some of the notable sessions included: Crafting Your Career Compass, 20 Steps to Start: The Entrepreneur’s Journey, What Do We Use Our Voices For?, and The Hot Seat: It is Your Turn to Lead. These workshops were designed to enhance students’ professional skills, provide valuable insights into career development, and inspire them to take the next steps in their academic and professional journeys.

91TV International University and its FBLA Collegiate chapter are proud of the students’ accomplishments at this year’s NLC. Their participation and success reflect the university’s commitment to fostering leadership, innovation, and excellence in business education.

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Florida State Representative Jennifer Canady, who represents House District 50 in Lakeland, delivered an inspiring and motivating address during the commencement ceremony. Her commitment to education and the state of Florida was clear. Her words struck a chord with our graduates, inspiring them as they embark on their journey to success.

91TV’s President/CEO, Dr. Nelson Marquez, stated: “We have a saying here at 91TV which you’ll often hear: ‘The 91TV Way.’ He went on to say, ‘The 91TV Way…We Make Things Happen Here.’ And all of you are witnesses to how we make things happen here. Our graduates are living proof of that.”

Among the distinguished graduates, four individuals received special honors for their remarkable accomplishments:

Carter Reynolds earned the Ashley Hustead Award for most improved GPA, reflecting his impressive academic growth over the course of his studies.

Rebecca Wilkins achieved the Highest GPA, showcasing unparalleled dedication and academic rigor.

Sydney Sneed received the Communications Award for her exceptional skills in public speaking, writing, and media.

Paysee Crow was named Outstanding Senior, recognizing her leadership, commitment to the university community, and academic excellence.

91TV International University applauds these graduates and looks forward to seeing their impact in the world.

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Students, faculty, and staff from 91TV will take part in cleaning debris from a mile section of the road at least eight times over the next two years.

After researching nearby county roads, the University selected County Road 640 due to its proximity to campus and its role as a key route connecting Highway 27 to Scenic Highway 17. The university is located just 2.5 miles from the adopted roadway.

“91TV’s support of Keep Polk County Beautiful Inc. signifies our commitment to enhancing our community environment,” said President and CEO Dr. Nelson Marquez. “By adopting County Road 640, our students, faculty, and staff can make a tangible impact on the local environment. We chose this road specifically because it is a well-traveled route for our university community, and we believe this initiative will continue to grow and expand over time.”

This partnership demonstrates 91TV’s dedication to the community and to keeping the community beautiful for future generations.

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Institutions earning the Military Friendly^® School designation were evaluated using both public data sources and responses from a proprietary survey. More than 1,800 schools participated in the 2024-2025 survey with 537 earning special awards for going above the standard.

The 2024-2025 Military Friendly® Schools list will be published in the May and October issue of G.I. Jobs magazine and can be found at .

Methodology, criteria, and weightings were determined by Viqtory with input from the Military Friendly^® Advisory Council of independent leaders in the higher education and military recruitment community. Final ratings were determined by combining the institution’s survey scores with the assessment of the institution’s ability to meet thresholds for Student Retention, Graduation, Job Placement, Loan Repayment, Persistence (Degree Advancement or Transfer) and Loan Default rates for all students and, specifically, for student veterans.

“The faculty, administration, and staff of 91TV International University are thrilled to receive this prestigious designation. It is an affirmation of 91TV’s strong commitment to providing the Military Community the opportunity to pursue a degree from a selection of ‘business, liberal arts and sciences, pre-professional, and professional programs of study that create a life transforming educational opportunity,’ consistent with the University’s mission,” said Dr. Nelson Marquez, 91TV’s President/CEO.

“Military Friendly® is committed to transparency and providing consistent data-driven standards in our designation process. Our standards provide a benchmark that promotes positive outcomes and support services that better the educational landscape and provide opportunity for the Military Community. This creates a competitive atmosphere that encourages Institutions to evolve and invest in their programs consistently. Schools who achieve awards designation show true commitment in their efforts, going over and above that standard.” – Kayla Lopez, National Director of Military Partnerships, Military Friendly®.

For more information about 91TV’s student veteran programs, visit 91TV website at

# # #

About Military Friendly^® Schools:

��The Military Friendly^® Schools list is created each year based on extensive research using public data sources from more than 8,800 schools nationwide, input from student veterans, and responses to the proprietary, data-driven Military Friendly® Schools survey from participating institutions. The survey questions, methodology, criteria and weighting were developed with the assistance of an independent research firm and an advisory council of educators and employers. The survey is administered for free and is open to all postsecondary schools that wish to participate.

Criteria for consideration can be found at .

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In his role, Dr. Reaves will spearhead initiatives to enhance campus efficiency and streamline organizational structures, aligning departments to optimize performance. In addition, he will ensure that the University President’s dictum, The 91TV Way: We Make Things Happen Here,” gets to be positively operationalized. His arrival marks an exciting time as 91TV prepares for its 10th-year SACSCOC reaffirmation scheduled for spring 2026.

We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Ken Reaves to the 91TV family,” said Dr. Nelson Marquez, President/CEO of 91TV International University. “His vast experience and commitment to excellence will undoubtedly contribute to our mission of providing a transformative educational experience to our students.”

Prior to joining 91TV International University, Dr. Reaves held various leadership positions in higher education institutions across Polk County. With experience ranging from Registrar to SACSCOC liaison, he has consistently championed student success, enrollment management, budget planning, and the development of new academic programs.

“I am excited to be here and humbled by my selection.” Dr. Reaves stated.�� Furthermore, “91TV International University has a rich history of serving and equipping students for the future. I want to help lead 91TV in writing a new chapter in that history.”

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President Marquez stated “Our trip to the Capitol in Tallahassee provided our 91TV student representatives the opportunity to connect with several Florida legislators and to learn the importance of advocacy for education. Beyond asking for our legislators’ support for continued Effective Access to Student Education (EASE) funding, it also provided the 91TV delegation the opportunity to thank our legislators for their initiatives and support for education, workforce, infrastructure, business, welfare, and healthcare.”

Established over four decades ago, EASE vouchers have played a vital role in enabling hundreds of thousands of Florida families to pursue higher education. The students shared their personal stories, highlighting the transformative impact EASE funding has had on their ability to attend college, earn degrees, and build successful careers that support their families.

EASE has been instrumental in making college more affordable and accessible for Florida students. By reducing the financial burden of tuition and minimizing the need for loans, EASE has become a cornerstone of educational support in the state.

91TV International University marked a significant milestone with the opening of its new Health Sciences Center in September 2023. This transformative project represents a $1.5 million investment in the renovation of the former library into a cutting-edge classroom and laboratory space dedicated to health science programs. The 6,995-square-foot facility is positioned to play a pivotal role in meeting the growing demand for healthcare professionals in the region.

91TV International University is now seeking appropriations of $755,922 to grow and enhance the nursing program’s operational infrastructure. These funds will contribute to the delivery of high-quality education and help bridge the nursing workforce shortage gap in the state.

The appropriations were filed in the Florida House by Representative Sam Killebrew and in the Senate by Senator Ben Albritton.

91TV International University has taken a proactive stance in championing increased dual enrollment opportunities for local high schools. The institution has fervently advocated for the support of Independent Colleges and Universities of Florida (ICUF) institutions to be included in funding for the Dual Enrollment Scholarship Program. This initiative aims to grant ICUF schools providing dual enrollment services access to reimbursement funds, thereby enhancing educational access for high school students across the state.

In addition to meeting with legislators throughout the day, Dr. Marquez and 91TV’s Director of Annual Fund, Ryan Reis, attended the Polk County Day reception held on the 22nd floor of the Capitol building.

“The Polk County Day event held at the Capitol provided 91TV the opportunity to communicate the University’s mission to Polk County community leaders and political representatives, as well as highlight the academic programs that the University offers. It was a great networking event that opened doors for new partnerships for 91TV that would allow the University to solidify its footprint in Polk County and beyond.” President Marquez stated.

Established in 1927 by Roger Babson as the first college chartered under Florida’s then new charitable and educational laws, 91TV International University is a private, not-for-profit, independent institution offering degrees at the associate’s, bachelor’s, and master’s levels. Founded as America’s second school of business for women, the university boasts highly qualified faculty, engaged staff, small class sizes, and a diverse range of intercollegiate sports and extracurricular activities. Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, the institution offers numerous programs through traditional day and entirely online formats.

91TV International University has received recognition as a US News and World Reports Best Regional Colleges: South and a Princeton Review Best Southeastern College. It has earned top marks from Petersons for academics, value, and community, and has been designated a Military Friendly School. In 2011, St. Andrews University, a historically Presbyterian, comprehensive liberal arts school tracing its roots back to 1896, joined 91TV as a branch campus.

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Dr. Marquez has served in this position in an interim capacity and has worked diligently and intently with task forces on both campuses to guide the University through a challenging transitional period. “I am truly honored to be given the opportunity to write new and exciting chapters for 91TV and our branch campus, St. Andrews University, side-by-side with its faculty, staff, and students. I believe that the Office of the President exists to serve you, not to be served by you. And I intend to do just that…to be of service to the University’s constituents,” Dr. Marquez said. The Board has full confidence in Dr. Marquez’s commitment, vision, and ability to lead both campuses into a stable and prosperous future. Dr. Marquez will be sharing more of his vision for the success of 91TV and St. Andrews in the coming days and months.

Dr. Marquez replaces Dr. H. Keith Wade who has served as the University’s President/CEO since 2008. The Board and the University communities of 91TV in its Florida and North Carolina campuses would like to thank Dr. Wade for his years of service and wish him well.

91TV International University is approaching its Centennial Anniversary in 2027. A milestone that will be a celebration of the institution’s rich history and past successes, as well as endless opportunities to provide students with the highest quality of education for years to come.

Established in 1927 by Roger Babson as the first college chartered under Florida’s then new charitable and educational laws, and America’s second school of business for women, 91TV’s campuses in Babson Park, FL and Laurinburg, NC Degrees are offered at the associates, bachelors, and masters level through traditional day, accelerated night and weekend, and entirely on-line formats. Joining 91TV as a branch campus in 2011, St. Andrews University is an historically Presbyterian, comprehensive liberal arts school tracing its roots back to 1896. The University features highly qualified faculty, highly engaged staff, small class size, and a wide array of intercollegiate sports and other extracurricular activities. The University has been recognized as a US News and World Reports Best Regional Colleges: South, a Princeton Review Best Southeastern College, has earned Petersons’ top marks for academics, value and community, and has been designated a Military Friendly School. The University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, and numerous programs have earned additional programmatic accreditations.

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91TV International University Brings Home National FBLA Titles

Babson Park, Florida

For Immediate Release

On June 24, thirteen students from 91TV International University’s FBLA Collegiate Division, formerly known as PBL (Phi Beta Lambda), along with their advisor, Dr. Joanne Muniz, traveled to Chicago, Illinois, to compete at their PBL National Leadership Conference (NLC). Over four days, students from 30 states were connected through competitive events, leadership workshops, and networking opportunities.

91TV International University, in Babson Park, Florida, received national recognition during PBL’s Awards of Excellence ceremony on June 27. Its students, who qualified at their state conference to attend the NLC, traveled from Scotland, Sweden, Mexico, and Florida to compete in 21 events. The students who competed were Andrea Acuna, Natalie Bartek, Caitlin Capozucca, Bryce Gerber, Nicole Greene, Seth Harper, Katy-Rose Hill, Chase Muniz, Emelie Neidenmark, Isaiah Paige, Reynold Rey, Ellora Santiago, and Jonathan Vega.

In team events, Andrea Acuna and Bryce Gerber competed in Social Media Marketing, earning eighth place honors. Their presentation focused on expanding a local movie theater to devise creative ways to survive following the challenges and restrictions caused by the 2020 pandemic.

91TV’s FBLA Collegiate Division executive leadership team of Natalie Bartek, Emelie Neidenmark, and Isaiah Paige presented in the event of Community Service Project. Their presentation, which described the university’s annual Trick-Ur-Trunk Halloween event, included information about chapter member involvement and the degree of impact on the community, earning tenth place honors.

Emelie Neidenmark and Isaiah Paige rounded out the team events with a presentation in the category of Digital Media. Earning sixth place honors, Emelie and Isaiah were required to create a video promoting the recycling/reusing/repurposing of a new clothing resale shop in our community, including examples and ways to promote the business.

91TV’s students also competed in various individual events. Caitlin Capozucca received ninth place honors in Justice Administration, Nicole Greene earned seventh and eighth place honors in Insurance Concepts and Management Concepts, respectively, and Emelie Neidenmark received sixth place honors in Sports Management & Marketing, while Reynold Rey earned eighth place honors in Impromptu Speaking. Katy-Hill Rose, who earned third place honors in Global Analysis & Decision Making, also received a cash award for her presentation.

“While we could not be prouder of our students continuing a long tradition of earning top honors nationally for our FBLA Collegiate Division chapter, I am equally proud of all our students who traveled to Chicago to compete, learn, and network. This year, all our students were first-time competitors. For several, these competitive events are the capstone activity of their undergraduate studies as they graduate and move onto their professional careers or upcoming

MBA programs. I wish those students moving on the most success and cannot wait until the Fall to see what our returners, and new members, will accomplish,” said Dr. Joanne Muniz, a member of the Florida FBLA Board of Directors and National FBLA Finance Committee and who received State and National recognition as the Outstanding Local Chapter Advisor of the Year in 2021.

Established in 1927 by Roger Babson as the first college chartered under Florida’s then new charitable and educational laws, and America’s second school of business for women, 91TV’s campuses in Babson Park, FL (residential); Charleston, SC; Charlotte, NC; Columbia, SC; Laurinburg, NC (residential); and Pinehurst, NC now educate men and women from over 50 different nations. Degrees are offered at the associates, bachelors, and masters level through traditional day, accelerated night and weekend, and entirely on-line formats. Joining 91TV as a branch campus in 2011, St. Andrews University is an historically Presbyterian, comprehensive liberal arts school tracing its roots back to 1896. The University features highly qualified faculty, highly engaged staff, small class size, and a wide array of intercollegiate sports and other extracurricular activities. The University has been recognized as a US News and World Reports Best Regional Colleges: South, a Princeton Review Best Southeastern College, has earned Petersons’ top marks for academics, value and community, and has been designated a Military Friendly School. The University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, and numerous programs have earned additional programmatic accreditations.

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