Francine Coker

We are delighted to introduce our Alumni & Friends community to alumna Francine Coker.  Inspired by the impact of Student Life on the quality of her experience at Broward College, she currently supports student activities and organizations at the University of Miami. With a vision of a doctorate in her future, Francine shared with us how the impact of her foundation at Broward College made her educational and professional goals possible.

Francine, where did you grow up and what motivated you to attend Broward College?

Growing up in Sunrise, Florida, my parents instilled in me the value of a college education. They knew a degree was crucial not only for my professional career but also for shaping me into a more thoughtful individual.

Can you tell us about one or two moments that stand out about your time at the College?

From 2010 to 2012, I attended Broward College, where I played a key role in re-establishing a student organization. I also joined Phi Beta Lambda, the college's premier business organization. Serving on the executive board, I led my team to a third-place finish in a local marketing competition. We consulted a small business in Davie, helping them improve their brand awareness through social media. Our successful strategy earned us a second-place award for our marketing pitch at the national level.

Did you have any favorite professors or people at the College who were important to you as a student?

Outside of the advisor for Phi Beta Lambda, my favorite professor was Dr. Rudy Jean-Bart. He was an adjunct professor teaching a history course, and he instilled in me a deep understanding of the power of foresight and planning. To this day, I am grateful for his guidance. He was a true champion for me, helping me see my potential and my place in the world.

Were there any particular resources at the college that were important to you when you were a student?

At Broward College, the resource I most valued was the Student Life department. The professionals there helped me understand the importance of a support system. They created a sense of community for me when I felt I had none, and their guidance inspired me to become a higher education professional myself, so I can be the change for students that they were for me.

Where did you go after Broward College? What was your path? How did what you learn at the College prepare you for your path?

After attending Broward College, I entered the FAU Link program and earned a dual bachelor's degree in marketing and hospitality management from FAU's College of Business. Broward College was instrumental in helping me prepare for the next chapter and reflect on my professional goals. After working for a year and a half at the world's largest telecommunications company, I decided to pursue a Master of Business Administration in International Business at FAU. I am now pursuing my doctorate in Higher Education Leadership, with the ultimate goal of becoming an assistant professor and helping others navigate their own journeys.

What do you wish other people knew about Broward College, something you think is a best kept secret or a something that makes our college stand out among other institutions?

Broward College gave me the chance to explore my potential and grow. I've seen firsthand how wrong the stigma about community colleges can be. The support, care, and resources poured into me by this institution made a huge difference, giving me the motivation I needed to succeed against all odds.