Community Partner Spotlight

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida partners with UWF through its Beyond School Walls program to connect local high school students with faculty and staff mentors. This two-year program brings mentoring directly onto UWF’s campus, giving students the opportunity to experience college in a supportive and engaging environment.

Through Beyond School Walls, UWF faculty and staff serve as “Bigs” and are matched with high school juniors and seniors (“Littles”). During regular campus visits, students participate in activities focused on college readiness, career exploration, and life skills. By building consistent relationships with their mentors, students gain confidence, expand their understanding of postsecondary options, and develop the skills needed to pursue whatever path they choose after graduation. This partnership strengthens UWF’s commitment to community engagement while helping local students prepare for what comes next.