VIP SERIES: Top Gun to Combat: Real Training, Real Missions, Real Lessons

Time7:00 PM
LocationKey West Campus

Commander John Picco - Retired U.S. naval aviator will share true stories about how relentless preparation and the “train like you fight” ethos deliver split‑second execution in combat. Drawing on 28 years in naval aviation, the Commander will share vivid firsthand experiences to demonstrate the essential role of calculated risk‑taking, pushing to the edge and just past it, and owning results with no excuses. His presentation will highlight how high‑intensity training, trust in your wingman, and trust in yourself create a mindset where mission success is all that matters. 

Location: Tennessee Williams Theatre

Thank you to our sponsors; David & Annette Curry, First Horizon, and Essential Net Solutions.

Culinary and Clay - A Mud Pi Celebration

Time4:00 PM-7:00 PM
LocationKey West Campus

The College of the Florida Keys invites the community to an evening of student-crafted cuisine and art. 
This year’s celebration includes a tasting of five international dishes, plus a sneak preview of the 2026 CFK Spring Art Show along with music and a cash bar. The event pairs savory dishes prepared by CFK culinary students with one-of-a-kind ceramic plates handcrafted by students in CFK’s Mud-Pi ceramics club. Each guest selects their own ceramic plate for the tasting and takes it home as a keepsake.
The CFK Spring Art Show sneak preview features students’ work in underwater photography and ceramics on display at the event. Art pieces will be available for purchase starting April 27 at the Spring Art Show exhibit in CFK’s Learning Resource Center.
There are only 100 seats; tickets are $49 in advance and $65 at the door. Tickets may be purchased in advance until Monday, April 20 by contacting CFK’s Business Office at 305-809-3186 or by visiting the office located in the main lobby of Building A on the Key West Campus.
Additional ceramics pieces and food items will be on sale. Proceeds from the event and sales will benefit the Mud-Pi ceramics club and the culinary program.

Location: Tennessee Williams Theatre

One Stop Summer Shop (Key West Campus)

Time11:00 AM-7:00 PM
LocationKey West Campus

Students can apply and register at CFK’s “One Stop Summer Shop”. The event runs from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. at the Key West Campus on Wednesday, April 29. Attendees can meet with CFK staff, explore degree and certificate programs, and get personalized guidance on financial aid, payment plans, and scholarships. Plus, the application process can be handled on the spot. New students who attend will have their $30 application fee waived and receive a $100 Kickstarter Scholarship.

Location: A-123

End of Semester Party (Key West)

Time6:00 PM-8:00 PM
LocationKey West Campus

Join us for a fantastic party to wrap up the semester! Join us for a BBQ dinner, Open paint night, and Tye-Dye!

Location: Key West Campus Courtyard

One Stop Summer Shop (Upper Keys Center)

Time11:00 AM-7:00 PM
LocationUpper Keys Center

Students can apply and register at CFK’s “One Stop Summer Shop”. The event runs from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. at the Upper Keys Center in Key Largo on Thursday, April 30. Attendees can meet with CFK staff, explore degree and certificate programs, and get personalized guidance on financial aid, payment plans, and scholarships. Plus, the application process can be handled on the spot. New students who attend will have their $30 application fee waived and receive a $100 Kickstarter Scholarship.

Location: Lobby

72nd Commencement Ceremony

LocationKey West Campus

Celebrate CFK's Spring Class of 2026 at our 72nd Commencement Ceremony on Friday, May 8. Time pending. Tickets are required to attend in person or you can stream it live through Facebook (you do not need a Facebook account to view the live stream).

Location: Tennessee Williams Theatre