Polk State Associate VP for Communications recognized as part of News Service of Florida’s 40 Under 40
Polk State College’s Office of Communications and Public Affairs (OCPA) took home 21 Awards of Excellence from the Association of Florida Colleges Communications and Marketing Commission for 2024. Last month, the office’s mastermind was honored with a spotlight of her own.
On Feb. 18 in Tallahassee, Madison Fantozzi, Associate Vice President for Communications, was formally recognized by the News Service of Florida as an honoree on its annual 40 Under 40 list. The annual list showcases rising stars throughout the state, who bring “a fresh outlook to some of the state’s most significant industries – including law, land use, and education – and lending youthful perspective to Florida’s legacy institutions, from the Capitol to century-old hospitals.”
“I’m honored to be recognized, but to me, this isn’t an individual award,” Fantozzi said. “I’m privileged to represent Polk State and to be part of a dedicated team that produces such an exemplary product.”
Just 32, Fantozzi has served Polk State since 2017. A Florida International University graduate, Fantozzi previously worked as a journalist at Scripps Treasure Coast Newspapers, the Miami Herald, and The Ledger. Hired as the College’s Director of Communications, Fantozzi was promoted to Associate Vice President in 2024.
“It’s been a pleasure to work beside her and watch her continual growth as a leader,” added Polk State Chief of Staff Tamara Sakagawa, Vice President for Communications and Public Affairs. “OCPA’s accomplishments speak for themselves, and she’s been the driving force.”
OCPA is responsible for a range of functions, including marketing, media relations, government relations, strategic communication, graphic design, sports information, and brand management.
“Whether it’s highlighting our outstanding programs, keeping our students and staff informed, or managing relationships with our local media, Madison is an invaluable member of our institution,” said Dr. Angela Garcia Falconetti, Polk State President. “She and the OCPA team do a tremendous job showcasing the College as the outstanding pillar of higher education and workforce training that it is for the community we serve.”
Under Fantozzi’s leadership, the College has increased its presence on social media with more than 12,000 followers on Facebook, nearly 5,000 on X, and nearly 6,000 followers on Instagram. Fantozzi also spearheaded the launch of the POLKcast, the College’s podcast, which is now in its fifth season.
“The role has afforded me the opportunity to tap into my creativity in ways I never imagined – from innovative design and dynamic multimedia to transformative storytelling and strategic communications,” Fantozzi added. “My career continually challenges me to push boundaries.”
Last year’s haul of Awards in Excellence for Fantozzi and OCPA included 10 Gold Awards and one Best in show. Polk State has been recognized for its annual Report to Community in each of the last six years.
“Being able to tell our students’ stories, share their experiences, and promote our programs has been an incredibly rewarding experience and an awesome responsibility,” Fantozzi concluded. “When we tell these stories, our students, faculty, and staff deserve our best efforts. I’m proud of the standard we’ve set in OCPA.”