This region is a role model for homeland security preparation…that’s according to a recent analysis from International College. 13 students there just completed a three-month research project, which focused on how well prepared southwest Florida is to combat terrorism.
The students looked at many factors… including overall preparedness, Florida’s 1st alert system, sea and airborne preparations, as well as readiness among at churches and schools.
Assistant professor of Interdisciplinary Studies - Dr. Judith Kolva says her students found solid plans in place – and agencies willing to work together. She says projects like this are what this Interdisciplinary program is all about.

“Our paradigm is very much a practical application. In other words, we of course talk about theory, and we talk about background, and we talk about foundational stuff. But then most importantly, we want to know how we can take this out of our classroom – out of our safe learning lab – and make it useful in our real lives.”

Students interviewed experts in law enforcement, emergency management, air patrol, coast guard, and even local school districts. They also talked to former Homeland Security Secretary – Tom Ridge. Their findings were presented at a forum Tuesday night in Naples. A case study of their findings will be published as a book early next year.