Last Call – A prime-time read of what’s going down in Florida politics.

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The State University System of Florida is kicking off the 2025-26 academic year by welcoming more than 430,000 new and returning students back to its 12 public universities.

System leaders say the nation’s “No. 1 higher education system” continues to set benchmarks in affordability and outcomes. Over the past year, Florida hit a record-high post-graduation employment rate, raised the median bachelor’s degree salary to $51,000, and maintained the lowest in-state tuition in the country.

Ray Rodrigues , Chancellor of the State University System, said the numbers reflect a continued commitment to affordability and student success.

“As the No. 1 System in the nation, our focus is on providing accessible,

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