UWF professor wins cybersecurity “Global Educator of the Year” award

Dr. Eman El-Sheikh, a professor and Associate Vice President of the University of West Florida's Center for Cybersecurity, has made significant contributions to the field of cybersecurity over her 24-year career. Initially drawn to Pensacola for its beaches, she has achieved national and international recognition for her work in cybersecurity education.

El-Sheikh received the 2024 GISEC Global Educator of the Year award at the GISEC Global Cyber Excellence awards in Dubai, an event attended by over 20,000 people. This award highlights her impact on cybersecurity education.

El-Sheikh prioritizes the success and well-being of her students, often going above and beyond to support them. Inspired by her parents, she emphasizes the importance of empathy and encouragement, particularly towards women and underrepresented minorities in the field. She aims to help students recognize their potential and confidence.

With a strong educational foundation in artificial intelligence and computer science, El-Sheikh earned her bachelor's degree from the American University in Cairo and her Ph.D. from Michigan State University in 2002. Upon her arrival at UWF, she was instrumental in establishing the Center for Cybersecurity, developing academic programs, and advancing research to support current and future cybersecurity professionals.

Pensacola is one of “Cities on the Rise in 2025”

LinkedIn’s “Cities on the Rise” spotlight U.S. metro areas with strong job growth and positive migration trends. To qualify, cities had to rank in the top 50% for hiring, job postings, and inbound migration—without any net population loss over the past year.

Sailing into the Future: Pensacola State College Partners with American Magic

Students in PSC’s Mechanical Design and Fabrication track are gaining real-world experience with elite yacht racing team American Magic—turning classroom skills into high-tech careers.

Hotel Tristan to add 122 guest rooms to downtown’s East Garden District

Set to debut in late 2026, this upscale full-service boutique hotel brings seven stories of beautifully designed rooms, multiple meeting and event spaces, a restaurant, and a rooftop bar serving panoramic city views.

REVERB by Hard Rock Hotel and new luxury residences to elevate downtown

The new Hard Rock Hotel & Reverb brings 365+ residences, iconic entertainment, and stunning waterfront views to Pensacola. The $200 million project aims to boost the local economy and position the city as a premier destination for living, leisure, and investment

Foiling Week Pensacola launches a bold new opportunity in the blue tech sector

By bringing global innovators, cutting-edge watercraft, and a supportive maritime community together, the event positioned Pensacola as a natural hub for marine technology and industry growth.

IHMC adds Healthspan, Resilience, and Performance research complex

The new $40 million Healthspan, Resilience, and Performance research complex puts Pensacola at the center of a human and biological sciences economic ecosystem and draws top research talent to the area from all over the world.

Pensacola International Airport sees extraordinary growth

A record-breaking 3 million passengers traveled through our airport in FY 2024, a number that has grown by a million travelers over the past decade. An additional terminal is in the works to accommodate the continued growth.

Pensacola named one of Conde Nast Traveler’s “Top 10 Best Small Cities” for 2023

Pensacola was selected in the Top 10 following more than 500,000 reader-voted submissions. The annual survey encourages readers to celebrate what makes each destination a must-visit, special place.

Pensacola #31 out of 150 cities for Best Place to Live

Pensacola has been ranked as the 31st best city to live in the U.S. by U.S. News & World Report, marking it as the third-highest city in Florida on the list. The city is celebrated for its stunning white sand beaches, spectacular sunsets, and vibrant multicultural influences, making it a favorite among newcomers drawn in by its Southern charm and hospitality.

American Magic Selects Pensacola

The New York Yacht Club's America’s Cup Team has selected Pensacola as the site for their new headquarters. The 56,000 square foot facility will provide the infrastructure to support all facets of its operations,including boat storage, maintenance, repair, and training venue.