Michael Rogers, Professor of American History and Political Science, SCF Social and Behavioral Sciences Department

Looking back, Michael Rogers would agree with the choices he made and tell himself to keep doing those things because they will lead him to where he wants to be. His passion for history and political science led to his path in higher education.

Rogers grew up in Mississippi and studied at the University of Southern Mississippi, where he earned a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in political science. After graduating, he worked there as a graduate assistant in its community service-learning office and a graduate/teaching assistant in its political science department.

Continuing in the teaching field, Rogers taught history and political science at Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College. He later made his home in Sarasota and joined State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota’s social and behavioral sciences department in 2005.

Based at SCF Venice, Rogers instructs students about American history and government. His classes focus on U.S. post-Reconstruction history and presidential politics.

Since beginning at SCF, Rogers has helped inspire a passion for history and politics among students, serving as the College’s History and Political Science Club advisor. The club engages students in community service projects and historical site visits.

Rogers also leads SCF students in historical education outside of the U.S, serving as the coordinator of the institution’s study abroad program since 2016. He and the students selected for the program travel to Europe each summer to study and immerse themselves in European history and culture.

“Witnessing their academic growth during these trips is incredibly rewarding,” said Rogers. “It’s an educational experience they will always treasure.”

SCF has recognized Rogers for his dedicated teaching, education and impact on students. As an assistant professor in 2011, he received a National Institute for Staff and Organizational Development Excellence Award, based on peer nomination. In 2020, the College promoted him to full professor.

Rogers views SCF as a high-quality institution that benefits students and the region.

“SCF is a top college in Southwest Florida with rich programs of study, a welcoming environment, and a focus on student success and community advancement,” he said.

Rogers encourages new SCF students to get involved as much as possible.  

“Take advantage of your time in college, try new things and step outside of your comfort zone,” he said. “All of these actions will help you better understand where your true passions lie.”

In his personal life, Rogers values time with his wife, teenage daughter and friends. He hopes to be remembered as a good father, husband and person who did his best to make a positive difference for others.

Rogers lives life fully. He drinks mango-avocado smoothies in the mornings, exercises, plays basketball, swims, collects vintage baseball cards, reads history and biography books, and travels. Someday, he would like to visit Alaska to see the glaciers, whales and wildlife.  

Over the years, Rogers has learned many important lessons, including that learning is a continuous, arduous process.

“I always tell my students, ‘The more I learn about history, the more I learn I don’t know about history,’” Rogers said.