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Popular author, musician Sean Dietrich to deliver NWFSC fall commencement address

Dietrich, an NWFSC alumnus and author of 'Sean of the South' blog, will return to his alma mater to inspire graduating Raiders at the December 13 ceremony.

Jared Williams

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Sean Dietrich, author, musician, and storyteller known for his popular “Sean of the South” blog and musical podcast, will deliver the keynote address at Northwest Florida State College’s Fall Commencement Ceremony, college officials announced.

“NWFSC is proud to welcome Sean Dietrich back to his alma mater to deliver some inspiring words to the next generation of Raider alumni,” said Interim President Dr. Cristie Kedroski.

Dietrich, a 2012 graduate of NWFSC, has authored fifteen books and his work has appeared in major publications including Newsweek, Reader’s Digest, Southern Living, and Garden and Gun. His latest book, “You Are My Sunshine,” published by Zondervan Books, chronicles his 350-mile cycling adventure with his wife Jamie.

The writer’s journey to success follows an unconventional path. A middle-school dropout and former construction worker and ice-cream dipper, Dietrich has built a significant following in the southeastern United States through his one-man shows and storytelling, which blend humor with brutally candid observations about life.

In 2018, the NWFSC Foundation recognized Dietrich’s achievements with its Against the Odds Alumni Award. His stories, reminiscent of storytellers like Will Rogers, Mark Twain, and Lewis Grizzard, often feature tales of covered-dish suppers, camp meetings, and slice-of-life observations that resonate with audiences across the region.

Currently residing in Birmingham, Alabama, with his wife Jamie and their three dogs — Thelma Lou, Otis Campbell, and Marigold the Blind Wonder Dog — Dietrich maintains strong ties to the Florida panhandle.

The commencement ceremony will take place on Friday, December 13 at 11:00 a.m. in Raider Arena.

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