Some terms you’ll pick up naturally during your first few weeks. Others might leave you wondering, “Wait, what does that mean?” Whether you hear an upperclassman mention the Ponce, get invited to an event you’ve never heard of, or encounter a Flagler tradition that seems to have its own vocabulary, there’s plenty to discover.
That’s where the Flagler Dictionary comes in. This guide breaks down some of the official and unofficial terms you’re likely to hear throughout your time at Flagler, giving you the context you need to navigate campus like a seasoned Saint.
Terms You May Hear on Campus
-
The BIC - Short for the Brown Innovation Center, a campus hub for creativity, collaboration, and hands-on innovation attached to the Ringhaver Student Center. The BIC gives students access to tools such as 3D printers, laser cutters, 3D scanners, sewing machines, and Cricut machines while providing space to turn ideas into real-world projects.
-
The Saints Cove (Formerly The Bistro) - The cafe space located inside the Ringhaver Student Center. It’s your student's go-to spot for a quick caffeine boost or a study session with friends.
-
CACE (pronounced “case”) - Short for the Center for Advising and Core Experience, CACE provides academic advising and support for first-year students, helping them navigate their transition to college, build academic plans, explore majors, and connect with campus resources. CACE advisors are located on the third floor of Proctor Library and guide students until they transition to a faculty advisor in their major.
-
CDC - Short for the Career Development Center, the campus resource for students and alumni seeking career guidance, internships, jobs, graduate school preparation, résumé and cover letter help, interview preparation, and professional development. Located on the second floor of the Ringhaver Student Center.
-
Chicken Nugget Friday - Everybody’s favorite day in the Dining Hall, when hot, fresh chicken nuggets are served. A weekly Saint tradition worth planning your lunch around.
-
The Commons - A central hub on the west side of campus where the historic FEC Residence Halls meet modern Abare Hall. The Commons offers space to lounge, study, exercise, grab a snack, and hang out with friends, plus an on-site convenience store known as the POD (see definition) and pickleball court.
-
D-Hall - Short for the Ponce Dining Hall, the all-you-care-to-eat dining facility adjacent to Ponce de Leon Hall. It serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a variety of stations offering everything from pizza, deli sandwiches, burgers, and salads to vegan options, desserts, smoothies, and more.
-
De-Stress Day - An annual Flagler tradition held on the West Lawn each semester before finals week, featuring activities like petting zoos, massage chairs, inflatable obstacle courses, and free local food to help Saints relax, recharge, and take a break from studying.
-
First City Records - Flagler’s student-run record label, giving Saints hands-on experience in music production, artist development, business, and media while working with local artists.
-
Flagler Fest - An annual, students-only concert held in the Spring at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre, featuring a major headlining artist (like Waka Flocka), live music, giveaways, and free food from local food trucks.
-
FlagSHIP - Short for Flagler Sophomore High Impact Practice, FlagSHIP is a signature experiential learning program and one of the three pillars of the Flagler Core Experience. Typically completed during sophomore year, FlagSHIP gives students hands-on, real-world learning opportunities through experiences such as study abroad and community-based partnerships. Alumni often describe it as the most transformative part of their Flagler experience.
-
Kenan (Hall) - Flagler’s primary academic building, where most classes, lecture halls, and faculty offices are located. The five-story building is also known for its seemingly endless stairs and highly coveted elevators.
-
Kenan Plaza – The Main courtyard outside Kenan and one of the busiest spots on campus. Students love to hang out here, especially during the warmer months.
-
Mount Kenan - The steep stairwell in Kenan Hall, affectionately nicknamed for its resemblance to a mountain. Climbing it is a Flagler rite of passage and an unofficial part of every Saint’s daily workout.
-
P.O.D. - Short for Provisions On Demand, a campus market offering prepared sandwiches, gourmet coffee, snacks, and everyday essentials. P.O.D. has two locations on campus, one in The Commons at Abare Hall and another in Sebastian House. The Sebastian House location is piloting a self-checkout option during the fall semester to help reduce wait times!
-
The Ponce - Short for Ponce de Leon Hall, Flagler’s historic crown jewel, national historic landmark, and one of the most recognizable buildings in St Augustine. Home to the main dining hall and residence halls, it is where some lucky first-year Saints get to call Flagler’s most iconic building home.
-
SGA - Short for Student Government Association, the student-led organization that represents the student body and works to create positive change on campus and in the St. Augustine community. SGA is located on the second floor of the Ringhaver Student Center in Room 250.
-
The Rotunda - The grand lobby of Ponce de Leon Hall, featuring Italian mosaic tile floors, ornate oak woodwork, marble, historic murals, and its signature octagonal dome. In 2025, interactive exhibits were added to the Rotunda and Courtyard, using multimedia technology and hands-on experiences to bring the history, art, and architecture of Henry Flagler’s Gilded Age masterpiece to life..
-
West Lawn - The central green space in front of the library and Kenan Hall, and one of the busiest gathering spots on campus. From campus events and club fairs to studying, sunbathing, and hanging out between classes, there’s always something happening on the West Lawn.
Terms You May Hear Around St Augustine
-
The Amp | Short for the St. Augustine Amphitheatre, a nearly 5,000-seat concert venue just a few miles from campus on Anastasia Island that hosts more than 70 performances each year, including our own Flagler Fest (See definition above), plus farmers markets, night markets, and other community events. Named Billboard’s Top East Coast Amphitheatre in 2026.
-
Buc-ee's - The Disney World of gas stations. This 55,000-square-foot Texas-founded travel center off I-95 features 104 fuel stations and an overwhelming selection of hot food, drinks, snacks, souvenirs, and Buc-ee's merchandise. From Beaver Nuggets (corn puffs not actual beaver!) and house-made fudge to jerky and beaver onesies, there’s a little bit of everything, making it a top road-trip stop for Saints.
-
The Fort - Short for Castillo de San Marcos, the historic fortress on St. Augustine’s waterfront built between 1672 and 1695. Built by Spain to defend Spanish Florida and the Atlantic trade route, it is the oldest masonry fortification in the continental United States and a National Monument.
-
The Island - Refers to Anastasia Island, just across the Bridge of Lions from downtown St. Augustine. A popular destination for Saints to enjoy the beach, local restaurants and shops, and the St. Augustine Amphitheatre.
-
The Kook (Also Kooks) - Short for The Kookaburra, an Aussie-American espresso bar and pie shop with multiple locations around St. Augustine. Known for expertly roasted coffee, Australian-inspired baked goods, and a strong local following.
-
Lightner - Refers to the stunning Lightner Museum located right across the street from our main campus. Not only are some Flagler College offices housed inside this beautiful historic building, but Flagler students also receive free admission to the museum!
-
Nights of Lights - St. Augustine’s annual holiday light festival, when downtown comes alive with millions of white lights illuminating the city from the ground to the rooftops. Named one of the world’s top 10 holiday light displays by National Geographic, the free celebration is a favorite Saint tradition.
-
Pub Sub - The beloved nickname for a Publix sub sandwich and a true Florida staple. A popular choice for Saints heading to the beach, taking a road trip, or simply craving a quick and tasty sandwich.
-
Sarbez - An alumni-owned St. Augustine favorite known for gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches, arcade games, and live music. With more than 35 arcade games and a lively atmosphere, it’s a popular spot for Saints to grab a bite, catch a show, or hang out with friends.
-
St. George - Short for St. George Street, this is the main, pedestrian-only historic downtown walking area located right next to campus. It’s packed with local shops, restaurants, and centuries of St. Augustine history, plus Flagler’s Legacy, where students can stock up on Flagler gear.
-
Sweetwater - A popular local coffee shop just off campus and a favorite Saint spot for studying, catching up with friends, or grabbing a really good latte.
-
Taco Shop - The local nickname for A1A Burrito Works Taco Shop, a laid-back St. Augustine favorite serving fresh Baja California-style Mexican food, including its famous burritos. It is a popular late-night option serving food until 10 p.m.
-
The Trolley - Short for the Old Town Trolley, the iconic sightseeing trolley seen cruising throughout St. Augustine’s historic district. With its open-air design and distinctive green-and-orange color scheme, it’s a familiar sight around town.
-
Vilano - Short for Vilano Beach, a popular local spot for Saints to enjoy the sand, surf, and sunshine. Located just north of downtown St. Augustine, Vilano is also home to a Publix within walking distance of the beach.
