Seminole State College Champions Career and Technical Education Month
February is Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month—a dedicated time to highlight the vital role hands-on, career-focused education plays in preparing students for today’s workforce and tomorrow’s opportunities. Grounded in Seminole State College’s mission year-round, CTE programs connect classroom learning with real-world skills, industry credentials and clear pathways to meaningful careers. Career and Technical Education programs at Seminole State are designed in close collaboration with local and
Seminole State College Softball Field Dedication
Seminole State College of Florida renamed the softball field to Courtney Miller Field to honor former Head Softball Coach Courtney Miller on Saturday, Jan. 24. She served as head coach from 1994 - 2024 with 19 FCSAA State Tournament appearances and she was inducted into the Florida College System Activities Association Softball Hall of Fame in May 2024. Members from across the community and Miller's former players came together to celebrate her career. "I am deeply honored and truly humbled to have this
.jpg)
Fall 2025 Grad Walk Recognizes More Than 2,000 Seminole State Graduates
Seminole State College of Florida awarded more than 2,400 degrees and certificates during the Fall 2025 Grad Walk on Dec. 16, at the College’s Sanford/Lake Mary Campus. More than 2,000 students completed credentials this fall. Noted among the credentials awarded are 1,027 associate degrees and 238 bachelor’s degrees in high-demand fields of business, construction and interior design, education, health and public safety, and technology, highlighting Seminole State’s commitment to produce a workforce-ready
Celebrate The Season At Seminole State’s 2025 Holiday Events
Seminole State College of Florida is ringing in the holiday season with its Center for Fine and Performing Arts 2025 Holiday Concert Series, a joyful lineup of musical performances, and its Emil Buehler Planetarium offering an immersive planetarium experience that celebrates the wonder, warmth and tradition of this time of year. Families, friends and community members are invited to enjoy these festive events throughout December.Holiday Band Concert Tuesday, Dec. 2, 7:30 p.m. Lake Mary High School 655
.png)
Optimus Energy Solutions Selected to Charge Seminole Scout
As Seminole County’s innovative move to improve public transportation takes place, Mt. Dora’s Optimus Energy Solutions will be providing the system’s critical infrastructure.The company received final approval to complete the installation of the first phase of EV chargers for the system: 30 Level 2 chargers and two DC Fast Chargers at Seminole State College of Florida’s Sanford/Lake Mary Campus. The DC Fast Chargers will be available for public use. Plans call for up to 50 additional chargers at this depot
Seminole State College Drives Statewide Economic Growth and Opportunity
As part of Florida’s 28-member state college system, Seminole State College plays a vital role in fueling both local and statewide prosperity. From strengthening Central Florida’s workforce to advancing economic mobility for students and families, the College’s impact reflects the findings of a new statewide study released this week by Helios Education Foundation and the Association of Florida Colleges. Seminole State College of Florida creates value in many ways. The College plays a key role in helping
Seminole State Named A Top 200 Community College By The Aspen Institute
$1 million prize honors colleges achieving strong student results, both in college and after graduationThe Aspen Institute named Seminole State College of Florida as one of the 200 institutions eligible to compete for the $1 million Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence, the nation’s premier recognition of high achievement and performance among two-year colleges. The 200 colleges were selected based on their student outcomes data, including retention, completion, transfer, and bachelor’s attainment
Seminole State named a Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense
Seminole State College of Florida has been designated as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (CAE-CD) by the National Security Agency. This recognition, effective through academic year 2030, highlights Seminole State’s leadership in providing high-quality programs that align with national priorities for cyber defense and workforce development. The CAE-CD designation reflects the rigorous academic and institutional standards in cybersecurity met by Seminole State’s Associate in
Connecting Careers, Creativity And Community At Seminole State College
The Fall Term is well-underway at Seminole State College of Florida with high-impact coursework, cultural programs and career development opportunities for students and the community alike. By fostering career-long relationships with students and community members, Seminole State is a trusted partner throughout college and career journeys. Career FairStudents, alumni and community members are invited to connect with leading employers to explore career paths and take the next step toward a rewarding
Experience Arts, Culture And Edutainment This Fall At Seminole State College
Beyond its role as a driving force for economic development and opportunity through associate and bachelor’s degrees and workforce certifications, Seminole State College of Florida also serves as a hub for educational and cultural events. These programs engage and enrich the community while providing opportunities for learning, connection and inspiration. From lectures to performances, Seminole State’s fall calendar offers something for everyone in the community to enjoy with events that highlight
Classes Begin at Seminole State College On Aug. 25
Classes at Seminole State College of Florida begin Monday, Aug. 25, welcoming both new and returning students. This fall also marks the College’s 60th Anniversary, celebrating six decades of transforming lives through education, innovation, and service to the Central Florida community. Seminole State has grown from a small community college into a dynamic, four-campus institution serving more than 24,000 students annually. With programs spanning from associate degrees to bachelor's degrees and workforce
Seminole State Welcomes New VP of Marketing and Strategic Communications
Seminole State College of Florida is pleased to welcome Traci Ash Bjella as the new vice president of Marketing and Strategic Communications. As a seasoned marketing executive with over 25 years of experience, Bjella will play a vital role in leading integrated strategies to elevate Seminole State’s brand, support enrollment goals and strengthen community engagement in alignment with the College’s mission and strategic priorities. Bjella brings a wealth of expertise in strategic planning, brand
.PNG){kind=logo}
Duke Energy Invests $789,000 In Florida’s Colleges And Universities To Build Next Generation Workforce
Duke Energy Foundation today announced $789,000 to support 23 Florida colleges, universities and education programs that are creating a pipeline of skilled workers who will help meet the energy industry’s growing workforce needs. Why it matters: As Florida continues to deploy modern energy infrastructure and meet the needs of the growing state, Duke Energy Foundation is investing in programs that will build the next generation workforce and create access to training and job skills that fit community
Seminole State President Selected As Chair Of Florida College System Council Of Presidents
The Florida College System Council of Presidents (COP) announces new leadership for the upcoming year. During the June business meeting hosted at Daytona State College, the Council voted Seminole State College of Florida President Dr. Georgia Lorenz as chair, South Florida State College President Fred Hawkins as vice chair and Valencia College President Dr. Kathleen Plinske as vice chair elect. “I am honored and humbled to be selected to chair the Florida College System Council of Presidents.
Five Years Of Summer Bridge Program Jumpstarts Over 1,000 College Careers
In 2020, in the wake of the pandemic, many students put off their college plans when faced with an uncertain future. In response, Seminole State College of Florida created the Summer Bridge program to help ease some of the student’s anxieties and get them started in their college career. The program used financial aid and institutional funds to make sure the students had no out-of-pocket costs to take two courses during the Summer B Session. Now, five years after its creation, the Summer Bridge program
Parents, 2025 Graduates Can Take College Courses With No Out-Of-Pocket Costs
Seminole State College of Florida is offering the Summer Bridge program this summer, a unique program designed in partnership with Seminole County Public Schools (SCPS) for 2025 high school graduates. Through the program, students will take two courses over the Summer Term B session, which runs June 25 – Aug. 6, and the College will use available financial aid and/or institutional funds to cover tuition, fees and books so students will have no out-of-pocket costs. The deadline to apply for the program is
Opening Doors: The Power of First Generation Programs
At Seminole State College of Florida, the First Generation Program, fondly referred to as First Gen, is more than a support system—it serves as a launchpad for students who are the first in their families to pursue a college degree. Seminole State serves about 2,400 First Gen students. By offering mentorship, resources, and a keen sense of community, the program empowers students to navigate college life with confidence and chart a path toward lifelong success. This initiative demonstrates the College’s
.jpg)
Preparing and Praising the Next Generation of Nurses All Year Long
While National Nurses Week shines a well-deserved spotlight on the compassion and dedication of nursing professionals, our focus on this high-demand field extends far beyond just one week. At Seminole State College of Florida, preparing future nurses is a year-round priority—one rooted in innovation, support and a deep understanding of the critical role nurses play in our community. Beyond the Headlines Despite recent headlines emphasizing low NCLEX-RN pass rates at certain institutions across the
Seminole State Celebrates Over 2,000 Graduates At Spring Commencement
Seminole State College of Florida celebrated the success of more than 2,000 graduates during its Spring 2025 Commencement Tuesday, April 29, in Addition Financial Arena at University of Central Florida. The College awarded over 2,800 degrees and certificates this spring. Maritza Martinez-Guerrero, vice president of external affairs and philanthropy for the Orlando Magic, delivered an inspiring keynote address, motivating graduates with the powerful reminder: "Your degree today isn’t just a piece of paper.
Seminole State’s Spring 2025 Commencement set for April 29
Seminole State College of Florida will award over 2,800 degrees and certificates during its Spring 2025 Commencement on Tuesday, April 29. The ceremony will be held at 7 p.m. in Addition Financial Arena at University of Central Florida (UCF). More than 2,000 students are set to earn credentials this spring. The keynote speaker will be Maritza Martinez-Guerrero, vice president of external affairs and philanthropy for the Orlando Magic. She joined the Magic in 2023 after 22 years at UCF, where she served as
Seminole State College Art Gallery Exhibit Opening at City Hall
Join us for a reception with Seminole State College Center for the Fine & Performing Arts. The City of Sanford invites you to an opening reception on Wednesday, April 16 at 4:00 pm-5:00 pm, second floor, City Hall, 300 N. Park Ave. for the “Seminole State College Gallery at City Hall.” The Mayor’s Gallery at City Hall exhibit space on the second floor of City Hall provides additional exhibit space for local artists to display their work on a rotating basis. This initiative reflects the City of Sanford’s
Speaker Series: Fireside Chat With Master Of Ceramics Roberto Lugo
On April 15, at 12:30 p.m. on the Sanford/Lake Mary Campus, nationally renowned and award-winning artist Roberto Lugo will return to Seminole State College of Florida for a Fireside Chat.Lugo is a master of ceramics, poet and educator who utilizes traditional European and Asian ceramic techniques and combines them with 21st-century sensibility to reimagine a centuries-old artform with modern motifs. He discovered his love of pottery during his time at the College’s Center for Fine and Performing Arts where
Seminole State student expanded her horizons through Leaps and Bounds
"First of all, I'm so glad I started at Seminole State and not some other school, I would not be where I am school-wise without it," said Tatiana Restrepo. Currently a junior at the University of Central Florida with plans of attending medical school, Restrepo started at Seminole State College of Florida in Summer 2022 and, while searching for scholarships, found the Leaps and Bounds program that fostered her healthcare dreams. "At first my goal was to become a PA, but I talked to Dr. Byfield and I'm
Seminole State’s Nursing Program Awarded $2 Million To Enhance Operations
Seminole State College of Florida has secured $2 million in funding to better serve our community by providing funds for student scholarships, faculty recruitment, equipment purchase and the enhancement of simulation centers to advance high-quality nursing education programs. This marks the third year Seminole State College has received this funding. The State of Florida awarded Seminole State $1 million from the Linking Industry to Nursing Education (LINE) Fund. The grant matches $500,000 donated by
Investing In Futures: The Role Of Grants In Advancing Higher Ed Programs
Grants play a pivotal role in sustaining and expanding higher education initiatives, particularly in top career programs that prepare students for today’s most in-demand fields. These vital funds enable Seminole State College of Florida to develop innovative curricula, invest in cutting-edge technology, and provide essential resources that enrich the learning experience. Beyond enhancing program quality, grants also make higher education more accessible, offering scholarships and financial aid that
Shape your future in healthcare: Upcoming discovery events in February
Healthcare is at the heart of our well-being, shaping the quality and longevity of our lives and our community. With advancements in technology, groundbreaking research, and growing demands with an aging and expanding population, the healthcare landscape is rapidly evolving to meet the diverse needs of individuals and communities. Whether it's exploring innovations in global health awareness, tackling public health challenges, or empowering patients with personalized care, the future of healthcare holds
Heritage Jubilee 2025: A Celebration Of Outstanding Achievement In The Community
Seminole State College of Florida’s Black Faculty and Staff Association (BFSA), in partnership with the Black Student Union, will host Heritage Jubilee 2025: A Celebration of Outstanding Achievement in the Community on Friday, Jan. 24, at 7 p.m. in building C on the College’s Sanford/Lake Mary Campus. The annual Heritage Jubilee’s theme this year is “Sustaining Lasting Traditions: Creating Pathways for Youth.”This cherished event, rooted in a 40-year tradition of honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., has
Seminole State College and Seminole County Public Schools launch new Teacher Apprenticeship Program
Seminole State College of Florida and Seminole County Public Schools are launching a new state-approved hands-on teacher apprenticeship program. Seminole County Public Schools is the number one public school district in Florida based on Niche reports. The new program prioritizes classroom experience over university-based learning and is part of the State of Florida’s effort to strengthen the state’s teacher pipeline by creating a no-cost apprenticeship pathway to the teaching profession. It will help more
