Nearly 400 students earned a degree or certificate from Lake-Sumter State College on Saturday, December 8 at the 59th Commencement ceremony.
“I am proud of this semester’s graduates whose achievements through hard work, perseverance, and commitment to gaining knowledge will improve their lives, the lives of those they care for, and our communities,” said Dr. Stan Sidor, LSSC president. “This December, each of you are joining the over 112,000 students who have graduated from a Florida College System institution this year with the skills and education necessary to be successful in today’s modern workforce.”
The ceremony’s Commencement Speaker was Brenda Skoczelas, LSSC Physics instructor and Association of Florida Colleges Professor of the Year, who gave an inspiring speech about perseverance and endurance through difficult challenges.
Two students, Patricia Green and Josh Sussman, were selected as Student Speakers for the ceremony.
Patricia Green, of Clermont, graduated with an Associate in Arts degree and plans to pursue a Bachelor’s degree in English and Creative Writing at the University of Central Florida.
Josh Sussman, of Leesburg, graduated with an Associate in Arts degree and plans to pursue flight school training to achieve his dream of becoming a pilot.
During the ceremony, Emily Sonnenberg of Tavares, was named the Fall 2018 President’s Award recipient. The LSSC President’s Award is one of the highest awards that a student can receive. This award honors a graduating student who has shown academic achievement, leadership, and service to the College and/or community.
Sonnenberg will transfer to the University of Florida to study geology and astronomy, and plans to pursue a career as a planetary geologist.
“Commencement is one of my favorite events of the semester,” says Dr. Claire Brady, vice president of enrollment and student affairs. “Students completing their degrees at LSSC and continuing to the next step in their education and careers. What an honor it is to share in this day, celebrating their accomplishments and encouraging them as they embark on what’s next.” Encore airings of the Commencement will be broadcast on Lake Sumter TV on Friday, Dec. 14 at 10:30pm, Saturday, Dec. 15 at 9am, and Sunday, Dec. 16 at 1pm. Lake Sumter TV is available on Xfinity 13, Spectrum 498, Prism 83 or streaming at LakeSumterTV.com.