From Laker to Oriole: The Impact of Lake-Sumter State College on Alumni Success for Koby Perez [Alumni Spotlight]

Koby Perez in his team photo in 1999 for the Lakers Baseball team at Lake-Sumter Community College

Alumni of Lake-Sumter State College can be found across Florida and the country making a difference in their community. LSSC is proud of its rich history of preparing students to confidently enter the workforce.

Today we meet former Lakehawk (Laker, at the time actually) Koby Perez, who was a member of the first LSCC baseball team in 1999 and is now a Senior Director of International Scouting for the Baltimore Orioles.

His journey began in North Bergen, NJ, where he received a baseball scholarship to attend Lake-Sumter Community College.

When Koby looks back on his time at Lake-Sumter, he remembers the welcoming atmosphere, the quality education he received, and the amazing support from the athletic department, academic advisors, and faculty members like Mike Matulia and Jennifer Manson. “Everyone was always willing to help when any problem would arise,” shared Perez.

Being part of that first baseball team at LSSC in 1999 was an unforgettable experience where he made lasting friendships. Before graduating, Koby put his studies on hold to pursue a career in professional baseball. During that time, he played for several minor-league teams before moving into baseball operations.

If Koby had to choose one word to describe Lake-Sumter, he would go with welcoming.

“LSSC is a welcoming place that provides resources to serve its student population,” he shared. “The instructors are passionate and always willing to go the extra mile for students.”

Koby will always appreciate the LSSC staff, classmates, and teammates who helped him on his journey.

Koby remained committed to his goal of receiving his college degree and returned 20 years later to Lake-Sumter State College.

“In 2019, I received my Associate’s Degree from LSSC and then transferred to graduate Cum Laude with a Bachelor’s Degree in Recreation and Sports Management from Florida International University,” he said.

Koby feels his experiences at LSSC prepared him for his current role with the Baltimore Orioles, where he oversees all of their international operations. This role requires a keen eye for talent, strong leadership skills, and an ability to build relationships with people from diverse backgrounds.

For anyone considering enrolling at LSSC, Koby’s advice is to be persistent.

“Everyone makes their own timeline for different reasons, but in the end, it is important to finish what you start and accomplish your goals,” Perez said. “Go Lakers!”