Lake-Sumter State College proudly celebrated a historic milestone during its 71st Commencement Ceremonies, held on May 8 and 9. The College conferred degrees and certificates to more than 700 graduates, a nearly 30% increase from Spring 2024.
“LSSC’s commencement ceremonies are a celebration of success and perseverance,” says Dr. Laura Byrd, Interim President of Lake-Sumter State College. “Graduation is a momentous occasion for our students and their families. It represents the achievement of their goal to grow personally and professionally. We are proud to play a role in our student’s journeys and are excited for the positive impact they will continue to have in our community.”
Graduates by the Numbers
- 30% increase in degrees and certificates awarded from Spring 2024 to more than 700
- More than 475 students chose to participate in one of four ceremonies
- 3.3 GPA is the average for this graduating class
- 53 students will graduate with a perfect 4.0 GPA
- 67% of graduating students worked at least one job while enrolled
- 52% of graduating students are first-generation (neither parent obtained a bachelor’s degree)
- 27% of graduating students started their academic journey as a dual enrollment student
- Graduates range in age from 16 to 71
Inspiring Messages from Distinguished Speakers
Lake County Sheriff Peyton Grinnell, delivered an exciting message on leadership, service, and perseverance to students at the Clermont ceremonies.
“Graduates, if you only remember one thing from my address today, I hope you remember this. It is okay to fail. In my opinion, it’s not just okay, it is essential. Behind every success story, there is a story of hardship, of mistakes, of failure. What will define you is not the failure itself; it is how you recover. It is the recovery that reveals who you are. The moment after everything has fallen apart, you must decide whether to stand back up or stay on the ground.”
Watch Sheriff Grinnell’s full speech here.
Curtis Wynn, CEO of SECO Energy, spoke about innovation, opportunity, and building your future through education at Friday’s ceremonies in Leesburg.
“Graduates, I know many of you are wondering what comes next. Want a little bit of advice? Be bold. Be persistent. Take that first step. See, I started as a truck washer. I was told no before I ever heard yes. But because I refused to give up, yes, I became a CEO and a leader across the nation. Your background does not define your future. Your perseverance does.”
Watch Mr. Wynn’s full speech here.
Student Speakers share their experiences
The student speaker serves as a representation of the many student stories that make up our student body. Each ceremony’s speaker is chosen by a competitive process.
Donna Davis was chosen to be the Leesburg Ceremony speaker. She found her passion for learning and leadership during her time at Lake-Sumter State College. At LSSC, Donna pursued her interests in both science and art, majoring in environmental studies while actively participating in the Student Art Society.
Donna’s advice to new Lakehawks: “Don’t be afraid to challenge yourself—you’ll discover strengths you didn’t know you had.”
Watch Donna’s full speech here.
Madison Ransom was chosen to be the Clermont Ceremony speaker. As a dual enrolled student, she will graduate from high school this spring and also earn her associate degree. Madison will transfer to the University of Central Florida. Outside the classroom, she enjoys drawing, writing, singing, and acting, with hopes of turning her love for art into a future career.
Madison’s advice to new Lakehawks: “Having a supportive community will inspire you to achieve more than you imagined.”
Watch Madison’s full speech here.
