Lake-Sumter State College (LSSC) has been recognized as a Collegiate Purple Star Campus by the Florida Department of Education, honoring the College’s comprehensive commitment to supporting military students and their families.
The Collegiate Purple Star Campus program was established by the Florida Legislature to recognize institutions that demonstrate a strong and sustained focus on meeting the unique needs of military-affiliated students.
“As we approach America’s 250th anniversary, it is especially meaningful to recognize and support those who have served our nation, along with their families,” said John Temple, President of Lake-Sumter State College. “The Collegiate Purple Star designation is evidence of our efforts to provide meaningful support for military affiliated students that promote their academic success and workforce readiness.”
For students like Ellis Allums, a retired U.S. Army combat veteran now pursuing a Bachelor of Elementary Education degree at LSSC, those efforts have made a meaningful difference.
Originally from Michigan, and now living in Apopka, Allums served two deployments in the Middle East as a Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS) Operations and Fire Direction Specialist.
After retiring from the Army, Allums chose LSSC for its strong reputation for community engagement and its commitment to providing a supportive pathway for veterans returning to academic life.
“Moving from a fast-paced military setting to a college classroom was a big change,” he said. “LSSC provides a structured environment that values my background and helps me use my military discipline to succeed in my studies.”
As a non-traditional student, Allums brings a mission-oriented mindset to his studies.
“The military taught me that structure, discipline, and resilience are key to success,” he said. “I approach every class with a mission-first attitude: adapt to challenges, stay focused under pressure, and always do my best.”
Allums is preparing for a career in education, where he plans to apply his experience and passion in the classroom to guide and inspire the next generation. He currently works as a substitute teacher in Orange County Public Schools.
“Earning a degree in Elementary Education feels like a natural next step,” Allums said. “I discovered in the military that I enjoy teaching, mentoring, and helping others succeed. Now I want to use that experience to pay it forward to the next generation.”
As part of its commitment to military students, LSSC offers a range of support services, including a dedicated military liaison, a comprehensive veteran and military services webpage, student-led peer support programs, faculty and staff training, and priority course registration for military-affiliated students, and institutional recognition honoring military service.
“Our support network for veterans and military families is embedded throughout the student experience to ensure that these students have the resources they need to succeed,” said Dr. Joseph Mews, Vice President of Enrollment & Student Affairs. “Our goal is that these efforts reduce barriers and help them stay focused on their academic and professional goals.”
“I would tell any veteran considering LSSC that it’s more than just a place to use your benefits,” Allums added. “It’s a community that truly respects your service. If you bring your military discipline here, the faculty and staff will give you the support and space you need to succeed.”
The Collegiate Purple Star Campus designation is awarded to Florida College System institutions that demonstrate a meaningful commitment to assisting military students in their transition to college and successful completion of their academic goals. The designation remains in effect for three academic years.
To learn more about the resources and benefits available to veterans and military families, visit www.lssc.edu/veterans.