Order of The Lakehawk

Formerly, the “President’s Award,” the Order of the Lakehawk is the most prestigious and significant honor that a student may receive at Lake-Sumter State College. This honor recognizes outstanding academic achievement, dedicated college involvement, and significant community service.

Membership in the Order recognizes the very best of our student body and an enduring connection to Lake-Sumter State College. 

The Order of the Lakehawk is reserved for up five (5) total summer and fall graduates and five (5) total spring graduates from all degree programs. The nomination process takes place twice a year- early in the fall and spring semesters. Inductees will be in the spring and formally acknowledged at the December and May Commencement ceremonies.

Spring 2025 Applications

Students self-nominate to apply for this honor, no staff or faculty nominations are required.

Review this handout for information on the application process.

To submit your application, email the following as attachments to Dean of Students, Carolyn Scott at scottc@lssc.edu, no later than 11:59 PM on Monday, March 3, 2025.

Applications must include these items:

• Completed nomination questionnaire (download as Word doc)
• Two recommendation letters from LSSC faculty or staff (download as Word doc to share)
• A recent resume

Eligibility Criteria

1. Eligible to participate in the upcoming Commencement (graduation application submitted)
2. A minimum LSSC GPA 3.0 at the time of application
3. Be in good conduct and financial standing at the time of application and remain in good standing through to Commencement
4. Demonstrated strong leadership and/or service to the College and our local community while enrolled at LSSC

Selection Process

1. Students who submit a completed application will be invited to participate in a brief online (recorded) interview with a member of the selection committee.
2. The Selection Committee will review applications and interviews and make recommendations to the Vice President of Enrollment & Student Affairs and the College President.
3. Selected students will be announced at the Commencement Ceremony.

Information, including links to apply and submit references, will be emailed to students, faculty, and staff prior to opening the nomination process each fall and spring semesters.

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Inductees in the Order of the Lakehawk