Lake-Sumter State College opened the 2023-2024 academic year this week with a new campus and record enrollment.
LSSC’s course offerings have returned to a pre-pandemic level with a 50/50 split between on-campus and online classes. This balance of offerings supports student demand for schedule flexibility with on-campus options for intensive or hands-on courses, such as math and science courses.
This year is especially remarkable as LSSC opens its brand-new campus location in the Four Corners, located in the Cagan Crossings Town Center, highlighting the college’s commitment to expanding access to quality higher education.
President Heather Bigard welcomed the first class of 24 students at this location on Monday.
“You are the first students to experience classes in our new location in Four Corners. Are you excited? I know I am! This is an historic moment for Lake-Sumter State College and for each of you as you begin your academic journey. I wish you the best of luck this semester and know that our faculty and staff are here to support you.”
The last new campus for the college was the South Lake Campus in Clermont in 1999.
At the Sumter Center, a hub of workforce education, students eagerly arrived for classes at the Electric Utility Institute. This cutting-edge center exemplifies LSSC’s dedication to offering programs that align with industry demands, equipping students with the practical skills and knowledge needed to excel in their chosen fields.
“The energy and enthusiasm from students, faculty, and staff on all of our campuses today is truly inspiring,” said Dr. Joseph Mews, VP for Enrollment and Student Affairs. “We are proud to deliver a college experience that empowers our students to excel academically and personally.”
Record enrollment anticipated
With over 5,000 students enrolled on the first day of classes, LSSC is poised to achieve another milestone in Fall 2023. With enrollment still underway for the seven-week semester, the college is projecting fall student enrollment to exceed 5,200 students for the time in the institution’s history.
“I’m proud of LSSC’s strong reputation of providing an affordable, quality education to students in Lake and Sumter Counties,” said President Bigard. “As we work toward serving 10,000 students a year, this is a significant accomplishment. The demand for our programs is strong and I believe this is a reflection of the great reputation we have built in the community. We will continue to work alongside our partners to expand access to higher education in our community and drive economic mobility.”
In addition, the LSSC Foundation has awarded a record $582,000 in student scholarships for Fall 2023.
“Foundation scholarships make a significant impact in the lives of the students who receive them,” shared President Bigard. “I’m proud to share that the LSSC Foundation was able to help a record number of students in support of their educational goals this fall. Maintaining affordability is an important component of expanding access, and we are appreciative of our generous donors who make these Foundation scholarship awards possible.”
New program offerings
LSSC is starting several new programs this fall, including Medical Laboratory Technology (MLT), a North Lake cohort for the Health Sciences Collegiate Academy, a Criminal Justice Early College Academy at Mount Dora High School, and an Engineering Technology Early College Academy for Sumter County students.
“These new programs broaden the scope of educational opportunities available to students in our community and reflect the College’s dedication to offering industry-aligned programs that prepare students for productive careers,” says President Bigard.
The College will start a certificate program in Water and Wastewater Treatment this September.
