Highlights of May’s South Lake Chamber of Commerce (SLCC) Breakfast Meeting
Dr. Laura Byrd Highlights LSSC’s Growth and Vision
David Colby, President and CEO of the South Lake Chamber of Commerce, introduced Dr. Laura Byrd, Interim President of Lake-Sumter State College (LSSC). With more than two decades of experience in higher education, Dr. Byrd has shown a dedication to the students and communities of Lake and Sumter Counties.
She proudly noted that, “LSSC is the fastest growing college in Florida and one of the top 150 community colleges nationwide.”
- Over 9,600 students enrolled: 8,075 credit-seeking and 1,600 non-credit students
- Projected to serve more than 10,000 students by the 2025–2026 academic year
- Nursing Program (AS): Nearly 350 students enrolled (23% growth), with over 700 in the pipeline
- BAS in Leadership: 200 students (18% growth)
- BS in Nursing (RN to BSN): 200 students (19% growth)
Exciting Plans for the South Lake Campus Include:
- New academic buildings
- On-campus student housing
- A public charter school
- A mixed-use Town Center featuring retail spaces, a hotel, and future residential developments
New Programs Launched This Year:
- BS in Elementary Education
- AS in Respiratory Care
- AS in Cybersecurity
- AS in Building Construction Management
- AA in Digital and Performing Arts Pathway
Coming Soon:
- AS in Digital Media Production
- AS in Physical Therapy Assisting
Dr. Byrd emphasized LSSC’s affordability, noting that students can receive a quality education for half the cost of a state university.
Pop Quiz: Do you know the name of LSSC’s mascot?
Is it Hawkeye, Lakehawk, Swoop, or Birdy?
Mitchell Hill Promotes Caribbean Cultural Awareness
Mitchell Hill, President of the First Caribbean American Association of Lake County (CAALC), shared insights into the organization’s mission to celebrate Caribbean culture while giving back to the community. CAALC provides scholarships to local high school seniors and partners with other organizations to support underserved populations.
Comcast: Event Sponsor and Community Partner
Comcast served as the Main Event Sponsor for the morning breakfast. Representatives Gabby Sankarsingh and Rachel Simpson-Lagatta spoke about the company’s commitment to expanding high-speed internet access for businesses in the South Lake community.
1 Million Cups Introduced to South Lake
Jim Green delivered a brief presentation introducing 1 Million Cups, a new program launching in South Lake County aimed at supporting entrepreneurs. The program will officially kick off on Wednesday, June 11, from 9:00 to 10:30 am at The View, located at 2601 Clermont National Drive, Clermont.
1 Million Cups is a nationwide initiative designed to educate, engage, and connect entrepreneurs with their communities. The South Lake chapter will hold weekly meetings every Wednesday, providing a consistent platform for local business owners to share challenges, exchange ideas, and build meaningful connections in a supportive, business-to-business environment.
The Ann Dupee Gem of the Hills was presented to Officer Kelly Stone (see GEM OF THE HILLS)
