Photo L-R: Dr. Laura Byrd and Kevin Yurasek, LSCC

On Friday, October 10, the Lake-Sumter State College (LSSC) Foundation gathered supporters, alumni, and community leaders to celebrate the kickoff of its 2026 Annual Campaign—a yearly tradition dedicated to fueling student success through scholarships and academic excellence.

Pictured L-R: Dieter Grube, Toni Bell, Captain Michael McMaster, Michelle and Bill Delaney

The campaign embodies a simple but powerful idea: when you invest in education, you invest in people—and in the future of the community.

For more than a decade, the LSSC Foundation has provided life-changing scholarships to students across Lake and Sumter counties. In 2025, the Foundation proudly awarded a record-breaking $1.7 million in scholarships, helping hundreds of students take the next step toward rewarding careers and personal success.

A LSSC scholarship recipient

Every dollar given represents a story of perseverance, hope, and opportunity. When the community comes together to support higher education, amazing things happen—not only for the students but for the entire region.

A LSSC scholarship recipient

For many students, the impact is deeply personal. One of the LSSC scholarship recipient said the scholarship allowed him to focus on his studies without worrying about how to pay for school. Another student shared that the ability to continue his studies and the belief that people in the community truly care about his success, gave him the confidence to continue his learnings.

Funds raised through the Annual Campaign also strengthen academic programs that prepare graduates for local, in-demand careers, driving economic growth and vitality across Central Florida.

John Temple, LSSC, explains the importance of scholarships

As the Foundation looks toward 2026, it hopes to set a new record—continuing the momentum that has already changed so many lives.

Shannon Herrerea and Captain Michael McMaster

There are many ways to give, including bequests, life insurance, retirement accounts, and RMD giving. Each contribution, large or small, helps make a lasting difference.

To learn more about the LSSC Foundation, scholarship opportunities, or how to get involved, visit www.lssc.edu/foundation.

To learn more about LSSC Foundation and Scholarships, vist website: LSSC Foundation

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