Kevin Yurasek, Lake-Sumter State College 

Lake-Sumter State College (LSSC) celebrated the creativity, skill, and storytelling talent of its students during the 2026 Digital Media Showcase, held at EPIC Theatres in Clermont on Monday. The event highlighted seven original short films written, produced, and edited by students in the College’s Associate in Science in Digital Media program.

• Brendan Folsom – To Be Determined
• Malachy McGrisken – Out The Mud
• Gabrielle Moore – Headlights
• Caleb Moyet – Jamie Shrine
• Susana Perez Rivera – Newlyweds
• Susana Perez Rivera – Paper Trail
• Melani Valdes – True Colors

• Creative Media Award: Susana Perez Rivera
• Digital & Technical Award: Malachy McGrisken
• Overall Best Award: Susana Perez Rivera

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The National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) has announced the 2025 DII Volleyball All-America teams. Outside hitter Samantha Beatty was named to the second team, just the third Lakehawk in program history to be recognized nationally.

Joining the team this year as a freshman, Beatty led the Lakehawks offensively all season. In 30 matches, Beatty recorded 484.5 points with 392 kills at 3.38 kills per set at 62 aces. She ranked second in the Lakehawk record book for both kills and kills per set. In kills, she was less than 40 away from the record behind 2021 all-American Xiomara Williams. Defensively, she registered 382 digs at 3.29 digs per set with 45 total blocks, 16 solo.

For the season, Beatty recorded 18 double-doubles, achieving 10 or more kills and digs in a single match to lead the team. Regionally, Beatty finished in the top-10 statistical categories for aces per set (3), points (4), aces (5), kills (6), points per set (6), and digs (8).

 

Head Coach Alisha Wintersdorf shared her thoughts on Beatty’s achievements this year, “Being named an all-American is a testament to the work Sammi invests day in and day out. Her work ethic is unmatched and her passion fuels our gym every single day.”

“She shows up for her teammates, puts in the work behind the scenes, and brings an energy that lifts everyone around her. This recognition is a reflection of who she is – driven, committed, and truly inspiring to our entire program.”

 

Most recently, Beatty was named to the All-Florida College System Activities Association (FCSAA) Team, All-Sun-Lakes First Team, and the FCSAA All-Tournament Team. She also was named the FCSAA Offensive Player of the Week one time this season.

Beatty’s leadership on the court led the Lakehawks to one of the most successful seasons in program history. Finishing with a 25-6 record, the team tied the single season wins record with the 2021 Lakehawks.

The Lakehawks also earned several spots in the team records in the volleyball record book.

With 1,456 kills, they rank third behind the 2018 and 2021 national teams. Additionally, they ranked second in assists (1,337), second in points (1,916.5), third in aces (259), and third in attacks (4,071).

 

Opening the season with a 14-game win streak, the Lakehawks earned a spot in the NJCAA Top-25 Coaches Poll in week three at No. 21 and held a spot for the remainder of the season. The team’s highest ranking came in week five at No. 19 and finished at No. 24 in the final poll of 2025.

 

Beatty and the Lakehawks look to hit the court and weight room in the spring to continue training for the 2026 season in hopes of returning to the FCSAA title match and then earning a trip to the NJCAA Championships in November.

 

Follow the Lakehawks
Follow @LakehawkSports on X, @LakehawkSports on Instagram and Lake-Sumter State College Athletics on Facebook for the latest news with Lakehawk Athletics.

 

 

About Lake-Sumter State College

Founded in 1962, Lake-Sumter State College (LSSC) offers a high-quality education at an affordable price to the communities of Lake and Sumter counties. LSSC embraces its mission as a community college to increase access and opportunity for all learners in its community. As a proud member of the Florida College System, LSSC serves more than 10,500 students annually at four locations and online: Leesburg, Four Corners, South Lake (Clermont), and Sumterville. LSSC offers non-credit, certificate, associate degree, and bachelor’s degree programs designed to support and prepare students to pursue their goals and join Florida’s dynamic workforce. LSSC is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. Learn more about LSSC at www.lssc.edu.

 

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by Kevin Yurasek, Lake‑Sumter State College

Lake‑Sumter State College celebrated the formal dedication of the Lake Jem Farms Beach Court Complex at its Leesburg Campus on Friday, July 18. The event honored the individuals and businesses whose generosity made this facility possible and featured the unveiling of a commemorative plaque at the courts.

• Lake Jem Farms
• E.R. Jahna Industries
• Raine Tire & Auto
• Randolph Outdoor
• Warner Holding Company

“As our community grows, it’s vital that we continue building strong partnerships, like those we’re celebrating today with and our generous local businesses,” said Senator Keith Truenow. “It’s about investing in the next generation, the ones who will be leading, caring for us, and shaping our future. Sports like beach volleyball help build the teamwork, discipline, and character that young people need to succeed. With continued support and shared vision, I believe we can accomplish great things together in our community.”

“Lake Jem Farms has been rooted in this community for over 30 years, and that spirit of giving back goes back to Senator Truenow’s leadership,” said Corey Warner of Lake Jem Farms. “We’ve been fortunate to grow our business to a place where we can support projects like this, but it truly took a team, from our entire organization to generous partners like E.R. Jahna, Randolph Outdoor, and Raine Tire & Auto all coming together to turn a small idea into something incredible in just over a few months.”

“I’ve had the chance to compete at colleges across the country, and I can honestly say these are the nicest beach volleyball courts I’ve ever seen, and that’s because of the incredible generosity of our community,” shared McCann. “Lake-Sumter has shaped me not just as an athlete, but as a person. It’s where I found confidence, community, and the support to grow into who I am today. That’s why it means so much to be back as a coach. I want to give back to the program that gave me everything and help our athletes build the same love for the game and for this College that I carry with me every day.”

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Each student will receive a $1,000 scholarship. The decision to extend assistance to multiple students underscores Beta Theta’s dedication to fostering educational opportunities and empowering local talent.

The scholarships are three of many that Beta Theta has awarded to students over the past 45 years since the chapter was chartered. These scholarships make a meaningful impact on the lives of the recipients, easing financial burdens and facilitating access to higher education.

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This closure will impact LSSC campuses in Clermont, Four Corners, Leesburg, and Sumterville. During this time there will be no access to any facilities on LSSC campuses.

Students in afternoon and evening classes should look for additional information sent from their course instructors.

The College will plan to reopen on Wednesday, January 10. The LSSC Alert system, email and social media will send any additional updates.

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“I am proud to have April Smith joining Lake-Sumter State College and our Lakehawks Athletics program,” said Dr. Heather Bigard, President. “April is an accomplished leader and believes in a teamwork-focused environment that fosters a competitive spirit and heightens the performance of our student-athletes. Her breadth of experience with athletes at all levels on a global platform is truly an asset to LSSC as we continue the growth of our program and continue to focus on developing well-rounded and successful student-athletes.” 

April has most recently served as a Recruiting Consultant at Sonoma State University, where she supported the Athletics program and coaches on aspects of program management, teaching, and player development. She has served in coaching roles at Fresno State University and Appalachian State University, in addition to several coaching roles for USA Track & Field (USATF). April’s accomplishments include being named NCAA Assistant Coach of the Year in 2006 and leading the USATF Junior Pan American team in 2013. In August 2023, she served on the staff of the World Athletics Championships held in Budapest, Hungary. 

“I am extremely excited to join Lake-Sumter State College and look forward to supporting the continued growth of the Lakehawk Athletics program,” says April Smith, LSSC Executive Director of Athletics. “LSSC has a great group of student-athletes and I look forward to supporting their growth and development while they thrive in the sport that they love.” 

April has made her mark as an influential speaker and lecturer, addressing international audiences on topics ranging from strategic training to equity in sports. Her dedication to coach education and development is evident through her role as Delegate and Lead Educator for Central California for Team USA. In this position, she educates and certifies coaches for eligibility across all levels of competition – youth, masters, and Olympians and Paralympians. 

April holds a bachelor’s degree in physical education with an emphasis on fitness & sports management from Doane College, along with a master’s degree in sports management from Appalachian State University. She’s also achieved an array of certifications, including World Athletic Level 5 Olympic Development Coach. 

She has experience coaching and developing athletes and programs across a wide portfolio, including athletic training, baseball, cheerleading, swimming, track and field, volleyball, and water polo. 

With her sports psychology background as an educator, coach, and mentor, April Smith is well-equipped to guide the LSSC Lakehawk Athletics program into the future. 

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About Lake-Sumter State College 

Founded in 1962, Lake-Sumter State College (LSSC) offers a high-quality education at an affordable price to the communities of Lake and Sumter counties. LSSC embraces its mission as a community college to increase access and opportunity for all learners in its community. As a proud member of the Florida College System, LSSC serves more than 7,500 students annually at four locations and online: Leesburg, Four Corners, South Lake (Clermont), and Sumterville. LSSC offers non-credit, certificate, associate degree, and bachelor’s degree programs designed to support and prepare students to pursue their goals and join Florida’s dynamic workforce. LSSC is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. Learn more about LSSC at www.lssc.edu.  

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Classes are canceled for Wednesday, August 30. Students should watch for separate messages from their instructors by email or Canvas for course-specific updates. 

This closure applies to campuses in Leesburg, South Lake/Clermont, Four Corners and Sumterville. 

During this time, there will be no access to any LSSC campuses or buildings. 

Additional information, as it becomes available, will be posted on social media an LSSC.edu, as well as through the LSSC Alert system. 

Students and employees are automatically enrolled in the LSSC Alert system. Parents and community members can register at www.lssc.edu/LSSCalert/. 

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About Lake-Sumter State College 

Founded in 1962, Lake-Sumter State College (LSSC) offers a high-quality education at an affordable price to the communities of Lake and Sumter counties. LSSC embraces its mission as a community college to increase access and opportunity for all learners in its community. As a proud member of the Florida College System, LSSC serves more than 7,500 students annually at four locations and online: Leesburg, Four Corners, South Lake (Clermont), and Sumterville. LSSC offers non-credit, certificate, associate degree, and bachelor’s degree programs designed to support and prepare students to pursue their goals and join Florida’s dynamic workforce. LSSC is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges

The post Lake-Sumter State College To Close At 5 pm On Aug. 29 Through Wednesday, Aug. 30 appeared first on South Lake Tablet.

Lake-Sumter State College is excited to announce the inauguration of Dr. Heather Bigard as the College’s 7^th president on Tuesday, May 2 at 10:00 a.m. at the Everett A. Kelly Convocation Center in Leesburg.

Dr. Bigard became the College’s 7^th president, and the first female to hold the role, at the beginning of this academic year.

Dr. Bigard brings over 25 years of experience from a wide portfolio of higher education leadership to this role. As a first-generation college student who worked on campus to help fund her undergraduate education, Bigard understands first-hand the realities that students face when enrolling in college.

As president, Dr. Bigard has focused on maximizing higher education opportunities to learners across Lake and Sumter Counties, while improving student success outcomes to transform lives and futures.

The inauguration ceremony will include:

• The national anthem sung by Ms. April Figueroa, an LSSC student, and other student performances;
• Welcome and greetings from trustees, students, faculty, staff, alumni; DeAnna Thomas, Executive Director of Lake Technical College; Heather Long, CEO of UF Health Central Florida; and Dr. Charles Mojock, former LSSC president;
• Remarks from Chancellor Kathy Hebda, Florida College System, at the Florida Department of Education
• The oath of office administered by Honorable Judge Jason Nimeth and presentation of the presidential medallion
• Keynote address from President Heather Bigard

The Inauguration Ceremony is open to the public and a community reception will follow.

Everett A. Kelly Convocation Center
9501 U.S. Highway 441, Leesburg, FL 34788
Doors open at 9:30 a.m.
Attendees should park in Lot A

The ceremony will also be streamed live at www.lssc.edu/livestream.

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About Lake-Sumter State College

Founded in 1962, Lake-Sumter State College (LSSC) offers a high-quality education at an affordable price to the communities of Lake and Sumter counties. LSSC embraces its mission as a community college to increase access and opportunity for all learners in its community. As a proud member of the Florida College System, LSSC serves more than 7,500 students annually at three locations and online: Leesburg, South Lake (Clermont), and Sumterville. A fourth location in Four Corners will open in fall 2023. LSSC offers non-credit, certificate, associate degree, and bachelor’s degree programs designed to support and prepare students to pursue their goals and join Florida’s dynamic workforce. LSSC is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. Learn more about LSSC at www.lssc.edu.

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