Center for Economic Development at Heathrow

SCC broke ground on Oct. 26, 2005, on its new Center for Economic Development at Heathrow.

The Center, located in the heart of Heathrow's high-tech corridor, off AAA Drive, will span 65,000 square feet and open in 2007. Created to meet the demands of the Central Florida workforce, the facility will offer relevant programming for the emergent workforce and professional, continuing education and lifelong learning opportunities.

"We envision the Center for Economic Development at Heathrow to be a collaborative space for the College and community to converge, learn and create," said Dr. E. Ann McGee, SCC president. "Working with community and corporate leaders, we are planning the facility and curriculum to train tomorrow's workforce today."

The Center for Economic Development at Heathrow is a physical learning environment and a virtual learning opportunity connecting the community, the region, the state and the world. With its innovative design, the Center will provide flexible classroom and conference spaces and areas devoted to economic development, multiple learning, and an information commons.

Pursuing a goal to create "business partnerships for a competitive advantage," SCC has reached out to local business and community leaders to develop the new Center and its programs. The spirit of this collaborative partnership was born in 2002 from a $1.5 million, 6.1-acre property gift from The Pizzuti Companies (Pizzuti Co. President Ron Pizzuti and SCC President Dr. E. Ann McGee pictured at right), owner and developer of Heathrow International Business Center (HIBC) and lender Newport Partners XIV, Ltd. Since this initial gift, Seminole State has received additional private donations including $300,000 from Colonial Properties Trust.

Partners helping the College to realize its Center for Economic Development vision include the Seminole County Regional Chamber of Commerce, Seminole County Economic Development Council, Florida High Technology Corridor Council, Metro Orlando EDC, and the University of Central Florida.