Celebration of Giving highlights donors, record-breaking year of success

Friday, August 10, 2018
Written by: Elisa Rohr

Over 135 attendees gathered Tuesday, Aug. 7, to welcome the new Seminole State College of Florida president, Dr. Georgia Lorenz, and to celebrate donors who helped the Foundation for Seminole State College achieve record-breaking fundraising success in the past fiscal year.

The Foundation enjoyed the largest revenue year in its history, providing $2.3 million in scholarships and program support for the College and its students, including an all-time high of $892,259 in scholarship funds that provided 1,687 student scholarships.

“For 50 years now, our donors have remained resolute in their commitment to our students and the College,” said Dr. John Gyllin, vice president of resource and economic development at Seminole State and executive director of the Foundation. “The results of your generous philanthropy are visible throughout our community anytime you meet a first responder, health care provider, construction manager or small business owner. Thank you for investing in our students, which, in time, improves our community.”

Attendees, including Chancellor Madeline Pumariega of the Florida College System, gave a warm welcome to Dr. Lorenz, Seminole State’s third president in 53 years. Both educational leaders emphasized their dedication to the future performance of the College.

“I want Seminole State to be a hub for the community – the nexus that brings together our collective resources to create the very best in education and training for Seminole County and Central Florida,” Dr. Lorenz said.

Corporate Champion Awards

The Foundation presented Corporate Champion Awards, recognizing organizations who have demonstrated strong support of Seminole State’s programs and services. This year’s award was presented to two organizations for their outstanding efforts.  

Duke Energy has provided over $313,000 in total gifts since 2002, including a recent $80,000 grant to attract STEM students through environmental sustainability. Senior leaders have actively participated on the Foundation Board, and the organization remains a key supporter of all major giving events, including Presidents’ Club, Dream Gala and Dream Cup.

The University Club of Orlando Foundation has provided over $300,000, giving at least $10,000 per year for the past 21 years. The current market value of the University Club of Orlando Endowed Scholarship is over $436,000 and generated over $20,000 annually in student scholarships.

Special recognition was given to CFE Federal Credit Union, the College’s preferred credit union, for sponsoring the event.

2017-18 Highlights

Foundation Points of Pride for the 2017-18 fiscal year include:

  • $2.3 million in support provided to Seminole State College of Florida
  • 1,687 scholarships awarded, totaling an all-time high of $892,259 in scholarship funds
  • 29 faculty and staff Mini-Grants funded totaling over $40,000 with additional funding for classroom and teaching enhancements
  • Over $450,000 raised by Dream Gala and Dream Cup events
  • Record-breaking Foundation current net assets exceeding $32 million
  • All time-high endowment levels with over $18.7 million through 192 funds.

Honor Roll of Donors

The Foundation is also honored to celebrate its donors who give $500 or more year-round with the online Honor Roll of Donors. With their contributions, Seminole State is able to provide many excellent educational opportunities for students.


About the Foundation for Seminole State College

The Foundation for Seminole State College, founded in 1968, is a not-for-profit, 501(c)(3) corporation that enhances the College's programs and services through the development and management of private contributions, public grants and community partnerships. For more information, visit www.seminolestate.edu/foundation or email the Foundation directly at foundation@seminolestate.edu

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