Seminole State Celebrates Over 2,000 Graduates at Spring Commencement

Seminole State College of Florida celebrated the success of more than 2,000 graduates during its Spring 2025 Commencement Tuesday, April 29, in Addition Financial Arena at University of Central Florida. The College awarded over 2,800 degrees and certificates this spring.

Maritza Martinez-Guerrero, vice president of external affairs and philanthropy for the Orlando Magic, delivered an inspiring keynote address, motivating graduates with the powerful reminder: "Your degree today isn’t just a piece of paper. It’s your jersey. It means you’re in the league. Now it’s time to play."

Sarah Dhalla, associate professor of physical sciences at Seminole State, issued the faculty challenge, and Melany Rodriguez Vasquez, a graduating member of the College’s Student Government Association, provided the student challenge. Each encouraged the graduates to celebrate how far they have come and to embrace the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead to achieve success.

During the ceremony, Seminole State proudly honored its 2025 Endowed Teaching Chair recipients:

• Dr. James Smisek, professor of instrumental music: Community Partners Endowed Teaching Chair  
• Dr. Simone Nelson, professor of biological science: Winter Park Health Foundation Endowed Teaching Chair  
• Grace Nasnas, professor of mathematics: Balfour Beatty Construction Endowed Teaching Chair  
• Dr. Syed Arif Humayun, professor of biological science: AdventHealth  Endowed Teaching Chair  

Each awardee was presented with a $5,000 stipend and a commemorative medallion in recognition of their outstanding contributions to the College.

As the event drew to a close, graduates celebrated with cheers and a traditional cap toss, joined by a flurry of Seminole State-branded beach balls soaring through the air adding a festive and joyful touch to the milestone moment.