Seminole State President Featured in Florida Trend Viewpoints

“The Florida state colleges are really economic drivers in each of the regions we serve,” said Dr. Georgia Lorenz, president of Seminole State College and chair of the Florida College System (FCS) Council of Presidents, during an interview with Florida Trend. 

 “We are doing great work. That great work requires investment,” said Dr. Lorenz. With a commitment to keeping college affordable, the FCS has not raised tuition in 13 years, however every college faces rising technology, insurance, maintenance and salary costs. To keep college affordable and make sure the students are getting the top-quality training they need to enter the workforce, legislative and industry partnerships are essential. 

With industry advisory boards for workforce programs, these partners make sure the curriculum for the programs is aligned with the industry’s needs. “So many of our partners provide scholarships, provide recognition programs for our faculty and provide training to our faculty,” said Dr. Lorenz. “So there are so many ways that through partnership with business and industry, we can really, together, ensure that we are producing the talent that is needed in the region.” 

In a recent economic study commissioned by the Association of Florida Colleges (AFC), it was found that the FCS has a $56.7 billion impact on Florida’s economy. Seminole State was reported to have a $1.3 billion total impact, accounting for operations spending, student spending and alumni impact. The colleges in the FCS not only help students increase their employability and achieve their potential but also draw students to their regions thus generating new dollars and opportunities. 

Students are encouraged to return to the FCS throughout their career. Through lifelong learning, the economic impact of the FCS grows as students and professionals take additional classes for new credentials to stay up to date in their career. 

View Dr. Lorenz’s full interview on Viewpoints at Florida Trend.