Dr. Georgia Lorenz Named Orange Appeal “Woman of the Year”

Seminole State College of Florida President Dr. Georgia Lorenz has been named one of Orange Appeal magazine’s 2026 Women of the Year, an honor recognizing influential leaders who are making a meaningful impact across Central Florida.

The Orange Appeal Women of the Year celebration, presented by AdventHealth for Women, was held Monday, Feb. 3, at Judson’s Live at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts. A packed house of community leaders gathered to honor this year’s recipients, enjoying special musical performances from Lorena Valido Music, Opera Orlando and Central Florida Vocal Arts.

Dr. Lorenz is celebrated for her collaborative leadership and dedication to advancing higher education, qualities that have made a profound impact across Central Florida. Her profile appears in the magazine’s special Women of the Year feature that highlights influential women leaders in the region.

Joining Dr. Lorenz as honorees are two fellow college presidents who also lead with distinction:

• Dr. Brooke Barnett, president of Rollins College, recognized for her leadership in liberal arts education and community engagement.
• Dr. Kathleen Plinske, president of Valencia College, honored for her work in expanding access to workforce-aligned degrees and student success initiatives.

In a nod to Dr. Lorenz’s collaborative spirit, the theme song selected in her honor was “Stand By Me” a fitting tribute to her belief in partnership, teamwork and standing beside students, employees and community partners to achieve shared goals.

During the program, Orange Appeal Editor and Publisher Christi Ashby shared a personal connection to Seminole State College, noting that she is a proud alumna. Ashby also reflected on her family’s longstanding ties to the College, including her father, who enrolled at Seminole Junior College through the GI Bill underscoring the generational impact of access to higher education.

The evening also celebrated President Emerita Dr. E. Ann McGee, who was recognized for her standing honor as Orange Appeal’s Woman of the Decade. The moment marked a powerful connection between the College’s past and present leadership, both recognized for their lasting contributions to the community.

“I am deeply honored to be recognized alongside such accomplished women who are shaping the future of our region,” said Dr. Lorenz. “This recognition reflects the strength of the partnerships that define Seminole State and the incredible work of our faculty, staff and community collaborators.”

Dr. Lorenz’s leadership at Seminole State has focused on expanding access to higher education, strengthening workforce partnerships and advancing student-centered initiatives that support economic mobility throughout Central Florida.

The complete Women of the Year feature is available in the January/February 2026 issue of Orange Appeal magazine.