At the LSSC Foundation, our mission is to support students from the start of their educational journey to the finish—whether that’s earning a degree, entering the workforce, or achieving lifelong goals. The Annual Campaign is our central fundraising effort, starting in October for LSSC employees and opening to the public in January. 

When you contribute to the Annual Campaign, you’re helping create opportunities for students to begin their path to success and ensuring they have the resources they need to reach the finish line. Your support enables us to provide scholarships and critical program assistance, such as technology upgrades, staffing, and capital equipment, making a lasting impact on Lake-Sumter State College (LSSC) students. 

Start Strong with Scholarships and Support 

In Fall 2024, LSSC experienced a 15% increase in enrollment, reaching a record of 6,000 plus students. At the same time, scholarship applications continue to increase by 32%, leading to the distribution of much-needed scholarship awards totaling $600,000. Thanks to generous contributions, the LSSC Foundation awarded $1.3 million in scholarships to more than 2,000 students in 2024. An amazing fact is that 88% of students that received a LSSC scholarship in the last 5 years have graduated, transferred to a 4-year university, or are still enrolled with us. This shows us that our students need to know that we care and believe in them. 

Finish Confidently with Expanded Programs 

Your donations fuel our ability to: 

  • Expand healthcare programs in development, Medical Lab Technology, Respiratory Therapy and Physical Therapy Assisting. 
  • Launch new academic pathways such as the Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and the Sports Leadership Concentration in our Bachelors of Applied Science in Leadership.
  • Support the growth of our Digital and Performing Arts Program
  • Introduce new degrees like the A.S. Degree in Building Construction Management and Water and Wastewater Treatment Certificate 
  • Introduce eSports Teams 

Helping Students Finish Despite Life’s Challenges 

Sometimes, unexpected hurdles can make it difficult for students to stay on track. In the first three quarters of 2024, the LSSC Foundation has provided $16,000 in emergency grants to students facing extenuating circumstances, ensuring they can continue their studies and reach the finish line despite life’s obstacles. This money pays a bill up to $1,000 for a student one time during their enrollment with LSSC. 

We are also making moves to address food insecurity on our campuses. We will establish a grocery store experience for hungry students in needs. This will launch on our Leesburg campus this fall, the South Lake campus in the spring and out two other sites from there.  

From start to finish, your contributions change lives, providing LSSC students with the tools, opportunities, and support they need to succeed. Every donation, no matter the size, helps us make sure students in our community can start strong and finish stronger. 

Join us today by making a gift to the Annual Campaign, and help us build brighter futures. 

Dr. Laura Byrd
Senior Vice-President of Institutional Advancement and Executive Director of the LSSC Foundation.


Donations Options

LSSC Employee Payroll Deduction

All pledges received by December 15, 2024, will be effective beginning January 15, 2025. All pledges will go toward the 2025 Goal.

Please notify Payroll in writing at Payroll@LSSC.EDU to request to terminate the deduction by the 1st or 16th of the pay period for the change to happen in the specific pay period.

One Time/Recurring Donation

You can make a one-time or monthly recurring gift today using your credit or debit card. All one-time contributions and monthly pledges will go toward the 2024 goal.


Annual Campaign Kick-off Dinner & Board Meeting

Join the 2025 Annual Foundation Board Meeting & Annual Campaign Kick-Off “Changing Lives…Building Futures” on Thursday, January 9, 2025, at 6:00 pm in the Magnolia Room on the Leesburg Campus.


Email: Foundation@LSSC.EDU
Phone: (352) 365-3518
Office: Leesburg Campus, SSB.

Monday – Friday:8:00am – 4:30pm
Saturday – Sunday:Closed