2,800 degrees mark a milestone for Seminole State’s Spring 2026 graduates

Dan Donovan, senior director of Talent Orchestration for Universal Destinations & Experiences delivered the keynote address.

Tuesday, May 5, 2026
Written by: Emily Hollingshead

More than 2,300 graduates took the next step in their education during Seminole State College of Florida’s Spring 2026 Commencement on Tuesday, May 4, in Addition Financial Arena at University of Central Florida. The College awarded over 2,800 degrees and certificates this spring.

View the photos from Commencement on Facebook.

Dan Donovan delivering the keynote address at commencement — Dan Donovan delivered the
keynote address during
commencement.

Dan Donovan, senior director of Talent Orchestration across Universal Destinations & Experiences Marketing and Sales and chair of the Foundation for Seminole State College Board of Directors, delivered an inspiring keynote address. He reminded graduates that, “Everything you have learned comes with you. But what happens next is shaped by your choices, your relationships, and your willingness to stay curious about the moments that make you feel most alive.”

Dr. Simone Nelson, professor of biological sciences, issued the faculty challenge, and Madeleine Coffee, graduating president of the College’s Student Government Association at the Sanford/Lake Mary Campus, provided the student challenge. They encouraged the graduates to go forward with confidence and believe in themselves and their ability to grow to face the challenges ahead.

This idea was reinforced by President Dr. Georgia Lorenz as she addressed the crowd. “As you move forward from this day, know this: the world you are entering needs you,” she said. “It needs your preparation, your perspective, and your willingness to step up when it matters.”

During the ceremony, Seminole State proudly honored its 2026 Endowed Teaching Chair recipients whose exceptional work as educators has made a profound difference for students:

Endowed Teaching Chairs with Dr. Lorenz — Seminole State’s 2026 Endowed Teaching Chairs
(from left) James Rucks, Terina Nusinov, Dr.
Lorenz, Laura Dickinson and Dr. Maya Byfield.

Dr. Maya Byfield, professor of biological science: Siemens Endowed Teaching Chair
Laura Dickinson, professor of communication: CenturyLink Endowed Teaching Chair
Terina Nusinov, professor of biological science: Vinson Henderson Memorial Endowed Teaching Chair
James Rucks, professor of emergency medical services: The Chesley G. Magruder Foundation Endowed Teaching Chair

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

Graduates celebrated with a traditional cap toss and sent Seminole State-branded beach balls into the air, creating a joyful and memorable end to commencement.

A group of students make their way to their seats at graduation. They are smiling and waving. — Seminole State awarded credentials to more than 2,300 students, who were recognized during the College’s commencement on May 4.

Seminole State College of Florida, established in 1965, serves more than 24,000 students across four campuses in Central Florida and online. Guided by its purpose, Your Learning Partner for Career Success, Seminole State is a full-service education provider that thrives by adapting to and meeting the needs of an ever-changing, growing, vibrant region.

From associate and bachelor’s degrees to workforce certifications and adult education, Seminole State offers flexible, affordable, high-quality programs that prepare students for fulfilling and family-sustaining careers. Learn more at seminolestate.edu.

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