Florida College Leaders Announced: Lorenz Takes Charge for 2025!

Seminole, Florida, USA - The Florida College System has recently seen a changing of the guard, with significant updates announced at the June meeting held at Daytona State College. The Florida College System Council of Presidents (COP) has officially appointed Dr. Georgia Lorenz, President of Seminole State College, as its new chair for the upcoming year. This marks an exciting chapter not just for Dr. Lorenz but for the entire state’s educational landscape. Florida Daily reports that alongside her, Fred Hawkins, President of South Florida State College, has stepped into the role of vice chair, with Dr. Kathleen Plinske from Valencia College taking the vice chair elect position.

Dr. Lorenz expressed her gratitude for this selection, stating it’s an honor to lead in a time when Florida is making remarkable strides in higher education. Under her leadership at Seminole State, the college gained recognition as one of the top 10 community and state colleges nationwide by the Aspen Institute, reflecting a commitment to quality and inclusion. This reputation not only boosts the visibility of the college but also opens the door for better opportunities and resources for its students. Seminole State’s official page details Dr. Lorenz’s extensive experience, highlighting her to include over 20 years in higher education.

The New Leadership Team

Fred Hawkins emphasized that teamwork is crucial amongst college leaders, aiming to ensure every student has access to quality education—a vision that resonates deeply in today’s educational climate. Hawkins isn’t new to leadership roles; he’s the fifth president of South Florida State College and has a background in the Florida House of Representatives, enriching his perspective on the integration of education and governance.

As vice chair elect, Dr. Kathleen Plinske brings her own wealth of experience into the fold. The dynamic among these leaders points to a proactive approach to addressing the multifaceted challenges facing Florida’s public college system. Together, they represent a new wave of commitment and vision for higher education in the state.

Celebrating Achievements

Dr. Lorenz’s accolades are numerous. Apart from being named one of the 2025 Women of the Year by Orlando Magazine, she also secured a spot among the 50 Most Powerful People in Education. During her tenure at Seminole State, she successfully led initiatives that made the college eligible for the coveted $1 million Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence. Moreover, she has garnered recognition for her leadership during the tumultuous COVID-19 pandemic and was instrumental in launching Seminole State’s strategic initiative known as Flight Plan 2025.

Her strong educational background, including a Ph.D. in Educational Policy, Planning and Administration, along with her master’s and bachelor’s degrees from respected institutions, further underscores her preparedness for this significant chair position. To add to her community footprint, Dr. Lorenz actively volunteers for causes supporting foster youth, assisting them in achieving self-sufficiency as they transition into adulthood.

Looking Ahead

The Florida College System continues to advance under the guidance of the COP, as it seeks innovative methods to enhance education across 28 supported institutions. The Division of Florida Colleges, part of the Department of Education, focuses on continuous improvement and educational innovation, directing valuable resources towards the enhancement of the college system overall. For those interested in the organizational backbone, Florida’s official department of education directory provides contact information for key personnel who drive these initiatives.

As Dr. Lorenz steps into her new role, the expectations are high but so are the potential rewards. With collaboration at the forefront of their mission, the leadership team is well-positioned to tackle the challenges that lie ahead, ensuring that Florida remains a leader in higher education. There truly is something to be said for commitment and leadership that inspires growth and excellence.