PHSC experiencing fall enrollment growth
NEW PORT RICHEY – Pasco-Hernando State College’s 2024 fall enrollment totals 9,891 students. While this number is not yet final, it represents an increase from fall 2023.
This growth includes a steady increase in dual enrollment, as well as first-time in college students.
The number of dual enrollment students served by Pasco-Hernando State College this fall has grown by 10% in just the last year, marking an increase in the number of high schoolers in Pasco and Hernando counties who are getting a head start on their higher education journey.
Not only has enrollment increased, but applications to the college are up 31%, with admitted students increasing 13% since 2023.
In addition, the percentage of high school seniors graduating in the top 10% of their class and then choosing Pasco-Hernando State College has grown over last year, indicating a strengthening preference for PHSC among high school graduates who are likely being recruited by multiple colleges and universities.
“With the populations of both Pasco and Hernando Counties growing, PHSC must continue to grow and evolve to meet our communities’ higher education needs within the scope of our mission and be the college of choice in our region,” President Jesse Pisors said. “It is exciting to see our enrollment continue to grow since we know that a PHSC education can lead to positive transformation in lives, families and communities.”
As enrollment increases, the PHSC Foundation has budgeted $1.4 million in funding for scholarships for the 2024-25 academic year, an 8% increase over the previous year.
“We are grateful to our donors who make it possible for so many students to receive much-needed financial support,” said Lisa Richardson, vice president of advancement, innovation and strategic partnerships.
Program puts CEOs in schools
TAMPA – CEOs in Schools returns for its sixth year, offering Tampa Bay area executives a rare, immersive experience inside public schools.
More than 150 business leaders will spend Nov. 1 alongside school principals, teachers and students, sharing their knowledge while gaining firsthand insights into the critical work of shaping future leaders.
This initiative is a collaborative effort between Hillsborough Education Foundation, Vistra Communications and Hillsborough County Public Schools.
“CEOs in Schools exemplifies the power of collaboration between business and education,” said Anna Corman, president and CEO of Hillsborough Education Foundation. “When CEOs and educators come together, they share valuable insights, forge lasting partnerships, and create new opportunities for student success. This program is about more than just a one-day experience—it’s about fostering relationships that will continue to benefit our schools, students, and community. We are excited to witness the collective impact of this year’s participants as they help shape the future of education in Hillsborough County.”
Business leaders interested in participating can reserve a school by visiting CEOsinSchools.com, but spots are filling fast.
Saint Leo University hosting open house
ST. LEO – Saint Leo University will welcome prospective students at its fall open house event on Oct. 26.
High school and transfer students are invited to visit campus and learn more about the innovative academic programs offered by the university.
Students who attend the Fall Open House are eligible to receive a $250 open house microscholarship.
The open house is set for 8:30 a.m. to noon Oct. 26 at the campus, 33701 County Road 52, St. Leo.
The open house will include a welcome session with university and academic leaders; campus tours including the Wellness Center; meeting current students and hearing about their experiences; learning about the university’s clubs and organizations; and a resource fair to meet faculty members and learn more about majors and degrees programs.
RSVPs are requested by Oct. 23. Register at saintleo.edu/student-experience/visit.
Staff/student achievements
• Brooke Heck, of Lutz, recently matriculated as a member of the Class of 2028 at Hamilton College in Clinton, N.Y. Heck, a graduate of The Hill School, was selected from a pool of 8,531 applicants from all 50 states and 139 countries and joins a community of approximately 2,000 undergraduate students.
• Pasco County Schools shared a reel on social media of Coach JD Baker ringing the bell at River Ridge High School in honor of his last radiation treatment for skin cancer.
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