DADE CITY – Pasco-Hernando State College welcomed alumni back to campus Oct. 12 as part of its inaugural Homecoming Week celebration.
The event brought together current students and distinguished graduates for a discussion on professional growth, leadership and the lasting impact of a PHSC education.
“One of the greatest measures of our success as a college is what our students go on to accomplish,” PHSC President Eric Hall said. “Our alumni demonstrate that a PHSC education can open doors to meaningful careers and leadership opportunities. Bringing them back to campus allows our current students to see what is possible and recognize that the experiences and relationships they are building today can shape their futures.”
Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson gave the keynote address.
Simpson, a PHSC alum, reflected on his professional journey and the experiences that helped shape his career. His remarks set the stage for a discussion about the value of education, perseverance and professional advancement.
Building on those themes, an alumni panel offered students a firsthand perspective on navigating career decisions, building meaningful professional relationships and developing the skills to succeed in an evolving workforce.
The panel included alumni John Legg, superintendent of Pasco County Schools; Nicole Deese Newlon, attorney and PHSC trustee; and Samantha Mutter, an MBA candidate at the University of South Florida.
Panelists discussed challenges encountered throughout their careers, lessons learned along the way and the importance of remaining open to opportunities that may lead to unexpected paths.
The discussion also emphasized how mentorship, networking, leadership development and community engagement can benefit students beyond graduation.
