In Florida, most students begin their higher education journey at community colleges.
Research indicates that a community college serves as the initial step for approximately60% of high school graduates in Florida who pursue postsecondary education.
Georgia Lorenz, president of Seminole State College, and chair of the Florida College SystemCouncil of Presidents, referred to as the “Great 28,” outlined how open-access institutions assist working students, contribute to the state’s labor force, and ensure smooth transfer opportunities to universities.
One of the factors contributing to the strong performance of Florida’s state colleges in national rankings is our close integration and operation as a unified system,” Lorenz stated. “We do not compete against each other. We view another college’s achievements as our own, and similarly, their successes are ours.
This position is reflected across the country. Studies indicate that community colleges enroll 40% of all undergraduate students and act as the main entry point for first-generation, low-income, Black, and Hispanic students. Almost a third of these students are over the age of 25, and most attend on a part-time basis while managing work and family responsibilities.
Assistance for this report was offered by the Lumina Foundation.
Lorenz emphasized the importance of organized transfer processes and direct collaborations with universities to ensure students do not waste time or lose credits when moving to a different institution.
If you enroll in English One at Seminole State, the learning goals are identical to those if you take it at Florida State or UF or UCF or Valencia,” Lorenz explained. “We have a shared prerequisite guide that helps students understand what they need to do to transfer with junior standing in their major.
Yet, a 2025 national report highlighted a major issue for community colleges: just 44% of students obtain a credential within six years. Studies indicate that structured, guided paths are essential to addressing this problem, which is precisely the approach used in Florida’s programs, such as those at Seminole State.Direct Connect to the University of Central FloridaA guaranteed transfer program research indicates better student results.
Assistance for this report was offered by the Lumina Foundation.