Online options have expanded dramatically, though hands-on programs maintain in-person requirements. For example,“our Criminal Justice Academy and Fire Academy do not have an online option. Of course, they have to be there,” says Dr. Lorenz.“But for other courses, there are a lot of online opportunities.” The compressed format yields unexpected benefits. “A lot of life events can happen in 16 weeks,” says Dr. Lorenz. “If something does happen, they don’t have to wait potentially 12 weeks to restart the course. Maybe they only have to wait four weeks.” Internal data validates the approach. “Our own data show that we enjoy great student success in those courses.” Lifelong learning shapes the broader vision.“Rather than going lock step through your higher education journey, you should be able to come in and out of higher education institutions as you need to acquire new skills,” Dr. Lorenz says.“I think the state colleges are ideally positioned to be that lifelong learning partner.” ASPEN RECOGNITION AND BOLD PRIORITIES Recognition as an Aspen Prize finalist validates years of systematic improvement at Seminole State.“We’re so very proud to have been considered one of the finalists,” says Dr. Lorenz. “I think it’s a reflection of many, many years of hard work at this college.” The secret lies in striking the right balance.“What we’ve been able to do is really strike a balance between having systems and processes in place so that students can’t help but know what courses they need 9 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 12, ISSUE 07 SEMINOLE STATE COLLEGE OF FLORIDA
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