industry partners, facilitating vital advisory council sessions and expanding our capacity to deliver cutting-edge programs,” she details. The conversation turns towards the college’s South Lake campus, where Dr. Bigard shares insights into future planning.“We’re currently engaged in a master planning process to predict and prepare for future needs.With Lake and Sumter counties being among the fastest growing in the state, we aim to anticipate the infrastructural demands this growth will impose on us,” she explains. This proactive strategy is crucial for keeping pace with demographic changes and ensuring that the college can continue to serve its community effectively. DR. Bigard also highlights innovative projects aimed at sustainability and technology. “At our Sumter Center, we’re exploring initiatives like a net zero energy emission campus with Cisco, leveraging solar technology to power the entire campus.Additionally, we’ve received $2 million to start planning a technology and innovation center that will focus on modernizing our technical curriculum around business entrepreneurship and digital design,” she adds. Finally,Dr.Bigard touches on an exciting development in sports leadership education. “Supported by a $900,000 grant from the Live Well Foundation, we are launching a Bachelor of Science in Sport Leadership. This program will be closely integrated with the National Training Center, offering students unparalleled access to Olympic-level training facilities and internships,” she avers, illustrating how these strategic investments broaden the college’s educational offerings and tie directly into local and regional economic ecosystems. COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT: BEYOND THE CLASSROOM At Lake-Sumter State College, the connection to the community extends far beyond academic achievements. Dr. Bigard explains how the institution embeds itself in the local fabric through various initiatives that involve service, leadership, and active participation in regional development. 109 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 11, ISSUE 06 LAKE-SUMTER STATE COLLEGE
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