Lake County, FL – Lake-Sumter State College (LSSC) is celebrating its nursing graduates who posted an impressive 97.3% first-time pass rate on the 2024 National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX). This figure significantly exceeds both state and national averages, highlighting LSSC’s commitment to preparing skilled healthcare professionals ready to meet Florida’s growing healthcare demands.
Dr. Laura Byrd, Interim President of LSSC, expressed pride in the institution’s rigorous education and hands-on training provided to nursing students. “Our excellent pass rates are a testament to our dedicated nursing faculty, academic support staff, community healthcare partners, and their unwavering commitment to student success,” Byrd stated. “We are producing highly qualified nurses who are prepared to make an immediate impact in healthcare facilities across Florida.”
According to the Florida Center for Nursing’s State of Nursing Education in Florida 2025 report, the state faces a projected shortfall of 31,000 nurses by 2035, underscoring the importance of nursing education. While the state average for first-time pass rates on the NCLEX is improving, LSSC stands out among Florida’s public institutions, ranking alongside top performers such as Seminole State College (98.1%) and the University of Central Florida (96.2%).
Dr. Christine Ramos, Associate Vice President of Health Professions, attributed the program’s success to an evidence-based curriculum that equips students with essential knowledge and practical nursing skills. “Our program fosters an engaging learning environment through innovative teaching methods, interactive discussions, and hands-on activities,” Ramos remarked.
In response to the projected nursing shortfall, LSSC has effectively doubled enrollment in its Associate in Science (AS) Nursing program over the past three years through partnerships with local hospitals and community organizations. The college has also implemented Dedicated Education Units (DEUs) at hospitals such as AdventHealth Waterman, Orlando Health South Lake Hospital, and UF Health Spanish Plaines Hospital. This model allows nursing students to gain clinical experience in a single facility under the mentorship of experienced nurses.
Ramos highlighted the benefits of the DEU model: “Students apply their classroom and simulation learning in a real-world setting, which makes their transition to full-time positions more seamless.”
With continued community support and strategic investments in healthcare education, LSSC’s nursing program is well-positioned to grow. Contributions from organizations such as the Live Well Foundation of South Lake and the Charles & Mary McLin Foundation have enhanced nursing simulation lab experiences, further bolstering student preparedness.
“If you’re interested in a career in nursing or health professions, I encourage you to explore what makes Lake-Sumter State College different,” Ramos urged. “Communication, collaboration, and teamwork are the pillars of our nursing program, committing us to nurturing both academic growth and personal development.”
Lake-Sumter State College offers a range of programs in health professions, including BS Nursing (RN-BSN), AS Health Services Administration, AS Medical Lab Technology, AS Nursing, and AS Respiratory Care. For more information about the AS Nursing or RN-BSN programs, visit www.lssc.edu/nursing or sign up for an admissions information session at enroll.lssc.edu.
