LAKELAND, FL — Florida Southern College celebrated a historic milestone on Saturday, May 2, by awarding degrees to 583 graduates, making it the largest graduating class in the institution’s history.
The commencement ceremony featured Lakeland Mayor Sara Roberts McCarley, a 1993 Florida Southern alumna, as the keynote speaker. McCarley was also awarded an honorary Doctor of Public Service degree in recognition of her leadership and dedication to the Lakeland community.
During her speech, McCarley encouraged graduates to embrace service, take chances, and remain engaged in their communities. Senior speaker Luke Reeves, a political science major and newly commissioned U.S. Army officer, also addressed the graduating class.
Several awards were presented during the ceremony, including the President’s Scholar Medal to marketing major Alisa Fine and the 2026 Honor Walk recognition to biology major Sriya Jupalli.
Florida Southern College also honored faculty members for excellence in teaching, leadership, and academic achievement. Of the 583 graduates, 517 earned undergraduate degrees and 66 completed graduate programs.
SOURCE: CITY OF LAKELAND
