2015 All-Florida Academic Team members from SFSC. Pictured (left to right): Joy Derrick, Katie Leman, and Ruben De La Cruz. Not pictured: Jessica Saenz and Emma Cardinal.

2015 All-Florida Academic Team members from SFSC. Pictured (left to right): Joy Derrick, Katie Leman, and Ruben De La Cruz. Not pictured: Jessica Saenz and Emma Cardinal.

AVON PARK, Fla.–Feb. 24, 2015–The Florida College System recently announced that South Florida State College (SFSC) students Emma Cardinal, Ruben De La Cruz, Joy Derrick, Katelynne Leman, and Jessica Saenz were chosen to represent SFSC as members of the 2015 All-Florida Academic Team.

Only 124 students statewide were selected for the team, which is comprised of high-achieving college students from the 28 state and community colleges in the Florida College System. These students will be recognized at an awards ceremony on Thursday, April 9, at the Donald L. Tucker Civic Center in Tallahassee.

The All-Florida Academic Team recognizes outstanding students for academic achievement, leadership, and service to the community. These students were nominated by their respective colleges to the All-USA Academic Team competition sponsored by USA Today and the Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) International Honor Society. In addition, PTK also distinguishes the top 30 students of each class by selecting them to the All-Florida First Team based on ratings in competition throughout the state.

“I’m pleased to recognize this group of outstanding scholars for excelling in their studies while providing leadership and service to their schools and communities,” said Pam Stewart, commissioner of education. “Our colleges have done an excellent job preparing these students for success now and in the future. I’m confident these are among the next generation of leaders in the Sunshine State.”

In nominating students for the All-Florida Academic Team, colleges consider participation in honors programs; membership in, and awards received from, academic or honors organizations; awards and honors received for academic and leadership accomplishments; academic enrichment achieved through study, internships and cultural experiences; and sharing of academic attainments, knowledge and skills through community service.

The SFSC Honors Program is designed for those students who want to take on the full intellectual challenge of a college education. Students in the program gain intellectual development and cultural enrichment; are taught by qualified and experienced faculty; are eligible for scholarships; and receive recognition at SFSC’s graduation ceremony. For more information on the SFSC’s Honors Program, call Dr. Charlotte Pressler at 863-784-7247 or Charlotte.Pressler@southflorida.edu. For more information about the All-Florida Academic Team, visit the All-Florida Academic Team website www.floridacollegesystem.com/all-florida.