College Celebrates Inaugural Homecoming Alumni Panel
NEWS RELEASE
October 13, 2026Contact: Public Information Officer, press@phsc.edu
Pasco-Hernando State College Welcomes Alumni Back to Campus to Inspire Next Generation of Leaders
Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson joins accomplished PHSC graduates
to inspire students through conversations on leadership, career success and opportunities
beyond the classroom.
DADE CITY, Fla. (October 13, 2026) – Pasco-Hernando State College (PHSC) welcomed
an accomplished group of alumni back to campus on Monday, October 12, as part of the
College’s inaugural Homecoming Week celebration. The event brought together current
students and distinguished graduates for an engaging discussion on professional growth,
leadership and the lasting impact of a PHSC education.
Hosted at the Wilton Simpson Science and Innovation Center on PHSC’s East Campus, the
event featured a keynote address by PHSC alumnus and Florida Commissioner of
Agriculture Wilton Simpson, followed by a moderated panel discussion with fellow alumni
John Legg, Superintendent of Pasco County Schools; Nicole Deese Newlon, local attorney,
PHSC District Board of Trustees member and immediate past Board chair; and Samantha
Mutter, a MBA candidate at the University of South Florida.
Together, the alumni represented a range of professional experiences, demonstrating the
many pathways available to students pursuing careers in public service, education, law,
business and beyond.
“One of the greatest measures of our success as a college is what our students go on to
accomplish,” said PHSC President Eric Hall, Ed.D. “Our alumni demonstrate that a PHSC
education can open doors to meaningful careers and leadership opportunities. Bringing
them back to campus allows our current students to see what is possible and recognize
that the experiences and relationships they are building today can shape their futures.”
During his keynote address, Simpson reflected on his professional journey and the
experiences that helped shape his career, setting the stage for a broader conversation
about the value of education, perseverance and recognizing opportunities for personal and
professional advancement.
Building on those themes, the alumni panel offered students a firsthand perspective on
navigating career decisions, building meaningful professional relationships and developing
the skills necessary to succeed in an evolving workforce. Panelists also discussed
challenges encountered throughout their careers, lessons learned along the way and the
importance of remaining open to opportunities that may lead to unexpected paths.
Beyond academic achievement, the discussion emphasized the value of becoming
actively involved in the college experience. Through mentorship, networking, leadership
development and community engagement, students were encouraged to recognize that
the relationships and experiences formed during their time at PHSC can have a lasting
influence well beyond graduation.
As PHSC celebrates its first Homecoming Week, the event served as a reminder that the
College’s impact extends far beyond its campuses. Its graduates continue to make
meaningful contributions across Florida, serving as educators, business professionals,
public servants and community leaders.
By reconnecting accomplished alumni with the next generation of graduates, PHSC
reaffirmed its commitment to providing an education that not only prepares students for
successful careers but also equips them with the knowledge, confidence and connections
to make a lasting difference in the communities they serve.
Today’s students. Tomorrow’s leaders.
Photo: Eric Hall (Eric Hall.jpg)
Photo: Wilton Simpson (Wilton Simpson.jpg)
Photo: Alumni panelist members standing together (Panelist Group.jpg)
Photo: Alumni panelist members answering questions (Panelist Room Close.jpg)
About Pasco-Hernando State College
Pasco-Hernando State College serves Pasco and Hernando counties by providing
accessible, affordable, high-quality education and workforce training. Through academic
programs, career and technical education, and partnerships with regional employers,
PHSC prepares students for successful careers, continued education and lifelong learning.
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