Ghana to Gainesville: Polk State sets student on path to success
Theresa Aba Ackon’s venture to Polk State College spanned more than 5,500 miles. In less than two years on campus, however, Ackon has undoubtedly left her mark. A native of Ghana, Ackon is slated to…
Polk State grad overcomes cancer to achieve degree after two decades
Kristin Simpson earned her Polk State College Associate in Arts degree in May 2024 – more than 20 years after enrolling for the first time. Over the final two months, however, she faced more adversity…
Lane closure near Polk State Winter Haven scheduled for this week
Some commuters to and from Polk State College’s Winter Haven Campus may need to find an alternate route late this week as crews repair a portion of road south of campus. The westbound lane of…
Experience at Polk State College Gateway to College Collegiate High School leads top two graduates to remain at College
For the top two graduates in Polk State College Gateway to College Collegiate High School’s 2024 class, their experience over the last two years has motivated them to continue their academic careers at Polk State…
Lakeland Collegiate valedictorian and salutatorian credit school staff, parents for success
The first and second in Polk State Lakeland Collegiate High School’s 2024 graduating class are proud to be second and first, respectively. Valedictorian Isabel Perez is the second member of her family to earn the…
New to area, valedictorian and salutatorian find home at Polk State Chain of Lakes Collegiate High School
Daniela Peraza Vasquez and Alexandria Levesque were each brand new to the area when they enrolled at Polk State College Chain of Lakes Collegiate (COL) High School. The two will leave at the top of…
Polk State Nursing graduate continues a family legacy
Beverly Laidig began her journey into nursing with large shoes to fill. A member of Polk State College’s 130th graduating class, Laidig was inspired to go into the profession and attend Polk State by her…
Polk State high school senior overcomes brain surgery, receives National Cyber Award ahead of graduating with college degree
Taylor Alvarez is not defined by the brain tumor discovered her junior year of high school that resulted in brain surgery just a week later, so let’s get that part of her story out of…
Husband and wife to graduate from Polk State together
What husband and wife Jacob and Emily Booher described as a “supportive competition” has ended in a triumphant tie. Both will graduate as members of Polk State College’s 130th class. Emily Booher, 29, will receive…
Born in prison, Polk State Criminal Justice grad inspired to give back to students like her
For Destiny Fairless, life has been less than fair. Born in prison, she has been determined to overcome the impacts of her circumstances. Graduating from Polk State College with her Bachelor of Science in Criminal…