STUDENT BATTLES THROUGH CANCER TO REACH HER ACADEMIC GOALS

SEMINOLE STATE COMMITS graduate Stephanie Smith is proof that with hard work and determination anything is possible.

Last fall, Smith, 42, was part of the first cohort of Seminole State College of Florida students in the Seminole State Commits program to complete a pilot business certificate course at the Dr. Velma H. Williams Westside Community Center in Sanford’s Goldsboro community.

While enrolled in the program, Smith was battling Stage 4 Breast Cancer but didn’t let that stop her from finishing. Smith mastered Microsoft Office platforms PowerPoint and Excel and was so inspired by her courses and determination to help others, she started a nonprofit breast cancer foundation, Fighting Cancer and Surviving Cancer Foundation, Inc., whose mission is to offer resources and support that are meaningful to those newly diagnosed, in treatment, post-treatment and living with cancer.

“I want everyone to know that whatever your goals and dreams are, you can do it. I was sick fighting cancer and I made it. I’m very proud of myself and thankful to everyone at Seminole State who supported me.”

Smith plans to continue her education at Seminole State and pursue a bachelor's degree in Business and Information Management.