“Boating with Brandon,” the inspirational 10-part video series hosted by District 3 Osceola County Commissioner Brandon Arrington has returned with its fifth episode, providing another immersive adventure exploring and featuring Osceola County’s beautiful waterways. This series not only highlights the rich biodiversity of Osceola County but also profiles the influential change-makers who are shaping its future.
In this episode, viewers will experience the thrilling beauty of Cypress Lake in Osceola County, guided by Wild Florida’s Co-owner Sam Haught. The journey on Cypress Lake promises breathtaking scenery, diverse wildlife, and insightful discussions about environmental conservation and community engagement.
Joining Commissioner Arrington is Valencia College President Dr. Kathleen Plinske. Together, they discuss the transformative impact of Osceola Prosper, an initiative that has been empowering Osceola County graduates for three years. Osceola Prosper allows graduates to attend Valencia College to earn an Associate in Arts or Associate in Science degree or complete one of Valencia College’s Accelerated Skills Training or Technical Certificate programs. Graduates may also choose to enroll in a program at Osceola Technical College, opening doors to numerous career opportunities and further education.
Tune in this Thursday morning at 7:30 to embark on this enlightening and scenic voyage. Don’t miss the chance to discover Cypress Lake’s natural splendor and learn about the incredible educational opportunities available through Osceola Prosper.
About Commissioner Brandon Arrington
Brandon Arrington was elected to the Osceola County Commission in 2008 to represent District 3. He serves on the Orlando Economic Partnership Board of Directors, the MetroPlan Orlando Board, and is the Chairman of the Central Florida Expressway Authority (CFX) Governing Board.
Throughout his career, Brandon has held various leadership positions, including Chairman of the Board in 2011, 2015, 2017, 2021, and 2022. His regional leadership roles include Chairman of MetroPlan Orlando, Vice Chairman of Lynx, Chairman of the SunRail Board, Central Florida Commission on Homelessness, and Chairman of Workforce Central Florida, among others.
In addition to his public service, Brandon is the Executive Director of Osceola Arts, where he champions the arts and works to provide cultural outlets to the diverse community. As a proud native of Kissimmee and a graduate of Osceola High School, he met his wife, Kristen, during his school years. Brandon is also an alumnus of Auburn University, where he proudly supports his alma mater with a spirited “War Eagle!”
Outside of his professional commitments, Brandon is an animal lover with a dog named Brody and enjoys spending time outdoors. He appreciates the community’s many amenities, from lakes and pristine parks to beautifully manicured golf courses.
About Valencia College President Dr. Kathleen Plinkse
Kathleen Plinske serves as president of Valencia College, a community college located in Orlando, Florida. As a first-generation college graduate, Plinske is passionate about the role education can play in transforming the lives of students and their families, and in turn, our communities.
Prior to being selected in a nationwide search as Valencia’s fifth president, Plinske had served at Valencia since 2010 as Campus President of the Osceola, Lake Nona, and Poinciana Campuses and as Executive Vice President and Provost. In these roles she spearheaded efforts to significantly increase access to higher education in traditionally underserved communities, led the planning of several new buildings and a new campus, organized efforts to design successful transfer and career pathways, and led the collaborative development of a collegewide strategic impact plan.
Plinske is happily married to her husband, Larry W. Tyree, who shares her love for golf, the Florida Gators, the Chicago Cubs, and their dog, Cooper.
