FACILITIES COMMITTEE OF THE DISTRICT BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Wednesday, November 12, 2025 Minutes
In attendance: Steve Munz, Chair, Bret Jones, President John Temple, Dr. Laura Byrd, Thom Kieft, and Kailyn Simone.
Mr. Steve Munz called the meeting to order at 3:30 pm.
South Lake Campus
RFQ for Health and Human Performance Center
The RFQ for the architect and engineer has been posted and there are currently about a dozen architects completing proposals with a deadline of 11/18/25. The College will score the proposals received and invite for a presentation in December. This item is scheduled to be on the January board meeting agenda.
Health and Human Performance Center Funding
The College presented to AdventHealth for a $5 million dollar grant request this month and are pending a response on whether the College will receive their support. This week the College will be presenting for a $10 million dollar grant request with the LiveWell Foundation of South Lake.
The College submitted a request with the Florida Commerce grant in Tallahassee for $5 million dollars and looking into the LINE grant opportunity for submission.
Science-Health Building Chiller and Pipe Insulation
The College received 3 bids for the insulation of the pipes and chillers at the South Lake Campus. The vendor selected will begin work in the next month on reinsulating and repiping to improve the functionality and effectiveness of the chiller systems. This project will be completed by the end of the fall semester.
Braille Room Signage Project
The College received �indings from the DOE Of�ice of Civil Rights and part of the �indings were updating braille signage on all campuses. Updates to the braille signage on all campus is underway with the �irst batch to be received within 3-4 weeks. The remainder of the signs will be updated throughout the �iscal year. This projects is projected to be completed by June 2026.
Leesburg
Campus
CMAR & Design for Workforce Development Center
President Temple will be presenting this item at the November board meeting to share an overall status of the project and next steps for board approval of a contract.
Lake Hall Restrooms Renovation
Renovations of the restrooms will include new LED lighting, depending on plumbing, some sinks and toilets, along with painting and �looring.
0126-01
Of�ice Relocations
Some of�ices are being recon�igured to update and move spaces to the most appropriate department of�ice areas. The Of�ice of Student Wellness and Of�ice of Career Development will now be moved to the Student Center and is receiving new carpet. The Of�ice of Career Development will eventually relocate to the Workforce Development Center once complete. A nursing of�ice in Health Science Building will be updated to accommodate space for two employees. The of�ice in the Production Studio will be converted into a large storage space and the employees will be moved to the Student Services Building next door. These relocations and updates are projected to be completed by the end of October 2025.
Chiller Plant Service Agreement
The College has a 1 year agreement with ECS vendor to assist with replacement of 11 chiller pumps. Currently, Siemens vendor is not available to provide replacement pumps.
Gym and Health Sciences Center Fire Safety Inspections
The Health Science Building (HSC) and Gymnasium will need the �ire safety updates. The HSC Building will replace the devices throughout the building, however the Gym will need complete rewiring and updated devices. This project is projected to be completed by December 2025.
Fine Arts Building Renovation
The LSSC Foundation, Inc. is working with a community partner for RFQ for bids on the renovation of the Fine Arts Building. Updates would include auditorium space, ADA accommodations, lighting, controls, sound, �looring, new roof, HVAC, and water intrusion. The LSSC Foundation, Inc. has had money set aside for this building over the years and has accrued interest to assist with renovations along with assistance from the community partner.
Mr. Steve Munz adjourned the meeting at 3:55 pm.
Respectfully submitted by Kailyn Simone, Recording Secretary.
Lake-Sumter State College FINANCE COMMITTEE OF THE DISTRICT BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Monday, November 17, 2025 Minutes
In attendance: Tim Morris, Chair, Bret Jones, Trustee, President John Temple, Dr. Laura Byrd, Bruce Duncan, Michelle Matis, and Kailyn Simone
Mr. Tim Morris called the meeting to order at 3:00 pm.
October Fiscal Report
The Committee reviewed the October 2025 �iscal reports that will be presented to the Board for approval at the next meeting..
Grant Opportunities
The College presented to AdventHealth for a $5 million dollar grant request this month and are pending a response on whether the College will receive their support. This week the College will be presenting for a $10 million dollar grant request with the LiveWell Foundation of South Lake. The College submitted a request with the Florida Commerce grant in Tallahassee for $5 million dollars and looking into the LINE grant opportunity for submission. The grant opportunities for the Eustis state with either the EDA grant or assistance from Congressman Webster’s of�ice is still pending.
The LSSC Foundation, Inc.
The Committee reviewed The LSSC Foundation, Inc. 990, Audit, and 2026 proposed budget that will be presented to the Board for approval at the next meeting.
Mr. Tim Morris adjourned the meeting at 3:14 pm.
Respectfully submitted by Kailyn Simone, Recording Secretary.
Lake-Sumter State College
STRATEGIC PLANNING COMMITTEE OF THE DISTRICT BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Monday, November 17, 2025 Minutes
In attendance: David Hidalgo, Chair, President John Temple, Dr. Laura Byrd, and Kailyn Simone.
Mr. David Hidalgo called the meeting to order at 5:00 pm.
Grant Opportunities
The College presented to AdventHealth for a $5 million dollar grant request this month and are pending a response on whether the College will receive their support. This week the College will be presenting for a $10 million dollar grant request with the LiveWell Foundation of South Lake. The College submitted a request with the Florida Commerce grant in Tallahassee for $5 million dollars and looking into the LINE grant opportunity for submission. The grant opportunities for the Eustis state with either the EDA grant or assistance from Congressman Webster’s of�ice is still pending.
Other
The Committee discussed the 2026 legislative budget requests and the possibility of utilizing the College commercial property for hotel investment opportunities that would create a sustainable source of income. Discussed the timeline for the new strategic plan and Board approval process. President Temple shared updates from the COP legislative �ly-in and the trip to NWFSC to see their aquaponics program and development.
Mr. David Hidalgo adjourned the meeting at 6:17pm.
Respectfully submitted by Kailyn Simone, Recording Secretary.
0126-04
Lake-Sumter State College
STUDENT ENGAGEMENT COMMITTEE OF THE DISTRICT BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Tuesday, November 18, 2025 Minutes
In attendance: Ivy Parks, Chair, President John Temple, Dr. Laura Byrd, Dr. Joseph Mews, and Kailyn Simone
Ms. Ivy Parks called the meeting to order at 5:15 pm.
Spring Registration
Dr. Joseph Mews shared updates on spring registration prior to classes beginning in January. The Enrollment and Student Affairs Teams are working on increasing retention and closing the retention gap. Current enrollment projections are ahead from fall 2024-2025.
Student Recruitment Initiatives
The Enrollment and Student Affairs Teams are working on student outreach by hosting several open house events on all campuses. These events combined had over 700 visitors that shows an early increase in student engagement on campus. Applications received has increased to over 80% with over 1,800 application submitted and over 550 submitted for the fall 2026 semester.
Student Activities
Numerous student activities were held from last month’s meeting from Phi Theta Kappa Induction Ceremony, Halloween Spirit Week, Volleyball Pink Night, and athletics send-offs for Cross Country and Volleyball. The FCSAA Publications Associations awarded the LSSC Angler and Odysseys 10 awards between the two programs and within the State college system. The food drive for the Lakwhawks Harvest Pantry will provided extended hours this week for students to have access to food. The Of�ice of Wellness is providing large breakfast options and snacks for students during �inals week to assist with stress relief.
Athletics
The Women’s Volleyball team �inished 2nd in the FCSAA Regional Tournament and the Men’s & Women’s Cross Country teams traveled to Iowa to compete in the NJCAA DII Cross Country Championships. The Men’s team �inished 21st and the Women’s team �inished 29th overall out of over 40 teams competing.
Ms. Ivy Parks adjourned the meeting at 5:38 pm.
Respectfully submitted by Kailyn Simone, Recording Secretary.
Back to agenda ITEM: 0126-05
DISTRICT BOARD OF TRUSTEES
LAKE-SUMTER STATE COLLEGE
SOUTH LAKE CAMPUS
November 19, 2025
PRESENT: Mr. Bret Jones, Board Chair, Board Members: Mr. Roger Croft, Mr. Tim Morris, Mr. Steve Munz, Ms. Ivy Parks, Ms. Anita Geraci-Carver, Board Attorney, Mr. John Temple, LSSC President.
ABSENT: Mr. David Hidalgo, Ms. Samantha Scott, Board Members.
CALL-TO-ORDER:
The regular meeting of the District Board of Trustees, Lake-Sumter State College, was called to order by Board Chair Bret Jones at 5:00 p.m. on November 19, 2025, at the South Lake Campus.
PUBLIC COMMENT:
No public comment cards were submitted.
PRESENTATIONS:
Dr. Joseph Mews presented and introduced the fall sports student athletes of Cross Country/Half Marathon and Volleyball to the District Board of Trustees.
Dr. Laura Byrd presented achievements and updates from The LSSC Foundation, Inc.
CONSENT CONSIDERATIONS:
1125-01 Minutes of October 7, 2025 Student Engagement Committee Meeting
1125-02 Minutes of October 8, 2025 Facilities Committee Meeting
1125-03 Minutes of October 13, 2025 Finance Committee Meeting
1125-04 Minutes of October 13, 2025 Strategic Planning Committee Meeting
1125-05 Minutes of October 15, 2025 Regular Board Meeting
1125-06 Personnel Staff Changes
1125-07 Monthly Fiscal Report for October 2025
1125-08 Capital Improvement Projects Report
1125-09 Proposed Curriculum Changes
1125-10 The LSSC Foundation, Inc. 990
1125-11 2026-2027 Early College Agreements
1125-12 Preliminary New Program Proposal – Associate of Science in Development & Design MOTION to approve the consent considerations 1025-01 through 1025-13, Mr. Steve Munez, SECOND, Mr. Roger Croft, motion passed unanimously.
Back to agenda
ITEM: 0126-05
SCHEDULED INFORMATION REPORTS:
LSSC President, Mr. John Temple, presented his report.
• TheCollegewillbeclosedforThanksgivingbreakfrom11/26-11/28.The Collegeholidaypartywillbeheldon12/12andthePresidentseekstorequest approvalfromtheBoardforclosingtheCollegeafter1:00pmon12/12 MOTION to approve closing of the College on 12/12/25 at 1:00 pm, Mr. Tim Morris, SECOND, Mr. Steve Munz, motion passed unanimously.
Mr. Bret Jones presented the reports for the Executive Committee and the Public-Private Partnership Committee.
Mr. Steve Munz presented the report for the Facilities Committee.
Mr. Tim Morris presented the report for the Finance Committee.
President John Temple presented the report for the Strategic Planning Committee on behalf of Mr. David Hidalgo’s absence.
Ms. Ivy Parks presented the report for the Student Engagement Committee
Dr. Laura Byrd presented the report for the Foundation Liaison on behalf of Ms. Samantha Scott’s absence.
Back to agenda ITEM: 0126-05
NEW BUSINESS:
1125-17 ANNUAL RECERTIFICATION DSO & MEMBERS – THE LSSC FOUNDATION, INC.
LSSC Board Rule 1.07 states the District Board of Trustees shall annually approve all direct support organizations (DSO). Annual re-certification of The LSSC Foundation, Inc. as a direct support organization for Lake- Sumter State College.
At the July 23, 2025 Lake-Sumter State College Foundation Quarterly Board meeting, the Board approved and recommends to the District Board of Trustees the 2026 slate of Foundation
Officers and Directors: Michelle Michnoff, President
Deputy Chief Michael McMaster, President-Elect
John George, Vice-President
Sheri Olson, Treasurer
Josh Gonzales, Past President
Samantha Scott, Trustee Liaison
Dr. Laura Byrd, Secretary
John Temple, LSSC President
Sybil Brown, Faculty Liaison
Shayna Grunewald
Kandy Medlen
Stacie Price
John Smith
Carl Specci
MOTION to approve the re-certification of the LSSC Foundation, Inc. and 2026 Foundation Board Officers and Directors, Mr. Tim Morris, SECOND, Ms. Ivy Parks, motion passed unanimously.
1125-18 THE LSSC FOUNDATION, INC. 2024 AUDIT
The Lake-Sumter State College Foundation Board accepted the 2024 LSSC Foundation audit and is presented to the LSSC District Board of Trustees for review. This item is for acknowledgement only.
1125-19 THE LSSC FOUNDATION, INC. 2026 BUDGET INCLUDING COLLEGE SUPPORT
The Lake-Sumter State College Foundation, Inc. Board approved the 2026 budget to include inkind contributions from the College. It is now being presented to the LSSC District Board of Trustees for approval.
MOTION to approve the LSSC Foundation, Inc. 2026 Budget, Mr. Tim Morris, SECOND, Ms. Ivy Parks, motion passed unanimously.
Back to agenda ITEM: 0126-05
1125-20 2026-2027 PERSONNEL CALENDAR
Each year the personnel calendar for the upcoming fiscal year is brought to the District Board of Trustees for approval for 24 paid days when the College is closed and Four-Day Summer Work Week Schedule.
MOTION to approve the 2026-2027 Personnel Calendar, Ms. Ivy Parks, SECOND, Mr. Tim Morris, motion passed unanimously.
1125-21 SECOND READING OF BOARD RULE 3.09 ACADEMIC CREDIT NOT EARNED AT LSSC
Due to changes in how accreditors are recognized by the U.S. Department of Education (USDOE), references to “regionally accredited institutions” needs to be updated to match current policy and practice. The reference section was updated to a more appropriate Florida Statute to reference support of Rule.
MOTION to approve the updated Board Rule 3.09 Academic Credit Not Earned at LSSC, Mr. Steve Munz, SECOND, Mr. Tim Morris, motion passed unanimously.
1125-22 FIRST READING OF BOARD RULE 2.02 NON-DISCRIMINATION
Board Rule 2.02 needs to be updated to comply with findings from a 2025 On-Site Civil Rights Compliance Review by the Florida Department of Education. This update reflects the updated non-discrimination statement and removes any reference to gender. This item is for informational purposes only.
Meeting adjourned at 6:16 pm per Board Rule 1.01, Florida Statute 120 Meeting reconvened at 6:16 pm.
1125-23 2025-2028 ORLANDO HEALTH SOUTH LAKE AGENDA COMBINED CLINICAL AGREEMENT
The College currently has two clinical affiliation agreements with Orlando Health South Lake that are set to expire in fall 2025. These agreements allow students in healthcare programs to complete clinicals at Orlando Health facilities. Overtime, these agreements have been amended to extend the terms and add additional information. The agreement proposed will combine both agreements to compile current and all amended information while also extending the terms to 2028.
MOTION to approve the 2025-2028 Orlando Health South Lake Clinical Affiliation Agreement, Ms. Ivy Parks, SECOND, Mr. Roger Croft, motion passed unanimously.
At the Leesburg Campus, there were two signs located within the U.S. Hwy 441 Right of Way. The signs were permitted through an easement that allowed the College to build and maintain the signs within the right of way. After the College built the new digital sign, the
Back to agenda ITEM: 0126-05 signs in the right of way were no longer appropriate. The signs were removed at the expense of the developer of the adjacent property across College Drive, pursuant to an agreement negotiated through the Contract Administrator’s Office. There is no longer a need for the easement and it should be terminated. There are no other college owned or maintained items such as water lines, sewer lines or electrical conduits located within the easement. This is merely cleaning up an issue in order to prevent it from causing a concern in the future.
MOTION to approve the Termination of the Gateway Sign Agreement, Mr. Tim Morris, SECOND, Mr. Steve Munz, motion passed unanimously.
1125-25 LAKE TECHNICAL COLLEGE & LSSC FACILITY USE AGREEMENT AT SOUTH LAKE
Lake Technical College has utilized classroom and lab space on LSSC’s South Lake Campus for about six years to offer their LPN, ESOL/GED, and Paramedic programs to residents of south Lake County. The previous Facilities Use Agreement between LSSC and Lake Tech College ended on June 30, 2024. This Extension prolongs the previous Agreement for the use of facilities on LSSC’s South Lake Campus to June 30, 2026 and retroactively takes effect on July 1, 2024. All prior terms and conditions contained in the Agreement of July 1, 2021 shall remain in full force and effect.
MOTION to approve the Lake Technical College Facility Use of the South Lake Campus Extension Agreement, Ms. Ivy Parks, SECOND, Mr. Roger Croft, motion passed unanimously.
1125-26 INQUIRY FOR LEESBURG CAMPUS PROPERTY PURCHASE
The College has received an unsolicited inquiry regarding the potential purchase of a parcel of property located within the Leesburg Campus. The District Board of Trustees has no obligation to respond or consider this request. This item is for informational purposes only.
1125-27
LETTER OF INTEREST PARTNERSHIP PROPOSAL FOR FILM & MEDIA STUDIO WITH DJK-KJD
DJK-KJD seeks to build a state-of-the-art virtual production studio that operates both as a professional creative facility and as an educational innovation hub, allowing students to be immersed in the same workflows and technologies as leading global media companies. These opportunities would align with the College's AS in Digital Media Creative Video Production program.
MOTION to table the item for DJK-KJD to present to the Board at the next meeting for further consideration, Mr. Tim Morris, SECOND, Ms. Ivy Parks, motion passed unanimously.
1125-28 DEMOLITION OF THE LIBRARY BUILDING CAMPUS GUARANTEED MAX PRICE
This project amount exceeds $195,000 requiring prior approval of the District Board of Trustees. Faden Builders, Inc., one of the two approved firms to be contracted with as Construction Manager At Risk on continuing contract, has submitted the guaranteed maximum price (GMP) of $368,000. This GMP includes major abatement of asbestos containing materials (ACM) which needs to be removed by specially trained vendors. There is over 12,000 sq. ft. of ACM in the building primarily from the black mastic in the flooring but also ACM in window caulking and ductwork. This GMP also covers replacing 400 ft of sidewalk from the former library to parking lot A as well as sod installation and irrigation system expansion once the building is removed. Supporting documentation includes additional information. It is recommended to award the project to Faden Builders, Inc. for $368,000. This item is being brought back from the September District Board of Trustees meeting for consideration.
MOTION to table the item until further notice is provided by the state and will bring back this item at a later date, Mr. Steve Munz, SECOND, Ms. Ivy Parks, motion passed unanimously.
1125-29 SELECTION CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT FIRM – WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT
It is recommended that the ranked short-list of contractors be approved and authority delegated to the president and president’s designees to enter into contract negotiations with the highest ranked contractor for the preconstruction and construction of the Workforce Development Center. Should negotiations be unsuccessful with the top ranked contractor, negotiations will be terminated and shall progress in rank order of the contractors until successful contract negotiations are accomplished. This item is being brought back from the September District Board of Trustees meeting for consideration.
MOTION to table the item for further consideration at the next board meeting, Ms. Ivy Parks, SECOND, Mr. Steve Munz, motion passed unanimously.
OTHER CONSIDERATIONS
:
The next regular meeting is scheduled for January 21, 2025 at the South Lake Campus
The meeting was adjourned at 6:28 p.m.
ATTEST:
Mr. Bret Jones, Chair
Recording Secretary: Kailyn Simone
Mr. John Temple, Secretary/ College President
Back to agenda
ITEM: 0126-06
Lake-Sumter State College
SPECIAL MEETING OF THE DISTRICT BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Thursday, December 4, 2025 Minutes
In attendance: Bret Jones, Chair, Roger Croft, David Hidalgo, Tim Morris, Steve Munz, Samantha Scott, Trustees, Anita Geraci-Carver, Board Attorney, John Temple, President.
Mr. Bret Jones called the meeting to order at 1:02 pm.
PRESENTATIONS
DJK-KJD Studios submitted a letter of interest to the Board of Trustees for a partnership on the Leesburg Campus. Representatives from the company presented their proposal to build a stateof-the-art virtual production studio that operates both as a professional creative facility and as an educational innovation hub, allowing students to be immersed in the same work�lows and technologies as leading global media companies. These opportunities would align with the College's AS in Digital Media Creative Video Production program. DJK-KJD is ready to contribute signi�icant resources to bring this vision to life. The company is in the midst of a $10m fundraising campaign and their investors require a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with LSSC. They propose a non-binding MOU that outlines the partnership and agreements between DJK-KJD and Lake-Sumter State College, including their rights to utilize 3 acres of the Leesburg Campus in phase one of the partnership to create the studio complex, with more acreage in further phases that will include a backlot, theater and other tourist attractions. The MOU will give DJK-KJD an exclusive window to develop and of�icially green-light the project and allow us to express to our investors secured interest from LSSC.
NEW BUSINESS
ITEM: 1225-02: LETTER OF INTEREST PARTNERSHIP PROPOSAL FOR FILM & MEDIA STUDIO WITH DJK-KJD
They propose a non-binding MOU that outlines the partnership and agreements between DJKKJD and Lake-Sumter State College, including their rights to utilize 3 acres of the Leesburg Campus in phase one of the partnership to create the studio complex, with more acreage in further phases that will include a backlot, theater and other tourist attractions. The MOU will give DJK-KJD an exclusive window to develop and of�icially green-light the project and allow us to express to our investors secured interest from LSSC. These opportunities would align with the College's AS in Digital Media Creative Video Production program.
MOTION to approve moving forward and enter negotiations of a non-binding MOU with DJKKJD studios, Mr. Roger Croft, SECOND, Mr. Steve Munz, motion passed unanimously.
PRESIDENT’S REPORT
Back to agenda ITEM: 0126-06
President John Temple asked Vice President of Technology Innovation, Nick Kemp, to share an update and opportunity on the Education Broadcast Services (EBS) license on several broadband channels in Leesburg with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). The College entered into an agreement for this service in September 2005 and an outside vendor is offering to buy the license. The College is seeking guidance from the Board to have conversations with the outside vendor on an offer.
The Board is amenable for the College to have conversations with the outside vendor about offers for the license.
NEW BUSINESS CONTINUED
ITEM: 1225-03: WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT CENTER – UNSOLICITED PROPOSAL
The College received an unsolicited proposal for work on the Workforce Development Center. There are three options available to the Board of Trustees as it relates to the unsolicited proposal:
1.Choose not to evaluate the unsolicited proposal.
2.Proceed with the unsolicited proposal without soliciting other proposals by holding two public hearings and making certain �indings as set forth in the statute.
3.Public notice soliciting other proposals to evaluate in conjunction with the unsolicited proposal.
MOTION to publicly notice soliciting other proposals to evaluate in conjunction with the unsolicited proposal and hold a meeting at the end of December to review proposals, Mr. Tim Morris, SECOND, Ms. Samantha Scott, motion passed unanimously.
ITEM: 1225-04: SELECTION CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT FIRM – WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT CENTER
This item is being brought back from previous Board meetings from being tabled.
LSSC issued RFQ 26-01, Request for Quali�ications for Construction Manager at Risk & Preconstruction Services for the Workforce Development Center. The shortlisted contractors in rank order were determined to be the best for meeting the needs for this project. The following short-listed contractors are:
1.Skanska
2.Pirtle
3.Welbro
It is recommended that the ranked short-list of contractors be approved and authority delegated to the president and president’s designees to enter into contract negotiations with the highest ranked contractor for the preconstruction and construction of the Workforce Development Center.
MOTION to table this item until the next Board meeting, Mr. Tim Morris, SECOND, Mr. Steve Munz, motion passed unanimously.
Mr. Bret Jones adjourned the meeting at 2:12 pm.
Respectfully submitted by Kailyn Simone, Recording Secretary.
• If request for proposals are considered, Board should waive any information not provided in statutory requirement.
• Rank the proposals.
• Select a �irm and negotiate contract.
• OR reject all proposals.
PUBLIC COMMENT
No public comments were submitted.
PRESENTATIONS
Florida Development Solutions, Scorpio, Spiezle
Representatives from Florida Department Solutions and Scorpio shared a brief overview and presentation of their proposal for the Workforce Development Center on the Leesburg Campus.
Nicholas & Associates, OWA Architects
Representatives from Nicholas & Associates and OWA Architects shared a brief overview and presentation of their proposal for the Workforce Development Center on the Leesburg Campus.
DISCUSSION
After the presentations, the Board received a comprehensive review of both proposals from Florida Architects, Inc. (FLA). Given this new information, the Board would like to continue this item of selecting a company to have them respond to the FLA review. President John Temple stated he will contact the Department of Education on the continuance for appropriations of the Workforce Development Center due to the deadline for use of funds approaching.
Back to agenda
ITEM: 0126-07
MOTION to waive any information not provided in the statutory requirement, Ms. Samantha Scott, SECOND, Mr. Tim Morris, motion passed unanimously.
MOTION for companies who submitted proposals to respond to the Florida Architects, Inc. review of proposals by January 14th, Mr. Tim Morris, SECOND, Ms. Samantha Scott, motion passed unanimously.
NEW BUSINESS
ITEM: 1225-01.1 SELECTION OF DESIGN-BUILD SERVICES PROPOSAL FOR WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT CENTER
No action was taken on this item as this special meeting is only noticed for considered the proposals received and this item will be heard at the next meeting.
Mr. Bret Jones adjourned the meeting at 6:02 pm.
Respectfully submitted by Kailyn Simone, Recording Secretary.
0126-08
Lake-Sumter State College
STRATEGIC PLANNING COMMITTEE OF THE DISTRICT BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Monday, January 12, 2026 Minutes
In attendance: David Hidalgo, Chair, Bret Jones, Trustee, John Temple, President, Dr. Laura Byrd, and Kailyn Simone
Mr. David Hidalgo called the meeting to order at 4:32 pm.
Workforce Development Center
President John Temple shared the two companies who submitted proposals for the building will submit responses to the Florida Architects, Inc. review by January 14th. The College is ready to submit a request for extension of appropriations for the building to the Department of Education.
Clermont Campus Building
The LSSC Foundation, Inc. was awarded $10 million dollars in support from the LiveWell Foundation of South Lake for the new healthcare building on the South Lake Campus. The Foundation also received a $1 million dollar invest from AdventHealth. The development plan for this building is to open in fall of 2027.
Strategic Plan
The College will be sending out a survey to employees for feedback on the plan and ask of any adjustments or additions. The results of the survey will be shared with the internal Strategic Planning Council, then with Cabinet, and �inally with the Board Strategic Planning Committee. The current plan ends in June 2026 and the College is scheduling to have a new plan in place by May 1 for the Board to approve that same month.
Legislative Ask Progress
President Temple stated there are no updates yet on the College’s legislative asks as session started this week.
Mr. David Hidalgo adjourned the meeting at 4:52 pm.
Respectfully submitted by Kailyn Simone, Recording Secretary.
Lake-Sumter State College FINANCE COMMITTEE OF THE DISTRICT BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Wednesday, January 21, 2026 Minutes
In attendance: Tim Morris, Chair, John Temple, President, Dr. Laura Byrd, Bruce Duncan, Michelle Matis, and Kailyn Simone
Mr. Tim Morris called the meeting to order at 4:00 pm.
November & December Fiscal Reports
The Committee reviewed the November & December 2025 �iscal reports that will be presented to the Board for approval at the next meeting.
All Funds Report
Ms. Michelle Matis presented the All Funds Report to the Committee for review.
Purchases Over $65,000
The Committee reviewed the list of purchases over $65,000 that will be presented to the Board for approval at the next meeting.
Other
Budget developments for �iscal year 2026 are underway and the Finance team is getting ready for the upcoming year. The tuition and fees schedule will be �inalized next month and will be ready for review and approval by the Board at the March meeting. The Accounting team is working on updating standards to the GASB pronouncements. The new Director of Procurement started this week.
Mr. Tim Morris adjourned the meeting at 4:04 pm.
Respectfully submitted by Kailyn Simone, Recording Secretary.
Personnel Staff Changes Agenda Item:
Background/References
Per the Florida Statute 1001.64 (18), each Board of Trustees shall establish the personnel program for all employees of the Florida College System institution. Human Resources personnel transactions includes New Hires, Resignations, Retirements, and Separations that are presented to the District Board of Trustees for review.
Description
Staff New Hires:
Jacob Salminen Director, Health Professions Simulation 11/03/2025
Barbara Munoz Academic Advisor I 11/03/2025
Curline Grant Manager, HR Organizational Development & Operations 11/03/2025
Kassandra Landry Clinical Coordinator, Health Professions Programs 11/10/2025
Brendan Schatzki Developer II, Enterprise Application 11/10/2025
Meleana Tirado Clinical Coordinator, Health Professions Programs 11/18/2025
Staff Status Changes:
Robert Johnson Executive Director, Technology Infrastructure Promotion 11/03/2025
Shannon Herrera Development Officer Resignation 11/14/2025
Sunetta Lahel Director, HR Recruitment and Organizational Development Resignation 11/25/2025
Shasten Hildebrand Executive Assistant, Vice President of Enrollment & Student Affairs Resignation 12/10/2025
Marilyn Cole Student Success Coordinator Retirement 12/12/2025
Jacquelyn Bostick Director, Financial Aid Resignation 12/15/2025
Jamie Lee Registrar Resignation 12/19/2025
Anna Schutzler Specialist, Athletics Operations Resignation 12/19/2025
Recommendation
Motion to acknowledge the Human Resource Staff Changes for November 1 – December 31, 2025 as written.
Personnel Full-Time Faculty Changes Agenda
Background/References
Per the Florida Statute 1001.64 (18), each Board of Trustees shall establish the personnel program for all employees of the Florida College System institution. Human Resources personnel transactions includes New Hires, Resignations, Retirements, and Separations that are presented to the District Board of Trustees for review.
Description
Name
Departures:
Patricia Bettinger Instructor, Biology Faculty FT E 9 MTH Resignation 12/12/2025
Jacquel Clark Assistant Professor, Accounting Resignation 12/12/2025
Recommendation
Motion to approve the Personnel Full-Time Faculty Changes for November 1 – December 30, 2025 as written.
Monthly Fiscal Report for November & December 2025
Lake-Sumter State College Fiscal Status Report - Fund 1 General Current Fund
July 1, 2025 through November 30, 2025
FY 2024-25
FY 2025-26
& BUDGETED FUND BALANCE
Lake-Sumter State College
Fiscal Status Report - Fund 1
General Current Fund
July 1, 2025 through December 31, 2025
FY 2024-25
FY 2025-26
Purchases Over $65,000
Background/References
Each month a report is provided to the District Board of Trustees accounting for any purchases that have been approved by the President which fall between $65,000 and $195,000. This report is prepared by the Office of the Vice President of Finance and Chief Financial Officer, and is intended to apprise the Board of purchases that fall under the authority of the President to approve. The authorization requiring the President’s approval of such purchases is guided by Board Rule 6.09, Purchasing.
Description
Purchase Orders Over $65,000 – November - December 2025
Vendor: Engineered Cooling Services
Item Description: LE Campus Chiller Plant Amount: $ 65,475.00
Purchase Order #: P2600302
Vendor Code: X00135753
Vendor: Pocket Nurse Enterprises
Item Description: All Lab Supplies for Spring/Summer 2026 Amount: $ 88,693.59
Purchase Order #: P2600364
Vendor Code: POCNUR
Recommendation
Motion to approve the purchases over $65,000 for the months of November & December 2025 as written
MotiontoacknowledgetheCapitalImprovementProjectsReportforJanuary2026as written. Back to agenda
0126-14
Fire Safety Upgrades
Safety Upgrades
Capital Improvement Projects FY 2025-2026
January 2026 Update
$75,000 $125,959
$100,000 $90,415
Building Envelope
Roof Maintenance and Repairs
$45,000 $0
$30,000 $10,680
The existing fire alarm panel and devices were replaced at the Leesburg Campus Health Science Center during the week of Thanksgiving. The fire alarm system upgrade work for the Gym began December 15th and expected to continue through January.
Funds have been expended on door locks, repairing gate valves, and for cabling to expand the emergency speaker system.
Building exterior maintenance and repairs as needed for all Campuses.
$400,000 $0 Lake Hall and William Johnson Buildings roof mitigations and repairs in process. Leesburg Campus Building M Exterior Wall Refurbishment
The west exterior wall cleaning, repairs and painting work completed over winter break. Gutter repair will be scheduled this January to complete the project.
Leesburg Campus Science-Math Roof Refurbishment
Roof Maintenance and Repairs
Sumter Center Repave, Repair, and Re-stripe Parking
Irrigation Improvements
Parking Lot Repairs and Sealing/Striping
$120,000 $5,130
$25,000 $0
Met with Garland early Aug 2025. A roof scan was performed to verify the condition and confirmed that the roof will require replacement in lieu of refurbishment when the conditions worsen. This work will need to be delayed at least until the next Fiscal Year due to the unbudgeted cost.
Roof maintenance and repairs as needed for all Campuses.
Paving-Grounds
$230,000 $220,115
Repaving and modifications to Parking Lots B, C & D completed end of July. Additional improvements are in planning.
$20,000 $7,705 On going as needed.
$280,000 $7,000
South Lake Campus Concrete Slab Refresh
$8,000 $0
Several concrete repairs were completed at the Leesburg Campus late Sept., including Lake Hall sidewalk, Science-Math handicap areas and pot-holes. A PO is in process for Paquette to resurface and restripe at the South Lake Campus, primarily around CML and Bldg.1 parking lots. This work is proposed over spring break or June 2026.
A PO is currently in process to resurface the concrete slab and apply a color coating to match the adjacent basketball court.
South Lake Campus Irrigation $80,000 $0 Planning in progress.
Roofs and Building Envelope
Eustis CDL Pad and Building
Leesburg Campus Workforce Development Center
Capital Improvement Projects FY 2025-2026
January 2026 Update
$5,750,000 $112,002
$17,070,000 $1,089,420
HVAC Controls
HVAC Projects (exhaust fans, air handler units, coil overhaul, etc.)
South Lake Campus Chiller Pipe Insulation
South Lake Campus Bldg. 2 Transformers
$120,000 $57,701
$300,000 $121,033
$60,000 $59,881
Design Development at 60% is on hold. The SJRWMD permit application is currently in process to meet a December 2025 deadline. Funding through grant is pending.
Design Development efforts completed Aug. 13, 2025. Construction Documents and recommendation for CMAR services to award are pending. Owner occupancy is projected by Fall 2027.
Automated Logic completed the controls retrofit work for the Leesburg Campus Student Services Building 1st floor in December . A proposal is also in review for the Health Science Center.
On going maintenance, repairs and replacements for all Campuses. At the Leesburg Campus; the Student Center 8 Ton Trane HVAC Sys was replaced in December. The Williams-Johnson Bldg. AHU heating coils are scheduled for replacement early January.
The South Lake Campus chiller piping and equipment reinsulation project work completed November 25, 2025.
$50,000 $0 In planning to replace three transformers inside SL Bldg.2. Quotes are currently in review.
Furniture and Equipment (All Campuses)
ADA Braille Room Signage
Signage (All Campuses)
College Vehicles
$75,000 $10,011 On going procurement as approved by leadership.
$30,000 $15,000
New signs are in procurement and being prioritized across multiple buildings; including Sumter Bldgs. 1&5 and Leesburg Campus SSB & Lake Hall.
$40,000 $5,109 In planning and programming.
$110,000 $98,280 Acquired two vans end of July 2025. College logo have been installed on the vans.
Athletic Complex Upgrades
Leesburg Campus Library Demolition
Leesburg Campus Safety Office Renovations
Leesburg Campus Facilities Main Office Renovations
Leesburg Campus STEM Center Flooring
Painting Projects
Restroom Refresh
South Lake Campus Building-2, 1st Floor Remodel
South Lake Campus Simulation Lab Cameras and Microphones
Capital Improvement Projects FY 2025-2026
January 2026 Update
$50,000 $20,490
New Baseball and Softball Field Scoreboards are operational. In planning to install electrical for Hud1 outfield cameras.
$375,000 $7,500 Faden Builders' GMP proposal approval to demo the Library is pending.
$20,000 $14,847 New flooring and painting completed in September.
$15,000 $12,946 New flooring for the Lobby and Admin offices completed in September.
$20,000 $0 New flooring installed August 2025 with Foundation donation.
$20,000 $0 In planning.
$55,000 $36,900
Leesburg Campus Lake Hall and Student Services Building single use restrooms flooring restoration completed early October. Lake Hall's main Men and Women's restroom refresh, including epoxy flooring and recoating of the walls, completed in December. Additional restrooms are also in planning.
$160,000 $9,884 Planning to start design services. Some refresh work for the Lobby has started.
$45,000 $40,191
In planning with Nursing and IT Teams. Elevate Healthcare is scheduled to install additional cameras and microphones Feb. 9th. IT cabling will need to be installed first.
40 Credit Course Modification CJE 1002 Introduction to Law Enforcement
41 Credit Course Modification CCJ 1001 Introduction to Criminology
42 Credit Course Modification CJC 1000 Introduction to Corrections
43 Credit Program Modification RN-BSN
43a Credit Course Modification NUR 4829 Leadership and Management in Nursing
43b Credit Course Modification NUR 4837 Health Care Policy and Economics in Nursing
Curriculum Updates Agenda Item: 0126-16
Background/References
Per Florida Statute 1001.64, each District Board of Trustees is specifically authorized to adopt rules, procedures, and policies, consistent with law and rules of the State Board of Education, related to its mission and responsibilities as set forth in s. 1004.65, its governance, personnel, budget and finance, administration, programs, curriculum and instruction, buildings and grounds, travel and purchasing, technology, students, contracts and grants, or college property. The Curriculum Committee prepares a monthly report on the status of committee business.
Description
A report on the status of Curriculum Committee transactions approved by the Strategic Planning Council and the President's Cabinet is attached. Due to the discontinuation of the Honors Program, the courses have been deleted and are not included in the 2026–2027 General Education list
Recommendation
This item is for informational purposes only.
ACTION
Curriculum Updates
COURSE
PROGRAM/COURSE TITLE
Credit Course Deletion BSC 1010CH General Biology I w/Lab Honors
Credit Course Deletion BSC 1011CH General Biology II w/Lab Honors
Credit Course Deletion CHM 2045CH General Chemistry I w/Lab Honors
Credit Course Deletion CHM 2046CH General Chemistry II w/Lab Honors
Credit Course Deletion LIT 2000H Introduction to Literature Honors
Credit Course Deletion MAC 2311H Calculus with Analytic Geometry I Honors
Credit Course Deletion POS 2041H American National Government Honors
Credit Course Deletion STA 2023H Elementary Statistics I Honors
Credit Course Deletion THE 1000H Theater Appreciation Honors
Back to agenda
0126-16
PRESIDENT’S REPORT
VICE PRESIDENT’S RE PORTS
Institutional Advancement Division Update for the President and Board of Trustees January 2026
Dr. Laura Byrd, Executive Vice President, Operations
Access
Institutional Advancement
• The LSSC Foundation received 1,288 scholarship applications for Spring 2026 and awarded 1,157 students $552,000 in scholarships.
• The 2026 Annual Campaign raised over $350,000, of which $48,934 was donated by 46% of the Faculty and Staff. The campaign goal of $275,000 was exceeded by 22%. Thank you for your support!
• The LSSC Foundation held Giving Tuesday on December 2, 2025, bringing in more than $1,600 in new gifts!
• The Annual Shamrock Shuffle is scheduled for Saturday, March 7, 2026, on the South Lake Campus. Please help support this event by participating, volunteering, or sponsoring.
• The 40th Annual Gala: Ruby Ball will be on Friday, April 10, 2026, at the Brownwood Hotel & Spa. Sponsorships are available but will sell out soon! We’re also accepting silent and live auction items. Thank you to Ernie Morris Enterprises for their 25th year serving as the presenting sponsor!
• The LSSC Foundation is launching a series of campaigns to support the college with the Workforce Development Center furniture, fixtures and equipment, Health & Human Performance Center, Eustis Workforce Education Center, and South Lake Building 2 Renovations.
Student Learning & Success
Institutional Advancement
• The Marketing team is working with Palabra Media to strengthen the college’s online presence, improve website traffic, and ensure compliance with current standards.
• The ECHO TV channels were launched in October with a focus on the flagship program, Heart of LakeSumter.
• Registration is now open for the Scholarship Dinner, to celebrate the past year of scholarship recipients and the donors that made it possible. Please plan to join us on Tuesday, February 24, 2026.
Learning & Work Environment
Institutional Advancement
• The LSSC Foundation is searching for an Executive Director of Major Giving, a Director of Alumni Relations, and a Development Officer. Please share these opportunities with your colleagues.
Human Resources
• Advancing strategic priorities focused on workforce effectiveness, compliance, leadership development, and employee experience.
• Key progress includes the distribution of updated Staff Position Descriptions Developed onboarding enhancements, including a new Welcome Letter, and updated the benefits section of the Employee Handbook.
• Employee relations and compliance remain a priority. Conducting a I-9 audit to demonstrate good-faith compliance and continues to transcript audits and personnel file clean-up efforts. Required Canvas training completion is underway to ensure institutional compliance.
• Strategic projects for 2025 are progressing, including the launch of automated exit interviews, development of confidentiality and conflict-of-interest agreements.
• Developing cohort-based leadership training within the Lakehawk Leadership Academy and offering monthly training for managers. The training was delivered in three sessions beginning in November through February with College leadership participating.
Back to agenda ITEM: 0126-188
Academic Affairs Division
Updated for the President and District Board of Trustees
January 2026
Ms. Karen Hogans, Vice President of Academic Affairs
Access
• As of 12/17/25, the Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education program is fully certified. Graduates are eligible for Florida teacher certification with Reading and ESOL endorsements.
• On 11/14/25, LSSC hosted 206 high school students from Lake and Sumter Counties for Educator Preview Day, featuring program breakout sessions and student-club visits. Twenty-six volunteers, faculty, and staff supported presentations, tours, and lunch service.
Student Learning & Success
• Dr. Megan Cavanah, Jeff Stephens, and Dr. Deep Kundu attended UCF’s Fall 2025 Engineering Curriculum Alignment meeting on 11/14 to inform engineering coursework for the Engineering Specialized A.A. transfer pathways.
• Fifty-two ASN graduates participated in the Nurse Pinning Ceremony; 14 MLT graduates attended their pinning/white coat ceremony; and the BSN program celebrated its largest cohort to date with 43 graduates.
Workforce Development
• LSSC submitted the Real Estate Development and Design A.S. degree application to the Division of Florida Colleges, expected for State Board review on April 15, 2026. The prospectus has also been submitted to SACSCOC.
• Dr. Chris Sargent attended UCF’s inaugural Policy in Progress series on Building Orlando’s Workforce. Discussions highlighted employer skill gaps particularly in digital literacy, durable (soft) skills, job-specific skills, and the growing importance of AI and cybersecurity across industries.
Learning & Work Environment
• Dr. Roland Nuñez held a full-day SLS orientation for Lake County Schools faculty teaching SLS in Spring 2026.
• Dr. Justin Greathouse collaborated with TI to implement UDOIT for ADA course accessibility. New instructional tools (eGlass, podcasting equipment, 3-D printer) are now available in the South Lake innovation studio. The faculty mentoring program is finalized for January 2026 launch, and adjunct academy drop-ins supported part-time faculty.
• Academic Affairs leaders attended the Division of Florida Colleges Joint Council/AFC Conference (Nov. 12–14) to stay current on state requirements and build connections with peer institutions.
• Student Laurensky Louissaint was named FCSAA Theatre Student of the Month for December.
• The December 2025 production of Antigone earned an Excellent rating from the FCSAA. Four students received Honorable Mentions: Madison Winegard and Montrellis Williams (acting), Maxwell Taylor-Hazel (scenic design), and Naysha White (performance).
• Aspacia Lindstrom served as an adjudicator for the D2 Junior Thespian District Festival on November 8, evaluating Large Group Musical events.
0126-188
Enrollment & Student Affairs Division Update for the President and Board of Trustees January 2026
Dr. Joseph Mews, Vice President of Enrollment & Student Affairs
Enrollment Summary:
Fall 2025 enrollment concluded with a record-high 7,279 students, an increase of 19.3% (+1,180) over the previous year; full-time equivalency (FTE) increased by 21.4%. Spring 2026 enrollment stands at 6,874 headcount (as of 1/8), a 21.1% increase (+1,196) over this time last year. The Spring 2026 semester begins on January 12. Admission application windows for Spring 2026, Summer 2026, and Fall 2026 terms are open
Access
New Student Recruitment & Enrollment:
• Spring 2026 applications are ahead by 70.6% (+1,277); Summer 2026 is ahead by 48.8% (+79); Fall 2026 is ahead by 5.9% (+48).
• First-time enrollment is up to 1,528 (fall & spring combined), ahead by 18.2% (+235).
• Over 200 Sumter County high school students completed orientation and enrolled in SLS 1122: Strategies for Student Success. This is a pilot program to increase student achievement in high schools across Lake and Sumter Counties.
Financial Aid:
• Processing 2026-2027 FAFSAs since opening in October, in addition to 2025-26. Received 7,462 submissions for the 2025-26 period so far, and 2,457 for the 2026-27 period, representing a 25.9% increase (+1,535) compared to this time last year
• This process started three months ahead of last year, a positive for students and internal operations in preparation for the coming academic year.
Student Learning & Success
Advising, Retention, & Graduation:
• Awarded 425 credentials for Fall 2025, an increase of 27.2% (+91) over last year.
• Fall-to-spring retention is up to 73.8%, trailing last year’s final total by 3.8%. Returning students will continue to enroll through the add/drop period and B terms.
• Launched a self-paced orientation and advising option on December 15. To date, 237 students have completed the online asynchronous orientation through the soft launch.
Athletics:
• Student-Athletes finished the fall semester with a 3.16 GPA overall. Over 100 (out of 147) students finished with a GPA above 3.0; 24 earned a perfect 4.0 GPA.
• The Head Softball Coach job is posted as Jay Miller enters his final season as the Head Coach.
• Baseball, Softball, Beach Volleyball, M&W Track & Field, and M&W Golf enter their championship seasons and have opening competitions scheduled through January & February.
Student & Career Engagement:
• Welcome Week will run January 12-16 with a full schedule of activities designed to support the start of the academic term. Programming will include resource and information sessions, games, food, and community-building events.
• Welcome Bash events are scheduled at all four campuses during the last week of January to continue welcoming students and strengthening campus engagement.
• Career and Internship Expos are scheduled for Leesburg and South Lake in February. The Relay Tech Fair will also be held in February at the Sumter Campus.
Student Support & Wellbeing:
• Since August, the Lakehawks’ Harvest Food Pantry on the Leesburg campus has distributed 4,787.97 pounds of food and essential items through 723 student visits.
• Implemented a new annual safety training program for students focused on alcohol and drug abuse prevention, hazing prevention, and sexual assault awareness. Over 1,500 students completed the training during the fall semester.
Facilities Planning and Operations Division
Update for the President and District Board of Trustees
January 2026
Thom Kieft, Vice President, Facilities Planning and Operations
Learning & Work Environment
Leesburg Campus
• Renovations have completed in the Lake Hall restrooms. These renovations include new epoxy floors and modifications to the wall tile color. Old mix-matched sinks were replaced as well as new LED lighting added.
• Building envelope repairs were made to the west wall of Bldg. M to reduce moisture and insects from getting into the mechanical room. A small section of roof gutter was also replaced.
• The brick pavers in front of the Student Services Building were repaired/replaced, cleaned, and sealed. The pavers at the front entrance of the Health Sciences Building were also cleaned and sealed.
• The chillers and cooling towers at the chiller plant were serviced and recommendations for further repairs were made and are being followed up on.
• A heater coil on the AHU in the Williams-Johnson Building has been replaced.
South Lake Campus
• Prior to the start of spring 2026 classes, repairs have been made to sidewalks that were deemed as tripping hazards.
• The paver patio by the Building 2 lounge has been repaired due to sinking pavers from tree trunk or root rot.
• A mechanical vendor is repairing classroom electrical reheat issues occurring in aging VAVs.
• In Bldg. 2, HVAC controls are being replaced for the chiller and 1st floor air handler unit.
Sumter Center
• Renovations to the former biology lab 1114 in Bldg. 1 are complete. This project included the removal of cabinetry and water lines/drains for the sinks. Data drops will be completed for the computer connection and new computers are being purchased. The floor in the room has been stripped and waxed prior to computer tables being moved into the new AutoCAD lab.
• The grounds team has been pressure washing sidewalks throughout the campus while the student traffic and grass growth has slowed in December(all locations).
• A mobile ComfortLink Navigator is being purchased for one of the Carrier HVAC units for Bldg. 4 to better control and interface with the outside condenser unit.
Technology Innovation Division
Update for the President and District Board of Trustees
January 2026
Nick Kemp, Vice President of Technology Innovation/CIO
Learning and Work Environment
• In December, over 180,000 phishing emails and cyberattack attempts were intercepted, bringing the year-to-date total to more than 1.15 million mitigated threats averaging one every 27 seconds. Continuous 24/7 monitoring neutralizes threats before reaching staff, preventing disruptions and minimizing exposure to credential theft. Ongoing investments in security protocols and training are strengthening cybersecurity culture, with rising employee engagement enhancing overall threat containment and risk reduction.
• The Enterprise Team, in collaboration with ESA, launched a New Online Student Orientation that delivers essential academic and support resources through a flexible, self-paced platform. This initiative improves student preparedness, engagement, and retention while advancing Lake Sumter State College’s commitment to student success.
• A new technology-driven fraud detection system has been implemented to identify and prevent fraudulent applicants during admissions and financial aid. Using advanced analytics and real time verification, the system strengthens process integrity, ensures compliance, and improves staff efficiency. This investment protects genuine students, reduces financial risk, and reinforces LakeSumter State College’s commitment to accountability and operational excellence.
• The Universal Design Online Content Inspection Tool (UDOIT) in Canvas helps faculty create accessible course materials through automated scans and quick fixes. The college is also exploring Argos Accelerators to integrate data across departments, improving real time insights and decision making.
• The new Apex Admissions application has been launched successfully, streamlining onboarding and setting record usage levels. With project ownership transitioned in-house, the team continues refining the platform and developing the Dual Enrollment application for on time completion, ensuring a responsive and efficient admissions process.
• The Sumter Pavilion WiFi and camera project is complete, with all point-to-point infrastructure, three cameras, an access point, and supporting network equipment installed and configured. The pavilion now has full wireless coverage and operational connectivity.
• All SH and SM adjunct computers have been fully installed, imaged, and deployed in office commons areas. This completion expands shared workspace access and enhances computing resources for adjunct faculty.
• Cat6a infrastructure upgrades in Leesburg are nearly complete, with final testing underway to close out the infrastructure phase. These upgrades will enhance outdoor speakers, improve Nursing Classroom technology, and support upcoming office expansions.
• Work is progressing on the Health Science Simulation Labs to upgrade AV, camera, and microphone systems in partnership with key stakeholders. Planning is underway to finalize scope, integrate LearningSpace components, and explore adding a centralized server and Observation Room in HSC 109.
BOARD ATTORNEY'S REPORT
Ani tr1Gerr1ci-Qlrver ESQUIRE
January 6, 2026
District Board of Trustees for Lake-Sumter State College 9501 U.S. Highway 441
Leesburg, Florida 34474
Re: Board Attorney Report for January, 2026
Dear Trustees:
Below is an update on several matters of interest to the Board.
Brittany Whittemore as parent and natural guardian of L M, a minor v. PFXA Inc. and Independent Sports Association LLC ISA, Lake County Case No. 35-2024-CA-001404. This case was filed in July of 2024 against PFXA Inc. and Independent Sports Association LLC ISA. The complaint alleges Negligence against PFXA, Inc. for negligently designing, placing, and maintain the practice pitch area without adequate protective measures and alleges as a result L.M. was struck by a wild-practice pitch while walking to a designated spectator area causing L.M. to suffer injuries and damages. Attorney Rick Mitchell of GrayRobinson, P.A. is assigned to defend the College. Plaintiff filed an amended complaint on August 24, 2025 adding additional parties. On December 15th Attorney Mitchell filed an Answer and Affirmative Defenses on behalf of the College to the Plaintiffs Third Amended Complaint. Other named defendants have also filed responsive pleadings to Plaintiff's Third Amended Complaint. In earlier December the College also filed answers to discovery propounded by Plaintiff re: Interrogatories, Request for Production and Requests for Admissions.
Kelly McLean v. Lake Sumter State College Foundation, Inc., Board of Trustees, a/k/a Lake-Sumter College. Lake County Case No. 2024-CA-002270. A former employee filed an action under the Florida Civil Rights Act for claims of discrimination based on her disability and retaliation claims of Family Medical Leave Act interference and retaliation. The Consortium assigned attorneys Mark E. Levitt and Howard M. Waldman to represent the College. On July 3, 2025 attorney Levitt filed an Answer and Affirmative Defenses on behalf of the College. Mediation previously scheduled on January 13, 2026 has been cancelled because the parties are not prepared for mediation. I anticipate a call with attorney Levitt next week to discuss the status.
Sheila Williams v. Lake Sumter State College, Lake County Case No. 35-2025-CA-001358-A. A former employee filed a complaint alleging disability discrimination and failure to accommodate, both under the Forida Civil Rights Action of 1992. A Case Management Order was entered on
Lake Sumter State College
January 6, 2026
Page 2 of2
August 26, 2025. The Court entered an Agreed Order Setting Aside Default. Attorney Brian Koji is defending the College in this case and will move forward with conducting discovery.
Notice of Charge of Discrimination: EEOC: 1SD-2025-01049;. An employee filed a complaint of employment discrimination with the Florida Commission on Human Relations for alleged violations "on the basis and issues of ADA, failure to accommodate, harassment and intimidation. The claim has been filed with the Consortium and the College consulted with attorney Brian Koji. Attorney Koji filed a response on August 25, 2025 on behalf of the College stating that the charges are without merit and requesting the Commission dismiss the charges. The employee resigned September 19, 2025. On November 25, 2025 a Determination of No Reasonable Cause was entered by the Florida Commission on Human Relations (Commission). This matter will be removed from future reports.
If you have any questions, please feel free to call me. I look forward to seeing you at the Board meeting.
Respectfully submitted,
Anita Geraci-Carver
cc: John Temple, President
BOARD COMMITTEE REPORTS
I. Executive Committee – Mr. Bret Jones
II. Facilities Committee – Mr. Steve Munz
III. Finance Committee – Mr. Tim Morris
IV. Private-Public Partnerships Committee – Mr. Bret Jones
V. Strategic Planning Committee – Mr. David Hidalgo
VI. Student Engagement Committee – Ms. Ivy Parks
VII. The LSSC Foundation, Inc. Liaison – Ms. Samantha Scott
NEW BUSINESS
Non-Discrimination
Background/References
The District Board of Trustees is authorized to establish rules in accordance with the Administrative Procedures Act (Florida Statutes 1001.64) that insure proper operation, improvement, and management of the College consistent with the rules adopted by the State Board of Education.
Description
Board Rule 2.02 needs to be updated to comply with findings from a 2025 On-Site Civil Rights Compliance Review by the Florida Department of Education. This update reflects the updated non-discrimination statement and removes any reference to gender.
Recommendation
Motion to approve Board Rule 2.02 Non-Discrimination as written.
LAKE-SUMTER STATE COLLEGE BOARD RULE
Back to agenda ITEM: 0126-21
TITLE: Non-Discrimination NUMBER 2.02
AUTHORITY : Title VII, Civil Rights Acts of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, The Florida Civil Rights Act, The Clery Act, The Violence Against Women Act, F.S. 1000.05.
1. The District Board of Trustees affirms adherence to equal access/equal opportunity in accordance with the provisions of the Florida Educational Equity Act (FS1000 05), Title IX and all other relevant state and federal laws, rules, regulations and executive orders.
2. Lake-Sumter State College assures civil rights for its students, employees, visitors, and contractors. LSSC prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnicity, sex, age, disability, marital status, pregnancy, veteran status, religion, sexual orientation, or genetic information in any of its programs, activities, employment, and contracts.
3. The President shall provide equal access and equal opportunity for all services made available by the College and to conduct all employment programs, policies and practices, educational programs, training and activities in a non-discriminatory manner.
4. The President or designee shall provide for hearing and responding to complaints dealing with alleged misconduct and/or discrimination made by an employee, a student, an outside contractor, an applicant for employment, admission to the College and all others affiliated with the College.
5. The President or designee shall ensure that College rules and procedures are established and implemented that identify specific actions to ensure the safety and security of all affiliated with and/or in attendance at any College sponsored, College-affiliated and College sanctioned activities and events in accordance with all relevant state and federal laws, rules, regulations and executive orders.
6. The District Board of Trustees intends that a prompt and equitable resolution of any allegation be reached through a procedure (process) that is free of coercion, interference, restraint, discrimination, retaliation, harassment or reprisal and that affords the complainant adequate opportunity to resolve the complaint.
Ranking of Design- Build Services Proposal for Workforce Development Center
Florida Statutes 1013.45, 287.055, and the State Requirements for Educational Facilities speak to the advertising, awarding contracts, and prequalification of contractors. Progress continues on the Leesburg Campus Workforce Development Center project. HuntonBrady has begun architectural and engineering design development. The next phase of this project is the solicitation of construction management services for facility construction.
Description
LSSC issued RFQ 26-01, Request for Qualifications for Construction Manager at Risk & Preconstruction Services for the Workforce Development Center. LSSC received five responses to the RFQ. The submission packages were reviewed by a committee in a two-step process which combined the scores of the written material submitted with the scores from the subsequent presentation/interviews conducted to arrive at a ranked short-list of the applicants. The shortlisted contractors in rank order were determined to be the best for meeting the needs for this project. The following short-listed contractors are:
1. Skanska
2. Pirtle
3. Welbro
It is recommended that the ranked short-list of contractors be approved and authority delegated to the president and president’s designees to enter into contract negotiations with the highest ranked contractor for the preconstruction and construction of the Workforce Development Center. Should negotiations be unsuccessful with the top ranked contractor, negotiations will be terminated and shall progress in rank order of the contractors until successful contract negotiations are accomplished.
This item is being brought back from previous District Board of Trustees meetings for consideration.
Recommendation
It is recommended that the Board of Trustees take action on this item.
Back to agenda ITEM: 0126-23
Lake-Sumter State College DISTRICT BOARD OF TRUSTEES
