At its August 20 meeting, the District Board of Trustees of Lake-Sumter State College (LSSC) welcomed three new members to the board and elected its leadership for the 2025–2026 academic year.
The District Board of Trustees is a public body corporate that serves as the legal owner and governing board for Lake-Sumter State College. The District Board ensures the proper operation, improvement, and management of the College consistent with the rules adopted by Florida Statutes and the State Board of Education. The board consists of seven citizens from Lake or Sumter County who volunteer their time.
Bret Jones was elected to serve as Chair of the Board, and Tim Morris was elected as Vice Chair. Both leaders bring extensive experience and a strong commitment to advancing LSSC’s mission. Bret Jones, of Clermont, is the Owner of Bret Jones, P.A., a law firm specializing in Business Law, Real Estate Law, and Estate Planning. A native of Clermont and graduate of South Lake High School, Jones earned his Juris Doctor from the University of Florida Levin College of Law. Active in the community, he serves as Chair of Lake 100, leading economic development strategies across Lake County. A longtime advocate for education, Jones recalls early experiences visiting Lake-Sumter as a student and now serves on District Board of Trustees, where he champions student success and the role of the college in strengthening the community.
Timothy Morris, of Leesburg, is Vice President of Ernie Morris Enterprises, Inc. (EMEI), a family-owned business established in 1968 that has grown into a regional leader serving the Southeast. A lifelong resident of Lake County, Morris graduated from Leesburg High School and earned his degree in Business from Lake-Sumter State College (then Community College). Morris has served as a Trustee at Lake-Sumter State College for 18 years, with appointments by four governors. He is also Treasurer of The Florida College System Foundation, an elder at Graceway Church, and a board member of Lake Technical College. He is also elected to the Lake County Board of County Commissioners, serving District 5.Governor Ron DeSantis has recently appointed three new trustees.
Roger Croft, of Leesburg, is the General Manager for Dobbs Equipment. Active in his community, he currently serves as the Chairman of the City of Leesburg Recreation Advisory board and is a member of the Greater Leesburg Area Community Charities. Croft is an alumnus of Lake-Sumter State College (then Community College).“I’m looking forward to joining the District Board of Trustees,” said Croft. “This college changed my life, and it was time for me to give back.”
Steve Munz, of Oxford, is the Owner and Operator of Galaxy Home Solutions, Inc. and 5M Livestock Company. A veteran of the United States Army and active in his community, he is the founder of The Villages Pop Warner Football League. Munz is the recipient of the 2012 Mid-Market Governors’ Business Expansion Award, presented by former Governor Rick Scott. “This appointment is a great honor, and being recognized by the greatest governor in the United States is one of the best opportunities of my life,” said Munz. “Serving my country in the United States Army was a great accomplishment, and I will serve this college with the same care and dedication.
Samantha Scott, of Bushnell, is a Realtor for Connie Mahan Real Estate and the Director of Marketing for Mike Scott Plumbing. Previously, she served as the Executive Director for the Sumter County Chamber of Commerce. Active in her community, she currently serves as the Secretary of the Sumter County Youth Center Board of Directors and the Leesburg High School Construction Academy Advisory Board. She is a member of the Realtors Association of Lake and Sumter Counties, the Sumter County Farm Bureau, and the Sumter County Fair Association.“It’s an incredible honor to be appointed to the Lake Sumter State College District Board of Trustees,” said Scott. “LSSC plays such an important role in opening doors, creating opportunities, and strengthening our community. I look forward to working to support the incredible students, staff, and faculty that make the Lakehawk tradition so special.”
