Florida Southern College has appointed Michael Brossart as its next Executive Vice
President for Finance and Administration, bringing more than 30 years of executive
leadership in finance, strategic planning and organizational operations to the College's
senior leadership team. Brossart will assume the role full time on October 1, 2026.
A Florida Southern alumnus, Brossart earned dual bachelor's degrees in accounting
and marketing and behavior management before beginning a distinguished career with
the City of Lakeland, where he has served as finance director since 2013. Throughout
his career, he has overseen financial strategy, budgeting, capital planning, human
resources, risk management, labor relations and enterprise operations while serving
as a trusted advisor to city leadership.
As Executive Vice President for Finance and Administration, Brossart will serve as
the College's chief financial and administrative officer, providing strategic leadership
for financial operations, facilities, human resources, information technology, campus
safety, risk management, auxiliary services and other key administrative functions.
He will work closely with President Jeremy Martin and the Board of Trustees to ensure
the College's long-term financial strength and operational excellence.
“Mike brings significant expertise amassed over his distinguished career. The range
of projects and initiatives on which he has worked is impressive,” Martin remarked.
“Just as important, Mike is a leader respected for his character, trustworthiness
and work ethic. As an alumnus and lifelong Lakelander, serving the College and this
community hold great meaning for him.”
Drawing a comparison between municipal government and higher education administration,
Martin said Brossart's background positions him well for the role.
“During the search, a number of individuals observed that leading finance and administration
on a campus is ‘like running a small city,’” Martin continued. “All of the lessons
learned and wisdom gained throughout his tenure with the City of Lakeland will greatly
benefit the Florida Southern campus.”
Brossart succeeds Terry Dennis, who is retiring after 37 years of dedicated service
to Florida Southern College. Dennis will remain at the College through its October
Board of Trustees meeting to allow for a planned transition period during which Brossart
will continue serving as Finance Director for the City of Lakeland. Brossart will
officially assume the role of Executive Vice President on October 1. The coordinated
transition will provide continuity for both organizations while supporting a seamless
transfer of leadership at Florida Southern.
"Few people have shaped Florida Southern more than Terry Dennis," said Martin. "His
steadfast leadership and commitment to excellence have left an enduring mark on this
College. Truly, his fingerprints can be seen in every aspect of the College’s operations.
We are deeply grateful for his decades of service and pleased that he will help guide
this important transition."
During Brossart’s career with the City of Lakeland, he led financial planning and
budget oversight for 17 city departments including Lakeland Electric, the City’s Public
Utilities Department and RP Funding Center. Brossart also managed long-range financial
planning and capital financing initiatives, oversaw major infrastructure investments,
led collective bargaining negotiations and worked closely with elected officials and
community partners on projects that strengthened the region's economic growth. His
experience also includes negotiating the two most recent lease extensions for the
Detroit Tiger Stadium, oversight of employee benefits, enterprise risk management,
retirement services, contract negotiations and organizational policy development.
“Mr. Brossart's three decades of service to the City of Lakeland reflect an extraordinary
career built on expertise, dedication, integrity and a profound commitment to our
community. His leadership has helped shape the strength of our organization, and his
impact will be felt for many years to come,” said Lakeland City Manager Shawn Sherrouse.
“Mike will remain a trusted friend to the City of Lakeland, and we are excited to
see him begin this next chapter at Florida Southern College and wish him continued
success.”
Brossart is a Certified Public Accountant, Certified Government Finance Officer, Certified
Public Manager and graduate of both Leadership Lakeland and Leadership Polk.
