The Florida College System Presidential Council (COP) is pleased to announce new leadership for next year. At the June business meeting at Daytona State University, the council elected Dr. Georgia Lorenz of Seminole State University, Vice-Chairman Fred Hawkins, and Vice-Chairman of South Florida State University, and Dr. Kathleen Plinke, president of Valencia University.
“We are honored to be elected chairman of the University of Florida System Presidential Council. Florida leads a country of higher education.” “Our state and universities are truly changing the lives of the students and communities they serve. I look forward to working with fellow university presidents and education partners this year.”
Dr. Lorentz is the third president of Seminole State University, bringing the university extensive experience in higher education. Under Dr. Lorentz’s leadership, the state of Seminole was named to the top ten communities and state universities in the nation by the Aspen Institute. Dr. Lorenz was recognized as one of Orlando Magazine’s 2025 Women of the Year, 50 Most Powerful People in Education, and 2023 Women in Orlando Business Journal, meaning business. Dedication to education and transformational leadership continues to inspire both colleagues and students.
“Our university is the cornerstone of innovation and opportunity in Florida’s higher education landscape,” said Fred Hawkins, president of South Florida State University and vice-chairman of COP. “I’m working with fellow leaders to ensure that all students have access to the tools they need to build a quality education and a successful future, regardless of their background.”
President Hawkins is the fifth president of South Florida State University. He previously served as Florida House of Representatives in Osceola and Orange Counties, as vice-chairman of the Higher Education Budget Division subcommittee and all school board whips. He was also president and CEO of the Osceola County Education Foundation. His extensive leadership experience continues to shape his commitment to advance educational opportunities for all students.
The Florida College System Presidential Council is a collection of issues and concerns in Florida’s public university system. They provide information as needed to state and federal enforcement and legislative departments, as well as to the premier, education committee, state boards of education, and other public and private companies and individuals of the University of Florida System, where necessary.
