Occupation: Chief Business Officer, LifeStream Behavioral Center, Leesburg

What I do: As the chief business officer, I’m responsible for several areas of the organization that are critical to the business operations. This includes the agency call center, medical records, marketing and development teams, community relations and serving on our executive council.

How I got started: I started my career with LifeStream in 2021. I originally joined the LifeStream team as the associate vice president of marketing and development. Prior to my tenure at LifeStream, I worked with our family business, Ernie Morris Enterprises.

I’m passionate about LifeStream because: The individuals we serve and the incredible colleagues I work alongside keep me passionate! My colleagues truly are the stars of the show! They go above and beyond to provide the direct care our community needs. They have such an incredible way of meeting our individuals served in ways far beyond their day-to-day call of duty. Seeing the lives that they change inspires me to be the best so they have the tools, training and support they need to bring hope to life! It is truly a blessing to serve alongside each of them.

My biggest professional accomplishment: Building a team I’m proud of as well as revitalizing our marketing and community partnerships over the past few years.

When I’m not in the office: I like to spend time with my beautiful niece, Harper, and handsome nephew, Jett! They’re the highlight of my life and I am blessed beyond measure to be their aunt. Outside of that, I coach youth volleyball with a phenomenal group of folks at American Athletic Club! Our team of coaches and staff make such a huge difference in the lives of our young athletes, and it is an honor to be a part of their coaching team. Watching our athletes grow as a team and grow into impactful, driven humans is the coolest experience!

My first job: I was a hostess at the old JJ Fins.

My local mentor: As cliché as it sounds, my dad, Tim Morris. I joke about how many times a week someone calls me “little Timmy,” but it honestly is the greatest compliment! Over the last 30 years, he has taught me quite a bit about the importance of community! I watched my dad silently meet the needs of community members and organizations, all while donating countless hours of service in our community and never once asking for anything in return. I’ve heard him say many times, “To whom much is given, much is required,” Luke 12:48. I strive to be half of the friend and community member my dad is!

The best advice I have received: Our current CEO, Rick Hankey, told me when I first began my career with LifeStream that he needed team members ready to play chess, not checkers. Like the good ole Southern gal I am, I was bit offended that our Cracker Barrel checkers game wasn’t top of mind, but soon after I fully understood what he was trying to say. In life, our decisions don’t simply affect that day, they have a ripple effect that can span years and impact lives in a big way. He reminds me periodically “chess not checkers” as a reminder my leadership decisions impact so much more than just today. I have the gift of shaping the future of our organization, my colleagues and individuals served lives, and community by the decisions I make today. It’s a great reminder to think big, make strategic plans, and recognize the impact my choices have.

Fun fact: I really enjoy painting. I have a few of my pieces in my office.

If I had a million dollars to give away: We don’t have enough time or space for me to list all of the impressive and worthy causes in our community, but I’ll give you my top two. I would give to the LifeStream Behavioral Center Foundation because each and every individual in need deserves their mental healthcare needs met, regardless of their financial status. Our organization does a wonderful job ensuring all 58-plus programs LifeStream offers are financially covered, but sometimes the needs of our individuals served surpass that. Our foundation provides a way for us to ensure we can meet the gap. From pregnant and postpartum women’s houses to geriatric treatment facilities, we will serve where our community needs us the most, but sometimes a little help from our friends makes it happen! The Lake Sumter State College Foundation is my second. LSSC foundation provides opportunities for so many of our younger generations to secure a college education. It’s a joy to watch firsthand the lives changed and the opportunities granted through this organization.

Life after 40: Wherever God leads me I suppose, but I’m sure hoping it looks a lot like another 30+ years alongside my LifeStream team, continuing to bring hope to life in our area! Also, I hope to do a lot of traveling.