Decades in education and service led John Temple to the role of president at Lake-Sumter State College, where the future looks bright. 

“I’m optimistic by nature, but the logical side of me looks at the facts,” John says. “Florida is growing at a fast pace and so is LSSC. It’s important to manage that growth and not lose our identity. This was a community college and while our name has changed, our mission and values haven’t. We want to hold tight to that mission and how we serve.” 

John was born in Houston, Texas, and moved with his family to Florida at age 5. After childhood dreams of being an astronaut, John set his sights on teaching.

He earned his Bachelor of Arts in Secondary Mathematics from Southeastern University and his Master’s in Educational Leadership from Nova Southeastern University.

John spent seven years in the classroom teaching math to middle and high schoolers. He served as an assistant principal for five years and was a principal for nine years before taking the position of Director of Professional Learning and Accountability for Sumter County Schools. He was vice president of Workforce Programs at LSSC when selected as president.

As an educator and administrator, John has been recognized with numerous awards.

“I get more excited to see others acknowledged than myself personally,” he says. “During my nine-year tenure as principal, five teachers from my school were recognized as County Teacher of the Year.” 

Today, he lives in Wildwood, barely a mile from where he was raised.

Representing Sumter and Hernando counties, John served as a State Representative for the Florida Legislature, District 52, from 2022 to September 2025. 

“I’ve had the privilege to serve in many roles in my life,” John says. “I’m a proactive person, so my nature is to identify problems and be part of the change. . . I’m very hopeful about our youth and what’s to come. There is a movement happening throughout this country where young people are getting more engaged and becoming more informed. I think it’s important for our young people to have mentors, people who can help them understand the bigger picture.” 

He remains engaged in chamber activities and at Heritage Community Church. He enjoys golf and is a Tampa Bay Buccaneers season ticket holder.

John and his wife Jessica celebrated their 25th anniversary in 2025, and are proud parents of Jenna, 21, and Julia, 18.

FUN FACT:  JOHN STARTED GOLFING WITH HIS DAD AT AGE 7 AND STILL ENJOYS PLAYING.

Photos: Nicole Hamel