LSF Executive and Leadership Team

Samuel Sipes, the Chief Executive Officer Emeritus at LSF, provides foundational guidance and historical continuity for the organization. Sipes maintains deep institutional knowledge, advising the current leadership team on long-term mission alignment and community engagement strategies. By fostering relationships with key stakeholders and donors, the Chief Executive Officer Emeritus ensures the sustainability of programs serving refugees, immigrants, and families in crisis. Samuel Sipes supports the transition of strategic initiatives while upholding the core values established since the inception of the organization. This role involves mentoring emerging leaders and preserving the cultural integrity of the agency during periods of expansion. Through consistent advocacy and high-level consultation, the Chief Executive Officer Emeritus strengthens the impact of social services across the state. Sipes remains a vital resource for navigating complex regulatory environments and maintaining the reputation of the agency as a premier provider of mental health and educational support services.

Michael (Mike) Carroll, the President & Chief Executive Officer at LSF, directs the overall strategic vision and operational execution of the organization. Carroll manages the delivery of diverse social programs, including substance abuse treatment and disaster relief, across the Florida region. The President & Chief Executive Officer coordinates with the Board of Directors to align organizational goals with the evolving needs of children, families, and elderly populations. Michael (Mike) Carroll drives efficiency in service delivery models, ensuring that resources reach those requiring mental health and educational support. By overseeing large-scale administrative functions, the President & Chief Executive Officer maintains the fiscal and operational health of the agency. Carroll fosters partnerships with government entities and community organizations to expand the reach of humanitarian efforts. This leadership role requires constant monitoring of program outcomes and the implementation of innovative solutions to address systemic challenges faced by vulnerable communities throughout the state.

Christine Cauffield, the Chief Executive Officer & Executive VP, Lsf Health Systems & , Lutheran Services Florida at LSF, manages the complex integration of health services and clinical operations. Cauffield oversees the delivery of mental health and substance abuse programs, ensuring high standards of care for diverse populations. The Chief Executive Officer & Executive VP, Lsf Health Systems & , Lutheran Services Florida drives the expansion of health-focused initiatives, connecting clinical outcomes with broader social support goals. Christine Cauffield collaborates with regional health networks to optimize service accessibility for refugees, immigrants, and families. By implementing evidence-based practices, the Chief Executive Officer & Executive VP, Lsf Health Systems & , Lutheran Services Florida improves the quality of life for individuals navigating behavioral health challenges. Cauffield monitors clinical performance metrics and regulatory compliance to maintain the integrity of health systems. This leadership position requires balancing operational demands with the compassionate mission of the organization to provide holistic care.

Robert Wydra, the Chief Financial Officer at LSF, manages the fiscal health and long-term financial planning of the organization. Wydra oversees budgeting, accounting, and financial reporting processes to ensure the sustainability of programs serving children, families, and disaster victims. The Chief Financial Officer directs capital allocation strategies, enabling the agency to scale operations and respond effectively to community needs. Robert Wydra monitors cash flow and grant management, ensuring transparency and accountability in the use of public and private funds. By analyzing economic trends and operational costs, the Chief Financial Officer provides the data necessary for the executive team to make informed decisions regarding service expansion. Wydra maintains rigorous internal controls and audit standards to protect the assets of the organization. This role involves coordinating with external auditors and regulatory bodies to ensure full compliance with financial requirements while supporting the mission-driven objectives of the agency across the state.

Zee Palmieri, the Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer at LSF, focuses on the optimization of financial systems and the management of organizational resources. Palmieri directs the daily financial operations, including payroll, procurement, and revenue cycle management for various social programs. The Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer implements advanced financial software and reporting tools to enhance operational efficiency and data accuracy. Zee Palmieri collaborates with department heads to develop departmental budgets that align with the strategic goals of the agency. By identifying cost-saving opportunities and streamlining administrative workflows, the Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer supports the delivery of essential services to refugees, teens, and the elderly. Palmieri ensures that financial policies remain consistent with the mission of the organization while maintaining strict adherence to industry standards. This leadership role involves providing financial insights that drive the growth and stability of the agency in a competitive social services market.