Lakeland Community College (LCC) inducted Joshua “Josh” J. Strickland, J.D., to the Board of Trustees on May 21, 2026, replacing Michael Benz. Strickland’s term will expire on March 6, 2030.

Strickland is an attorney at law at Partner-Dworken & Bernstein Co., L.P.A., primarily practicing real estate and business transactions. He represents small and medium-size businesses, real estate developers, landlords and non-profits.

“We are elated to have Mr. Strickland as part of our Board,” says Sunil Ahuja, Ph.D., President, LCC. “His business acumen, passion for Lake County and fervor for education will be a great asset for upcoming campus developments.”

Strickland has been recognized as a Super Lawyer Rising Star and focuses his practice in the areas of general business including formation, mergers and acquisitions, financing, employee relations, commercial transactions, intellectual property, construction development, and sales.

“I’m so happy for Josh to be on the Board,” says Paul Rupert, CPA, MAcc, Lakeland Board President. “His expertise will be put to use as we focus efforts on continuing Lakeland’s financial health, policy and strategy.”

Strickland’s residential and commercial real estate practice includes sales, leasing, zoning, land use, oil and gas, environmental law and real estate, eminent domain and taxation.

“I am very excited to be appointed to the Board of Trustees of Lakeland Community College,” Strickland says. “I am eager to dive into the work of assisting Lakeland’s leadership and faculty in furthering its mission to provide accessible education opportunities and to keep Lakeland as one of the jewels of Lake County.”

Strickland produces numerous blogs, is a classic car owner, enjoys cooking and is an avid Cleveland sports fan.