Congrats South Florida State College On Your New Unqualified President

TALLAHASSEE — A Republican politician with no higher education experience has emerged as the lone finalist to lead a Central Florida state college after three other candidates abruptly withdrew from a selection process that has raised concerns about political influence.

Republican state Rep. Fred Hawkins, a close ally of Gov. Ron DeSantis, was picked by the South Florida State College District Board of Trustees on Wednesday morning — two days after Hawkins submitted his application and five days after the board voted to lower the education requirements for the position, a move that allows Hawkins to qualify.

Hawkins is still considered a candidate and is scheduled to be interviewed on May 31. But he is already claiming the job.

Can't say I've ever heard of a college president with only a bachelor's degree and no college admin experience. Is this common? Here were some of the requirements for the position

• “A strategic visionary who has significant experience in accreditation, curriculum development, and articulation agreements.”
• “A student success-focused leader who champions innovative curriculum, advances baccalaureate offerings, and increases support services for all students.”
• “An ardent and experienced planner in student housing, with familiarity in investigating newways to provide additional housing opportunities.”
• “A higher education professional experienced in working with a rural college and community.”

DeSantis ally favored to lead state college, has no higher ed experience

 

The only experience he has is being arrested for impersonating a deputy, but perhaps that's all you need


According to a source familiar with the matter, the search process was upended April 14 after leaders were contacted by representatives of Gov. Ron DeSantis, who noted displeasure over the finalists.

The Board of Trustees lowered education requirements for the next president of the college at a meeting May 3. During the same meeting, trustees voted to abandon the private search firm that had conducted the previous search and conduct the search themselves. The panel voted to make a doctorate or other terminal degree “preferred” instead of mandatory.

Politician Who Had Been Suspended From Office By Gov. DeSantis Is Named Only Finalist For SFSC President