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The Florida Polytechnic University Presidential Search Committee has unveiled the five finalists contending for the top spot at Florida’s newest University.
The committee named Northwest Florida State College President G. Devin Stephenson, as one of those finalists in a press release on March 25.
“Our search committee thoroughly reviewed, vetted, and interviewed a vast pool of exceptionally qualified candidates to identify and recommend these finalists,” said Beth Kigel, vice-chair of the Florida Poly Board of Trustees and chair of the Presidential Search Committee. “I extend my gratitude to the members of the search committee for their time and commitment to ensuring a successful process and to the candidates engaged in the application and interview process for their enthusiasm and desire to help shape the future of Florida Poly.”
The other finalists, presented in alphabetical order, include H. Keith Moo-Young from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, David P. Norton from the University of Florida, Daniel W. O’ Sullivan from the U.S. Naval Academy, and Bjong Wolf Yeigh from the University of Washington, Bothell.
The next phase of the selection process will involve in-person interviews with the University Board of Trustees and campus forums engaging stakeholders like students, faculty, and staff. The schedule for these critical interactions will be made available on the Presidential Search website in the coming days.
Cliff Otto, chair of the Florida Poly Board of Trustees, expressed confidence in the search committee’s efforts and the board’s commitment to identifying the ideal candidate to lead Florida Poly into a transformative decade.
Dr. Stephenson has extensive experience in community college executive administration, spanning leadership roles in Alabama, Missouri, and Kentucky over more than 15 years.
His contributions to higher education have been recognized through appointments to prestigious boards and committees, including the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACSCOC) Board of Trustees and the Executive Council of theSouthern Regional Education Board.
As a dynamic speaker on leadership and organizational change, Stephenson’s impact extends beyond his administrative duties.
He has been honored with prestigious awards such as the Phi Theta Kappa Shirley B. Gordon Award of Distinction and the Harold Bishop Alumni Leadership Award from The University of Alabama College of Education.
Under Stephenson’s leadership, Northwest Florida State College has achieved remarkable milestones, including significant increases in the Foundation’s assets, grant acquisitions, and legislative appropriations, positioning the institution as a beacon of educational excellence and community engagement.
Enrollment at the school has also increased sharply since he took over administration of the Niceville-based institution.
The State of Florida founded Florida Polytechnic University in 2012 as its premier college of STEM disciplines and the 12th state university in the Florida State University System. .
The School, located in Lakeland, Florida only serves students who want to earn a STEM-based degree. They say they want to “provide an excellent STEM-focused education preparing high-ability students to meet the mounting statewide demand for the high-skill professionals industry needs to succeed and continue innovating.” FPU opened its dors in 2014 to 554 students, including 394 freshmen, 134 transfer students and 26 graduate students. 97% of the class are Florida residents.
In 2014, the Florida Polytechnic University Board of Trustees named Dr. Randy K. Avent. He is retiring at the end of the 2025 school year.
One of the hallmarks of Florida Poly is its emphasis on hands-on learning and real-world applications. Students have access to cutting-edge labs, research centers, and industry partnerships that enable them to gain practical experience and contribute to groundbreaking discoveries.
Moreover, Florida Polytechnic University is known for its renowned faculty comprising leading experts, researchers, and industry professionals. These dedicated mentors not only impart knowledge but also inspire and guide students to reach their full potential.
As a result, graduates from Florida Poly emerge as highly skilled professionals equipped with the knowledge, skills, and innovative mindset needed to thrive in today’s rapidly evolving technological landscape. Whether pursuing careers in engineering, technology, research, or entrepreneurship, Florida Polytechnic University prepares students to make a meaningful impact and shape the future of innovation. Explore the endless possibilities of a tech-focused education and join the ranks of visionary leaders at Florida Polytechnic University.
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