MIAMI, Fla. – Florida International University’s Board of Trustees has appointed Florida Lt. Gov. Jeanette Nuñez as its interim president, marking a major leadership transition at the institution.
During a special meeting Friday, all but one on the board selected Nuñez to step in as President Kenneth Jessell prepares to leave his position before the end of his contract.
“I have complete confidence in the lieutenant governor,” Jessell said during the meeting. “And she’s a double Panther, and I look forward to supporting her.”
Announcing the appointment, FIU Board of Trustees Chair Roger Tovar said Friday he was contacted directly by DeSantis’ office about tapping Nuñez and later had multiple conversations with her.
“I can think of no better advocate for FIU than a two-time alumni from South Florida who has the experience of having served in the Florida Legislature and her time as lieutenant governor,” Tovar said.
[EXCLUSIVE: Become a News 6 Insider (it’s FREE) | PINIT! Share your photos]
Nuñez, an FIU alumna, holds both undergraduate and master’s degrees from the university. She has previously served as an adjunct professor and advisor, strengthening her long-standing ties to the institution.
Her appointment comes with political implications, as she is expected to resign as Florida’s lieutenant governor, a role she has held since 2019. Gov. Ron DeSantis will be responsible for appointing her successor.
While some at FIU have embraced the decision, concerns have also been raised.
“FIU deserves better than a yes-woman for DeSantis’ dangerous agenda,” one student said. “We deserve leaders who fight for all of us.”
Others view Nuñez’s political background as an asset. FIU Board of Trustees Chair Roger Tovar voiced his support, stating, “In the time that I have known Lt. Gov. Nuñez and I have always, always been impressed.”
Nuñez has formally accepted the position, her term as interim president will take effect on Feb. 17th.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
You can listen to every episode of Florida’s Fourth Estate in the media player below:
