Manny Diaz Jr. Selected as Sole Finalist for University of West Florida Presidency – Exciting Leadership Ahead!

The University of West Florida’s Presidential Search Committee has chosen Manny Diaz Jr. as the only finalist for the position of President. This decision is now up for consideration by the UWF Board of Trustees.

Zack Smith, the chair of the search committee, praised the effort put into finding the right candidate. He noted, “After thorough interviews and reviews, it became clear that Interim President Diaz’s vast experience in higher education and policy makes him a standout choice for UWF.” Diaz has been serving as the interim president since July 2025.

His background in education is impressive. He has worked as a teacher, coach, and administrator. Notably, he was Florida’s Education Commissioner and has been part of the State University System of Florida Board of Governors. His work in the Florida House and Senate helped him become a key advocate for education policy, supporting students, families, and teachers throughout his career.

The selection process follows Florida law and regulations. It included input from various stakeholders, defining the position, and identifying the best candidates. Now, the UWF Board of Trustees will confirm the president’s appointment, which is subsequently determined by the Florida Board of Governors.

As part of the next steps, the university will hold a public forum where Diaz will speak and also be interviewed by the Board of Trustees. These events will welcome campus and community members and will be livestreamed via WUWF. For more details on the UWF Presidential Search, visit uwf.edu/presidentialsearch.

Recent surveys show that effective leadership in higher education is more crucial than ever, especially in today’s rapidly changing climate. Leadership style greatly impacts institutional success, particularly in areas like student retention and engagement. Diaz’s multifaceted experience could be vital in addressing these challenges at UWF.

Engagement in educational policy at the state level remains a hot topic. As seen in recent discussions on social media, many believe that strong connections between leadership and policy-making can enhance educational outcomes. This is especially relevant as universities adapt to new technologies and teaching methods.

Source link

Board of Governors,Board of Trustees,presidential search,Manny Diaz Jr.,Interim President Diaz Jr.