TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Florida Lieutenant Governor Jeanette Nuñez has been appointed as the interim president of Florida International University (FIU), a strategic move that allows term-limited Governor Ron DeSantis to place an ally in a influential position as he looks ahead to the 2026 gubernatorial race.
The announcement was made on Friday by Roger Tovar, the chair of the FIU Board of Trustees, who disclosed that he was approached by DeSantis’ office regarding Nuñez’s selection and subsequently held discussions with her about the role.
“I can’t think of anyone better to advocate for FIU than a two-time alumnus from South Florida who possesses valuable experience from the Florida Legislature as well as her role as lieutenant governor,” remarked Tovar.
This appointment comes amid a broader reshuffling among Florida’s political leadership, as many state Republicans are finding positions within President Donald Trump’s administration and elsewhere. This also represents another opportunity for DeSantis to solidify his sway even after he leaves the governor’s office.
Nuñez’s appointment may give DeSantis an advantage in selecting a potential successor at a time when several of Trump’s allies are reportedly contemplating a run for the governor’s position.
Under DeSantis’ guidance, the boards responsible for hiring presidents at the state’s public colleges and universities have increasingly favored Republican officials aligned with his conservative policies, a trend that has raised concerns among students and faculty.
Choosing DeSantis’ second-in-command for a presidential role, which typically comes with a substantial salary and an on-campus residence, further illustrates the governor’s influence over the higher education landscape.
Nuñez is expected to officially assume the interim presidency on February 17 and is anticipated to secure the permanent position after a formal search is conducted.
As one of the largest universities in the nation, with over 56,000 students, FIU serves a diverse student body, particularly comprising Hispanic, first-generation, and low-income individuals.
Nuñez will take over after President Kenneth Jessell, a finance professor and university administrator, steps down ahead of the conclusion of his contract in November.
