TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — A former Republican state lawmaker from northwest Florida, Mel Ponder, is on track to become the latest conservative figure to assume leadership positions at public institutions of higher education in the state.
The governing board of Northwest Florida State College, located in Niceville, recently announced that Ponder is their chosen candidate to become the college’s next president.
In recent years, politicians in Florida have aggressively pursued top administrative roles at state universities, often emphasizing their connections to legislators who can influence financial support for academic institutions. This trend has intensified under the administration of Republican Governor Ron DeSantis, who has actively sought to modify the state’s educational framework to align with conservative values.
Ponder, who currently works as a realtor, previously served as a state representative and is an active member of the Okaloosa County Commission. He highlights his strong community involvement in a region famous for its picturesque beaches, thriving tourism industry, and large military presence. His academic background includes a bachelor’s degree in finance obtained from Florida State University; however, he lacks any formal employment experience in higher education.
While in the state legislature, Ponder held the position of vice chair on the higher education appropriations subcommittee. He was recognized as Legislator of the Year by the Association of Florida Colleges in 2018 and has also held the role of mayor in Destin. His term on the Okaloosa County Commission concludes on November 19, which coincides with the Northwest Florida State College Board’s scheduled meeting to formally approve his presidency.
Ponder emerged as the top choice from a pool of candidates that included a former community college president, a college administrator with a doctorate, and a retired Air Force brigadier general.
College board Chair Lori Kelley expressed confidence in Ponder’s capabilities, claiming he brings valuable community experience and enthusiasm to this pivotal role.
Ponder’s absence of a terminal degree is noteworthy, as it contrasts sharply with national trends; a 2023 survey from the American Council on Education indicated that only 0.6% of college presidents possess only a bachelor’s degree, while a significant 83% hold doctorates.
Both Ponder and the college have not responded to requests for comment regarding his appointment. The United Faculty of Florida, a union representing college educators, refrained from specifically addressing Ponder’s selection but stated that effective leadership in higher education typically requires significant educational experience.
UFF President Teresa Hodge emphasized that while various backgrounds can contribute beneficial insights, prioritizing leaders without academic qualifications risks transforming these institutions into corporate entities, potentially undermining their academic mission. This shift may lead to a decline in educational standards, ultimately affecting students who rely on these schools for a comprehensive education.
Lauren Lassabe Shepherd, an educator at the University of New Orleans and author of “Resistance from the Right: Conservatives and the Campus Wars,” noted that Ponder’s appointment fits into a broader national trend where conservative figures seek to enhance their influence over educational institutions.
“He’s clearly unqualified,” Shepherd stated, voicing concern about the institution’s future direction for those employed there, given the broader context of recent developments in Florida’s education system.
Other Republicans who have taken on leadership roles in public colleges and universities since DeSantis took office include former U.S. Senator Ben Sasse, who resigned as president of the University of Florida amid scrutiny over lavish spending during his tenure. Another DeSantis ally, former Speaker of the Florida House Richard Corcoran, is currently leading a conservative transformation at the New College of Florida. Notably, two additional Florida lawmakers have also been appointed as college presidents, neither having previous academic experience.