Pensacola State College Will Vote on New President
The board of trustees will meet on September 21 to decide if J. Alex Kelly will lead the college.
Updated on Sept. 21, 2026 in People
Live Poll
Do you trust the selection process for leadership at your local public colleges?
The Pensacola State College board of trustees is scheduled to vote on the appointment of J. Alex Kelly as the school's next president on September 21. The decision follows his selection as a finalist by the Presidential Search Committee on August 29.
Why it matters
The appointment will determine the long-term executive leadership of the college. Selecting a new president is a critical step in guiding the institution's strategic direction and academic mission.
The board of trustees will convene the final vote at 5 p.m. inside Broxson Hall. The institution is located at 1000 College Boulevard in Pensacola.
The players
J. Alex Kelly
He is the current Secretary of the Florida Department of Commerce and a former chief of staff to the Florida Education Commissioner.
Pensacola State College
This is the higher education institution currently undergoing a leadership transition.
The details
J. Alex Kelly currently serves as the Secretary of the Florida Department of Commerce. His previous roles include serving as deputy chief of staff in the Governor's Office and as chief of staff to the Florida Education Commissioner.
Timeline
The Presidential Search Committee recommended J. Alex Kelly as a finalist on Aug. 29.
The board of trustees will vote on the presidential candidate on Sept. 21 at 5 p.m.
Market Landscape
Public institution leadership appointments in Florida must comply with strict transparency standards established by the Florida Sunshine Law. This oversight ensures that the selection process for key roles like a college president remains accessible to the community.
The appointment of a new president may eventually influence administrative policies and institutional priorities for the local college community. Students and staff should monitor the outcome of the September 21 vote to understand potential changes to campus management.
The takeaway
The board's decision on September 21 marks a pivotal moment for the future administration of the college. Residents should remain informed about the potential shift in leadership as the school prepares for a new presidential term.
Further reading
Learn more about local leadership shifts in our People section.
Live Poll
Do you trust the selection process for leadership at your local public colleges?
