Florida is poised for a notable shift in its higher education leadership as Florida International University (FIU) prepares to welcome Lieutenant Governor Jeanette Nuñez as their interim president. This move is expected following a report from Local 10, which reveals that Nuñez is likely to resign from her political post imminently to take on the new role.

The conversation surrounding these developments heated up when sources told CBS News Miami that her resignation could come "as early as this week," hinting at the speed with which the lieutenant governor is moving to transition to academia. The expected appointment is set to be officially discussed in a special meeting by FIU's board of trustees tomorrow, sources have said, and Nuñez, also an FIU alumna and adjunct professor, seems to be the front-runner for the position. "It is imminent," one source informed CBS News Miami, speaking of Nuñez's transition, while another source highlighted, "She is available now." 

While Nuñez's appointment as interim president is yet to be confirmed, the implications of her expected transition are apparent with Florida Governor Ron DeSantis having the opportunity to name her successor. According to CBS News Miami, potential replacements have been speculated on, but DeSantis is perceived to be in no rush. "He does not feel the need to fill it right away," a source close to the discussions mentioned. Notably, the lieutenant governor's shift to university president would also come with a salary increase, potentially negotiating a package that surpasses the million-dollar mark.

Amidst the prevailing political undertones, voices have emerged supporting Nuñez's prospective appointment, highlighting her strong connections with FIU as a former student, instructor, and advisor. As one source suggested to CBS News Miami, her history and influence could benefit the university significantly, especially when it comes to state funding. "We are a state institution that relies on considerable funding from the state. She can certainly help us with that."

Regarding the position of current FIU President Kenneth Jessell, the expectation is that he will take a sabbatical for the remaining tenure of his contract, returning later as a tenured professor. As stressed by one CBS News Miami source, not embracing Nuñez could have been perceived as a contentious move against the governing powers, akin to "poking the bear." The anticipation of the official confirmation of Nuñez's new role, as well as the subsequent shifts in Florida’s political and educational landscape, is expected to unfold following tomorrow's pivotal trustees meeting.