Florida Atlantic University (FAU) has named former State Rep. Adam Hasner as its new president, an announcement made yesterday. This decision follows a controversial search process that led the university to discard its initial round of candidates. The appointment comes as Governor Ron DeSantis continues efforts to influence educational governance in Florida, according to NBC Miami.
Hasner, who is also a vice president at GEO Group, was selected by the university trustees in a unanimous vote over more experienced academic candidates. His political experience, particularly with Palm Beach County, was highlighted as an asset. Hasner told NBC Miami, "I can hit the ground running on Day One."
Although the trustees were unified in their decision, some members of the FAU community have expressed concerns about Hasner's lack of higher education experience, recent political ties, and his connection to GEO Group, a company with potential interests in immigration enforcement policies. FAU has been without a permanent president since December 2022, following the departure of John Kelly.
Boca Magazine highlighted the local reaction to Hasner’s appointment, noting that FAU Board Chair Piero Bussani was "thrilled" and described the day as "exciting day." The final approval is expected from the Board of Governors, which is considered a formality after recent developments.
