Interim Florida International University (FIU) President Jeanette Nunez is in line to become the school's seventh president, the school announced on Thursday.
"I’m honored and humbled to move forward in the FIU presidential search process. Thank you to Chair Carlos Duart and the Presidential Search Committee for the opportunity to interview and share my vision for FIU," Nunez said. "I look forward to connecting with FIU students, faculty, and staff during the upcoming forums.
Nunez was named interim president of FIU back in February. She previously was Florida's lieutenant governor from 2019 to 2025.
"Since her appointment in February, Interim President Nuñez has worked tirelessly with great enthusiasm and passion and a firm commitment to our students and the overall success of FIU, the school said. "Guided by FIU’s strategic plan, Experience Impact 2030, she has engaged meaningfully with our students, faculty, staff, and community, focusing on improving the student experience, ensuring research excellence, and establishing and strengthening strategic alliances."
The school said its Presidential Search Committee selected three finalists, including Nunez, for recommendation to the FIU Board of Trustees. Both other finalists withdrew their names from consideration after not being the lone candidate.
In her tenure as interim president, Nunez has vowed to eradicate diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) and antisemitism at FIU. The announcement also comes as the University of Florida looks to hire a new president with a much different vision.
"Interim President Nuñez’s distinguished career and commitment to further cement FIU’s position as a leader in higher education in Florida and across the country make her an excellent leader for FIU at this pivotal point in our university’s journey," the school added.
