PRESS RELEASE

Northwest Florida State College Confirms Commissioner Melvin P. “Mel” Ponder as President Starting January 2, 2025

NICEVILLE, Fla. – The District Board of Trustees of Northwest Florida State College voted to confirm Commissioner Melvin P. “Mel” Ponder as the next President of Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) at the Board’s November 19 Board meeting. President-Elect Ponder will begin as NWFSC President on January 2, 2025.

The Board of Trustees selected President-Elect Ponder as the fifth president of Northwest Florida State College following an approximately six-month search with more than 100 candidates, which yielded four finalists. Following discussion regarding an employment agreement, the Board unanimously confirmed the selection at their final 2024 regular meeting.

“Thank you to the Board of Trustees for their time, energy, and effort throughout the summer and fall as we completed our rigorous presidential search process. This Board carried out its core responsibility of stewarding the College’s success by selecting a new president,” said Lori Kelley, NWFSC Board Chair. “I look forward to working with President-Elect Ponder when he starts in the Spring Semester as we begin an exciting new chapter in the College’s history. The Board will continue to support him as he shapes the future of Northwest Florida State College.”

President-Elect Ponder, who completed his term as an Okaloosa County Commissioner on November 19, will join the College in January following the conclusion of his role as the Association Executive for the Emerald Coast Association of Realtors and as President of Business Empowered (BE). Previously, he was also honored to serve as Mayor of the City of Destin, as a Destin City Councilman, and in the Florida House of Representatives. While serving as a State Representative, President-Elect Ponder was honored as the Florida College System Council of Presidents Legislator of the Year. He was appointed in 2022 and reappointed in 2023 by Governor Ron DeSantis to serve on the CareerSource Florida Board of Directors. A third generation Floridian, he was born and raised in Ocala, Florida, but has lived in the Okaloosa County community for many years alongside his wife of 33 years, Mona, and their three children.

“I express my sincere thanks to the Board of Trustees for entrusting me with the honor of serving as the next President of Northwest Florida State College,” said President-Elect Ponder. “This College has a rich legacy in our community, and I am excited to hit the ground running to build on the College’s reputation of serving its students, faculty, staff, and community. It will be a privilege to expand on the College’s work throughout Okaloosa and Walton Counties as we transform lives and meet the workforce demand in our service area.”

Learn more about President-Elect Ponder by visiting www.nwfsc.edu/presidential-search.

For more information about Northwest Florida State College, visit www.nwfsc.edu or contact the Office of Strategic Communications at [email protected].

PRESS RELEASE

Northwest Florida State College Selects Commissioner Melvin P. “Mel” Ponder in Presidential Search

NICEVILLE, Fla. – The District Board of Trustees of Northwest Florida State College is pleased to announce that, following finalist interviews on November 4 and 5, 2024, the Board has selected Commissioner Melvin P. “Mel” Ponder to offer an employment agreement as the next President of Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC). The Board will discuss an employment agreement with Commissioner Ponder with a goal to finalize the agreement for approval at the November 19, 2024, regular meeting of the Board.

“The Board of Trustees thanks all four finalist candidates for participating in our rigorous on-campus interview process. Each candidate brought unique life experience to the College, and we appreciate their time and interest in the position,” said Lori Kelley, NWFSC Board Chair. “I look forward to discussing an employment agreement with Commission Ponder, who brings deep experience and passion for our community to this critical role. I am confident in his ability to lead our College into the next stage of its growth.”

Commissioner Ponder has lived in the College’s community for many years. He has been married to his wife Mona for 33 years, and they have three children: Preston, Casey, and Grace. He currently serves as the Association Executive for the Emerald Coast Association of Realtors, is the founder and President of Business Empowered (BE), and was elected in November 2020 as Okaloosa County Commissioner for District 5 with a term ending November 19, 2024. Previously, he was honored to serve as Mayor of the City of Destin, as a Destin City Councilman, and in the Florida House of Representatives. While serving as a State Representative, Commissioner Ponder was honored as the Florida College System Council of Presidents Legislator of the Year. He was appointed in 2022 and reappointed in 2023 by Governor Ron DeSantis to serve on the CareerSource Florida Board of Directors. A third generation Floridian, Commissioner Ponder was born and raised in Ocala, Florida.

Learn more about Commissioner Ponder through his biography and resume by visiting www.nwfsc.edu/presidential-search.

The College again thanks all finalist candidates who visited the College on November 4 and 5, 2024. The College also thanks its students, faculty, staff, donors, and the community for taking the time to attend forums and submit surveys. For the most up to date information on the presidential search, visit www.nwfsc.edu/presidential-search.

For more information about Northwest Florida State College, visit www.nwfsc.edu or contact the Office of Strategic Communications at [email protected].

PRESS RELEASE

Northwest Florida State College Selects Finalists in Presidential Search

NICEVILLE, Fla. – Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) is pleased to announce the selection of four finalists who The District Board of Trustees of Northwest Florida State College has invited to interview on November 4 and 5, 2024. Following an October 25, 2024 vote of the nine-member Presidential Search Committee, consisting of the eight members of the Board of Trustees and the Chair of the Board of Directors of the Northwest Florida State College Foundation, the following are the names of the finalist candidates (in alphabetical order):

• Gwyn Armfield, Brigadier General, US Air Force (ret.)
• Commissioner Melvin P. “Mel” Ponder
• James Walter Ross
• Mark F. Strickland, Jr.

“Our Presidential Search Committee, in partnership with Myers McRae Executive Search and Consulting, recruited, reviewed, and interviewed an excellent pool of candidates with a wealth of life experience on the path to identify these finalists,” said Rhea Goff, NWFSC Trustee and Chair of the Board of Trustee’s Presidential Search Committee. “The amount of interest in this position from many qualified applicants has been a testament to Northwest Florida State College’s reputation and its critical place in our community. I extend my gratitude to every volunteer on our search committee for their time, energy, and enthusiasm throughout the committee’s role in this search. I believe this search will shape the future of Northwest Florida State College for years to come.”

The finalists will visit the Niceville Campus on November 4 and 5, 2024, and participate in a variety of activities while on campus, culminating in an interview for each candidate with the Board of Trustees. To learn more about the schedule and how the community can get involved, visit www.nwfsc.edu/presidential-search.

“I extend the Board’s thanks to each of the semifinalist candidates for participating in the presidential search. It has been a privilege to work alongside my colleagues on the Board of Trustees as well as the Foundation Board Chair up to this point in the process,” said Lori Kelley, Chair of the Board of Trustees. “Selecting the next president of our College is a responsibility we do not take lightly. I look forward to meeting each of the finalists in November as we aim to select a candidate to serve our students, faculty, staff, and community.”

The resume for each finalist and the schedule of finalist interviews are available for review at www.nwfsc.edu/presidential-search. The College will continue to update the Presidential Search webpage as additional information is available.

For more information about Northwest Florida State College, visit www.nwfsc.edu or contact the Office of Strategic Communications at [email protected].

OFFICIAL STATEMENT

NORTHWEST FLORIDA STATE COLLEGE PRESIDENTIAL SEARCH COMMITTEE SELECTS ITS SEMI-FINALIST CANDIDATES FOR COLLEGE PRESIDENT

NICEVILLE, Fla. – Northwest Florida State College is pleased to announce that the Northwest Florida State College Presidential Search Committee has selected semi-finalist candidates to interview for the position of College president. The nine-member search committee, chaired by Trustee Rhea Goff, met on Friday, October 4, 2024, to review candidates and reach consensus on a pool of ten semi-finalists to interview.

Semi-finalists interviews will take place with the Presidential Search Committee on October 18, 2024, and October 25, 2024. As provided under section 1004.098, Florida Statutes, all personally identifiable information regarding the candidates remains confidential until such time that the finalists are announced.

The Presidential Search Committee thanks all interested applicants who applied for the position of College president. The Committee also extends its gratitude to Myers McRae Executive Search and Consulting for their diligent efforts in advertising the position, recruiting qualified candidates, and supporting the Committee in its work to vet and select semi-finalists. The semi-finalist candidates bring a broad, exciting range of life experience and credentials for the Committee to consider during the interviews in mid-October.

The College continues to be grateful for all community members who have reached out to express their support and interest in the Presidential Search process to date.

For more information as it becomes available, visit https://www.nwfsc.edu/presidential-search/. We encourage our community to stay informed and engaged as the Board of Trustees continues the work of selecting the next Northwest Florida State College President.

About Northwest Florida State College

Established in the heart of the Florida Panhandle, Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) is a beacon of academic excellence and cultural enrichment. Dedicated to fostering the growth and development of its diverse student population, NWFSC offers a broad array of associate and baccalaureate degree programs tailored to meet the evolving needs of the community and workforce. With a commitment to student success, the college provides a nurturing learning environment, state-of-the-art facilities, and dedicated faculty and staff. Emphasizing collaboration, innovation, and community engagement, NWFSC has become a pivotal force in regional advancement and prosperity. Serving as more than just an educational institution, it stands as a testament to the spirit of discovery, ambition, and the relentless pursuit of knowledge. Discover the Northwest Florida State College difference – where dreams meet opportunities.

For more information about NWFSC, please visit NWFSC.edu or contact the Office of Strategic Communications at [email protected]. For more updates, follow Northwest Florida State College on any of our social platforms:

• Facebook: @NWFStateCollege
• X: @nwfstatecollege
• Instagram: @nwfstatecollege

PRESS RELEASE

Northwest Florida State College Invites Stakeholders to Participate in the Presidential Search

NICEVILLE, Fla. – Northwest Florida State College invites the College community throughout Okaloosa and Walton Counties to provide feedback on the next president of the College. Alongside meetings scheduled for students, faculty, and staff, the College encourages community leaders and members of the public to attend town halls and complete a survey as the Board of Trustees kicks off the presidential search.

Two Town Hall meetings will be open to the public in August:

On Monday, August 12, 2024, at 5 p.m., join the College for a Town Hall at the Walton Area Chamber of Commerce located at 63 S Centre Trail, Santa Rosa Beach, Florida 32549.

On Tuesday, August 13, 2024, at 5:00 p.m., join the College for a Town Hall on the Niceville Campus located in the Sprint Theatre, Mattie Kelly Arts Center, 100 College Boulevard E, Niceville, Florida 32578.

Myers McRae Executive Search and Consulting will host the town halls, seeking the community’s input on the characteristics of and priorities for the next president of Northwest Florida State College.

From August 12 to August 26, 2024, students, alumni, faculty, staff, and community members are also invited to complete a survey regarding the presidential search. To access the survey when it is live on Monday, August 12, visit nwfsc.edu/presidential-search/surveys.

To apply for the Northwest Florida State College presidency or to nominate a candidate, visit www.nwfsc.edu/presidential-search/application-process/or contact Myers McRae Executive Search and Consulting at [email protected].

For more information about Northwest Florida State College, visit www.nwfsc.edu or contact the Office of Strategic Communications at [email protected].

OFFICIAL STATEMENT

NORTHWEST FLORIDA STATE COLLEGE SELECTS ITS PRESIDENTIAL SEARCH COMMITTEE

NICEVILLE, Fla. – Northwest Florida State College is pleased to announce that the eight members of The District Board of Trustees will serve on the Presidential Search Committee together with the Chair of the Board of Directors for the Northwest Florida State College Foundation. This nine-member search committee will work closely with Myers McRae Executive Search and Consulting to begin the Northwest Florida State College Presidential Search. The search committee will be chaired by Trustee Rhea Goff.

The Board of Trustees is strongly committed to being involved in all steps of the process to select the next leader of Northwest Florida State College. The Board of Trustees is made up of eight members spanning the two counties that the College serves and includes retired senior military officers and leaders in economic development and the private sector in our community. In addition to the search committee, the College, working with Myers McRae, also intends to host townhall sessions within the College community to ensure that College partners, faculty, staff, and students are engaged at key stages in the search process.

The Board of Trustees extends its gratitude to all community members who have reached out to express their support and interest in the Presidential Search process to date.

More information regarding the search process will be available soon. For more information as it becomes available, visit https://www.nwfsc.edu/presidential-search/. We encourage our community to stay informed and engaged as we embark on this journey together.

About Northwest Florida State College

Established in the heart of the Florida Panhandle, Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) is a beacon of academic excellence and cultural enrichment. Dedicated to fostering the growth and development of its diverse student population, NWFSC offers a broad array of associate and baccalaureate degree programs tailored to meet the evolving needs of the community and workforce. With a commitment to student success, the college provides a nurturing learning environment, state-of-the-art facilities, and dedicated faculty and staff. Emphasizing collaboration, innovation, and community engagement, NWFSC has become a pivotal force in regional advancement and prosperity. Serving as more than just an educational institution, it stands as a testament to the spirit of discovery, ambition, and the relentless pursuit of knowledge. Discover the Northwest Florida State College difference – where dreams meet opportunities.

For more information about NWFSC, please visit NWFSC.edu or contact the Office of Strategic Communications at [email protected]. For more updates, follow Northwest Florida State College on any of our social platforms:

• Facebook: @NWFStateCollege
• X: @nwfstatecollege
• Instagram: @nwfstatecollege

NORTHWEST FLORIDA STATE COLLEGE SELECTS MYERS MCRAE TO LEAD PRESIDENTIAL SEARCH

NICEVILLE, Fla. – Northwest Florida State College is pleased to announce the selection of Myers McRae Consulting, LLC as the executive search firm responsible for the presidential search. After a thorough and competitive selection process, the Board of Trustees has chosen Myers McRae for their exemplary reputation and proven track record in Florida higher education presidential and executive searches.   

The Board of Trustees extends its gratitude to all firms that submitted proposals. The Board looks forward to collaborating with Myers McRae in the critical task of selecting the next president of Northwest Florida State College, ensuring the institution’s continued growth and success.  

The College is also delighted to announce that Trustee Rhea Goff has agreed to serve as the Presidential Search Committee Chair. Board Chair Lori Kelley expressed her confidence in Trustee Goff’s leadership, stating, “We are fortunate to have Trustee Goff’s experience and commitment guiding this essential search process.”  

More information regarding the search process will be available soon. We encourage our community to stay informed and engaged as we embark on this journey together by visiting the Presidential Search webpage through the College website.  

About Northwest Florida State College 

Established in the heart of the Florida Panhandle, Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) is a beacon of academic excellence and cultural enrichment. Dedicated to fostering the growth and development of its diverse student population, NWFSC offers a broad array of associate and baccalaureate degree programs tailored to meet the evolving needs of the community and workforce. With a commitment to student success, the college provides a nurturing learning environment, state-of-the-art facilities, and dedicated faculty and staff. Emphasizing collaboration, innovation, and community engagement, NWFSC has become a pivotal force in regional advancement and prosperity. Serving as more than just an educational institution, it stands as a testament to the spirit of discovery, ambition, and the relentless pursuit of knowledge. Discover the Northwest Florida State College difference – where dreams meet opportunities. 

For more information about NWFSC, please visit NWFSC.edu or contact the Office of Strategic Communications at [email protected]. For more updates, follow Northwest Florida State College on any of our social platforms:  
 

• Facebook: @NWFStateCollege
  
• X: @nwfstatecollege
• Instagram: @nwfstatecollege 

OFFICIAL STATEMENT ON THE SELECTION OF DR. CRISTIE KEDROSKI AS INTERIM PRESIDENT

NICEVILLE, Fla. – Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) is pleased to announce the selection of Dr. Cristie Kedroski as Interim President effective July 6, 2024. Dr. Kedroski’s selection by the Board of Trustees was unanimous, reflecting the confidence and trust placed in her ability to lead with integrity, vision, and a deep understanding of the College’s mission.

Dr. Kedroski brings with her more than 20 years of community, economic, and higher education experience. Her background demonstrates significant achievements in academic administration, student services, grant management, and community outreach. Dr. Kedroski has been instrumental in developing innovative academic programs and spearheading initiatives that enhanced student retention and graduation rates as well as overseeing enrollment management strategies that have led the College to seven consecutive semesters of increased enrollment.

“I am honored to be selected as the Interim President of Northwest Florida State College,” stated Dr. Cristie Kedroski. “I look forward to working closely with our dedicated faculty, staff, and community partners to continue our mission of providing exceptional educational opportunities and fostering a supportive and innovative learning environment for all students.”

As Interim President, Dr. Kedroski will focus on maintaining the high quality of educational and student support services the College provides to all of its students and stewarding the College’s strategic initiatives.

“I extend our congratulations to Dr. Cristie Kedroski on her selection as Interim President of Northwest Florida State College,” said Lori Kelley, Chair of the Board of Trustees. “Dr. Kedroski’s experience and dedication to this institution make her the ideal candidate to guide the College during this transitional period. The Board had thorough deliberations, ensuring we chose an Interim President who embodies the College’s values.”

“My congratulations to Dr. Cristie Kedroski on her selection as Interim President of Northwest Florida State College,” remarked Dr. Devin Stephenson, current President of Northwest Florida State College and President-elect of Florida Polytechnic University. “Her unwavering commitment to the mission and vision of NWFSC combined with her leadership skills, makes her a great choice for this interim role. I look forward to observing the continued innovation and advancement of the institution under Dr. Kedroski’s leadership.”

The Board of Trustees extends its heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Devin Stephenson and looks forward to selecting a permanent president to continue the remarkable growth and achievements he has laid the groundwork for throughout his years of service to the College.

For more information about Northwest Florida State College, visit www.nwfsc.edu or contact the Office of Strategic Communications at [email protected].

STATEMENT FROM DR. DEVIN STEPHENSON ON HIS SELECTION AS PRESIDENT OF FLORIDA POLYTECHNIC UNIVERSITY

As you may have heard, the State University System Board of Governors unanimously confirmed my selection as the 2nd president of Florida Polytechnic University yesterday. This followed a thorough presidential search process conducted by the Florida Polytechnic University Board of Trustees that resulted in my selection as their next president. As a result of my selection to lead Florida Polytechnic University, I will depart Northwest Florida State College on Friday, July 5.

First and foremost, I want to express my deepest gratitude to each and every one of you – the incredible personnel of Northwest Florida State College – our esteemed Board of Trustees, the bright and dedicated students, and the unwaveringly supportive community that has stood by us through every triumph and challenge. Together, we’ve run at the speed of business, chasing after perfection in our relentless pursuit to catch excellence. And let’s not forget those moments when we’ve stumbled, fumbled, and even bumbled our way through challenges, all while never giving up on our desire to influence and inspire those around us.

To the faculty and staff – your dedication to our students’ success has been nothing short of awe-inspiring. It’s been said that teaching is the profession that creates all other professions, and I have no doubt that your tireless efforts have left an indelible mark on the lives of countless individuals.

To the current and former members of the Board of Trustees – your visionary leadership has been the guiding force behind our institution’s success. In a world where change is the only constant, your ability to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of higher education with wisdom and foresight has been nothing short of remarkable. To the bright and promising students of Northwest Florida State College – you are the heart and soul of our institution, and it has been an honor to watch you grow, learn, and thrive during your time with us. You’ve reminded us time and time again that dreams are meant to be chased, and with perseverance and determination, anything is possible.

And to the wonderfully supportive community that surrounds us – your unwavering belief in the power of education and your steadfast commitment to our success have been a constant source of encouragement and inspiration. Your generosity, advocacy, and partnership have played a pivotal role in shaping the future of our institution. There are too many of you to mention by name, but Judy and I know each of you, and you have all made an impact on our lives. You have been integral to the growth and success of the College. Please continue to stay connected with us. We have made a lifetime of friends here, who will be our friends forever. No matter the distance we travel, the places we reside, we are connected in a special way. We love you all and will never forget, a little over seven years ago, you gave us the opportunity to be a part of the Raider family.

As I prepare to embark on this new chapter in my journey, please know that my heart will always hold a special place for Northwest Florida State College and the incredible community that has embraced me with open arms. While my physical presence may be moving on, my spirit will remain woven into the fabric of this institution, serving as a reminder that with passion, perseverance, and a little bit of humor, anything is possible.

I leave with a deep sense of gratitude for the friendships forged, the memories shared, and the collective impact we’ve made together. As we bid farewell, let us remember that Northwest Florida State College is more than just a place of learning – it is a dream catcher, capable of turning the aspirations and goals of our students into reality. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for the privilege of serving as your President. It has been the honor of a lifetime. I look forward to continuing to serve alongside each of you in the coming weeks as we position the College to successfully enter the upcoming fiscal year.