Jeanette Nuñez Makes History as FIU's First Alumnus President

Sweetwater, Florida, USA - In a significant development for Florida International University (FIU), Jeanette M. Nuñez has been confirmed as the university’s seventh president, marking a new chapter in FIU’s illustrious history. The Florida Board of Governors officially granted her confirmation on June 18, 2025. This decision follows a unanimous vote by the FIU Board of Trustees on June 2, showcasing strong support for Nuñez’s leadership (Local10).

Nuñez, a native of South Florida and a proud alumna of FIU, holds both a Bachelor of Arts in International Relations and Political Science and a Master of Public Administration from the university, where she earlier served as an adjunct professor. Her extensive background includes a remarkable tenure as Florida’s Lieutenant Governor from 2018 to 2022, where she oversaw various initiatives, including significant health programs and disaster response strategies.

A Leader for Our Times

As the first FIU graduate to take the helm, Nuñez expressed immense gratitude to the Board of Trustees for their faith in her leadership abilities. „I am committed to leading FIU to greater success,“ she stated, emphasizing her dedication to enhancing the student experience, expanding health care education, and strengthening athletics. This aligns with her aspiration for FIU to rank among the top 30 public universities in the U.S. by 2030, an ambitious yet achievable goal given FIU’s current standing as a top-tier institution based on rigorous performance metrics (FIU News).

The FIU Board of Trustees, under the leadership of Chair Roger Tovar, lauded Nuñez’s extensive network and experience, viewing her as an ideal candidate to navigate the challenges ahead. Since taking on the interim presidency in February, she’s actively engaged with the FIU community, holding forums to share her vision and gather input from students and faculty.

Performance and Recognition

Nuñez’s appointment is particularly timely as FIU has been recognized as Florida’s top university for performance metrics for three consecutive years, racking up an impressive score of 96 out of 100. These evaluations, based on four-year graduation rates, retention, cost of attendance, and post-graduation employment, illustrate the strong foundation Nuñez inherits (FIU President’s Office).

However, her appointment is not without controversy. Florida Democrats have raised questions about Nuñez’s trustworthiness in leading a diverse college community, particularly in light of her previously stated positions regarding in-state tuition for Dreamers. Party chair Nikki Fried voiced apprehensions, urging for vigilance over the university’s future directions.

As Nuñez steps into this pivotal role, the FIU community and stakeholders are keenly watching how her leadership will steer the university into its next chapter, blending experience with fresh ideas. With such a strong academic backbone and community support, there’s reason to be optimistic about the horizon for FIU under Jeanette M. Nuñez’s leadership.