Florida is about to see a major leadership change. Lieutenant Governor Jeanette Nuñez is expected to step down this week to become the interim president of Florida International University (FIU).
This decision comes at a crucial time, with several political shifts happening in the state. Governor Ron DeSantis has already appointed a new U.S. Senator and now has another big decision to make—who will replace Nuñez as his second-in-command?
From Politics to Education: Nuñez’s Big Transition
Nuñez isn’t new to leadership. She has been a key figure in Florida politics for years. Before becoming lieutenant governor in 2018—making history as the first Hispanic woman to hold the position—she served in the Florida House of Representatives, even taking on the role of Speaker Pro Tempore.
But this move is more than just a career shift. Nuñez is an FIU alumna. She earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the university, and now she’s coming back—not as a student, but as its leader. For her, this isn’t just another job—it’s a homecoming.
What’s Happening at FIU?
FIU’s leadership has been in flux over the past few years. The university’s last permanent president, Mark Rosenberg, resigned in 2022 following misconduct allegations. Kenneth Jessell stepped in as his replacement, but his contract was set to expire later this year. Instead of waiting, the FIU Board of Trustees has decided to bring in Nuñez to take over sooner rather than later.
The board will officially meet on Friday to confirm her as interim president. With her background in both government and education, many believe she’s the right person to lead the university through this transition.
What This Means for Florida
Nuñez leaving office creates a big question: Who will DeSantis pick as his new lieutenant governor? With the governor unable to run for re-election in 2026, this decision could be a stepping stone for someone looking to rise in Florida politics.
In the meantime, Nuñez will be entering a completely different world, one that is populated by academic leadership, teachers, and students rather than politicians. Although running a large university is no easy undertaking, she might be the best candidate for the job given her background, connections, and strong ties to FIU.