Latest news with #UniversityofWestFlorida
Hamilton Spectator
14-07-2025
- Politics
- Hamilton Spectator
Another DeSantis ally takes the helm of a public university in Florida
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) — Another former Republican lawmaker and ally of Gov. Ron DeSantis is officially taking the helm of one of Florida's public universities. Manny Diaz, who DeSantis previously appointed to be his state commissioner of education , started his first day on the job Monday as the interim president of the University of West Florida in Pensacola. Diaz is a former social studies teacher and assistant principal who as a state lawmaker became one of the key architects behind Florida's recent push to expand charter schools, which are publicly funded but privately run. He'll lead the school on an interim basis while university leaders conduct a job search, and is expected to pursue the permanent position. 'I am honored to step into this role and lead the University of West Florida into this next chapter. UWF has a proud legacy and a promising future, and I look forward to working alongside our students, faculty, staff and community partners to continue building on its momentum,' Diaz said in a statement. 'Together, we will advance and explore new opportunities to serve our region and state with excellence.' With Diaz's appointment, five of the state's 12 public universities will be led by former Republican lawmakers or lobbyists , a move that is expected to help extend DeSantis' legacy in higher education long after his time in office. Speaking at a press event Monday, DeSantis said the appointment of Diaz to lead UWF is similar to the pick of another former education commissioner to lead New College of Florida , a move meant to overhaul the liberal arts school known for its progressive independent streak and turn it into a more conservative classical institution . 'I think there's a lot of potential there,' DeSantis said of UWF. DeSantis' recent decision to appoint new, more conservative members to the school's board has sparked controversy . Supporters of the push to advance lawmakers above traditional academic leaders say it will grant the schools the political capital to secure critical state funding and navigate a rapidly shifting legal landscape. Critics see it as another sign that alignment with the governor's conservative education agenda has become a prerequisite for leading the state's public universities. Last month, the state university system board rejected a longtime academic as the next president of the University of Florida, amid sharp criticism from political conservatives about the candidate's past support for diversity, equity and inclusion programs. UF, considered one of the top public research universities in the country, is still looking for a permanent president. Leading a Florida university generally comes with a multiyear contract for a salary of at least six-figures and a plush on-campus residence. The process for picking these leaders happens largely behind closed doors, creating what the state's Republican House speaker has called 'a spoil system for a select few.' ___ Kate Payne is a corps member for The Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative. Report for America is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on undercovered issues. Error! Sorry, there was an error processing your request. There was a problem with the recaptcha. Please try again. You may unsubscribe at any time. By signing up, you agree to our terms of use and privacy policy . This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google privacy policy and terms of service apply. Want more of the latest from us? Sign up for more at our newsletter page .
Toronto Star
14-07-2025
- Politics
- Toronto Star
Another DeSantis ally takes the helm of a public university in Florida
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) — Another former Republican lawmaker and ally of Gov. Ron DeSantis is officially taking the helm of one of Florida's public universities. Manny Diaz, who DeSantis previously appointed to be his state commissioner of education, started his first day on the job Monday as the interim president of the University of West Florida in Pensacola.
Winnipeg Free Press
14-07-2025
- Politics
- Winnipeg Free Press
Another DeSantis ally takes the helm of a public university in Florida
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) — Another former Republican lawmaker and ally of Gov. Ron DeSantis is officially taking the helm of one of Florida's public universities. Manny Diaz, who DeSantis previously appointed to be his state commissioner of education, started his first day on the job Monday as the interim president of the University of West Florida in Pensacola. Diaz is a former social studies teacher and assistant principal who as a state lawmaker became one of the key architects behind Florida's recent push to expand charter schools, which are publicly funded but privately run. He'll lead the school on an interim basis while university leaders conduct a job search, and is expected to pursue the permanent position. 'I am honored to step into this role and lead the University of West Florida into this next chapter. UWF has a proud legacy and a promising future, and I look forward to working alongside our students, faculty, staff and community partners to continue building on its momentum,' Diaz said in a statement. 'Together, we will advance and explore new opportunities to serve our region and state with excellence.' With Diaz's appointment, five of the state's 12 public universities will be led by former Republican lawmakers or lobbyists, a move that is expected to help extend DeSantis' legacy in higher education long after his time in office. Speaking at a press event Monday, DeSantis said the appointment of Diaz to lead UWF is similar to the pick of another former education commissioner to lead New College of Florida, a move meant to overhaul the liberal arts school known for its progressive independent streak and turn it into a more conservative classical institution. 'I think there's a lot of potential there,' DeSantis said of UWF. DeSantis' recent decision to appoint new, more conservative members to the school's board has sparked controversy. Supporters of the push to advance lawmakers above traditional academic leaders say it will grant the schools the political capital to secure critical state funding and navigate a rapidly shifting legal landscape. Critics see it as another sign that alignment with the governor's conservative education agenda has become a prerequisite for leading the state's public universities. Last month, the state university system board rejected a longtime academic as the next president of the University of Florida, amid sharp criticism from political conservatives about the candidate's past support for diversity, equity and inclusion programs. UF, considered one of the top public research universities in the country, is still looking for a permanent president. Leading a Florida university generally comes with a multiyear contract for a salary of at least six-figures and a plush on-campus residence. The process for picking these leaders happens largely behind closed doors, creating what the state's Republican House speaker has called 'a spoil system for a select few.' ___ Kate Payne is a corps member for The Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative. Report for America is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on undercovered issues.
San Francisco Chronicle
14-07-2025
- Politics
- San Francisco Chronicle
Another DeSantis ally takes the helm of a public university in Florida
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) — Another former Republican lawmaker and ally of Gov. Ron DeSantis is officially taking the helm of one of Florida's public universities. Manny Diaz, who DeSantis previously appointed to be his state commissioner of education, started his first day on the job Monday as the interim president of the University of West Florida in Pensacola. Diaz is a former social studies teacher and assistant principal who as a state lawmaker became one of the key architects behind Florida's recent push to expand charter schools, which are publicly funded but privately run. He'll lead the school on an interim basis while university leaders conduct a job search, and is expected to pursue the permanent position. 'I am honored to step into this role and lead the University of West Florida into this next chapter. UWF has a proud legacy and a promising future, and I look forward to working alongside our students, faculty, staff and community partners to continue building on its momentum," Diaz said in a statement. 'Together, we will advance and explore new opportunities to serve our region and state with excellence.' With Diaz's appointment, five of the state's 12 public universities will be led by former Republican lawmakers or lobbyists, a move that is expected to help extend DeSantis' legacy in higher education long after his time in office. Speaking at a press event Monday, DeSantis said the appointment of Diaz to lead UWF is similar to the pick of another former education commissioner to lead New College of Florida, a move meant to overhaul the liberal arts school known for its progressive independent streak and turn it into a more conservative classical institution. 'I think there's a lot of potential there,' DeSantis said of UWF. DeSantis' recent decision to appoint new, more conservative members to the school's board has sparked controversy. Supporters of the push to advance lawmakers above traditional academic leaders say it will grant the schools the political capital to secure critical state funding and navigate a rapidly shifting legal landscape. Critics see it as another sign that alignment with the governor's conservative education agenda has become a prerequisite for leading the state's public universities. Last month, the state university system board rejected a longtime academic as the next president of the University of Florida, amid sharp criticism from political conservatives about the candidate's past support for diversity, equity and inclusion programs. UF, considered one of the top public research universities in the country, is still looking for a permanent president. Leading a Florida university generally comes with a multiyear contract for a salary of at least six-figures and a plush on-campus residence. The process for picking these leaders happens largely behind closed doors, creating what the state's Republican House speaker has called 'a spoil system for a select few.'
Yahoo
21-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Are you kids getting antsy? Here's 68 summer camps to keep them busy
Does your child dream of becoming a groundbreaking scientist, a successful fashion designer, a Naval aviator or even the next Rembrandt? Whatever the interest – STEM, music, dance, sewing, crafts, etc. – there's still time to find a summer camp for your child in Escambia and Santa Rosa counties. Most camps have multiple sessions, and many are open until early August. Here's a comprehensive of the many fun and enriching summer camps and activities available for preschool, elementary, middle and high school students: June 23-27: Bugs Don't Bug Me, grades 1-2, University of West Florida. Details: explorecamps@ June 23-27: Storybook Science, grades 1-2, University of West Florida. Details: explorecamps@ June 23-27, July 7-11, July 14-18: Lego Robotics: Smart City, grades 3-4, University of West Florida. Details: explorecamps@ June 23-27: Robolab: Innovators in Motion, grades 7-10, University of West Florida. Details: explorecamps@ June 23-27: Eco-Adventure, ages 8-13, hosted by Threads of Learning Academy, 2869 W. Michigan Ave., Pensacola. Details: July 7-11: Art-chitects, grades 1-2, University of West Florida. Details: explorecamps@ July 7-11: Camp Magic School Bus, grades 1-2, University of West Florida. Details: explorecamps@ July 7-11: Pod Camp, grades 7-8, University of West Florida. Details: explorecamps@ July 7-11: Spy Kids, , grades 3-4, University of West Florida. Details: explorecamps@ July 14-18: Jurassic Park, ages 8-13, hosted by Threads of Learning Academy, 2869 W. Michigan Ave., Pensacola. Details: July 14-18: Animal Planet, grades 1-2, University of West Florida. Details: explorecamps@ July 14-18: Nature's Laboratory, grades 3-4, University of West Florida. Details: explorecamps@ July 14-18: Lights, Power, Electrify, grades 5-6, University of West Florida. Details: explorecamps@ July 20-25, July 27-Aug. 1: STEM Summer Camp, National Flight Academy, Pensacola. Register at July 21-25: Space Expedition, ages 8-13, hosted by Threads of Learning Academy, 2869 W. Michigan Ave., Pensacola. Details: July 21-25, July 28-Aug. 1: Lego Robotics: Great Adventures, grades 1-2, University of West Florida. Details: explorecamps@ July 21-25: Splash Science, grades 1-2, University of West Florida. Details: explorecamps@ July 21-25: Code Crushers, grades 3-4, University of West Florida. Details: explorecamps@ July 22-25: Escambia County 4-H Heroes of S.T.E.M. Day Camp, ages 8 and older, limit of 20. Register at or call Lina Berry at 850-475-5230. July 28-Aug. 1: Time Travel Scientist: Curiosity Quest, grades 1-2, University of West Florida. Details: explorecamps@ July 28-Aug. 1: Lego Masters: Block Stars, grades 3-4, University of West Florida. Details: explorecamps@ July 28-Aug. 1: Mission to Mars, grades 5-6, University of West Florida. Details: explorecamps@ Through Aug. 1: Pensacola MESS Hall Summer Camps 2025, Pensacola. Register Through Aug. 8: Kids College, Pensacola State College, 1000 College Blvd., Pensacola. Ages 6-8, 9-12, 12-16. Details: Through June 20: Summer Art Intensive, Pensacola Museum of Art, grades 9-12. Details: Through June 20, July 14-18: Music Camp with Devan Dunlap, ages 5-10, hosted by Corals Closet, 114 S. Palafox St., Pensacola. Details: June 20-July 4: Movie Making, ages 8-13, hosted by Threads of Learning Academy, 2869 W. Michigan Ave., Pensacola. Details: June 23-27, July 21-25: Explore Hogwarts: Year 1, grades 3-4, University of West Florida. Details: explorecamps@ June 23-27: Kids Summer Art Camp, ages 7-10, 4916 Landmark Lane, Pace. Details: June 23-27: Don't Try This At Home, grades 5-6, University of West Florida. Details: explorecamps@ June 23-27: Mini Showstoppers Summer Camp, grades K-2, Mixon Magic Performing Arts. Details: June 23-27: 2025 Creatisphere Summer Art 'Musical Masterpiece' Camp, ages 6-12, First City Art Center. Details: June 23-27: Improv Camp, grades 7-9, University of West Florida. Details: explorecamps@ July 7-11: Art Camp with Grow Creative, ages 5-10, hosted by Corals Closet, 114 S Palafox St., Pensacola. Details: July 7-11: Explore Hogwarts: Year 2, grades 3-4, University of West Florida. Details: explorecamps@ July 7-26: The Aristocats Kids, Pensacola Little Theatre Summer Camps and Classes 2025. Details: Topher Warren at education@ July 7-26: Matilda Jr. Showstoppers Summer Camp, grades 3-9, Mixon Magic Performing Arts. Details: July 14-18: Pensacola Museum of Art: Explorations in Art, grades 1-2, University of West Florida. Details: explorecamps@ July 14-18: Explore Hogwarts: Year 3, grades 7-9, University of West Florida. Details: explorecamps@ July 21-25: Ultimate Game Frenzy, grades 5-6, University of West Florida. Details: explorecamps@ July 21-25: Mock Trial, grades 7-8, University of West Florida. Details: explorecamps@ July 21-25: Pensacola Museum of Art: Art Adventures, grades 3-5, University of West Florida. Details: explorecamps@ June 28-Aug. 1: Expressions & Experimentation, Pensacola Museum of Art, grades 5-8. Details: July 28-Aug. 1: Pensacola Museum of Art: Expression and Experimentation, grades 5-8, University of West Florida. Details: explorecamps@ Aug. 4-8: 2025 Creatisphere Summer Art 'Stories of the Sea' Camp, ages 5-12, First City Art Center. Details: Through Aug. 8: Kids College, Pensacola State College, 1000 College Blvd., Pensacola. Ages 6-8, 9-12, 12-16. Details: June 24: Escambia County 4-H Advanced Sewing Day Camp, ages 10 and older, limit of 12. Sewing experience required. Register at or call Lina Berry at 850-475-5230. June 30-July 3: Family Camp Test Kitchen, ages 6 and older, Pensacola Cooks Classroom, 4051 Barrancas Ave., Pensacola, Unit C, Greer's Shopping Center. One adult (required) with one child 6 years old and older. Details: 850-456-0743. June 30 - July 3: Escambia County 4-H Food Challenge Twilight Day Camp, ages 8 and older, limit of 16. Register at or call Lina Berry at 850-475-5230. July 15-18: Escambia County 4-H Craft Keepers Day Camp, ages 8 and older, limit of 20. Register at or call Lina Berry at 850-475-5230. Through Aug. 8: Kids College, Pensacola State College, 1000 College Blvd., Pensacola. Ages 6-8, 9-12, 12-16. Details: June 23-26, July 7-10, July 14-17: Rising Minds Learning at Lovelock Healing Arts Summer Camp, ages 5-10, limit of 10, 213 S. Baylen St., Pensacola. Register at June 23-27: 3rd Annual Teen G.I.R.L.S. Leadership and Empowerment Camp, for ages 13-18, Real Women Radio Complex, 3499 N. Davis Hwy., Pensacola. Register online at June 23-27, July 21-25: Etiquette Camp with Coco, ages 5-10, hosted by Corals Closet, 114 S Palafox St., Pensacola. Details: Through Aug. 8: Kids College, Pensacola State College, 1000 College Blvd., Pensacola. Ages 6-8, 9-12, 12-16. Details: June 23-July 26, June 30-July 3, July 7-10, July 14-17, July 21-24, July 28-31, Aug.4- 7: WBZ (Waterboyz) Skate Camps 2025, Details: June 30-July 3, July 7-10, July 14-17, July 21-24, July 28-31, Aug.4- 7: WBZ (Waterboyz) Surf/SKIM Camps 2025, Details: July 7-10: 2025 Crusader Spirit Camp, Pensacola Catholic High gym. Details: SportsCenter Day Camps, Pensacola Christian College, ages 5-12. Details: Sports Center Day Camp. Through Aug. 8: Kids College, Pensacola State College, 1000 College Blvd., Pensacola. Ages 6-8, 9-12, 12-16. Details: Through July 11: Camp Creative Learning Academy, open to rising 4 year olds-8th graders. Register at or email Jennifer Russell at jrussell@ Through July 24: Episcopal Day School Summer Camp, grades Pre-K 2-8. Register at July 28-Aug. 1: Pirates and Mermaids, ages 8-13, hosted by Threads of Learning Academy, 2869 W. Michigan Ave., Pensacola. Details: Through Aug. 1: Code Ninjas Summer Camp, ages 5-15, Pensacola and Navarre sites. Register and Through Aug. 1: Creative Sparks Summer Camp, weekly themed full- and half-day events, 1449 W. Nine Mile Road, Suite 15, Pensacola. Details: Through Aug. 1: Creative Youth Tutor Summer Camp sponsored by The Unicorn Club. Details: 850-430-9024. Through Aug. 2: Summer Day Camps sponsored by City of Pensacola Parks and Recreation, Cobb, Fricker, Gull Point and Woodland Heights Resource Centers. Details: YMCA Teen Summer Camp, ages 11-15, Pensacola State College, 1000 College Blvd. Details email Shelby Gibson at Did we miss your Summer Camp? Email mmabins@ This article originally appeared on Pensacola News Journal: Summer Camps 2025 for kids in Pensacola Escambia Santa Rosa County
