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Office of the President

Leading Florida’s Premier STEM Institution Into the Future

Florida Polytechnic University is guided by a visionary leader committed to advancing the University’s mission as the state’s only public institution fully dedicated to science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM).

Under the leadership of Dr. G. Devin Stephenson, the University has entered a dynamic new era marked by growth, innovation, and academic excellence.

Meet the President

Dr. G. Devin Stephenson

Dr. Devin Stephenson is the second president of Florida Polytechnic University, the state’s only public university dedicated 100% to Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM). He began his presidency in July 2024, coinciding with the University’s 10th anniversary.

As its second president, Stephenson is responsible for continuing Florida Poly’s tradition of excellence and overseeing the University’s continued growth. He is committed to expanding the University’s state and national reputation as an innovative leader in higher education and graduating Florida’s top engineers.

Throughout his distinguished career, Stephenson has utilized his expertise in leading the design and implementation of academic programs and providing comprehensive administrative and operational leadership to achieve organizational missions. As a result, Stephenson has earned numerous awards, including the prestigious Southern Association of College and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) Carol A. Luthman Meritorious Service Award for his faithful and dedicated service and support of the SACSCOC as well as receiving both the Phi Theta Kappa President’s Paragon Award and the Shirley B. Gordon Award of Distinction for his strong support of student success. In addition, he was awarded the Missouri Governor’s Excellence in Education, Economic Development, and Economic Development Award.

Furthermore, in October 2023, Stephenson received the Harold L. Bishop Award for Leadership from his alma mater, the University of Alabama’s College of Education. This award is given to individuals who serve as outstanding leaders in the field of education.

In October 2024, he was named to the prestigious Florida 500, an annual list published by Florida Trend magazine recognizing the state’s most influential executives in diverse economic sectors. 

Additionally, in November 2024, Stephenson received the Lifetime Leadership Award by Higher Education Innovation (HEI) which recognizes an individual with over 25 years of exemplary service in higher education leadership.

Stephenson has a remarkable 30-year career in the field of higher education, with more than 15 years of experience as a president and CEO. Prior to joining Florida Poly, he was president of Northwest Florida State College from 2017-2024. While at the helm of the College, the assets of the Foundation increased from $52 million to over $65 million, grant acquisitions surpassed $73 million, and enhanced legislative appropriations exceeded $40 million. Additionally, he led the College to eight consecutive semesters of increased enrollment, three national championships in athletics, and significant development and enhancement of the campus’ facilities and architectural footprint, including the College’s first on-campus student housing development.

Stephenson has held several positions, including vice president of external affairs, provost, SACSCOC liaison, senior athletic administrator, dean of students, director of admissions and student services, director of federal programs, director of financial aid, dean of students, and director of public relations and marketing.

In 2022, Stephenson was appointed by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis as a member of the Executive Council of the Southern Regional Education Board, a board established to improve education by providing policymakers with reliable data to inform sound policies, collaborating with states to share resources, and serving educators by providing the training they need to help prepare students for their futures. 

Driven by a duty to elevate higher education, his community, and his state, Stephenson is continuously involved in professional, academic, community, civic, and other important organizations and associations.

Stephenson holds a doctorate in the administration of higher education from the University of Alabama. He also has a Master of Arts degree in administration of higher education from the University of Alabama, a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Birmingham-Southern College, and an associate of science degree from Walker Junior College.

I believe all organizations define their existence through distinct seasons. The past 10 years have been a season of positioning, and now, I believe the University is poised for a vibrant season of advancement. This next phase will be characterized by enrollment growth, infrastructure expansion, improved student success metrics, faculty recognition and innovation.
Dr. Devin Stephenson
President, Florida Polytechnic University

Strategic Plan

Florida Poly’s Strategic Plan outlines a bold vision for accelerated advancement in STEM education, research, and innovation.

Rooted in excellence and designed to meet the challenges of a rapidly evolving world, the plan positions the University as a global leader driving transformative impact across science, technology, engineering, and math.

The President’s Staff

The President is supported by a dedicated team that assists in advancing University priorities and supporting students, faculty, and staff.

Special Assistant to the President
Corporate Secretary to the BOT

Administration Assistant III
Office of the President

Strategy Circle

The President’s Strategy Circle is the University’s executive leadership team. It meets regularly to guide institutional priorities and ensure alignment with the University’s strategic plan. The Strategy Circle plays a critical role in advancing Florida Poly’s mission and long-term success.

Members of the Strategy Circle include:

Vice President, Information Technology Services and CIO

Vice President of Student Affairs, Enrollment Management, & Strategic Communications

Vice President and General Counsel

Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

Vice President of Strategic Initiatives, Development, & External Relations

Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs

Special Assistant to the President, Corporate Secretary to the Board of Trustees

Presidential Ambassadors

Florida Poly’s Presidential Ambassadors are select student leaders appointed by the University President to represent the institution and serve as official hosts at key events.

Through mentorship and real-world experiences, this program cultivates servant leadership and empowers ambassadors to promote the University’s vision and successes to external partners and the community.

President’s Speaker Series

A dynamic forum featuring thought leaders and changemakers who inspire our campus and community.

Contact the Office of the President
863-874-8612  |  president@floridapoly.edu
Request a Speaking Engagement