I am thankful to the search committee for naming me the sole finalist to become Polk State College’s next president.
Florida College System institutions play a critical role in preparing students for in-demand, high-wage positions. During my time as Commissioner, I have proudly touted their incredible outcomes as they serve more than 680,000 students across the state and provide more than 130,000 degrees and certifications each year. It is an honor to be blessed with this opportunity, and I am excited to contribute to that work in a new capacity while continuing to support strong partnerships between K-12 schools, colleges, and universities.
I also look forward to working with the Board of Trustees, cabinet members, and the faculty whose dedication is transforming students’ lives and equipping them with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in their careers.
No matter the position I serve in, I remain committed to the belief that education is the foundation of opportunity and the key to a stronger future.
From wearing the garnet and gold to earning a Doctorate from Florida State… full circle moment.
Proud to be a student-athlete who turned the next chapter into something bigger.
Grateful for my family, my teammates, and the state of Florida for the opportunities along the way.
This is incredible news for Florida teachers! The upcoming civics professional learning events offer a valuable opportunity for teachers to deepen their understanding of civics and refine their teaching strategies through dynamic, hands-on sessions that truly bring civics to life. It’s just one more way Florida continues to lead the nation in civics education.
As an update, Bergen was diagnosed with breast cancer. Thank you, everyone, for your support and your prayers. Please keep them coming. We are blessed to have such a strong community of friends and families supporting us and a fantastic team of experts at @baptisthealthjx MD Anderson Cancer Center, which I am confident will deliver a positive outcome. The thing about cancer is you never expect it to happen to you or those close to you until it does, especially in your early 30s. But the truth is, it can happen to anyone. We press forward with faith, knowing that God is present even in cancer, and He has never failed.
As it says in Psalm 112: 7-8, “They will have no fear of bad news; their hearts are steadfast, trusting in the LORD. Their hearts are secure, they will have no fear; in the end they will look in triumph on their foes.”
President Thrasher was one of the kindest, wisest, and most inspiring individuals I’ve ever known. He shaped the path I’m on today and embodied the kind of man I’ve always aspired to be. May he rest in peace, and may his family find comfort in this time of loss.
FSU President Emeritus John Thrasher is facing cancer with the same strength and heart he showed leading this university. He’s been a dedicated public servant, a proud Seminole, and a friend to many. Jai and I are holding him in our thoughts and prayers, and his entire FSU family is with him.
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Our prayers and best wishes go out to John Thrasher today, a founding partner in this firm and one of Florida’s most storied public servants in this century. John is battling cancer and is currently at Tallahassee Memorial Healthcare where he is receiving treatment. His amazing public record of accomplishment –House Speaker, Senator, FSU President—often obscures his private greatness as a friend and mentor. He is a fighter, and he has the love and support of the entire TSG family.