The Polk State College District Board of Trustees is scheduled to formally appoint Dr. Anne Kerr as interim president during a special meeting on Wednesday, February 5.
While the appointment still requires an official board vote, the agenda indicates the decision is largely procedural at this stage, signaling a leadership transition already anticipated by college officials and trustees.
Dr. Kerr, President Emerita of Florida Southern College, brings decades of higher-education leadership experience and deep familiarity with Polk County’s academic landscape. She served as president of Florida Southern from 2004 to 2024, overseeing significant enrollment growth, major campus expansion, and sustained national recognition for academic quality and institutional advancement.
The success of each student is of paramount importance to the faculty, trustees, and administration and we are unswerving in our commitment to students’ academic, social, spiritual, and physical development.
-Dr. Anne B. Kerr
Her appointment comes as Polk State College works to move forward following a turbulent period in 2025 under the leadership of former president Dr. Angela Falconetti. That period included internal turmoil, faculty concerns, and a high-profile investigation that drew public attention.
Dr. Anne Kerr
Prior to those concerns that emerged in 2025, Dr Falconetti oversaw notable institutional growth, including the expansion of academic and workforce programs and the securing of millions of dollars in grant and external funding to support students, facilities, and college operations. As previously reported by Daily Ridge, she will take the interim leadership role as the President of University of North Florida, marking a transition rather than an exit from higher education leadership. While her presidency ended amid internal challenges, an external investigation found no evidence of criminal wrongdoing or intentional misconduct, a conclusion trustees acknowledged in its last meeting.
The selection of Dr. Kerr is widely viewed as a stabilizing move for the college. Her interim appointment signals an emphasis on experienced leadership, institutional continuity, and restoring confidence as the board evaluates next steps for permanent leadership.
A suspect who is in the country illegally from Mexico was arrested and charged with multiple crimes he committed at a home and a business in Wahneta. He provided full confessions and an ICE hold has been placed on him in the Polk County Jail.
The investigation began on Saturday, January 31, 2026, when a homeowner on 11th StreetWest in the Wahneta area of Winter Haven to report two incidents of arson at her property. The following is an excerpt from the affidavit, and it is self-explanatory:
The victim advised that approximately 3 weeks prior to today’s date she discovered a trail of burnt grass leading across the yard behind a mobile home located on her property. She advised she confronted a resident on her property with what she located and he admitted to her he had set the fire.
On today’s date, between 0230 and 0300 hours, she observed a light glowing from beneath the mobile home. Upon inspection, she discovered a wooden pallet with tree branches on it had been placed under the home and was set on fire. She advised she was able to remove the pallet and extinguish the fire using a garden hose. She advised while doing this, she observed the suspect approximately half way across the property between her location and a travel trailer the suspect was staying in. She advised when she saw the suspect, he ignited an additional fire.
She advised when she saw the suspect, and he lit the fire, the fire started as though he had used gasoline or something else to start the fire. She approached the suspect and asked him once again about the fire stating to me that he admitted setting the fire because he was told to do so.
I next made contact with the suspect identified as Marcelino Gillen-Hernandez DOB 4/26/1965 (Non US Citizen). Through the assistance of D/S Torres #9084 acting as a Spanish translator, I first identified myself and then Mr. Hernandez was Mirandized utilizing an agency issued Miranda Warning card. During this interview, Mr. Hernandez stated he set both fires stating he was told to do so by people at a residence he used to live at.
It should be noted, while speaking with Mr. Hernandez, he advised the item (accelerant) he used to light the fires was located in the basket of his bicycle. Upon inspection, a black plastic bottle in plain view with the label TiKi brand BiteFighter Citronella Torch Fuel was located. Based on this investigation, Mr. Hernandez was then taken into custody.
For these crimes, Hernandez is being charged with 2 counts arson, a capital felony due to the crimes being committed by someone in the country illegally, which enhances criminal charges up by one degree.
Photos from arson scene
After Hernandez was taken into custody, he told deputies that he had also previously broken some windows at the Placita Mexico store in Wahneta. Additional detectives responded to the scene to conduct a follow-up investigation regarding those crimes.
The following are excerpts from the affidavit in that investigation:
During an unrelated arson investigation (PCSO 26-4320), PCSO Deputy Sheriff Johnston and Deputy Sheriff Torres made contact with Marcelino Hernandez, who was identified as the suspect in that incident. During a post-Miranda interview conducted at the scene of the arson investigation, Hernandez admitted to breaking windows at Placita Mexico on three separate occasions. Hernandez was subsequently taken into custody and interviewed regarding the Placita Mexico incidents.
During the interview, Hernandez admitted to intentionally damaging windows and doors at Placita Mexico, located at 3390 Rifle Range Road, on three separate occasions. Hernandez stated that on the first occasion he attempted to break a window using a rock but was unsuccessful. He advised that on a subsequent occasion he returned and successfully broke a door window. On another occasion, he stated he struck a door with a hammer in combination with a rock. Hernandez described the rocks as being approximately the size of a pool ball and stated they were obtained from the roadway near the business. He specifically acknowledged striking doors and windows protected by metal security bars, which prevented him from entering the store.
When asked about his motivation, Hernandez stated he was frustrated and irritated due to ongoing issues involving people in the area and expressed anger toward the store owner. He indicated that he believed the store owner was aware of issues occurring in the area and did nothing about them, which contributed to his actions. Hernandez acknowledged that his actions were intentional and that he caused the damage out of frustration. He admitted that he was unable to enter the business due to the security bars.
Hernandez acknowledged that breaking the windows was unlawful and stated he understood he would be charged for the damage. He was advised that he would not be allowed to return to the business property. Hernandez stated he understood and agreed he would not go back to the location.
Through my investigation, I determined probable cause existed to arrest the suspect, Marcelino Hernandez, for violation of the following Florida state statutes:
26-3253 – Between 01/23/26 at approximately 2030 hours and 01/24/26 at approximately 0700 hours, the suspect, Marcelino Hernandez, unlawfully entered or remained in a structure, or attempt to enter Placita Mexico, located at 3390 Rifle Range Road, Wahneta, Winter Haven, Florida, with the intent to commit an offense therein, while the structure was unoccupied and without being armed. The suspect, Marcelino Hernandez, unlawfully and intentionally damaged property belonging to Placita Mexico by throwing a rock at a door window, causing damage valued at approximately $300.00.
26-3355 – Between 01/24/26 at approximately 2030 hours and 01/25/26 at approximately 0700 hours, the suspect, Marcelino Hernandez, unlawfully entered or remained in a structure, or attempted to enter Placita Mexico, located at 3390 Rifle Range Road, Wahneta, Winter Haven, Florida, with the intent to commit an offense therein, while the structure was unoccupied and without being armed. The suspect, Marcelino Hernandez, unlawfully and intentionally damaged property belonging to Placita Mexico by throwing a rock at window, causing damage valued at approximately $300.00.
26-4111- Between 01/29/26 at approximately 2030 hours and 01/30/26 at approximately 0700 hours, the suspect, Marcelino Hernandez, unlawfully entered or remained in a structure, or attempted to enter a structure, Placita Mexico, located at 3390 Rifle Range Road, Wahneta, Winter Haven, Florida, with the intent to commit an offense therein, while the structure was unoccupied and without being armed. The suspect, Marcelino Hernandez, unlawfully and intentionally damaged property belonging to Placita Mexico by striking multiple entry doors with rocks and a hammer, causing damage with an estimated repair cost of approximately $1,000.00.
For these crimes, Hernandez is being charged with 3 counts unoccupied burglary (F2), 2 counts criminal mischief with property damage less than $1,000 dollars (F3), and 1 count criminal mischief with property damage $1,000 or more (F2). Each of these charges have been enhanced by one degree due to the suspect being in the country illegally.
“This suspect – who is in the country illegally – committed very serious felonies while taking advantage of someone who allowed him to live in a trailer on her property. He caused over $1600 worth of damage to a local business as well. We also learned he threatened to kill a 74-year-old man with a knife in 2024 and was arrested for aggravated assault on a person over 65 years old. He should have been deported back then and perhaps he wouldn’t have been here to terrorize and victimize others.” – Grady Judd, Sheriff
A suspect who is in the country illegally from Mexico was apprehended by the Polk County Sheriff’s Office after he was seen crashing his friend’s truck and then running into a wooded area.
Omar Sotero-Vera, DOB 1/19/04, has been charged with leaving the scene of a crash involving property damage (M1), no valid driver’s license (M1), DUI (M1), and DUI with property damage (F3). Each of these charges is upgraded one level due to his illegal status.
The crash occurred around 10:45 p.m. on Friday, January 30, 2026. A witness called 911 and reported that a black Nissan truck had crashed into a concrete barrier on SR 33 North near Old Polk City Road in Polk City, and that the driver and sole occupant had fled the scene on foot. Deputies arrived and called for a drone unit to respond. The deputy sheriff operating the drone found the suspect walking in a nearby wooded area. He was taken into custody without incident, and he was positively identified by the witness.
During an interview with the suspect, who displayed injuries consistent with a crash and signs of impairment, he told deputies that he ran because he was scared due to the fact that he does not have a driver’s license. Deputies contacted the truck’s registered owner, who told them that he was out having drinks with friends (including the suspect) after work when he decided to get a ride home, at which point he left his truck keys with Sotero-Vera and asked him to move the truck so it would not get towed.
Sotero-Vera failed field sobriety tests and his breath alcohol content measured 0.143 and 0.139 (the legal threshold for impairment is 0.08).
Deputies contacted ICE and confirmed he entered the country illegally three years ago. They placed a detainer on him in the jail.
“I’m very proud of the witness who called us and the swift actions of my deputies who took this illegal criminal alien into custody. As drunk as he was it’s a miracle he didn’t hurt or kill anyone.” – Grady Judd, Sheriff
Polk County Fire Rescue Responses to Fatal Fire on Scenic View Street
Bartow, Fla. (Feb. 1, 2026) — Polk County Fire Rescue (PCFR) crews responded to a fatal fire on Scenic View Street in Lakeland on Sunday morning. Upon arrival PCFR units found a fully involved single-wide mobile home with an individual potentially inside.
PCFR members worked quickly getting the fire knocked down and once deemed safe for entry, members conducted a search and found an individual inside the home. The individual was pronounced dead at the scene. Notification of next of kin is pending.
“Scenes like this are always tough for all involved — especially when entrapment is suspected. Our first arriving crews encountered heavy fire conditions, our crew gained access to the structure and made a valiant effort to locate any entrapped occupants. Our crews located a victim who succumbed to their injuries,” said Fire Chief Shawn Smith. “All Polk County Fire Rescue members send our condolences to the family and friends of the individual at this difficult time.”
No PCFR member sustained injuries, and the incident is currently under investigation by the Polk County Sheriff’s Office and the Florida State Fire Marshal’s office.
11-Year-Old Lakeland Dog Handler Sets Her Sights on Westminster
LAKELAND, FL — While most 11-year-olds are still discovering their hobbies, Ava Silva has already found her calling inside the competitive world of dog showing. The Lakeland native is quickly emerging as a promising young handler in Junior Showmanship, fueled by discipline, emotional intuition with animals, and an ambitious dream: competing at the prestigious Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show.
Raised in a family deeply committed to ethical breeding and breed preservation, Silva grew up surrounded by dogs — particularly Rottweilers and Toy Fox Terriers. Her early exposure helped cultivate a confidence and understanding rarely seen at such a young age.
Ava and Prancer
Her journey began remarkably early.
“It all started when I took the lead of my Rottweiler, Bronx, at age three,” Silva recalls.
By age seven, she entered Junior Showmanship competition, drawn by both the challenge and the opportunity to grow.
“I like competition,” she says.
Today, Silva competes alongside her Toy Fox Terrier, Prancer, a partnership defined by trust and connection rather than simple command.
“When pressure is on, I sing a song — any song,” Silva explains. “Your dog can feel the pressure through the lead. When I relax, so does Prancer.”
Before entering the ring, Silva prepares with a breathing ritual and a quiet moment of affection, petting Prancer and giving her a kiss on the head.
Their bond extends far beyond competition.
“Me and Prancer are best friends in and out of the show,” Silva says. “When I grab a blanket, she’s ready to cuddle. She’s always right by me.”
Outside the ring, Silva maintains an active lifestyle. She mountain bikes with her brother, helps manage her mother’s dog grooming salon, assists with bathing and fluffing dogs, and continues to expand her knowledge of canine behavior.
“My mom always educated me on behavior and every dog breed — not just the ones I like,” she says.
Silva credits a strong support system for helping shape her growth in the sport, including mentors Kimberly Cardona, Scott Keffer, Kristina Criscoe, breeders Susan and Steve Thibodeaux, and her parents, Sheena and Peter Silva.
Ava and Prancer with the awards
Despite her competitive drive, Silva emphasizes resilience over ribbons.
“Believe your skills. Don’t care if you lose or win. My way of showing is a win is a win and a loss is a win.”
Her long-term aspirations extend beyond handling. Silva hopes to one day breed dogs herself, contributing to the preservation and advancement of beloved breeds.
“I do see myself doing this sport in the future,” she says. “It is one of my passions.”
With maturity beyond her years and a clear sense of purpose, Silva represents the next generation of excellence in the dog show community.
Lakeland may be her hometown — but her eyes are already set on the bright lights of New York.
Florida’s Citrus Festival Returns to Downtown Winter Haven
Florida’s Citrus Festival is set to bring a fresh new tradition to downtown Winter Haven while honoring Polk County’s rich citrus heritage. Presented in collaboration with Visit Central Florida, the festival blends history, community, and family-friendly fun with a nostalgic nod to the Citrus Festivals of years past.
The inaugural event takes place Saturday, January 31, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., inviting residents and visitors alike to spend the day celebrating one of Central Florida’s most iconic industries.
Designed to bring families together, Florida’s Citrus Festival offers something for all ages. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet local citrus growers, learn about the region’s agricultural roots, and explore the Polk County Farm Bureau Citrus History Exhibit, which highlights the legacy and impact of citrus in the area.
Live entertainment will take place throughout the day, creating a lively atmosphere across downtown. Festivalgoers can enjoy a variety of food trucks and vendors offering citrus-themed specialties, along with refreshments at the Kemp Injury Law Citrus Beer & Wine Tent.
Families can take advantage of several interactive attractions, including the Mathnasium of Winter Haven KidZone, Florida Coast Equipment’s Touch-A-Tractor, and a free photobooth hosted by Watson Clinic. Art lovers will also appreciate the Blue Ribbon Art Showcase, featuring creative works from local artists.
With a full lineup of activities, entertainment, and local flavor, Florida’s Citrus Festival is poised to become a new annual favorite—celebrating tradition, community, and the citrus roots that helped shape Polk County.
The Winter Haven Water Department would like to inform residents that the Southwest Florida Water Management District has issued a Modified Phase II Water Shortage Order due to recent low levels of rainfall and dry conditions within the region. The Modified Shortage Order will be in effect from February 8th, 2026, through July 1st, 2026. At this time, customers will begin to follow one-day-per-week watering restrictions. The updated irrigation schedule is as follows:
Addresses ending with a 0 or 1 may water on Monday Addresses ending with a 2 or 3 may water on Tuesday Addresses ending with a 4 or 5 may water on Wednesday Addresses ending with a 6 or 7 may water on Thursday Addresses ending with an 8 or 9 may water on Friday
Properties under two (2) acres in size may only water before 8 a.m. or after 6 p.m. and properties two (2) acres or larger may only water before 10 a.m. or after 4 p.m. For more information, please visit the City’s water conservation page at https://ow.ly/I34k50Y4TIq. Thank you for doing your part to conserve the City of Winter Haven’s water supply!
Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, the political and spiritual leader of the Indian independence movement, is assassinated in New Delhi by a Hindu extremist on January 30, 1948. His death marks a profound turning point for the nation, underscoring the deep political and religious tensions that persisted after the 1947 independence from British colonial rule resulted in a partition between India and Pakistan.
Gandhi was shot at close range while walking to a prayer meeting in the garden of Birla House, a residence where he had been staying. The assassin, Nathuram Godse, a Hindu nationalist who opposed Gandhi’s views on religious tolerance and his approach to relations between India and Pakistan, fired three shots into Gandhi’s chest. The leader fell to the ground, reportedly uttering his last words: “Hey Rama” (translation: “Oh God”). He was taken to his room and died shortly afterward. Godse and an accomplice were later tried and hanged.
Gandhi’s assassination provoked widespread shock and mourning in India and around the world, with millions participating in funeral rites and memorial processions. The Indian government moved quickly to restore order, banning extremist organizations linked to the assassin and reaffirming its commitment to secularism and nonviolence.
Born in 1869 to an Indian official and a deeply religious mother, Gandhi was exposed early to Jainism, a morally rigorous Indian religion that advocated nonviolence. Although he was an unremarkable student, in 1888 he was given an opportunity to study law in England. In 1891, he returned to India, but failing to find regular legal work he accepted in 1893 a one-year contract in South Africa.
Settling in Natal, he was subjected to racism and South African laws that restricted the rights of Indian laborers. Gandhi later recalled one such incident—in which he was removed from a first-class railway compartment and thrown off a train—as his moment of truth. From there on, he decided to fight injustice and defend his rights as an Indian and a man.
When his contract expired, he spontaneously decided to remain in South Africa and launched a campaign against legislation that would deprive Indians of the right to vote. He formed the Natal Indian Congress and drew international attention to the plight of Indians in South Africa. In 1906, as the Transvaal government sought to further restrict the rights of Indians, and Gandhi organized his first campaign of satyagraha, or mass civil disobedience. After seven years of protest, he negotiated a compromise agreement with the South African government.
In 1914, Gandhi returned to India and lived a life of abstinence and spirituality on the periphery of Indian politics. He supported Britain in the First World War but in 1919 launched a new satyagraha in protest of Britain’s mandatory military draft of Indians. Hundreds of thousands answered his call to protest, and by 1920 he was leader of the Indian movement for independence. He reorganized the Indian National Congress as a political force and launched a massive boycott of British goods, services, and institutions in India. Then, in 1922, he abruptly called off the satyagraha when violence erupted. One month later, he was arrested by the British authorities for sedition, found guilty, and imprisoned.
After his release in 1924, he led an extended fast in protest of Hindu-Muslim violence. In 1928, he returned to national politics when he demanded dominion status for India and in 1930 launched a mass protest against the British salt tax, which hurt India’s poor. In his most famous campaign of civil disobedience, Gandhi and his followers marched to the Arabian Sea, where they made their own salt by evaporating sea water. The march, which resulted in the arrest of Gandhi and 60,000 others, earned new international respect and support for the leader and his movement.
In 1931, Gandhi was released to attend the Round Table Conference on India in London as the sole representative of the Indian National Congress. The meeting was a great disappointment, and after his return to India he was again imprisoned. While in jail, he led another fast in protest of the British government’s treatment of the “untouchables”—the impoverished and degraded Indians who occupied the lowest tiers of the caste system. In 1934, he left the Indian Congress Party to work for the economic development of India’s many poor. His protege, Jawaharlal Nehru, was named leader of the party in his place.
With the outbreak of World War II, Gandhi returned to politics and called for Indian cooperation with the British war effort in exchange for independence. Britain refused and sought to divide India by supporting conservative Hindu and Muslim groups. In response, Gandhi launched the “Quit India” movement it 1942, which called for a total British withdrawal. Gandhi and other nationalist leaders were imprisoned until 1944.
In 1945, a new government came to power in Britain, and negotiations for India’s independence began. Gandhi sought a unified India, but the Muslim League, which had grown in influence during the war, disagreed. After protracted talks, Britain agreed to create the two new independent states of India and Pakistan on August 15, 1947. Gandhi was greatly distressed by the partition, and bloody violence soon broke out between Hindus and Muslims in India.
In an effort to end India’s religious strife, he resorted to fasts and visits to the troubled areas. He was on one such vigil in New Delhi when Nathuram Godse, a Hindu extremist who objected to Gandhi’s tolerance for the Muslims, fatally shot him. Known as Mahatma, or “the great soul,” during his lifetime, Gandhi’s persuasive methods of civil disobedience influenced leaders of civil rights movements around the world, especially Martin Luther King Jr. in the United States.
Want to Know What to Expect for Rockin on the Chain 2026? Check Out What Happened Last Year! by James Coulter
If you’re looking to have a good time for a good cause, then come on down to Rockin on the Chain, happening at Tanner’s Lakeside in Winter Haven from Fri. Apr. 10 to Sun. Apr. 12, 2026.
If you want a good idea of what this year’s event will be like, then take a look back at last year’s event!
Three days. 27 bands. $25,000 for a local school. $90,000 for a local organization. That was the outcome of Rockin on the Chain.
Last April, the annual fundraiser celebrated its 3rd year with more than two dozen bands performing over the weekend, including performances by musicians like Kai7en, a local musician with Autism.
And what brought so many people to the scenic shores of Lake May in Winter Haven? Aside from good music, the opportunity to raise proceeds for local individuals with Autism and other special needs.
“100 percent of the net proceeds for this year will stay right here in Polk County to support families affected by Autism,” announced Joey Foley, the head event planner and master of ceremonies.
The event brought together many people with Autism to share their life experiences, including this local reporter.
“My Autism is not a source of shame for me; it is who I am,” said James Coulter, reporter for the Daily Ridge, who spoke during the event. “And if anyone has a problem with that, well, that should be a source of shame for them.”
Rockin on the Chain originally started in 2015 as Rockin on the River, spearheaded by John Straughn, another visionary gentleman. One of its founding members, Tom Roisad, was honored with a plaque set at the event’s venue, Tanner’s Lakeside.
“For your commitment and dedication to the special needs and Autism, Rockin on the River and Rockin on the Chain will always be grateful,” said John Straughn, presenting the plaque.
Last year’s event raised more than $90,000 for the Winter Haven Foundation and $25,000 for Victory Ridge Academy, a special needs school in Lake Wales.
“We had a nice chunk of change that was leftover that we had to find a home for,” Joey Foley said, presenting the check. “So, we all decided that Victory Ridge was a great place for that home.”
Rockin on the Chain has grown bigger and better since its inception, and it hopes to continue moving forward with that momentum going into 2026.
“We got the kids zone set up, we got the food vendors here, we got more music than you can stir with a stick,” Joey Foley said. “You guys, come on out, be with us, help us for a great cause. It’s all about Autism, and we want you to join us.”
Rockin on the Chain 2025 was covered on the Chattin on the Ridge podcast. Listen to it on Acast:
LAKE WALES — As Polk State College moves past a recently concluded independent investigation, a newly announced development elsewhere in Florida is raising questions about whether President Dr. Angela Garcia Falconetti could soon be weighing her next professional move.
In a recent development, the University of North Florida District Board of Trustees announced it will consider Falconetti, a Jacksonville native and UNF alumna, for the role of interim president, according to reporting by The UNF Spinnaker. While no decision has been made, the consideration places the longtime Polk State leader in the conversation for a high-profile leadership role at one of Florida’s public universities.
Investigation Concludes With No Findings
The UNF development follows the conclusion of an independent investigation commissioned by the Polk State College District Board of Trustees related to the use of foundation scholarship funds to cover outstanding student balances.
During the January 26 Polk State board meeting, Trustee Chair Ann Barnhart stated that investigators found no violations of state law or college policy, no misuse of scholarship funds, and no effort to manipulate enrollment data or conceal information. The review centered on an administrative request to apply up to $125,000 in Polk State Foundation scholarship funds toward unpaid student fees.
According to the board, the funds were used for their intended purpose, and the investigation found no evidence of wrongdoing by Falconetti or members of her administration. The investigation was conducted by Tampa-based attorney Terin Barbas Cremer, hired by the board and Polk State’s legal counsel.
Nearly Eight Years of Expansion at Polk State
Dr. Falconetti was named Polk State College’s fifth president in May 2017, following a national search. During her tenure, the college has undergone significant expansion and investment, with an emphasis on workforce alignment, student success, and community partnerships.
Under her leadership, Polk State secured more than $106 million in legislative funding, broke ground on its eighth campus in Haines City–Davenport, and completed $16.2 million in renovations to the Winter Haven Fine Arts Building—an effort that had remained unfunded for more than a decade before receiving PECO support.
The college also preserved the JD Alexander Center, and in 2021 earned decennial reaffirmation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) with no findings, placing Polk State among an estimated five percent of institutions in the southern region to receive a clean review.
Statewide and National Leadership Profile
A native Floridian with more than two decades of service in higher education across three states and Washington, D.C., Falconetti holds a bachelor’s degree from New York University and both a master’s degree and doctorate in Educational Leadership from the University of North Florida. She later completed a post-doctoral fellowship in Community College Leadership at the University of Texas at Austin and became a Certified Fundraising Executive (CFRE) in 2016.
Her prior roles include Vice President of Institutional Advancement at Virginia Western Community College and Special Assistant to the first Deputy Assistant Secretary for Community Colleges at the U.S. Department of Education.
Falconetti has served as chair of the Florida College System Council of Presidents, leading efforts that resulted in a record $400 million allocation in PECO funding and an additional $150 million appropriation for Florida’s 28 state colleges.
She also holds or has held appointments and leadership roles on numerous statewide and national boards, including gubernatorial appointments under Governor Ron DeSantis and service with organizations focused on workforce development, economic growth, and higher education policy.
February 5 Could Bring Clarity
According to The UNF Spinnaker, the University of North Florida Board of Trustees is expected to consider the interim president appointment during its February 5 meeting. No timeline has been announced for a final decision, and the agenda for that meeting has not yet been finalized.
While consideration does not guarantee selection, the upcoming meeting represents the next formal step in the process and could provide clearer insight into whether Falconetti’s name advances beyond discussion.
Any potential transition would also require coordination with the Polk State College District Board of Trustees, which has not publicly discussed succession planning or interim leadership.
What Comes Next
For now, Dr. Falconetti remains president of Polk State College. However, with UNF trustees expected to take up the interim presidency question on February 5, the coming weeks may offer clearer insight into whether her consideration reflects recognition of experience—or the early stages of a leadership transition.
