The Florida State College at Jacksonville has chosen Illinois educator John Avendano, a man with 30 years' experience in community college education, as its sixth president.
Avendano is president and CEO of Kankakee Community College and has previously held positions such as president of the Illinois Council of Public Community College Presidents.
The Board of Trustees' selection was unanimous.
Avendano spent the last three days on campus giving interviews and meeting students and faculty. He also participated in an open forum to give those with ties to the school a chance to learn more about him.
"What you see is what you get," he said. "I am a sincere person. I'm a person about building relationships with the people I come across."
Said board Chair Karen Bowling, “Dr. Avendano brings a fresh vision, shared values, industry expertise and a true passion for education that will lead our institution to new heights. Together with our faculty, staff, students and community partners, we believe he will enhance our strategic vision for the college and continue to elevate FSCJ both regionally and nationally.”
Avendano has a bachelor’s degree in exercise physiology and a master’s degree in adult continuing education, both from Northern Illinois University. Avendano also has a doctorate in educational administration and foundations from Illinois State University.
He replaces former President Cynthia Bioteau, who retired last year and Kevin Hyde who has been serving as interim president until the search concluded.
