Jacksonville, Florida, February 6, 2026
The UNF Board of Trustees has named Angela Garcia Falconetti as interim president, effective February 16, 2026. A UNF alumna and the current president of Polk State College, Falconetti succeeds Moez Limayem, who has accepted a position at the University of South Florida. Her appointment comes during a key transitional phase for the university as it continues to prioritize student success and community engagement while searching for a permanent president.
Jacksonville, Florida – University of North Florida Appoints Interim President
The University of North Florida (UNF) Board of Trustees has appointed Angela Garcia Falconetti as the interim president, effective February 16, 2026. Falconetti, a Jacksonville native and UNF alumna, currently serves as the president of Polk State College in Winter Haven, Florida. She will succeed Moez Limayem, who has been named the president of the University of South Florida (USF).
This leadership change comes at an important time for UNF as the university continues to navigate the challenges and opportunities presented within the educational landscape. The appointment reflects the board’s commitment to not only maintaining UNF’s progress but also leveraging the expertise of local talent to position the university for future growth. As the community rallies around local educational institutions, it’s evident that entrepreneurial innovation and community involvement are key drivers of Jacksonville’s ongoing development.
Background on Leadership Changes
Moez Limayem’s appointment at USF follows a successful tenure at UNF, where his leadership was marked by significant advancements in student engagement and campus development. Limayem was recognized in October 2024 as one of Florida’s most influential state leaders, a testament to his positive impact on the university. With Falconetti stepping in, UNF is poised to continue building on the momentum established during Limayem’s presidency, further enhancing the institution’s role in promoting access to education and fostering community partnerships.
About Angela Garcia Falconetti
Angela Garcia Falconetti brings a wealth of experience and a strong educational background to her new role. She holds a bachelor’s degree in communications and education from New York University, along with both a master’s and a doctorate in educational leadership from UNF. Starting her career at UNF as an academic adviser, Falconetti demonstrated significant dedication through her previous roles, including assistant vice president of student affairs. As president of Polk State College since 2017, she has effectively expanded partnerships with local businesses and secured funding for campus enhancements, underscoring the importance of collaboration between educational organizations and the private sector.
Next Steps for UNF
As Falconetti prepares to assume her role as interim president, UNF’s Board of Trustees is commencing a national search for a permanent president. This transitional period is an opportunity for the university to maintain its commitment to student success, research, and community engagement, invaluable components of the local educational framework. Falconetti’s appointment indicates a readiness to embrace innovation and adaptability, attributes that are particularly important in today’s dynamic educational environment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who is the new interim president of the University of North Florida?
The UNF Board of Trustees has appointed Angela Garcia Falconetti as the interim president, effective February 16, 2026. Falconetti is currently the president of Polk State College in Winter Haven, Florida, and a UNF alumna. She will succeed Moez Limayem, who has been named the president of the University of South Florida (USF).
What is the background of Angela Garcia Falconetti?
Falconetti holds a bachelor’s degree in communications and education from New York University, and both a master’s and a doctorate in educational leadership from UNF. She began her career at UNF as an academic adviser and later served as assistant vice president of student affairs. In 2017, she became the fifth president of Polk State College, where she expanded partnerships with local businesses and secured funding for campus enhancements, including the construction of the Polk State Haines City-Davenport campus. Falconetti has also served as chair of the Florida College System Council of Presidents during the 2021-2022 term.
What is the next step for UNF following this appointment?
As Falconetti prepares to assume the role of interim president, UNF’s Board of Trustees is commencing a national search to identify a permanent president. The university aims to build upon its current momentum and continue its commitment to student success, research, and community engagement during this transitional period.
Key Features of the Appointment
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| New Interim President | Angela Garcia Falconetti |
| Effective Date | February 16, 2026 |
| Successor to | Moez Limayem |
| Current Position of Falconetti | President of Polk State College |
| Educational Background of Falconetti | Bachelor’s from New York University; Master’s and Doctorate from UNF |
| Previous Role at UNF | Academic Adviser and Assistant Vice President of Student Affairs |
| Leadership at Polk State College | Expanded business partnerships; Secured funding for campus enhancements |
| Leadership Role in Florida College System | Chair of the Florida College System Council of Presidents (2021-2022) |
| UNF’s Next Step | Commencing a national search for a permanent president |
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