FSCJ Selects Dr. John Avendano as the New College President

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. - Florida State College at Jacksonville’s (FSCJ) District Board of Trustees (DBOT) unanimously selected Dr. John Avendano, from Kankakee, Illinois, to serve as the sixth president of FSCJ. Dr. Avendano’s selection as the next president of FSCJ is a result of an eight-month national search facilitated by AGB Search, an affiliate of the Association of Governing Boards of Universities and Colleges.

The decision was made following a three-day, on-campus visit which included open forums, student and faculty meetings, an event with community leaders and an in-depth interview with the District Board of Trustees.

Dr. Avendano is currently the president and CEO of Kankakee Community College in Illinois. He offers more than 30 years of community college experience including previously serving as the president of the Illinois Council of Public Community College Presidents and the past chair of the South Metropolitan Higher Education Consortium President’s Council in Illinois.

“We are honored to welcome Dr. Avendano to the FSCJ family and look forward to partnering with him in continuing the College’s remarkable work that provides both educational and economic opportunities to our community,” said FSCJ District Board of Trustees 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.”

Dr. Avendano’s educational experience includes a bachelor’s degree in exercise physiology and a master’s degree in adult continuing education, both from Northern Illinois University. Additionally, he holds a doctorate in educational administration and foundations from Illinois State University.

Dr. Avendano will replace Interim President Kevin Hyde who has been serving in this role following the retirement of former FSCJ President Dr. Cynthia Bioteau last May.

About FSCJ
Known as “the community’s college,” Florida State College at Jacksonville (FSCJ) exists to provide valuable, high-quality learning opportunities to anyone with the desire to enhance themselves through the pursuit of higher education. Serving more than 50,000 students and awarding more than 6,000 degrees and certificates on an annual basis, the College plays a significant role in supplying the region’s employers with a highly skilled, educated workforce.

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