UNF President Supports LeMieux for Florida’s Open Senate Seat

Contact: Joanna Norris, Assistant Director

Department of Media Relations and Events

(904) 620-2102

University of North Florida President John A. Delaney today released a statement supporting Gov. Charlie Crist’s selection for the U.S. Senate seat being vacated by Sen. Mel Martinez.

“I’m honored to have been one of the Governor’s two finalists in his choice for our open Senate seat. I do believe that he has made a great selection in George LeMieux,” said Delaney. “I have worked with George in his past capacities and respect him greatly. George is the alter ego to the Governor, and they hold the same views on public policy, politics and in staying in tune with the pulse of Floridians. In short, Floridians will be represented in Washington by someone who will serve with the same substance and style that Charlie will when he is elected to the Senate. I support both of them in these endeavors wholeheartedly.”

Delaney added that he has much to accomplish on the campus at UNF and intends to continue to work to advance the issues associated with higher education. He is just finishing up serving as President-in-Residence for the Florida Board of Governors.

Delaney became UNF’s fifth president in 2003. In that capacity, he oversees a campus of more than 16,500 students, 600 faculty and more than 1,000 staff. The 1,300 acre campus in Northeast Florida is considered a driver in the region, with an annual economic impact of nearly $1 billion.

Each year, 4,000 students graduate from UNF’s five colleges: the Brooks College of Health, the Coggin College of Business, the College of Arts and Sciences, the College of Computing, Engineering and Construction and the College of Education and Human Services.

Under Delaney’s direction, UNF reaffirmed its commitment to students by offering individualized attention and offering transformational learning opportunities. The University is also known for its flagship programs, areas where UNF leads the nation. Flagships include Community Nursing, International Business, Transportation and Logistics and Coastal Biology.

UNF just finished the biggest construction spree in its history. The University built an $86 million residence hall, a $50 million Student Union, a $27 million College of Education and Human Services building and an $11 million addition to the Brooks College of Health.

Delaney’s presidency continues a distinguished career as a public servant. He served two terms as mayor of Jacksonville, the country’s 13th largest city. Prior to that, Delaney served as the chief assistant state attorney, the number two prosecutor for Northeast Florida and as the general counsel for the City of Jacksonville. He has served on numerous non-profit and corporate boards.

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