UNF bids farewell to President Moez Limayem

This week, the University of North Florida celebrated Dr. Moez Limayem’s 3 ½-year tenure as the institution’s seventh president. 

Limayem will now assume his new role as president of the University of South Florida, as appointed by the Florida Board of Governors in December 2025. 

Hundreds of colleagues, alumni and community partners showed up Tuesday afternoon at the John A. Delaney Student Union to thank Limayem for his passionate leadership and offer well wishes on his next endeavor. 

UNF Board of Trustees Chair Steve Moore presented Limayem with a framed resolution expressing appreciation for his service and contributions to UNF, noting Limayem was a great leader who strengthened the University. 

Since arriving at UNF in August 2022, Limayem spearheaded numerous initiatives resulting in the University’s exponential growth in several key areas. 

Under Limayem’s leadership, UNF has experienced record student success, major academic innovation and strengthened its national recognition. UNF has seen historic enrollment and retention numbers, launched an experiential learning guarantee for all incoming students before they graduate, and oversaw new programs throughout campus. In addition, investment in research and innovation continued to grow, community partnerships were expanded and strengthened, and the campus saw continued renovations and new facilities. 

“President Limayem’s legacy at UNF will be defined by his unmistakable focus on student success and his determination to elevate the university as a premier research institution in the nation,” said Dr. Brian Verkamp, UNF vice president and chief information officer. “He led with kindness, vision and a genuine care for people.” 

Staff members in the Office of the President also praised Limayem's leadership, including Alison Cruess, executive director of operations and assistant to the president. 

“I’ve had the honor of working with several of our university presidents and interim presidents during my 26 years at UNF, and I believe President Limayem has brought an unmatched level of energy and clarity to our strategic direction,” she said.

Limayem’s last day at UNF is Sunday, Feb. 15. Dr. Angela Garcia Falconetti will serve as UNF’s interim president while a national search begins for Limayem’s successor. 

For Limayem, it’s a bittersweet moment. He’s looking forward to his new role at USF, but he will miss UNF. 

“I leave UNF with a deep sense of peace and pride,” he said. “Once an Osprey, always an Osprey."