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Pensacola State College is pleased to share that the Presidential Search Committee has named J. Alex Kelly, Florida’s Secretary of Commerce, as the finalist for PSC’s next president. Details on his background and next steps are in the release below.
J. Alex Kelly
The Pensacola State College Presidential Search Committee has recommended J. Alex Kelly as the finalist to become the College’s next president.
The committee, comprised of members of the Pensacola State College District Board of Trustees, made its recommendation during its final meeting Aug. 29, following a national search for the College’s next leader.
Kelly brings extensive leadership experience spanning education, economic and workforce development, public policy and state government. He currently serves as Secretary of the Florida Department of Commerce, where he leads the state agency responsible for economic development, workforce and community development programs.
Throughout the search process, Kelly articulated a clear vision for Pensacola State College and demonstrated a strong understanding of the College’s role in creating opportunities for students, meeting regional workforce needs and supporting communities across Escambia and Santa Rosa counties.
“Alex distinguished himself throughout this process as a thoughtful, diligent and highly capable leader with a clear vision for the future of Pensacola State College,” said District Board of Trustees Chair Zack Smith, who chaired the Presidential Search Committee. “We believe he brings the experience, character and leadership needed to guide PSC into its next chapter and strengthen the College’s role in preparing students for the workforce needs of our region and to become productive citizens.”
Kelly will visit Pensacola State College in late September for meetings and forums with students, faculty, staff and community members. Additional information about the visit and opportunities to meet Kelly will be announced as details are finalized.
Following the campus visit, the District Board of Trustees is expected to consider Kelly’s appointment as president.
“I am incredibly grateful to be selected as the recommended finalist to lead Pensacola State College,” Kelly said. “I have gained a tremendous appreciation for the College, the dedication and thoroughness of the Board of Trustees, the opportunities PSC creates for students and the important role the College plays throughout Northwest Florida. I look forward to visiting campus and hearing directly from students, faculty, staff and community members.”
Kelly has held senior leadership roles in education, economic development and state government. Before becoming Secretary of Commerce in 2023, he served as deputy chief of staff in the Governor’s Office, a position he held beginning in 2021, and as chief of staff to then-Florida Education Commissioner Richard Corcoran.
In addition to other numerous key leadership roles, he previously served as vice president for the Foundation for Excellence in Education and as chief of staff for the Florida Department of Juvenile Justice.
Earlier in his career, Kelly held several positions in the Florida Legislature, including chief analyst for the House Select Policy Council on Strategic and Economic Planning.
Kelly earned a bachelor’s degree in political science from York College of Pennsylvania and a master’s degree in political science from the University of Florida.
The committee’s recommendation followed a national search led by Kenny Daugherty of Myers McRae Executive Search and Consulting. The search attracted 107 qualified applicants from across the country. The committee selected 9 candidates for interviews and brought 4 highly qualified applicants to Pensacola for a second round of interviews, in-person, before recommending Kelly as the finalist.