Another former Republican lawmaker and ally of Gov. Ron DeSantis is officially taking the helm of one of Florida's public universities.
Manny Diaz, who DeSantis previously appointed to be his state commissioner of education , started his first day on the job Monday as the interim president of the University of West Florida in Pensacola.
Diaz is a former social studies teacher and assistant principal who as a state lawmaker became one of the key architects behind Florida's recent push to expand charter schools, which are publicly funded but privately run.
He'll lead the school on an interim basis while university leaders conduct a job search, and is expected to pursue the permanent position.
"I am honored to step into this role and lead the University of West Florida into this next chapter. UWF has a proud legacy and a promising future, and I look forward to working alongside our students, faculty, staff and community partners to continue building on its momentum," Diaz said in a statement. "Together, we will advance and explore new opportunities to serve our region and state with excellence."