Northwest Florida State College’s District Board of Trustees unanimously confirmed Commissioner Mel Ponder as the institution’s next president at their November 19 meeting, concluding a six-month search that attracted more than 100 candidates.
- Ponder, who completed his term as Okaloosa County Commissioner on November 19, will transition from his current roles as Association Executive for the Emerald Coast Association of Realtors and President of Business Empowered to begin his presidency on January 2, 2025.
“Thank you to the Board of Trustees for their time, energy, and effort throughout the summer and fall as we completed our rigorous presidential search process,” said Lori Kelley, NWFSC Board Chair. “I look forward to working with President-Elect Ponder when he starts in the Spring Semester as we begin an exciting new chapter in the College’s history.”
Ponder brings significant public service experience to the role, having served as Destin’s mayor, city councilman, and state representative. During his legislative service, he earned recognition as the Florida College System Council of Presidents Legislator of the Year.
- He currently serves on the CareerSource Florida Board of Directors, following appointments by Governor Ron DeSantis in 2022 and 2023.
“This College has a rich legacy in our community, and I am excited to hit the ground running to build on the College’s reputation of serving its students, faculty, staff, and community,” Ponder said. “It will be a privilege to expand on the College’s work throughout Okaloosa and Walton Counties as we transform lives and meet the workforce demand in our service area.”
A third-generation Floridian born and raised in Ocala, Ponder has lived in Okaloosa County for many years with his wife Mona of 33 years and their three children. He will become the fifth president in Northwest Florida State College’s history.
