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Finalist

Manny Diaz Jr.

Outdoor portrait of Manny Diaz Jr. in professional attire.

Manny Diaz Jr. serves as the interim president of the University of West Florida.

President Diaz is a lifelong educator and leader with more than 30 years of experience in public education, higher education leadership and state policy.

He previously served as Florida’s Commissioner of Education and held key roles in the Florida Legislature, where he championed education reform.

As interim president, he brings a strong commitment to student success, academic excellence and workforce readiness.

Curriculum Vitae

Finalist Feedback

The University of West Florida is gathering input from the campus community and general public to help inform its evaluation of the presidential search finalist. If you would like to provide feedback on the finalist, please complete the presidential search finalist feedback form by Wednesday, December 17, 2025.