The Alachua County School Board voted to contract with Omaha-based McPherson and Jacobson, LLC for a national superintendent search at a cost of $47,200, which includes a redo of the search within the first two years if the selected candidate does not work out. The district expects to complete the search and make a final selection before the end of the year, followed by a six-month transition period. Interim Superintendent Dr. Kamela Patton’s contract runs through next June.
Sources: The Gainesville Sun · WCJB TV20 · Mainstreet Daily News
The University of Florida has formally revoked all campus privileges for Krishna Lunch, the longtime student meal program affiliated with Krishna House, citing a February vehicle accident in which a Krishna box truck struck a 19-year-old student near Buckman Drive and University Avenue, leaving her critically injured. UF sent the organization a letter this week stating it is no longer authorized to conduct any activities on campus, but did not provide a specific reason in the letter itself. Krishna House senior advisor Bob Cohen said the organization was blindsided and frustrated that university officials have declined to explain the decision or engage in conversation.
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Sources: WCJB TV20 · The Gainesville Sun
Stuart Bell, who officially took over as University of Florida president after Ben Sasse resigned in July 2024 and Kent Fuchs served as interim, gave his first on-camera interview as students returned to class. Bell outlined his priorities for the university, emphasizing academic excellence, leadership stability, and preparing students for a rapidly changing world. Rising costs were also among the topics he addressed in conversations with local media.
Sources: The Independent Florida Alligator · WCJB TV20
University of Florida President Stuart Bell announced the university is reserving $40.7 million for raises, including a 5% merit pool for faculty described as the largest in the institution’s history. A separate 3% raise pool was established for staff. The increases are scheduled to take effect October 1.
Sources: WCJB TV20 · The Gainesville Sun
