The Florida Atlantic University (FAU) Board of Trustees voted unanimously on February 10th, 2025 to appoint Adam Hasner as the institution’s eighth president. His start date is pending confirmation by the State University System’s Board of Governors.
President Hasner brings over 30 years of experience in public service, business strategy, and policy advocacy to Florida Atlantic. His distinguished career includes serving in the Florida House of Representatives from 2002 to 2010, where he held two terms as House Majority Leader and spearheaded key initiatives in healthcare, education, and economic development. Notably, he collaborated with former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush to establish Florida’s life sciences industry by securing significant funding for biomedical research. He also played an instrumental role in securing funding to establish FAU’s Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine.
A longtime advocate for innovation and economic development, President Hasner championed Florida Atlantic’s ocean energy initiative, sponsoring pivotal legislation in 2006 and 2008 that laid the groundwork for the university’s Office of the Ocean Economy. Additionally, his leadership helped secure $43 million for the College of Engineering building, which became the first state-funded higher education facility to achieve LEED Platinum certification.
Beyond his professional achievements, President Hasner is deeply engaged in community service. He has served on the board of trustees for Boca Raton Regional Hospital, the dean’s advisory board for FAU’s College of Business, the board of directors at People’s Trust Insurance Company, and the board of advisors for Gogig Jobs, Inc.
A native of Palm Beach County, President Hasner is a product of the local public school system and the son of two educators. He holds a juris doctor from Florida State University and a bachelor’s degree in government and politics from the University of Maryland. He resides in Boca Raton with his wife, Jillian, the chief executive officer of the nonprofit organization Take Stock in Children.
FAU extends its gratitude to the presidential search committee, chaired by Sherry Murphy, for conducting an organized, transparent, and efficient search process. The committee, in collaboration with the executive search firm Buffkin Baker, carefully evaluated numerous highly qualified candidates. FAU also acknowledges and appreciates the other two finalists, Michael Hartline, Ph.D., and John Volin, Ph.D., for their participation and outstanding contributions throughout the selection process.
“Florida Atlantic University is a shining example of what a modern university can achieve – academic excellence, cutting-edge research, student access and success, all while maintaining a strong connection to the communities it serves,” said Hasner. “I am honored to be chosen to lead this incredible institution and work alongside its talented students, top-tier faculty, and dedicated staff to drive FAU’s mission forward. Together, we will continue to innovate, inspire and make a lasting, positive impact in the lives of our students, our community and the state.”
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