Gainesville, Florida – Following an extensive and comprehensive search process, Santa Fe College has named Dr. J. Nathaniel “Nate” Southerland as Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs.
Dr. Southerland has served in multiple leadership roles in higher education, including four and a half years as Provost at Coconino Community College in Flagstaff, Arizona, which followed five years as Associate Provost during his nine-year career in academic leadership at Salt Lake Community College in Salt Lake City, Utah.
“Dr. Southerland’s vast experience in leadership positions throughout Academic Affairs and his experience working with university and community partners will advance our mission and bolster our academic enterprise,” SF President Paul Broadie II said. “He will be an advocate for Santa Fe as we launch our new innovative semiconductor program, build our Automotive Technology Training Center, and prepare for the opening of the Cellon Institute for Skilled Trades and Advanced Technology.”
Most recently, Dr. Southerland served St. Johns River State College as Assistant Vice President for Workforce Development. His deep understanding of the role and mission of the community college will help provide SF faculty with the support needed to promote student success.
“I am thrilled to be joining Santa Fe College at this pivotal moment and look forward to working alongside President Broadie and the faculty and staff as we continue Santa Fe’s long tradition of excellence while growing in our capacity to meet the needs of our students and community stakeholders,” Dr. Southerland said. “This is an exciting time to be working side-by-side with our government, business, nonprofit, K-12, and university partners to set a new bar for transforming the lives of individuals and the communities in which we live, work, and serve. It’s great to be a Saint!”
Additionally, Dr. Southerland has led efforts in developing academic master plans, launched multiple innovative academic programs, promoted the importance of dual enrollment, and has 20 years of teaching experience, including nearly a decade of experience as an adjunct in both community college and university settings.
In an announcement to the college community, President Broadie thanked the members of the Provost Search Committee for their diligence, as well as interim Provost Dr. Mercedes Quiroga, who stepped into the role last July and provided stability for the institution throughout the search process.
Dr. Southerland will take leadership of Academic Affairs Monday, March 11.
About Santa Fe College
Opening in 1966, Santa Fe College (SF) is part of the Florida College System and a charter member of the prestigious League for Innovation in the Community College. SF has established programs and services that enable the college to carry out its mission of adding value to the lives of our students and enriching our community. The philosophy of the college has been, and continues to be student-centered. SF is home to a planetarium, a nationally recognized teaching zoo and a state-of-the-art Fine Arts Hall. Visit sfcollege.edu for more information.
