Chuck Clemons named Vice President for Government and Community Relations

Kent Fuchs, Interim President

I am pleased to announce the appointment of Chuck Clemons as vice president for government and community relations, effective July 1, 2025.

Chuck brings decades of experience in public service, leadership and advocacy to the role. A longtime public servant and UF alumnus, he recently concluded his tenure in the Florida House of Representatives, where he represented the Gainesville area, served as a key leader on education and appropriations policy and chaired the Gator Caucus. During his time in the Legislature, Clemons pushed major investments in the State University System and was a champion of legislation protecting free speech on college campuses.

Chuck’s career includes 17 years of distinguished service in Santa Fe College’s administration, from which he retired in December, and seven years in the federal government, including a presidential appointment to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. His experience across local and state government, higher education and community engagement will be instrumental in advancing UF’s priorities and partnerships.

While attending UF as an undergraduate, Clemons was active on campus, including membership in Florida Blue Key and serving as president of Alpha Gamma Rho fraternity. His wife and son both attended UF as well.

In his new position, Chuck will lead the university’s government relations efforts at the local, state and federal levels and oversee UF’s community engagement strategy. His deep understanding of the legislative process and well-established relationships across Florida will help further advance the university’s mission and impact.

“Chuck Clemons has been a steadfast advocate for higher education and a tireless champion for the University of Florida throughout his career,” said Mori Hosseini, chair of the UF Board of Trustees. “His deep understanding of the legislative process and his commitment to public service make him exceptionally well-suited for this role. I am confident he will help elevate UF’s impact across the state and ensure our voice remains strong in Tallahassee and beyond.”

Chuck said he’s ready to get started.

“I look forward to helping build a strong coalition focused on advancing the legislative and community best interests of my alma mater without regard for political party,” he said. “The University of Florida is a treasure for the state of Florida, and I’m eager to do my part to help it reach its fullest potential.”

Please join me in welcoming Chuck Clemons to his new role.