USF names new Sarasota-Manatee leader for New College transition

A new leader has been named for the University of South Florida’s Sarasota-Manatee branch to oversee the “teach-out” transition period of New College’s eventual takeover. 

In a letter to USF staff this week, university President Moez Limayem announced Jean Kabongo will lead the 32-acre campus across Tamiami Trail from Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport. His USF biography says he serves as senior associate dean for academic and faculty affairs, as well as the Sarasota-Manatee campus dean for the Muma College of Business.

Interim Regional Chancellor Brett Kemker will “continue contributing through his teaching, scholarship and support of USF's accreditation and dual enrollment programs before returning to the faculty in Fall 2027,’’ Limayem writes.

“Great universities never stand still,’’ Limayem writes, in part. “The world around us is changing rapidly, and if we expect USF to lead, not simply keep pace, we have to evolve just as quickly. The changes announced today reflect our commitment to ensuring that USF's leadership, talent and organizational structure are fully aligned with our bold aspirations.”

USF Sarasota-Manatee officially transferred to New College on July 1, the beginning of the state’s fiscal year, following a controversial approval in a special session of Florida’s Legislature.

Along with all the physical assets of the campus, New College also assumed all legal agreements. That includes more than $50 million in debt, which, according to the agreement signed by Gov. Ron DeSantis, must be on New College’s ledgers by the end of the year.

The teach-out period allows students enrolled on the campus to complete their studies, a process expected to take several years.

This article originally appeared on sister site YourObserver.com.