Anne B. Kerr, 17th president of Florida Southern College, has announced her retirement, effective at the conclusion of this academic year. Upon her retirement, she will assume the title of president emerita.
Dr. Kerr has served as president of Florida Southern College for the past twenty years. Under her leadership, the school has seen growth in enrollment. The college enrolls approximately 2,700 undergraduate and 600 graduate students. Women represent 63 percent of the undergraduate student body. The campus itself has grown as well, with 22 new buildings constructed and 20 building expansions and renovations completed during her tenure.
Over the past two decades, the college has increased its academic programing. Dr. Kerr oversaw the establishment of the Barney Barnett School of Business and Free Enterprise, a doctor of physical therapy degree program, the Ann Blanton Edwards School of Nursing, and the Roberts Academy, a transitional school for elementary and middle school students with dyslexia and a training opportunity for the college’s education students. Through her guidance, the school gained new scholarships, affiliations, and endowments. She led the college’s “Believe Campaign,” which raised $380 million.
“It has been an honor and great blessing to serve as president of what I consider to be the finest small college in the nation,” said Dr. Kerr. “I am deeply grateful for the unflagging support of the Florida Southern College Board of Trustees, the untiring commitment to excellence of an exceptional faculty, and the dedication and tireless work of the staff in fulfilling the college’s mission to provide a learning community that enables students to realize their dreams and make a consequential impact on society.”
Dr. Kerr received her bachelor’s degree from Mercer University in Georgia. She earned her master’s degree and doctoral degree from Florida State University.