UF trustee Manny Fernandez resigns from board

December 7, 2007

GAINESVILLE, Fla. — University of Florida Trustee Manny Fernandez has resigned his position because of a change in his business commitments, board Chairman Dianna Morgan announced Thursday.

Fernandez, a trustee since the board was formed in 2001 and former board chairman, said he expects to spend more time with his work as a board member of four Fortune 500 companies. His Fort Myers-based venture capital fund, SI Ventures, is now fully invested. He also plans to spend more time living in California because of family there.

“My ability to continue to dedicate time and focus to the board will be severely limited in the future and this position deserves only the highest level of commitment,” Fernandez stated in a letter to Morgan. “I will be forever grateful for the opportunity to serve my alma mater in this meaningful way.”

Fernandez’ resignation is effective immediately. His term would have ended in January 2011. Gov. Charlie Crist will name his successor.

In a letter to fellow trustees and UF administrators, Morgan praised Fernandez and his service to the university.

“Manny’s leadership and contributions to our university are too numerous to list,” Morgan said. “He has committed tireless hours toward understanding our potential and fighting for our funding needs.”

She cited his support in the success of the tuition differential and the Florida Opportunity Scholars programs.

Fernandez, who chaired the search committee that recommended the hiring of UF President Bernie Machen in 2003, has a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from UF and completed postgraduate work in solid-state engineering here. After being named to the board when it was created by then-Gov. Jeb Bush, Fernandez became board chairman in 2003. He also chaired the recently created Resources Committee.