A recently reshaped board of trustees at the College of the Florida Keys (CFK) is initiating steps to terminate the employment of its long-serving president, Jonathan “Dr. G” Gueverra. The board, which has seen a significant turnover with six new members appointed by Governor DeSantis in the past six months, voted to consult with the law firm Smith, Hawks PL to determine grounds for ending Gueverra’s agreement with the college.

Board Cites Funding and Contract Concerns

During a June 30 meeting, board Chairwoman Alexandria Suarez, appointed by DeSantis in 2023, expressed dissatisfaction with the college’s ability to secure necessary funding. “My biggest concern is the college isn’t getting the money it needs,” Suarez stated. She also referenced an interaction with Gueverra at a May 26 meeting regarding his contract, suggesting Gueverra was disrespectful. Suarez indicated she had expected an apology from Gueverra prior to the June 30 meeting, which she did not receive. “I’m not sure if it falls under insubordination,” Suarez commented, “but that is neither here nor there.” The board’s decision to seek termination follows a broader pattern of appointments made by Governor DeSantis to college boards across Florida, aimed at shifting institutional priorities.

The board’s discussions also touched upon recent funding setbacks, including the governor’s veto of $3.5 million designated for updating the college’s air conditioning system. Some board members also pointed to a previously vetoed $2.2 million allocation intended for expanding the college’s marine science programs, a request that was also excluded from the legislature’s approved budget this year.

Gueverra's Tenure and Board Assessments

Jonathan Gueverra has served as CFK’s president since 2012, overseeing significant growth and program development. Under his leadership, the college launched new programs in hospitality, ecotourism management, and culinary management in 2015. In 2017, CFK introduced its first baccalaureate degree, a Bachelor of Applied Science in Supervision and Management. The college also expanded its offerings with an Associate in Science in Engineering Technology – Renewable Energy Technician, supported by the National Science Foundation.

During Hurricane Irma in 2017, CFK, through its Small Business Development Center, assisted over 160 businesses in securing more than $6 million in bridge loans. The college also initiated tuition-free apprenticeships in trades such as electrical, carpentry, plumbing, and HVAC. In 2019, the institution was renamed the College of the Florida Keys as it became a baccalaureate-degree-granting institution. That same year, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing program was established to address the demand for healthcare professionals in the Keys. The college continued its expansion in 2020 with the introduction of a Bachelor of Science in Marine Resource Management, noted as the first degree of its kind nationally. CFK also ventured into collegiate sports, establishing men's and women's swim teams and joining the National Junior College Athletic Association.

More recently, in 2021, CFK expanded its Upper Keys presence with a new 38,000-square-foot center in Key Largo, offering diverse programs including marine science, hospitality, nursing, and various trade apprenticeships. The center also provides basic law enforcement and correctional officer training programs. Despite these accomplishments, the newly structured board has raised criticisms. While acknowledging Gueverra's extensive knowledge and crisis management skills, some board members expressed disappointment regarding his interactions concerning his contract and the departure of two senior leaders. Eddie Kertis, a captain and divemaster appointed to the board by DeSantis in January, recognized Gueverra as “the driving force in where the college is today” and noted his “almost iconic” contributions, while still not objecting to the review for termination. The board’s assessment acknowledged Gueverra’s ability to handle crises, initiate change, and develop strategic plans.

The previous board had approved a three-year contract extension for Gueverra in July 2025. The current board, with its new appointments including Kertis, Peter Batty Jr., Michael Downer, Bob Broton, Susan Raffanello, and Andrew Dulcey, is now seeking to review and potentially terminate this agreement. Further details on the legal review process are expected as the situation unfolds. For more information on the College of the Florida Keys, visit their official website at fkcc.edu. Updates on Florida college board actions can be found through sources like Keys Weekly.