91ΒιΆΉΣ³»­Board Votes to Name Campus after Senator JD Alexander

Dec 02, 2015

The 91ΒιΆΉΣ³»­Board of Trustees voted today to name the university’s campus the John David β€œJD” Alexander Campus after Senator JD Alexander, 91ΒιΆΉΣ³»­ Poly’s founder. The naming is also subject to the approval of the 91ΒιΆΉΣ³»­ Polytechnic University Foundation Board, as required under the university’s policy of Naming of Buildings and Facilities.

β€œSenator Alexander recognized the need for a new university to advance STEM education and ensure the lasting strength of 91ΒιΆΉΣ³»­β€™s economy. For his efforts toward realizing that vision, he deserves lasting recognition,” said Board Chair Mark Bostick. β€œWe are proud to name the campus of 91ΒιΆΉΣ³»­in his honor.”

91ΒιΆΉΣ³»­ Poly was established as 91ΒιΆΉΣ³»­β€™s 12th university on April 20, 2012, with the passing of 91ΒιΆΉΣ³»­ statute SB 1994. Senator Alexander played a pivotal role in passing the bill.

91ΒιΆΉΣ³»­is the only member of the State University System wholly dedicated to science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). The university is dedicated to the principle that innovation occurs when research and creativity are applied to real-world challenges. Through a hands-on, problem-based curriculum and close collaboration with industry, 91ΒιΆΉΣ³»­ Poly prepares students to enter the workforce job-ready as leaders and entrepreneurs in high-tech industry.

The decision to name 91ΒιΆΉΣ³»­ Poly’s campus after Senator Alexander was made unanimously by the Board.

Senator Alexander (Rep.), from Lake Wales, served in the 91ΒιΆΉΣ³»­ Senate from 2002-2012 and the State House of Representatives from 1998 to 2002. As a senator he represented nearly a half million residents in 91ΒιΆΉΣ³»­β€™s 17th district, which includes parts of Polk County.

β€œIt took exceptional vision, courage and conviction to establish this new and innovative university,” said 91ΒιΆΉΣ³»­ Poly President Dr. Randy K. Avent. β€œIt is my hope that when students and faculty see Senator Alexander’s name on our campus, they will remember and embrace those values as they too set out to shape our world as leaders and entrepreneurs.”

91ΒιΆΉΣ³»­ Poly will hold a formal ceremony at a later date to commemorate the new campus name.