Dr. Kevin O’Farrell joins Polk State College as Executive Vice President of Workforce & Strategic Initiatives

Dr. Kevin O’Farrell joins Polk State College today as Executive Vice President of Workforce & Strategic Initiatives, bringing more than 20 years of experience in state and higher education leadership.

Dr. O’Farrell most recently served as Senior Chancellor for Higher Education and Workforce Development within the Florida Department of Education. He previously served as Chancellor of the Division of Career and Adult Education and spent eight years at Pasco-Hernando State College, where his academic leadership roles included Provost and Campus President on the Porter Campus located at Wiregrass Ranch.

“His experience across workforce development, the Florida State College system, and academic affairs will be invaluable as we expand workforce programs, apprenticeships, internships, and career pathways,” said Polk State President Anastasios Kamoutsas. “Polk State has a strong foundation, and the opportunities before us are significant. Together, we will continue putting our students at the center of everything we do.”

Dr. O’Farrell will oversee workforce-related programs, including Associate in Science, Bachelor of Science, and Bachelor of Applied Science degree programs, as well as the programs housed at the JD Alexander Center, Clear Springs Advanced Technology Center, the Airside Centers, and the Haines City-Davenport Campus. He will also lead special initiatives, including civil discourse and civic engagement projects, and provide oversight for Learning Technology and Online Education.

“Polk County is one of the fastest-growing counties in the nation with consistent population gains and is projected to have a population of 1 million residents by 2030,” Dr. O’Farrell said. “Polk State College is well positioned to develop the talent needed to drive economic opportunity for the region. I am confident that working together, we can maximize the opportunity to build on previous successes and reimagine our shared future.”

Dr. O’Farrell holds a doctorate in philosophy from the University of South Florida, two master’s degrees in public administration and political science from the University of South Florida, as well as a bachelor’s degree in interpersonal and organizational communication from Toccoa Falls College.

He previously served on the Board of Directors for CareerSource Florida, as Chair of the Florida Postsecondary Reciprocal Distance Education Coordinating Council, as Chair of the State Apprenticeship Advisory Council, as well as several other statewide and local organizations.

Dr. O’Farrell joins Polk State College at an exciting time of growth and transformation. His arrival coincides with an organizational realignment aimed at enhancing the student experience, aligning the resources with the College’s strategic priorities, and ensuring the institution is well-positioned to meet the needs of students.

The realignment reflects a collaborative approach to leadership, with administrators working across areas of the College to advance shared goals and support student success.

Reggie Webb, Senior Vice President for Student Services and Campus Operations, will have an expanded focus on student retention through enhanced wraparound services designed to support students throughout their college journey, while continuing to provide leadership related to campus facilities and security.

Dr. Amy Bratten, Provost, will continue to serve as the College’s Chief Academic Officer, with a renewed focus on student recruitment, advising, general education and transfer pathways, academic quality, and graduation.

These areas of focus, along with the work of other members of the College’s leadership team, are intended to complement one another and strengthen Polk State’s ability to serve students and advance its strategic priorities.