Dr. Adam W. Herbert, Jr. named first black chancellor of Florida's university system

Jet, Jan 26, 1998

The Florida Board of Regents recently appointed Dr. Adam W. Herbert, Jr. as Chancellor of the State University System of Florida. He is the first Black to hold the post.

Prior to the appointment, Herbert, 54, was the president of the University of North Florida (UNF) in Jacksonville.

Regent Jon C. Moyle, chair of the Search Committee, said Herbert became the top choice for chancellor during the nationwide search.

"We had an opportunity to consider and interview many top candidates at major American universities," Moyle said. "Adam's work at UNF, his integrity and his passion for higher education compared most favorably with the best in the nation.

"During his nine years as president of the University of North Florida, Adam has been the key leader in making UNF one of the best comprehensive universities in the nation," Moyle continued.

Herbert has held several administrative posts at Florida International University, including dean of the School of Public Affairs and Services and vice president of the North Miami Campus. He also held academic positions at Virginia Polytechnic Institute, the University of Southern California and the University of Pittsburgh.

The new chancellor holds degrees from the University of Southern California and the University of Pittsburgh.

Herbert also serves on numerous boards and commissions.

He is married to the former Karen Y. Lofty.