• The Florida Institute of Technology has appointed John Nicklow as its sixth president, effective July 1.
• Nicklow, who currently serves as president of the University of New Orleans, has a background in engineering and higher education teaching, research, and administration.
• The university attracted 112 applicants for the open role.

The Florida Institute of Technology (FIT) has named John Nicklow as the sixth president in the university’s history, effective July 1. Currently serving as president of the University of New Orleans, Nicklow holds a background in engineering and higher education teaching, research, and administration.

Nicklow was appointed following a year-long search that involved input from trustees, faculty, staff, and students. The search committee states they attracted 112 applicants before narrowing the field to five finalists who participated in open community forums.

“I believe Florida Tech is at an inflection point, and that presents a wonderful opportunity for the university,” Nicklow said. “My vision is to make Florida Tech the top choice for students interested in STEM fields from all over the state, nation, and world. To achieve that, we must continue Florida Tech’s excellent academic and research prowess and attract top-notch faculty and staff. This will also help us become the preferred partner for businesses, industry, and government.”

Nicklow earned B.S. and M.S. degrees in civil engineering from Bucknell University in Pennsylvania and a Ph.D. in civil engineering from Arizona State University. He began his career as an environmental engineering officer with the U.S. Public Health Service.

Nicklow joined the University of New Orleans in 2015 first serving as provost and vice president for academic affairs before being named president in 2016.

Prior to his eight years at the University of New Orleans, he served as provost and vice chancellor for academic affairs at Southern Illinois University, as well as earlier administrative appointments including chief enrollment officer and leadership positions in its College of Engineering and Department of Civil Engineering.

“Florida Tech is a university with a proud past and a very bright future,” Nicklow said. “Together, we will accomplish great things, and Stacy and I cannot wait to get started.”