What's Up Chat | Manny Diaz Jr., President, UWF (April 22, 2026)

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 17:00:00 GMT

April 22, 2026 | 12:00 PM | 1st Floor, 350 W. Cedar Street

Join NAIOP NWFL for the What's Up Chat Series!

Lunch will be provided for registered attendees who register by April 21st.

Meet the Presenter

Manny Diaz Jr.

President

University of West Florida

Manny Diaz Jr. serves as the seventh president of the University of West Florida, bringing more than three decades of experience in education leadership, public policy and institutional development. Known for his results-driven approach and deep commitment to student success, Diaz provides focused leadership, a forward-thinking vision and a strong foundation in statewide educational policy.

A lifelong educator, Diaz began his career in 1994 as a social studies teacher and baseball coach in Miami-Dade County Public Schools. He later served as an assistant principal and advanced into higher education leadership as Chief Operating Officer at Doral College, where he oversaw academic innovation and strategic growth.

Before coming to UWF as interim president in July 2025, Diaz served as Florida’s Commissioner of Education, leading statewide efforts to improve educational outcomes, expand opportunities for students, and strengthen the state’s K–20 system. In this role, he also served on the Florida Board of Governors, helping to shape policy and priorities for the State University System.

Prior to his statewide leadership, Diaz served in the Florida House of Representatives and Senate from 2012 to 2022. As a legislator, he was a champion for education reform, sponsoring numerous initiatives to support students, families, and teachers. He served as Chair of the Senate Education Committee and was widely recognized for his deep expertise in education policy.

Diaz holds a bachelor’s degree from St. Thomas University, a master’s degree in education from Nova Southeastern University, and completed a leadership program at the Harvard Graduate School of Education.

Diaz’s priorities include strengthening academic excellence and expanding UWF’s research capacity, growing workforce-aligned programs and partnerships, promoting access and affordability for students, and enhancing the University’s role in driving economic and community development across Northwest Florida.

As president, Diaz is committed to fostering momentum across the University, supporting faculty and staff, and ensuring students thrive in a dynamic learning environment. He is also a proud husband and father of four.

Thank You to Our Annual Partners:

The What’s Up! Chat Series is an educational program which connects our membership with local experts and community leaders in an informal setting. This format creates a unique opportunity for speaker and audience to understand an issue’s impact on commercial real estate and the community as a whole.

NAIOP NWFL After Hours Networking (April 30, 2026)

Thu, 30 Apr 2026 22:00:00 GMT

April 30, 2026 | 5:00 PM

Join NAIOP NWFL for an After Hours Networking Event!

Join us at 5:00 PM and unwind after hours with great conversation, good drinks and even better connections. We will have an open bar!

Thank You to Our Annual Partners:

NAIOP NW FL upcoming events

What's Up Chat | Manny Diaz Jr., President, UWF (April 22, 2026)

April 22, 2026 | 12:00 PM | 1st Floor, 350 W. Cedar Street

NAIOP NWFL After Hours Networking (April 30, 2026)