Last week, Gov. Ron DeSantis appointed four men to the Pensacola State College Board of Trustees.
- Three are familiar local names – former State Rep. Joel Rudman, attorney Ed Fleming and Escambia County Deputy Sheriff Andy Hobb.
The fourth is Zachary Smith, a senior Heritage Foundation legal fellow who manages the organization’s Supreme Court and Appellate Advocacy Program.
- Smith is the third Heritage Foundation fellow that Gov. DeSantis has placed on local higher education boards.
Building Heritage’s Foothold
Gov. DeSantis continues to appease the Heritage Foundation and appoint men associated with the right-wing think tank over local individuals and alums.
- University of West Florida Board of Trustees Chairman Scott Yenor and Academic Affairs Committee Chairman Adam Kissel have been visiting fellows with the foundation.
According to the Heritage Foundation, Smith has written on “the harms caused by diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives in certain educational settings.”
In June 2022, Smith accused the American Bar Association of no longer focusing on ensuring equality under the law. He asserted that the ABA was a “nefarious and nebulous idea among both law students and practicing lawyers. Read article.
In a press release, John Malcolm, vice president of Heritage’s Institute for Constitutional Government and director of the Meese Center and Simon Center, made the following statement:
“Governor DeSantis made an outstanding selection. Zack is thorough and thoughtful and will, as he always does, provide bold leadership that will benefit the Pensacola State College District and the residents of Florida.”
