April 30, 2024 – Governor Ron DeSantis appointed three members to South Florida State College’s (SFSC) District Board of Trustees (DBOT) on Friday, April 19, 2024. The two new trustees are Devon Donaldson and John Eason, and Terry Atchley was reappointed.

“We are excited to welcome these two new trustees to SFSC’s board and reinstate Mr. Atchley as a dedicated and caring leader for our institution,” said Fred Hawkins, president of SFSC. “We are eager to share the incredible vision and mission of this institution as we move it forward into the future.”

Terry Atchley, who currently serves as the chair of the DBOT, was reappointed to his position. He is the county manager for Hardee County and was previously elected as a Hardee County commissioner and served as the city manager for the City of Wauchula. Atchley is the current president of the Hardee County Fair and the Florida Federation of Fairs. He attended SFSC and Polk State College.

“I am extremely honored to have received confirmation of my reappointment to serve SFSC as a member of the DBOT,” said Atchley. “As we embark on the next chapters of the SFSC journey, we need to work together with our students, business partners, and communities to advance our efforts in building a brighter, more prosperous future for the Heartland region. ‘Let’s ignite new possibilities together.’”

The new appointments include:
Devon Donaldson is the owner of GeoDev Financial Group and treasurer of Samaritan’s Touch Care Center and Cornerstone Christian Academy. Donaldson earned his Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Webber University.

“I am honored to be a part of South Florida State College, having graduated with my Associate in Arts degree from there,” said Donaldson. “The College has grown and I look forward to being a part of its continued success.”

John Eason, deputy city manager for the City of Wauchula, is an adjunct instructor at SFSC. He is a veteran of the United States Air Force and the former chief of police for the City of Wauchula. Eason earned an Associate in Science in Criminal Justice Technology from SFSC and a Bachelor of Applied Science in Supervision and Management with a concentration in Public Administration from Polk State College.

“Being appointed to the South Florida State College District Board of Trustees is truly an honor,” said Eason. “As an alumnus, I look forward to serving on the board, driven by the passion to uphold South Florida State College’s tradition of excellence and ensure every student receives a world-class education.”

The SFSC DBOT meeting schedule and member biographies can be found on southflorida.edu/board-of-trustees.

Terry Atchley Devon Donaldson John Eason