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Crist Taps Democrat For College, University Adviser Position

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By JEROME R. STOCKFISCH, The Tampa Tribune

Published: September 19, 2007

TALLAHASSEE - Saying he has tapped a 'valuable partner in addressing the challenges facing our state's institutions of higher learning,' Gov. Charlie Crist on Tuesday appointed Dean Colson to the new position of special adviser on higher education.

Colson, 55, has held various leadership roles at the University of Miami and has long been active in state politics.

'In his inaugural address, the governor emphasized that Florida cannot be an economic leader in this country unless we are able to provide world-class education to every child in this state,' Colson said.

Various branches of state government have been battling over governance of state colleges and universities since the state Board of Regents was dismantled in 1999. A similar panel, the Board of Governors, was created by constitutional amendment in 2002, but the Legislature contends it has the authority to set tuition rates. The issue will be settled in court.

Crist has been determined to keep tuition low; schools want higher rates to improve quality.

Colson demurred on the question of tuition increases, saying he is too new to the job. However, 'Everybody knows we need to invest more money in higher education in Florida,' he said.

Colson is a Democrat who has impressed officials across party lines. Former Gov. Jeb Bush appointed him to the Supreme Court Judicial Nominating Commission and the state Ethics Commission; he was also chairman of appointments for Crist's transition team.

Officials at the Board of Governors, which oversee the state's 11 public universities, welcomed the selection. 'It should give us much more access to the governor,' said Bill Edmonds, the board's spokesman. 'This is a position that's never existed in the state before.'

Board Chairwoman Carolyn Roberts said the governor's pick does not affect the lawsuit the board joined against the Legislature to settle the tuition issue.

When the board agreed to join the suit this summer, it 'invited' Crist to show leadership in higher education funding, Roberts said. This pick shows Crist's commitment, she said.

Colson is 'a man of great integrity,' she said. 'He understands higher education and the value of greatness.'

Reporters Adam Emerson and Catherine Dolinski contributed to this report. Jerome R. Stockfisch can be reached at (850) 222-8382 or jstockfisch@tampatrib.com.

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