Kevin Fernander, a Fort Lauderdale attorney and former Miramar city commissioner, was recently named general counsel for Palm Beach State College.
Fernander comes to Palm Beach State College from the Tripp Scott law firm, where he worked for 13 years.
One of his key responsibilities for six of those years, from 2005 to 2011, was to serve as general counsel for Broward College, where he advised the board of trustees and senior management on contracts, policies, litigations and other legal matters. He also was responsible for representing contractors, charter schools and small businesses in commercial transactions and litigation.
Prior to joining Tripp Scott in 2000, Fernander worked at two other firms, including three years at the Fertig & Grambling Law Partnership and two years at the Conroy, Simberg and Gannon Law Partnership. He also served for one year with the Miami-Dade County Public Defender’s Office.
Fernander, who began his new post July 16, said he’s looking forward to his new role. “It’s a great opportunity. I have thoroughly enjoyed my contact with the people of Palm Beach State.”
Fernander made history in 1997 when he won a three-way race for a seat on the city commission, becoming the first black city commissioner in Miramar, the city in which he was raised.
He served a four-year term before deciding not to seek re-election. Prior to that, he also served for two years on the city’s planning and zoning board.
“Mr. Fernander’s legal and political experience are an excellent match for the college as we continue to grow,” Palm Beach State College President Dennis Gallon said. “He will be a valuable addition to our leadership team.”
Fernander holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Florida State University and a juris doctorate from the Bridgeport School of Law at Quinnipiac College.
He replaces Denise Wallace, who resigned last year.
Serving 49,000 students annually, Palm Beach State College is the largest institution of higher education in Palm Beach County, providing bachelor’s degrees, associate’s degrees, professional certificates, career training and lifelong learning. Established in 1933 as Florida’s first public community college, it offers more than 100 programs of study at locations in Lake Worth, Boca Raton, Palm Beach Gardens and Belle Glade.
ABOVE: Kevin Fernander
