Florida Polytechnic University Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Florida Polytechnic University has 7 executives leading key functions including development, operations, finance, technology, and academic leadership.

Driven by a commitment to STEM excellence, Florida Polytechnic University prepares students for high-tech careers through project-based learning and innovation, fostering a robust community and academic rigor.

Leadership Roles at Florida Polytechnic University

  • Chief Development Officer (Cdo) & Chief Executive Officer, Foundation - Stephen Weingart
  • Vice President & Chief Financial Officer - Tanner McKnight
  • President - Devin Stephenson
  • Senate President - Cassandra Staberg
  • SGA Senate President Pro-Tempore - Natasha Linares
  • Chief of Staff - Joshua Millikin
  • Vice President, Information Technology & Chief Information Officer - Cole Allen
  • Stephen Weingart - Chief Development Officer (Cdo) & Chief Executive Officer, Foundation

    Stephen Weingart, the Chief Development Officer (Cdo) & Chief Executive Officer, Foundation at Florida Polytechnic University, directs all philanthropic initiatives and fundraising efforts. Weingart cultivates relationships with donors, alumni, and corporate partners to secure vital resources supporting university growth and student success. This leadership role involves architecting strategic campaigns that align with the university's mission of providing innovative STEM education. By expanding the Foundation's reach, Stephen Weingart ensures sustained financial support for scholarships, research, and campus development. The Chief Development Officer's oversight extends to managing the Foundation's operations, guaranteeing fiscal responsibility and maximizing investment returns to further the university's objectives in Lakeland, Florida.

    Tanner McKnight - Vice President & Chief Financial Officer

    Tanner McKnight, the Vice President & Chief Financial Officer at Florida Polytechnic University, oversees all financial operations and fiscal planning. McKnight manages the university's budget, investments, and financial reporting, ensuring fiscal health and sustainability. This leadership position involves developing financial strategies that support the university's growth in STEM fields and its project-based learning environment. By optimizing resource allocation, Tanner McKnight ensures that funds are effectively utilized to advance academic programs and campus infrastructure. The Chief Financial Officer's purview includes managing financial risks and ensuring compliance with all relevant regulations, thereby safeguarding the university's financial integrity in Lakeland, Florida.

    Devin Stephenson - President

    Devin Stephenson, the President at Florida Polytechnic University, provides strategic leadership and vision for the institution's STEM-focused educational mission. Stephenson guides the university's academic direction, research endeavors, and community engagement, ensuring alignment with its commitment to innovative problem-solving and high-tech professional training. This pivotal role involves fostering a collaborative environment that drives academic excellence and prepares students for success in a dynamic job market. By championing the university's unique approach to project-based learning, Devin Stephenson enhances its reputation and impact. The President's leadership ensures the continued development of a state-of-the-art campus and a vibrant community dedicated to technological advancement in Lakeland, Florida.

    Cassandra Staberg - Senate President

    Cassandra Staberg, the Senate President at Florida Polytechnic University, presides over the student government senate, representing student interests and advocating for campus improvements. Staberg leads legislative efforts within the student body, facilitating discussions and decision-making on key student issues. This role involves working closely with university administration to ensure student voices are heard and considered in institutional policies and initiatives. By fostering a strong sense of community and collaboration, Cassandra Staberg supports the vibrant student life emphasized by the university. The Senate President's responsibilities include overseeing senate operations and promoting student engagement in academic and extracurricular activities in Lakeland, Florida.

    Natasha Linares - SGA Senate President Pro-Tempore

    Natasha Linares, the SGA Senate President Pro-Tempore at Florida Polytechnic University, supports the Senate President in managing student government operations and legislative processes. Linares assists in presiding over senate meetings and ensures the smooth functioning of student governance, contributing to the university's emphasis on collaboration and leadership development. This position involves actively participating in discussions and initiatives aimed at enhancing the student experience and academic environment. By working to uphold the principles of student representation, Natasha Linares contributes to the vibrant community fostered at the university. The SGA Senate President Pro-Tempore's duties include supporting senate committees and advocating for student needs in Lakeland, Florida.

    Joshua Millikin - Chief of Staff

    Joshua Millikin, the Chief of Staff at Florida Polytechnic University, manages strategic initiatives and operational efficiency across key university departments. Millikin facilitates communication between the President's office and other administrative units, ensuring seamless execution of institutional goals. This role involves coordinating special projects, analyzing operational data, and implementing process improvements to enhance academic and administrative functions. By streamlining workflows and fostering collaboration, Joshua Millikin supports the university's commitment to high-tech professional training. The Chief of Staff's responsibilities include advising leadership on critical matters and driving forward the university's vision for innovation and academic excellence in Lakeland, Florida.

    Cole Allen - Vice President, Information Technology & Chief Information Officer

    Cole Allen, the Vice President, Information Technology & Chief Information Officer at Florida Polytechnic University, directs the institution's technology strategy and infrastructure. Allen leads the development and implementation of IT systems that support innovative problem-solving and high-tech professional training for students. This executive role involves ensuring the security, reliability, and scalability of the university's digital environment, including its state-of-the-art campus technology. By advancing technological capabilities, Cole Allen enhances the learning experience and supports the university's mission to prepare students for a robust job market. The Chief Information Officer's oversight extends to managing IT services, cybersecurity, and digital transformation initiatives in Lakeland, Florida.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Florida Polytechnic University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Florida Polytechnic University?
    Florida Polytechnic University is led by Stephen Weingart (Chief Development Officer (Cdo) & Chief Executive Officer, Foundation), along with executives such as Tanner McKnight (Vice President & Chief Financial Officer) and Devin Stephenson (President).
    Who is part of Florida Polytechnic University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Florida Polytechnic University includes leaders such as Stephen Weingart (Chief Development Officer (Cdo) & Chief Executive Officer, Foundation), Tanner McKnight (Vice President & Chief Financial Officer), Devin Stephenson (President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Florida Polytechnic University have?
    Florida Polytechnic University has 7 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Florida Polytechnic University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Florida Polytechnic University includes roles such as Chief Development Officer (Cdo) & Chief Executive Officer, Foundation, Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, President, Senate President, SGA Senate President Pro-Tempore.