From the desk of Fedrick C.

Ingram
May 6, 2021

To Whom It May Concern:

I forward this letter as a lifelong educator, a former Miami-Dade County Teacher of

the Year, and as a Florida union leader advocating for public education, students,
educators, and staff. It might seem odd that a union leader and classroom
educator, who has differed at times over policy with Commissioner Richard
Corcoran, would submit a letter of recommendation on his behalf. However, I do so
without hesitation because I have come to know firsthand his skillset and ability to
bring key stakeholders together to meet our educational mission over the past two
and a half years.

He has been committed to assuring that public education, including higher

education, remains at the center of our State’s mission. He knows that while there
are certainly differing views and approaches, there must be an unwavering
consensus that education is the hallmark of any democratic society. He has
steadfastly underscored that consensus during his tenure as commissioner of
education. Again, while we do not agree on every issue, he is a passionate advocate
for our educational mission.

My union leadership roles included advocacy for professors and staff in higher
education. The indisputable, vital, and essential role of higher education requires
that the position of university or college president only be held by very special
individuals. These administrative leaders must be loyal to the key principles of
academia, including shared governance, teaching and learning, academic freedom,
tenure rights, cutting edge research, as well as a superior pedagogical skill. Richard
also brings key relationships that will bode well for the university’s policy agenda,
funding needs, fundraising, and expansion of the “Seminole Success”.

I know that Commissioner Corcoran has pledged to continue a high level of respect
and excellence at Florida State University. I respectfully ask the search committee,
the faculty, and student body leadership to consider my experience with Richard as
you endeavor on this important task.

Fedrick C. Ingram
Former President, Florida Education Association