Kristine Zonka Appointed to Board of Trustees; Ronald Howse Reappointed

Governor Ron DeSantis has appointed Kristine Zonka, DNP, to the Eastern Florida State College (EFSC) Board of Trustees and reappointed Ronald Howse to another four-year term.

Zonka currently serves as Administrator and Health Officer for the Florida Department of Health in Brevard County. A dedicated public servant and community leader, she is a foundation member of the Space Coast Health Foundation and a member of the Health Council of East Central Florida Board. Zonka also previously served as a Brevard County Commissioner.

She holds an associate degree in nursing from Keiser University and both a master’s degree and Doctor of Nursing Practice from Frontier Nursing University.

“Kristine brings a distinguished career to EFSC that will greatly benefit the college, our students, and our entire community,” said EFSC President Dr. Jim Richey. “We are excited to welcome her to our college family and know she will play a key role in guiding our future.”

Ronald Howse was first appointed to the EFSC Board of Trustees in 2015 by former Governor Rick Scott. He currently serves as Chair of the Board and has been instrumental in the College’s expansion to meet Florida’s growing high-tech workforce needs.

Howse is the Owner and CEO of Real Deal Development Group and Principal of Howseco, LLC. He also serves on the Florida Transportation Commission and the St. Johns River Water Management District. He earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Central Florida.

“Ron’s leadership has been pivotal in the development of our ten-year plans for both the Melbourne and Cocoa campuses,” said Richey. “His commitment to EFSC is exemplary, and I look forward to continuing to work with him as we shape the College’s future.”

For more information about Eastern Florida State College, its leadership, and the Board of Trustees, visit easternflorida.edu.

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