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Wes Sumner

Florida Tech Vice President for External Affairs

Dr. Wes Sumner has been fascinated by science and technology since childhood, when he dreamed of becoming an astronaut. The opportunity to dialogue with scientists and researchers about why things work—and how they might work better—is a true privilege.

Wes joined Florida Institute of Technology in 2009 and currently serves as Vice President for External Affairs working in the Office of the President. In addition to serving as university spokesperson, he manages crisis communications response and supervises WFIT-FM, the region’s National Public Radio affiliate.

Before joining Florida Tech, Wes was director of district communications and public information for Brevard Public Schools, one of the largest school districts in the state. He managed all primary communications functions, including media relations, crisis communications, the district television station and non-profit foundation. He also acted as district spokesperson.

Prior to his work at Brevard Public Schools, Wes spent a decade serving the University System of Georgia. Most recently, he served at Georgia Southwestern State University in Americus where he led a variety of communication management efforts that included alumni relations, media relations, crisis communications, marketing and development. His early career included other communications positions at Georgia Southern University and Valdosta State University. He also logged TV, radio, newspaper and video production experience, having worked as a print and broadcast journalist.

Wes earned a Bachelor of Arts degree double majoring in journalism and political science at the University of Central Florida, a Master of Education degree in educational leadership from Valdosta State University and a Doctor of Business Administration degree from Florida Tech.

He is a graduate of Leadership Brevard Class of 2008 and the recipient of several Council for the Advancement and Support of Education (CASE) awards for excellence in programs, publishing and media relations. He is an invited presenter at regional and national educational conferences.

wsumner@fit.edu