Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has announced four new appointments to the District Board of Trustees for the College of the Florida Keys. The move is part of the state’s ongoing effort to strengthen leadership at public colleges through experienced professionals with strong community ties. The Florida Keys Trustee Appointments are subject to confirmation by the Florida Senate before they take effect.
The College of the Florida Keys plays a key role in higher education across the island chain. It provides workforce training, academic programs, and community education. The board of trustees oversees major decisions, including budgets, long-term planning, and institutional policy. Appointing trustees with varied professional backgrounds is seen as vital for maintaining stable governance and meeting local needs.
One of the appointees is Broton, a retired engineering executive with decades of technical experience. He previously worked as Director of Engineering at a major aerospace and defense firm. Since retiring, he has remained active in community organizations. He serves with a professional association focused on electronic and information systems and sits on the board of a local condominium association. Broton holds a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from the University of Illinois Urbana and a master’s degree in the same field from the Illinois Institute of Technology. His technical background is expected to support innovation and infrastructure planning at the college.
Peter Batty is another appointee and brings deep experience in finance, banking, and civic planning. He is the president and owner of an insurance group and helped co-found a regional bank, where he serves as chairman. Batty also leads companies focused on processing and management services. In public service, he chairs the City of Key West Planning Committee and serves on the board of a local community foundation. His academic background includes a bachelor’s degree in philosophy from Florida International University and a master’s degree in political science and government from Florida State University. His experience is expected to aid strategic planning and financial oversight.
Michael Downer adds a legal and business perspective to the Florida Keys Trustee Appointments. He operates a fine wine business in Key West and previously held senior legal and executive roles at a major investment organization. Downer has a history of nonprofit leadership. He once chaired the board of a law school and served on the board of an organization focused on children’s rights. He earned his bachelor’s degree in history and philosophy from the University of California, Los Angeles, and his law degree from Southwestern Law School. His background may support governance, ethics, and compliance matters at the college.
Edward “Eddie” Kertis rounds out the list of appointees. He works as a consultant for a Hawaiian Native Corporation and serves as a captain and divemaster for the College of the Florida Keys. Kertis is also active in civic and cultural groups, including a military affairs committee and a local art and historical society. A veteran of the United States Army, he brings both military and environmental expertise. Kertis earned a bachelor’s degree in biology from Stetson University, a master’s degree in environmental engineering from the University of Florida, and a master’s degree in strategic studies from the United States Air Force War College. His background aligns closely with the college’s marine and environmental programs.
State officials say the Florida Keys Trustee Appointments reflect a balance of professional skill, public service, and community involvement. Trustees are expected to work closely with college leadership to support student success, workforce development, and responsible use of public funds.
Before the appointments become final, the Florida Senate must review and confirm each nominee. This confirmation process is standard and helps ensure transparency and accountability in public education governance. If approved, the new trustees will begin shaping policy decisions that affect students, faculty, and the wider Florida Keys community.
The appointments come at a time when public colleges face rising costs, changing workforce demands, and growing expectations for local impact. State leaders say strong governance will help institutions like the College of the Florida Keys adapt and continue serving residents and employers across the region.