State College of Florida President Resigns

The State College of Florida Board of Trustees negotiated the immediate resignation of SCF President Dr. Lars A. Hafner.

The board approved a controversial separation agreement and mutual general release that will cost the school about $363,000 in benefits and salary, according to the Sarasota Herald-Tribune.

At the end of the meeting, trustees Joe Miller and Jennifer Saslaw resigned from the board. Saslaw, a longtime SCF supporter and board member, expressed appreciation to College employees for their dedication to students.

With Hafner's resignation, the board will consider interim steps in coming days.

Board Chair Carlos Beruff issued a statement asserting SCF's strength as an institution and ongoing commitment to its mission:

"The Board and Dr. Hafner have reached an agreement. In light of this development, it is appropriate that we speak with one voice. For 55 years State College of Florida has been the college of the community.

To our students, employees and the community, we affirm that the college is on course and our dedication to the SCF mission is strong.

The entire SCF community is prepared to refocus on our central responsibility of providing a high-quality, affordable and accessible college education."

Other board action included:

• Approval of nonfinancial and financial consent agenda items
• Approval of the remodeling of chemistry lab at SCF Venice
• Selection of Chairman Carlos Beruff as the Board representative to participate in the RFQ process for the selection of a continuing contract architect and engineering firm.