USF Sarasota Manatee interim regional chancellor prioritizes growth, community

After over six years of helping lead the USF Sarasota-Manatee campus, Brett Kemker is channeling his dedication into his new role as interim regional chancellor.
“I felt very honored that the president and provost had that vote of confidence for me and my commitment to student success,” Kemker said.
USF announced Kemker as the interim regional chancellor of the Sarasota-Manatee campus in October 2024. He officially took on his role in January, succeeding Karen Holbrook, who had served as regional chancellor since 2018.
Related: USF Sarasota-Manatee regional chancellor to retire by the end of the year
Kemker has also worked at other universities, such as the University of New Orleans and Florida State University, according to USF.
Kemker declined to share personal details, such as interests outside of work, for the article.
As interim regional chancellor, Kemker said he will be more involved in the business aspects of running the campus and will engage with the surrounding community.
“I’m very interested in how the students feel about their experience here,” Kemker said. “I’m also paying close attention to our community leaders to make sure we are adding value to the community we serve.”
Kemker continues to serve as regional vice chancellor and vice provost for academic affairs and student success, where he has worked on initiatives that improved student satisfaction.
One of the initiatives included a “concierge” approach on campus. He said “concierges” are available in the USF Sarasota-Manatee campus main rotunda to assist students and answer any questions.
“We’ve got your back here,” he said.
Kemker said he also focuses on ensuring students have a seat in the courses they wish to take.
“We keep an eye on course sections and make sure we have seats to offer,” Kemker said. “If we need to open more sections and hire more faculty, then we will do that.”
Kemker, who is also a USF alumnus, said he appreciates Sarasota-Manatee’s “tight-knit” community of faculty and staff.
Kemker also established the Judy Genshaft Honors College on the campus in 2022.
While there are moments of pride for Sarasota-Manatee, there are also challenges.
As USF’s smallest campus, with only 32 acres compared to Tampa’s 1,562 acres, physical space is a concern. Kemker said the campus needs more office and classroom space.
“We have outgrown our buildings,” Kemker said. “We’re in a position where we need to grow.”
The campus recently opened its first residential building, Atala Hall, in August.
Related: New USF residential hall at the Sarasota-Manatee campus to open in August
He said many ideas are being considered for development, including repurposing the current space. However, he said there is not a specific plan yet.
Kemker said offering health and business programs plays a part in giving back to the community by preparing students who want to work in the area.
“When you look at this community, you might not see us, but when you look at us, you’ll see the entire community,” Kemker said.
He said he wants to work with local leaders to build partnerships, attract funding for campus programs and create more internships and job opportunities for students.
USF is still searching for a permanent regional chancellor, a USF spokesperson said. Kemker will continue to serve as interim until the role is permanently filled.
As he navigates this interim period, Kemker said he is confident his experience has prepared him well for the role.
“I think I’ve got a strong, proven track record of success at Sarasota-Manatee,” Kemker said. “The president and provost saw that and have faith in me to continue developing the campus.”