DeSantis Reappoints UF Trustee Facing Multi-Million Dollar Fraud Allegations
DeSantis Reappoints UF Trustee Facing Multi-Million Dollar Fraud Allegations
Gainesville, FL – In a move drawing sharp criticism from transparency advocates, Governor Ron DeSantis has announced the reappointment of University of Florida Board of Trustees member James “Bill” Heavener, despite ongoing fraud allegations that could involve tens of millions of dollars in government funds.
The reappointment, announced Wednesday, comes just three months after former employees accused Heavener and his educational institutions of systematically inflating job placement statistics to defraud government programs. The state senate must still confirm the appointment.
Fraud Allegations Surface
In October 2025, TV20 first reported that two former employees of a Los Angeles film school filed complaints alleging that Heavener, along with his film school and Full Sail University, engaged in a scheme to defraud the government by manipulating job placement data. The alleged fraud could total tens of millions of dollars in improperly obtained government funds.
The accusations center on claims that the institutions systematically inflated graduate employment rates to qualify for government funding and maintain accreditation standards. A hearing in the case is scheduled for later this month.
Controversial Reappointment Timing
Heavener’s reappointment to the UF Board of Trustees has raised eyebrows given the timing of the fraud allegations. The Board of Trustees plays a crucial role in overseeing the University of Florida’s operations, including financial decisions and academic policies.
Critics argue that maintaining someone facing serious fraud allegations in a position of oversight over a major public university sends the wrong message about accountability and ethical standards in public service.
Background and Context
James “Bill” Heavener has been a prominent figure in Florida’s educational and business communities. His involvement with Full Sail University and other educational institutions has made him a significant player in the state’s higher education landscape.
The University of Florida, as Florida’s flagship university, has faced increased scrutiny over governance decisions and trustee appointments in recent years. The board’s decisions impact thousands of students, faculty, and the university’s $6 billion-plus annual budget.
What’s Next
The Florida Senate will need to confirm Heavener’s reappointment, providing a potential checkpoint for the controversial nomination. With a hearing in the fraud case scheduled for the end of January, more details about the allegations may emerge before senators vote on the appointment.
The outcome could have implications for how Florida handles ethics concerns among public university trustees and sets precedents for accountability in higher education governance.
This story is developing. 352News.com will continue to follow the confirmation process and the fraud case hearing scheduled for later this month.