May 27, 2026
Governor Ron DeSantis has appointed Todd Jackson and Jonathan Ochs and reappointed Megan Harrison and Dr. Jon Ward to the District Board of Trustees of Northwest Florida State College, subject to confirmation by the Florida Senate.
The District Board of Trustees of Northwest Florida State College serves as the governing body of the college, providing oversight of institutional policy, fiscal stewardship, strategic planning, and presidential leadership while helping ensure the College remains responsive to the educational and workforce needs of the communities it serves.
“Strong leadership and engaged governance are essential to the continued success of Northwest Florida State College,” said Board Chair Rhea Goff. “Our Board of Trustees is made stronger by leaders who bring both professional excellence and a deep commitment to the mission of this institution. Megan Harrison and Dr. Jon Ward have already distinguished themselves through their thoughtful leadership, steady counsel, and unwavering dedication to our students, faculty, staff, and the communities we serve. We are equally excited to welcome Todd Jackson and Jonathan Ochs, whose exceptional experience and leadership in healthcare, business, and community service will further strengthen the Board as we continue building on the College’s remarkable momentum.”
“Northwest Florida State College benefits tremendously from trustees who bring both professional expertise and a deep commitment to this region,” said NWFSC President Mel Ponder. “The Board of Trustees plays a vital role in shaping the strategic direction of the College, ensuring strong stewardship of public resources, and helping us advance our mission of transforming lives through education. We are grateful to Governor DeSantis for these appointments and look forward to working with this exceptional group of leaders, including our two existing trustees.”
New Member Bios
Todd Jackson
Jackson is the Chief Executive Officer of HCA Florida Twin Cities Hospital and has over 18 years of experience working with HCA Healthcare. He is Board Certified in Healthcare Administration from the American College of Healthcare Executives. Jackson earned his bachelor’s degree in business management and master’s degrees in business administration and health administration from the University of Alabama at Birmingham.
Jonathan Ochs
Ochs is the Coastal Region President at Gulf Coast Bank and Trust Company. Previously, he served as the President of Trustmark National Bank in Okaloosa and Walton Counties. He also currently serves on the Northwest Florida State College Foundation Board of Directors and previously served as chair from 2024-2025. Ochs earned his bachelor’s degree in business management and administration from California Baptist University.
Reappointed Trustees
Dr. Jon Ward
Ward currently serves as vice chair of the District Board of Trustees. He is a board-certified dermatologist and Mohs Surgeon who founded and chairs the board of Dermatology Solutions Group.
Megan Harrison
Harrison is a longtime community leader and business professional with deep ties to Northwest Florida. She currently serves as President and CEO of the Walton Area Chamber of Commerce.
Northwest Florida State College values the leadership and guidance of its Board of Trustees as the institution continues to expand academic opportunity, strengthen workforce training, and serve as a driver of economic growth throughout Okaloosa and Walton counties.