UWF announces Cass Boatwright as new chief operating officer

Sep. 24, 2025

The University of West Florida has named Cass Boatwright as assistant vice president and chief operating officer, effective Sept. 22. This role will further support the University’s continued growth and ensure a safe, efficient and resilient campus.

Photo: Person smiles with greenery behind

The University of West Florida has named Cass Boatwright assistant vice president and chief operating officer, effective Sept. 22. This role will further support the University’s continued growth and ensure a safe, efficient and resilient campus.

“Cass has been a dedicated and valued member of the UWF community,” said Betsy Bowers, vice president for the Division of Finance and Administration. “Her leadership, expertise, and commitment to excellence make her well-suited for this important role. I look forward to the continued progress and positive impact she will bring to our division and the University.”

Several key operational functions – including emergency management, environmental health and safety, facilities management, procurement and police – are being realigned to support the change and create stronger synergy among teams that directly impact the safety, security and daily function of UWF. The work of these teams is essential to the University’s mission, and this structure allows the University to support them with the leadership and resources they need to succeed.

With the creation of this role, UWF will be better positioned to coordinate safety and emergency response efforts across campus; improve efficiency of facility projects; enhance compliance and risk management across all operational areas; and better ensure faculty, staff and students continue to have a safe and supportive environment in which to teach, learn and work.

“From student to now employee, it is a privilege to return to UWF and help physically build the institution that shaped my own educational journey,” Boatwright said.

Boatwright most recently served as UWF’s director of procurement and contracts. Before returning to UWF, Cass held the roles of director of real estate asset management for the City of Mobile and director of facilities management for Escambia County. Her experience in education also includes serving as the executive director of facilities for Bishop State Community College and director of purchasing and auxiliary services for Pensacola State College. Boatwright is a triple alumna of UWF, having earned an Ed.S., M.S.A. in Acquisition and Contract Administration and a B.S. in Construction Management.

For more information about UWF, visit uwf.edu.