Doug Jamerson facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Doug Jamerson
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| Education Commissioner of Florida | |
| In office January 3, 1994 – January 3, 1995 |
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| Governor | Lawton Chiles |
| Preceded by | Betty Castor |
| Succeeded by | Frank Brogan |
| Personal details | |
| Born | October 16, 1947 St. Petersburg, Florida, U.S. |
| Died | April 21, 2001 (aged 53) Tallahassee, Florida, U.S. |
| Political party | Democratic |
| Spouse | Leatha |
| Children | Cedric |
| Education | St. Petersburg Junior College University of South Florida |
Douglas Lee "Tim" Jamerson, Jr. (born October 16, 1947 – died April 21, 2001) was an important leader in Florida. He served as the Florida Commissioner of Education. This means he was in charge of schools and learning for the entire state.
He was chosen for this job in 1993. This happened after the previous commissioner, Betty Castor, left to become the president of a university. Doug Jamerson tried to win a full term in 1994, but he was not elected.
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Who Was Doug Jamerson?
Doug Jamerson was a dedicated public servant. He worked hard for the people of Florida. He held several important roles in the state government. His work focused on education and helping communities.
Early Life and School Days
Doug Jamerson grew up in St. Petersburg, Florida. He lived in neighborhoods that faced many challenges. He originally planned to go to Gibbs High School.
However, his grandmother had a different idea. She encouraged him to attend Bishop Barry High School. This school is now called St. Petersburg Catholic High School. Doug Jamerson made history there. He was the very first Black student to attend the school.
After high school, he continued his education. He graduated from St. Petersburg Junior College. Later, he earned a bachelor's degree from the University of South Florida. His degree was in criminal justice. He also trained at the St. Petersburg Police Academy.
A Career in Public Service
Doug Jamerson spent many years working for the public. He believed in making a difference. His career included roles in both the state legislature and executive branch.
Serving in the Florida House
In 1982, Doug Jamerson was elected. He became a member of the Florida House of Representatives. He represented District 55. He served in this role for about five and a half terms. This means he was elected multiple times.
Becoming Education Commissioner
In 1993, Lawton Chiles was the Governor of Florida. Governor Chiles chose Doug Jamerson for a big job. He appointed him as the state's education commissioner. This was a very important position. It meant he was responsible for all public schools in Florida.
In 1994, Jamerson ran for election to keep his commissioner job. However, he lost to Frank Brogan. That year, the Republican Party gained many seats in elections. If Jamerson had won, he would have been the first Black person elected to a statewide office in Florida since 1868. After his loss, Governor Chiles appointed him to another state role. He became the secretary of the state Department of Labor.
His Legacy
Doug Jamerson passed away in 2001. He was 53 years old. He died at Tallahassee Memorial Hospital. He is remembered for his dedication to education and public service. He worked to improve opportunities for all Floridians.
| Preceded by Betty Castor |
Florida Commissioner of Education 1993 – 1995 |
Succeeded by Frank Brogan |
