With deep gratitude for his leadership and vision, the Board and staff of Disability Rights Florida announce the upcoming retirement of its Executive Director, Bob Whitney. Bob joined the organization in 2006 as Director of Finance and Administration and then served as the Interim Executive Director before being named by the Board in December 2009 to serve as our Executive Director. He will retire at the end of 2013.
Bob led Disability Rights Florida into an era of increased presence across the state and better name recognition by people with disabilities, their families, and others. During his tenure, he helped improve relationships with state agencies, increase the level and scope of legal representation provided to people with disabilities, and expand the educational relationship between the agency and the Florida Legislature. Because of Bob’s leadership, the agency has built a stronger agency workforce, secured multiple “no findings” financial audits, and streamlined its budget while adding more fiscal accountability. Bob also generated improvements to the agency’s communications with its constituents, website, and intake processes. For these and many other accomplishments, Bob is greatly appreciated and will be remembered for having led the agency with determination, passion, skill, kindness, and a sense of humor.
Bob’s plans include relocating to the east coast of Florida. He and his wife are looking forward to time with family in central Florida and traveling to see children and grandchildren up north. In addition, of course … there will be more golfing.