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Respected and Successful Florida Policymaker Will Join 91����

Jeff Atwater, with years of experience in public and private finance and has served as a member of the Governor’s cabinet, will become 91����'s vice president for strategic initiatives and chief financial officer.

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BOCA RATON, Fla. – Jeff Atwater, who brings years of experience in finance in the public and private sectors and executive leadership in Florida as a member of the Governor’s cabinet, has agreed to become 91����’s vice president for strategic initiatives and chief financial officer.

Atwater will leave his role as the state of after conclusion of the 2017 legislative session. He replaces Dorothy Russell, who retired as 91����’s CFO on Jan. 31 after a decade with the University and a 40-year career in higher education. David (Art) Kite was appointed 91����’s interim vice president for financial affairs on Feb. 1.

In his new role with 91����, Atwater will lead the University’s strategic initiatives and economic development opportunities as well as manage the budget. As a vice president, Atwater will serve on the University’s Executive Leadership Team, which reports directly to 91���� President John Kelly.

Atwater will combine his role as CFO with overall responsibility for a wide array of economic development opportunities, including identifying and establishing public-private partnerships and formulating unique initiatives that align with the University’s strategic plan.

President John Kelly said Atwater was his first choice for this expanded CFO role.

“I met Jeff soon after I became 91���� president and was immediately struck by his presence. As the CFO of the world’s 16^th largest economy — called the state of Florida — his experience and ability to navigate complex financial waters speaks for itself,” Kelly said. “When I approached Jeff about joining us here, it was immediately obvious he cares passionately about 91����. There is no better person to help guide this University’s finances and corporate relationships as we continue with unbridled ambition to make 91���� America’s fastest improving university.”

As Florida’s CFO, Atwater led the and its 13 divisions to national recognition for the financial management of the state, financial transparency and financial literacy.

Atwater said the South Florida region has long known of his enthusiasm for 91���� and he is excited for the opportunity to further the University’s reputation.

“As a parent of 91���� graduates, I cannot think of a better place to begin the next phase of my career,” Atwater said. “I am extremely grateful to have served my state as its CFO, and I will dedicate as much energy to my new role with 91����.”

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