Jeff Atwater will leave his position as Florida's chief financial officer to become Florida Atlantic University's vice president for strategic initiatives and chief financial officer.
Mr. Atwater will leave his role as Florida's CFO at the conclusion of the 2017 legislative session.
He replaces Dorothy Russell, who retired as FAU's CFO on January 31 after a decade with the university and a 40-year career in higher education. David (Art) Kite was appointed FAU's interim vice president for financial affairs on February 1.
In his new role with FAU, Mr. Atwater will lead the university's strategic initiatives and economic development opportunities as well as manage the budget. As a vice president, Mr. Atwater will serve on the university's executive leadership team, which reports directly to FAU's president, John Kelly.
The university said in a statement that Mr. 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 Kelly said Mr. Atwater was his first choice for this expanded CFO role.
“I met Jeff soon after I became FAU president and was immediately struck by his presence. As the CFO of the world's 16th largest economy – called the state of Florida – his experience and ability to navigate complex financial waters speaks for itself,” President Kelly said. “When I approached Jeff about joining us here, it was immediately obvious he cares passionately about FAU. There is no better person to help guide this university's finances and corporate relationships as we continue with unbridled ambition to make FAU America's fastest improving university.”
As Florida's CFO, Mr. Atwater led the Department of Financial Services and its 13 divisions.
Mr. Atwater said the South Florida region has long known of his enthusiasm for FAU and he is excited for the opportunity to further the university's reputation.
“As a parent of FAU graduates, I cannot think of a better place to begin the next phase of my career,” Mr. 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 FAU.”
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Victoria Spears
Victoria Prussen Spears is senior vice president of Meyerowitz Communications Inc., a law firm marketing communications consulting company. A graduate of Sarah Lawrence College and Brooklyn Law School, Ms. Spears was an attorney at a leading New York City law firm before joining Meyerowitz Communications. She may be contacted at [email protected].