Harris Rosen, the founder of Rosen Hotels and Resorts, died today at the age of 85. Through his Orlando hotel empire, including Rosen Shingle Creek Resort in Orlando, and philanthropy, Rosen changed the landscape hospitality and touched the lives of countless employees and guests.
“Harris was an angel to so many here on earth, and now he takes his place among the angels in heaven,’’ Rosen Vice President Frank Santos said in a statement. “A beloved father, grandfather, and a pillar of our community, his boundless generosity and love touched countless lives through his unwavering commitment to helping underserved communities, promoting education, advancing the fight against cancer, and supporting health and wellness initiatives. The family will hold a private Celebration of Life and kindly asks for privacy during this difficult time.’’
In addition to his hotels, donated 20 acres of land and $10 million to help develop UCF’s Rosen College of Hospitality Management. a descendant of Russian-Jewish immigrants, also made an immeasurable impact on Orlando’s Jewish community.
His generosity didn’t stop with his contributions to the education sector; Rosen, a descendant of Russian-Jewish immigrants, also made an immeasurable impact on Orlando’s Jewish community.
The Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association (FRLA) shared a statement from its President/CEO Carol Dover on Rosen’s, passing:
“Today, Florida’s hospitality industry mourns the loss of one of its most iconic leaders, our dear friend Harris Rosen. FRLA’s longtime board member and our 2009 Hotelier of the Year, Harris transformed Central Florida’s hospitality landscape through his visionary leadership and unyielding commitment to excellence. He set the standard for innovation and guest service, turning his dream into an empire that became a cornerstone of Orlando’s tourism industry. His remarkable career is a testament to the entrepreneurial spirit that defines our industry.
“Beyond his business acumen, Harris was a philanthropist at heart. His unwavering dedication to improving lives – from investing in education initiatives like the UCF Rosen College of Hospitality Management – to generously supporting health care and disaster relief efforts – exemplified the profound impact one individual can have on a community.
“Harris Rosen’s legacy will endure not only through the hotels that bear his name, but also through the countless lives he touched. On behalf of the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association, we extend our deepest condolences to his family, colleagues, and all who had the privilege to know him. His contributions to Florida’s hospitality industry and his philanthropic spirit will never be forgotten, and we are so grateful to him for his lifetime of leadership and generosity.”
Photo Courtesy of Rosen Hotels and Resorts