The Development Group CEO Denise Grimsley has been appointed to the South Florida State College District Board of Trustees by Governor DeSantis. The esteemed position reflects Grimsley’s commitment to strengthening education and fostering economic development.
“I appreciate Governor DeSantis’ confidence in selecting me for this appointment and I am eager to continue my partnership with South Florida State College under President Hawkins’ leadership,” Grimsley said. “I will serve with intentionality and mindfulness, knowing South Florida State College’s impactful role in empowering the future workforce of our region and the legacy that creates. Together, we will inspire economic growth and create opportunity for our communities.”
Denise Grimsley’s robust background in public service and health care management will be an asset in her role on the board. She served as a Florida State Senator from 2012 to 2018, after four terms in the Florida House of Representatives. Notably, Grimsley was the only female to chair the House Appropriations Committee and led several other significant committees including those focused on Energy and Agriculture. Her legislative career is marked by substantial contributions to health care policy, with a focus on improving patient access to quality and affordable care.
A fifth-generation Floridian with academic credentials from South Florida State College, Polk State College, Warner University, and an MBA from the University of Miami, Grimsley was honored with a Doctorate in Humane Letters by Nova Southeastern University in 2013 for her work in Health Policy. From 2013 to 2022, she served as Vice President/Administrator at AdventHealth, overseeing hospital campuses and service lines in the Heartland area. Currently, as CEO of The Development Group, Grimsley is dedicated to economic growth in Hardee County and maintaining strong statewide connections to foster community development and integrity.