President Jeff Vahle Appointed by Florida Governor DeSantis to University of Central Florida Board of Trustees

New Role: Disney World President Jeff Vahle Appointed to UCF Board of Trustees by Governor DeSantis

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has appointed Jeff Vahle, President of Walt Disney World Resort, to the University of Central Florida (UCF) Board of Trustees. This decision marks a noteworthy development, given the recent, high-profile disagreements between the state and Disney.

Related – Jeff Vahle Explains Why DinoLand U.S.A. and Muppets Courtyard Are Being Reimagined

The appointment of Jeff Vahle is currently pending confirmation by the Florida Senate. Vahle, who has been the President of Walt Disney World Resort since 2020, brings a strong academic background, holding a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from Auburn University and an MBA from Rollins College. He also serves on the Rollins College Board of Trustees and supports major Central Florida organizations, including Give Kids the World Village.

Governor DeSantis’ decision to appoint a high-ranking Disney executive to the University of Central Florida (UCF) Board of Trustees is a notable development, especially considering the recent, highly publicized conflict between his administration and the company.

That dispute began after Disney publicly opposed the Parental Rights in Education law in 2022. In retaliation, the Governor and the Florida Legislature replaced the board of the former Reedy Creek Improvement District (Disney’s self-governing body) with state appointees, renaming it the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District. The ensuing legal battle drew national attention before being settled in 2024, signaling a shift in relations.

Since the settlement, the Governor has appointed members to the oversight district who are seen as more willing to work with Disney. Vahle’s appointment continues this trend and may be viewed as an ongoing effort to reduce friction between the company and the state government.

As a member of the UCF Board of Trustees—which oversees the operations and strategic planning for one of the nation’s largest universities—Vahle will help guide key policy decisions, assuming he is confirmed by the Senate.

While some see this move as a practical step toward repairing relations with one of Florida’s biggest employers, others have noted the irony given the years of very public conflict between the two sides. The Florida Senate is expected to consider Vahle’s appointment during an upcoming session, though a confirmation date has not yet been set.

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