Susan Whelchel Appointed to Research Park at Florida Atlantic University Governing Authority

The Research Park at Florida Atlantic University announces that Susan Whelchel, former mayor of the City of Boca Raton, has been appointed to serve on the Florida Atlantic Research & Development Authority. Nominated by Commissioner Steven Abrams, Whelchel was appointed unanimously by the Palm Beach County Board of County Commissioners on June 2, 2015 for a four year term beginning on June 8. Separately, nominated by Commissioner Chip LaMarca, Lonnie Maier was re-appointed unanimously by the Broward County Board of County Commissioners, also on June 2, 2015.

During her tenure as mayor, Whelchel worked to ensure a strong relationship between the City of Boca Raton and Florida Atlantic University, the Research Park’s key community partner. Through the City’s strategic planning process, Susan continually supported policy decisions that championed the FAU football stadium, medical school, and the independent Research Park. As mayor, she received the Talon Award from Florida Atlantic University in 2012 for her long and distinguished career in public office.

“Employment in the Research Park has reached 1,798 jobs at an average salary in excess of $87,000 and that represents a huge economic impact to Boca Raton and its surrounding communities,” said Whelchel. “The potential to help guide the ResearchPark to new sustainable growth is very exciting for me, and serving on the Authority will advance those efforts.”

“We are fortunate to have former mayor Whelchel on the Florida Atlantic Research and Development Authority,” said Bruce Rosetto, Chair of the Research Park. “She is knowledgeable about the strengths of the Research Park, having played a pivotal role in helping the Park grow from her position of leadership in Boca Raton. Our Authority looks forward to her guidance as we implement our strategic plan for the future.”