Harris Rosen, Orlando hotelier and philanthropist, dies at 85

ORLANDO, Fla. — Harris Rosen, the former Disney executive who founded a hotel empire in Orlando and donated millions to lift people out of poverty, has died.

Rosen died Monday morning at the age of 85, according to a statement from Frank Santos, vice president of Rosen Hotels and Resorts.

“Harris was an angel to so many here on earth, and now he takes his place among the angels in heaven. A beloved father, grandfather and pillar of our community, his boundless generosity and love touched countless lives through his unwavering commitment to serving underserved communities, promoting education, advancing the fight against cancer and supporting health and wellness initiatives,” said Santos .

Rosen bought his first hotel on International Drive in 1973 and gradually built a hotel empire that included seven locations in the tourist area, including the Rosen Shingle Creek Resort, the Rosen Center and the Rosen Plaza.

Rosen was also known in the community for his philanthropic work with scholarships, health and wellness facilities and cancer research. This included the Tangelo Park Program, which provides classes, preschool and scholarships for Tangelo Park children who graduate from high school and continue their education. He started a similar program for children in the Parramore neighborhood.

Last year alone, he awarded nearly five dozen scholarships to Jones High School and Ph.D. graduates. Phillips High School.

He also helped establish the Rosen College of Hospitality Management at UCF to train the next generation of hospitality and tourism leaders.

Rosen sat down with Matt Austin and Ginger Gadsden several years ago to discuss his life and work in Florida’s Fourth Estate.

This is a developing story. Check back to find out more.

You can listen to every episode of Florida’s Fourth Estate in the media player below: