At the request of Commissioner Adam Putnam I joined the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) to oversee and manage the transfer of the Child Nutrition Programs from the Florida Department of Education to FDACS and the merger of the Bureau of Food Distribution into the new division. Under my leadership, this division focused on data-driven decisions to support and implement systemic interventions for Florida’s now nationally recognized National School Lunch Program, Summer Food Service Program and food distribution system to manage USDA foods and recovered produce. We made significant strides in achieving the division’s goal of ensuring that every child in Florida benefits from nutritious meals that foster better learning and a lifetime of good health.

Represented Capital Health Plan (CHP) in Tallahassee and surrounding areas educating the community on nutrition, fitness and health. Collaborating with CHP we created the CHP Champions Program. By 2011 this before and after school fitness program was effectively reaching over 12,000 children.

I represented the Commissioner of Education at various board meetings and commissions, implemented the policy decisions of the Commissioner and worked closely with the Executive Office of the Governor. Administrative tasks included coordination of personnel issues and department policy.

After being founded in 1996, we implemented the nation’s first statewide economic development public/private partnership responsible for economic development, international trade, research and business image. The goal and belief was that with participation from Florida businesses, Florida could move from its traditional economic drivers of tourism and agriculture to a sophisticated mix of industries and international business. My responsibilities were corporate development and the private sector capital campaign. This model has been adopted by many U.S. states.

I was responsible for coordinating all issues within the Office of Senate President. My duties included supervision of personnel, scheduling of committees, administration of Senate Chambers’ business and coordinating legislative activities with the House of Representatives and the Executive Office of Governor. Represented the Senate President at various boards and commissions and implemented the policy decisions of the President.

I Represented the department on all legal matters and coordinated the legislative agenda for the department.

I was responsible for researching, drafting and analysis of legislation.