One era concludes and another begins at the University of Tampa as the tenth president in its history, Dr. Ronald L. Vaughn, retires after nearly 30 years as UT President. Dr. Vaughn first joined the university 40 years ago, in August 1984. Congratulations to Dr. Vaughn and UT First Lady Renee Vaughn on the new chapter in their lives!
Voices of gratitude from the Tampa Bay Chamber:
Dr. Bob Rohrlack, President & CEO, Tampa Bay Chamber
“Dr. Vaughn and Renee Vaughn have been consistent supporters of leadership development training and growth in the Tampa Bay area and specifically here at the Tampa Bay Chamber. Their impact has been aspirational as they built a strong foundation and grew from there. The importance of this continuous improvement and learning has left a mark on the lives of many people who have been able to achieve more and have a true impact to the region. While the Vaughns will both be missed, they have left wonderful memories and created countless trajectories for people who had the benefit of knowing and working with them.”
Yvette Segura, 2024 Vice-Chair Collegiate Leadership and current Board Member; 2021 Chair, Tampa Bay Chamber Board of Directors
"Congratulations to Dr. Ron Vaughn and Renee Vaughn! They have been significant and positive forces for good in our community. The University of Tampa is a sought-after destination for a quality education thanks to the vision that Dr. Vaughn has been able to bring to life during his leadership. Renee Vaughn has long been a pillar in our community. Her contributions to the Tampa Bay Chamber's Leadership Tampa program have been long lasting. While individually these two have made significant impacts on our community, their work as a team has been even more impactful. This power couple supports many great causes that continue to elevate Tampa. They do so with grace, humility and class. We are grateful for the imprint they have left and the legacy they have created. Wishing lots of continued happiness, health and blessings to Dr. Ron and Renee Vaughn!"
Wendy Ross, 2024 Chair, Leadership Tampa Alumni Association; LT 2014
“A tremendous thank you to Dr. Ron Vaughn and Renee Vaughn for making a positive impact over the years in Tampa Bay. As President of U.T. Dr. Vaughn raised more community-based financial support than any president before him, expanding and enhancing the university to the benefit of students and our community at large. And first Lady Renee Vaughn is a moving force in her own right. As a member of the Leadership Tampa Class of 2014, I and my LT classmates are forever grateful for the outstanding guidance of Renee, our fearless leader!”
Bill Goede, Board Member, Tampa Bay Chamber Board of Directors; LT 2005
"As a trustee of both the University of Tampa and the Tampa Bay Chamber I ‘ve been fortunate to witness Ron and Renee Vaughn’s profound dedication to both organizations and the broader Tampa Bay community. Rarely is there an event where you don’t see both lending their support. Ron and Renee consistently exhibited a visionary outlook for the University’s future, adeptly guiding others and rallying support for their shared vision. Wishing both Ron and Renee all the best as they embark on retirement. May this new chapter be filled with joy, fulfillment, and well-deserved relaxation after their years of dedicated service."