“Ambassador Rood has been a true visionary during his time on the JAXPORT board of directors and I thank him for his leadership and commitment to Jacksonville,” said Mayor Lenny Curry. “I know that his professional background, success as one of our city’s top leaders and commitment to education will serve him well in his new role on the Florida Prepaid College Board.”

Founded by Rood in 1983, The Vestcor Companies, Inc., focuses on brokerage of multifamily properties, real estate investments, development and construction. His leadership has earned him numerous positions and recognitions throughout his career including an appointment by President George W. Bush as United States Ambassador to the Commonwealth of the Bahamas where he served from 2004 - 2007. Other notable positions include service on the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Jacksonville Journey Committee (co-chairman), and Jacksonville University Public Policy Institute Board of Advisors.

“My service on this important board was very rewarding, and  I leave it with mixed  emotions,” said Rood. “Education has long been a passion of mine and this is an exciting opportunity to serve an organization that does so much to make higher education possible for so many.”