Governor DeSantis Appoints Former Walt Disney World President Jeff Vahle to Greater Orlando Aviation Authority

Governor DeSantis Appoints Former Walt Disney World President Jeff Vahle to Greater Orlando Aviation Authority

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has appointed former Walt Disney World President Jeff Vahle to the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority.

Jeff Vahle Appointed to the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority

Governor DeSantis Appoints Former Walt Disney World President Jeff Vahle to Greater Orlando Aviation Authority

The news was announced via a news release on the Florida governor’s website on Friday, October 30. The Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA) oversees the operation, maintenance, and more of the Orlando International Airport and Orlando Executive airports.

The statement reads:

“Vahle was the former President of Walt Disney World Resort. Active in his community, he currently serves as a member of the Rollins College Board of Trustees and the Florida Council of 100 and previously served as a member of the Give Kids the World Board of Directors. Vahle earned his bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from Auburn University and his master’s degree in business administration from Rollins College.“

DeSantis also reappointed Dan Giordano, the general manager at Rosen Shingle Creek. He is also part of the Visit Orlando Board of Directors, the Universal Boulevard Property Owners Association, the International Drive Community Redevelopment Agency Advisory Board, and the Orange County Sports Incentive Commission.

These appointments are subject to confirmation by the Florida Senate.

Vahle’s Retirement

Vahle retired in July after 36 years of working with the company. He began as an engineer at Magic Kingdom and became president of Walt Disney World in 2020. Joe Schott, former president of Disney Signature Experiences, took Vahle’s place.

Vahle led Walt Disney World through its recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic and oversaw several major attraction and resort openings. Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind, TRON Lightcycle / Run, and Tiana’s Bayou Adventure were among the attractions that debuted during his tenure.

During his time with Disney, he also led Disney Signature Experiences and Facilities and Operations Services for Disney theme parks worldwide, along with leadership roles for international Disney destinations like Disney California Adventure, Hong Kong Disneyland, and Shanghai Disney Resort.

Read more Walt Disney World Resort news, including the arrival of holiday treats at Magic Kingdom and information on Tiana’s Bayou Adventure’s temporary closure.

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The post Governor DeSantis Appoints Former Walt Disney World President Jeff Vahle to Greater Orlando Aviation Authority appeared first on WDW News Today.

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