Following the passing of one of Central Florida’s philanthropists, Kissimmee State Senator Kristen Arrington and Orlando State Representative Rita Harris have filed Senate Bill 274 and House Bill 177, which would memorialize Harris Rosen, who the Democrats called “a pillar of the Central Florida community.”
Harris Rosen, a renowned philanthropist and business leader in Central Florida, sadly passed away on November 25, 2024. As founder and president of the Rosen Hotels & Resorts brand, Rosen led his life with extraordinary determination, humility, and compassion, and made it his life’s mission to give back to the community. From growing up in New York’s inner city, graduating from Cornell University, serving in the Army, and becoming Florida’s largest independent hotelier, Rosen exemplified the American Dream.
The Democratic legislators said that though well known in the tourism and hospitality industries, Rosen’s most profound work was outside of his businesses. Throughout his leadership with the Rosen Gives Back initiatives and the Harris Rosen Foundation, contributions of more than $12 million to cancer research, student scholarships, and aid to cities around the globe have been made. Rosen was an innovator and job-creator, who focused his generosity on helping underserved communities and promoting health and wellbeing within his community.
In his memory, the Kissimmee and Orlando members of the Florida Legislature have filed SB 274/HB 177, which designates the road on which several of the Rosen hotels sit as “Harris Rosen Way.”
“Mr. Rosen was a remarkable role model for the Central Florida community. Through his dedication and unwavering work ethic, he embodied the pursuit of the American Dream, inspiring others along the way. His generosity and commitment to supporting local businesses and charitable organizations have had a profound impact on our community. It is a privilege to join Representative Harris in honoring a cherished leader,” said Democratic Senator Arrington.
“Mr. Rosen was an incredible man who led his life with kindness to others. His loss is felt within the Central Florida community, though he will live on through his generosity. This bill is a small tribute to Mr. Rosen, but is a step that we can take to carry on his remarkable legacy. May his memory be a blessing to us all, and may we all continue to be inspired by his work,” said Democratic Representative Harris.
Harris Rosen lived to be 85 years old. If passed, SB 274/HB 177 would serve as a memorial for community members to remember him indefinitely.