Philanthropy & Nonprofits
Kenneth D. Robinson
President & CEO, Dr. Phillips Inc., Dr. P. Phillips Foundation, Orlando
Dr. Phillips Charities provides about $12 million in grants each year to other nonprofits in Central Florida. To date, grants, pledges and program-related investments have totaled more than $250 million. The organization generates the funding from its portfolio of investments, including commercial real estate. In addition, it uses some of its real estate holdings to act as a catalyst in community building. Its development projects include the Packing District and the Dr. Phillips community, both in Orlando.
EDUCATION: Florida State University (BS)
IF I WERE GOVERNOR: Thank goodness I am not governor. However, if I were, it would be to tackle the attainable housing crisis. There must be a paradigm shift on this important issue at the state and local level.
MENTOR: My predecessor, Jim Hinson. Jim was a mentor when I was in private business and continued to be a mentor when I took the role as President/CEO of Dr. Phillips. Jim was a critical thinker, grounded in principle. He never gave me the answer, he just asked thought-provoking questions that helped lead me to the correct answer.
MOTIVATIONAL MANTRA: Don’t be afraid to make a difficult decision and don’t be afraid to fail.
WHAT I’VE LEARNED: Values are not negotiable nor subjective. They inform all your decision-making, including with employees, clients and community engagement.
MOTIVATIONAL MANTRA
“Don’t be afraid to make a difficult decision and don’t be afraid to fail.”