Dr. Phillips Charities Welcomes Graciela Noriega Jacoby to Board of Directors
Experienced Community Leader and Executive to Support Local Philanthropy and Outreach Initiatives
ORLANDO, Fla. – [January 2, 2025] – Dr. Phillips Charities is pleased to announce the appointment of Graciela Noriega Jacoby to its Board of Directors. A passionate advocate for community well-being, Graciela brings a wealth of leadership experience and a deep commitment to serving Central Florida’s most vulnerable populations.
Graciela Noriega Jacoby currently serves as Chief Operating Officer for Heart of Florida United Way (HFUW), Central Florida’s largest supporter of local health and human services for Orange, Osceola, and Seminole counties. Under her leadership, HFUW focuses on long-term solutions for the ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) population, and oversees critical community programs such as the 211 and 988 Crisis Lifeline, Mission United for veterans, and Destination Graduation for college students.
With a track record of success in both the public and nonprofit sectors, Graciela has proven herself as a key figure in Central Florida’s civic life. She previously served as Chief of Staff to Orange County Mayor Teresa Jacobs, where she advised on major policy initiatives and led the execution of the Mayor’s office priorities. Her experience also includes teaching as an adjunct professor at Valencia College and serving on numerous boards and advisory committees, including the Florida Policy Institute, the Ginsburg Institute for Health Equity, and the East Orlando Chamber of Commerce.
“Graciela’s expertise in community development, public policy, and nonprofit management will be invaluable as we continue to make a meaningful impact across Central Florida,” said Dr. Phillips, Inc. President & CEO, Ken Robinson. “Her leadership aligns closely with Dr. Phillips Charities’ mission to support the health, education, and well-being of our community, and we are excited to have her join our board.”
In addition to her professional achievements, Graciela has received numerous awards for her dedication to public service, including the Orlando Business Journal’s Women Who Mean Business Award (2024) and the Don Quijote Excellence Award from the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Metro Orlando (2020).
“I am honored to join the board of Dr. Phillips, Inc.,” said Graciela. “I look forward to contributing to the organization’s efforts to strengthen our community and empower individuals and families throughout Central Florida. The work Dr. Phillips, Inc. does is vital, and I am excited to be part of its future.”
A native of Sarasota, Florida, Graciela holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and a Master of Public Administration from the University of Central Florida (UCF).
Dr. Phillips Charities has a long-standing legacy of giving back to the community through strategic investments in health, education, arts, and community development. The addition of Graciela Noriega Jacoby to the board underscores the organization’s ongoing commitment to enhancing the quality of life for all Central Floridians.
About Dr. Phillips and Dr. Phillips Charities
Dr. P. Phillips was a visionary whose charitable contributions and entrepreneurship helped create a vibrant, thriving community in Central Florida. The Dr. Phillips name has been a major economic and philanthropic presence in the Central Florida community since the turn of the 20th century. Dr. Phillips Charities (Dr. Phillips Inc. and The Dr. P. Phillips Foundation) uses the earnings from its investment and real estate income to give financial assistance to hundreds of charities serving primarily in Orange and Osceola counties. Dr. Phillips has contributed more than $257 million in grants, pledges and program-related investments to Central Florida charities responding to the needs of the community and directly touching the lives of thousands of children and families. Learn more at www.drphillips.org.
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