Rosen Hotels founder, philanthropist Harris Rosen dies at 85

In Central Florida, few names loom as large as Harris Rosen.

The founder of Rosen Hotels and Resorts, he was one of the area’s leading entrepreneurs, and his heart for giving can be found throughout the community.

Mr. Rosen, 85, died Monday, Nov. 25, 2024, surrounded by family and loved ones.

“On behalf of the Rosen family, it is with profound sadness that I announce the passing of Harris Rosen, who left us this morning at the age of 85,” Rosen CEO Frank Santos said in a statement. “Harris was an angel to so many here on earth, and now he takes his place among the angels in heaven. A beloved father, grandfather and a pillar of our community, his boundless generosity and love touched countless lives through his unwavering commitment to helping underserved communities, promoting education, advancing the fight against cancer, and supporting health and wellness initiatives. The family will hold a private Celebration of Life and kindly asks for privacy during this difficult time. Thank you.”

Mr. Rosen’s legacy in the Central Florida hospitality and tourism industry stretches back more than five decades. In his early years, he helped develop the Contemporary, Polynesian and Fort Wilderness resorts at Disney World. Then in 1974, he bought a Quality Inn on International Drive — a move that would lead to the founding of Rosen Hotels & Resorts in 1974.

Mr. Rosen’s company grew into one of the Southeast’s largest independent hotel chains. According to the University of Central Florida, the company currently has more than 6,300 guest rooms and suites, more than 740,000 square feet of event space and more than 30 unique dining options.

Carol Dover, Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association president and CEO, issued a statement about Rosen’s impact.

“Florida’s hospitality industry mourns the loss of one of its most iconic leaders, our dear friend Harris Rosen,” she said. “FRLA’s longtime board member and our 2009 Hotelier of the Year, Harris transformed Central Florida’s hospitality landscape through his visionary leadership and unyielding commitment to excellence. He set the standard for innovation and guest service, turning his dream into an empire that became a cornerstone of Orlando’s tourism industry. His remarkable career is a testament to the entrepreneurial spirit that defines our industry.”

In addition to his business ventures, Mr. Rosen also was a well-known philanthropist. Through The Harris Rosen Foundation, established in 1987, Mr. Rosen focused efforts on underserved communities, including Tangelo Park and Haiti.

Mr. Rosen also donated 20 acres and $10 million to help develop UCF’s Rosen College of Hospitality Management. 

A descendant of Russian-Jewish immigrants, Mr. Rosen also left an indelible mark on Orlando’s Jewish community.

“It is with profound sorrow that we share the news of the passing of Harris Rosen, a visionary leader, devoted family man and a cherished pillar of our community,” Rosen JCC CEO Ofira Bondorowsky said in a statement. “Harris Rosen’s immeasurable impact on our community and the thousands of lives he touched will never be forgotten. His legacy of generosity, compassion and unwavering dedication to bettering the world will continue to inspire us all. We join his family in honoring his extraordinary life and extend our heartfelt condolences during this time of mourning. May his memory be a blessing to all who knew and loved him.”

Dover also celebrated Mr. Rosen’s philanthropic work.

“His unwavering dedication to improving lives — from investing in education initiatives like the UCF Rosen College of Hospitality Management — to generously supporting health care and disaster relief efforts — exemplified the profound impact one individual can have on a community,” she said. “Harris Rosen’s legacy will endure not only through the hotels that bear his name but also through the countless lives he touched,” she said. “On behalf of the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association, we extend our deepest condolences to his family, colleagues and all who had the privilege to know him. His contributions to Florida’s hospitality industry and his philanthropic spirit will never be forgotten.”

Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings called Mr. Rosen a “true pillar” of Central Florida. 

“Harris Rosen was more than a business leader; he was a compassionate visionary who dedicated his life to improving the lives of others,” Demings said. “His commitment to our community went beyond his work as a hotelier. Through (The Harris) Rosen Foundation, Harris invested millions into local schools, health care and vital programs for underprivileged families, uplifting countless people in the process. Most notably, his education philanthropy in the Tangelo Park and Parramore communities is unparalleled. On behalf of Orange County, I extend my deepest condolences to Harris’s family, friends and all who were fortunate enough to know him. We are forever grateful for his extraordinary contributions to our community, and we will endeavor to carry forward his spirit of service and kindness.”