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Scott Cole
Partner and Chair of Higher Education Practice at GrayRobinson, P.A.
Professional Background
Scott Cole is an esteemed legal professional and higher education consultant with a wealth of experience in providing complex legal and business advice to universities, particularly focused on the establishment and expansion of medical and educational facilities. His career has predominantly been centered around the University of Central Florida, where he served as Vice President and General Counsel, and played a pivotal role in the launch of various groundbreaking projects that have transformed the university's landscape.
Cole's expertise in navigating the intricate waters of public-private partnerships (P3) is evident from his spearheading efforts to initiate Florida’s first P3 project for a public university. He was instrumental in drafting the legislation that allowed for private financing, a milestone that marked the beginning of innovative funding solutions for educational institutions in the state. His leadership and foresight led to the successful negotiation and implementation of a $600 million project that included the construction of a new football stadium, basketball arena, student housing, and extensive retail space, all without relying on state financial support.
In addition to his pioneering work in infrastructure development, Scott was a key member of the negotiation team that established a joint venture teaching hospital with Health Care Corporation of America at UCF. This joint venture not only secured a substantial equity stake in the hospital but also ensured representation on the board, paving the way for collaborative healthcare education and services.
Beyond these significant accomplishments, Cole was a driving force behind the university’s acquisition of the Sanford Burnham research facility, demonstrating his ability to mobilize resources effectively and conduct successful negotiations. His initiatives have consistently resulted in unique opportunities for education and research, enriching the lives of students and faculty members alike.
Education and Achievements
Scott Cole earned his Juris Doctor (J.D.) from the University of Florida’s Fredric G. Levin College of Law, where he gained a solid foundation in legal principles that would serve as a springboard for his illustrious career. He also holds two undergraduate degrees from the University of Florida—a Bachelor's in Accounting and a Bachelor of Business Administration, providing him with a robust understanding of both financial and managerial aspects necessary for success in higher education administration and legal consultancy.
Notable Achievements
- Partner and Chair of Higher Education Practice at GrayRobinson, P.A. – In this role, Scott provides specialized legal expertise and consultancy services to educational institutions, drawing upon his vast experience in the field.
- President at Scott Cole Consulting LLC – He formerly led his own consulting firm, further solidifying his reputation as an expert in navigating the complexities of higher education landscapes and legal frameworks.
- Negotiator for Continuing Care Retirement Community – Cole was a visionary behind a $178 million university-based continuing care retirement community that features unique educational and research collaborations between students, faculty, and residents.
- Establishment of Medical Clinics in Jacksonville – While serving at the University of Florida, he successfully established multiple medical clinics, showcasing his ability to impact healthcare accessibility and education on a broader scale.
- Pioneer of Incentive Compensation Plans for Clinical Faculty – By drafting and providing legal guidance on these plans, Cole played a crucial role in enhancing faculty engagement and performance.
- Management Care Affiliate Establishment – He created a vital management care affiliate that allowed the University of Florida to enter into risk-based contracts, addressing the evolving healthcare landscape and ensuring the university’s competitiveness.
- Representation in NCAA Investigations – Scott has been a strategic representative for university interests in NCAA investigations and hearings, adeptly resolving most issues and resulting in favorable outcomes that uphold the university’s reputation.
Scott Cole continues to foster valuable relationships both locally and nationally, enabling him to provide extensive resources, specialized legal knowledge, and impactful business partnerships. His strategic mindset and collaborative spirit have not only distinguished his career but have also left an indelible mark on the universities he has served.
tags':['University of Central Florida','Legal Advisor','Public-Private Partnerships','Higher Education','Healthcare Projects','Medical Facilities','NCAA Investigations','Business Consultancies','Educational Institutions','Continuing Care Retirement Community','Healthcare System','College of Medicine'],
questions':['How did Scott Cole drive legal and business strategies at the University of Central Florida?','What innovative approaches did Scott Cole implement in the establishment of medical facilities?','In what ways did Scott Cole impact the development of P3 projects within Florida public universities?','How has Scott Cole influenced higher education legal practices during his tenure at GrayRobinson, P.A.?','What successes has Scott Cole achieved in negotiating healthcare partnerships for educational institutions?']} }} -------------- json --------------- 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1