Holland & Knight's Bob Martinez, Former Governor of Florida, Designated 2009 Great Floridian
March 17, 2009
Bob Martinez- Tampa
Martinez is third from Holland & Knight to ever receive this distinction
TAMPA, Fla. – Holland & Knight is pleased to announce that former Florida Gov. Bob Martinez, now Senior Policy Advisor with Holland & Knight, has been designated a 2009 Great Floridian by the State of Florida.
This award is presented annually in recognition of outstanding achievements of men and women who made significant contributions to progress and welfare of Florida. Only 32 people have been designated Great Floridians since the program's inception in 1981. Martinez is one of six to receive this distinction this year, and marks the third Holland & Knight professional to receive the honor, following former Governor and Senator Spessard Holland (2004) and former ABA President Chesterfield Smith (1997).
“I am privileged to be designated a Great Floridian," said Martinez. "To be awarded such a distinction and associated with the distinguished Great Floridians of past years is truly an honor. I am humbled to be in the company of great men and women.”
Gov. Martinez is being recognized for his outstanding gubernatorial leadership, contributions in the area of environmental land acquisition and surface water improvement and for his efforts towards eliminating wasteful spending and promoting Florida’s drug control programs.
“I share with so many in congratulating Governor Martinez on this deserving honor," said Steven Sonberg, managing partner of Holland & Knight. "I am delighted that Holland & Knight is well represented in this small, yet distinguished club of Great Floridians.”
Gov. Martinez works in the firm’s Public Companies and Securities practice. His distinguished public service spans more than 40 years and has made him one of the most respected leaders in Florida. The Governor served under George H.W. Bush as the nation’s second Drug Czar from 1991-1993, served as Governor of Florida from 1987-1991, Mayor of the City of Tampa from 1979-1986, and Vice Chairman of the Southwest Water Management District from 1975-1979. Gov. Martinez was the first of Hispanic descent and the second Republican since Reconstruction to be elected as Florida's governor.
In addition to representing clients at Holland & Knight, Gov. Martinez serves on various corporate boards and continues his life-long commitment the community. Gov. Martinez is a native of Tampa and maintains offices in Tampa, Tallahassee and Washington, D.C.
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