TAMPA, JUNE 1, 2015—Aakash M. Patel, President of Elevate, Inc., has been selected to serve as Chairman of the University of Tampa Board of Counselors. His term begins today and will continue for the duration of the 2015-16 year. He has been an active member of the Board since 2009. In his new capacity as Chairman, he will also serve as an ex-officio member of the Board of Trustees at the University of Tampa, representing the Board of Counselors. Patel, 31, will become among the youngest members of the Board of Trustees.
The University of Tampa’s Board of Counselors assists in student retention and generates public recognition of the University. Patel is a familiar friend in the Tampa Bay community, involved with numerous organizations, and one of University of Tampa’s biggest fans. Since serving on the Board, he has been active with career services and student outreach, membership, and the development committees.
The University of Tampa’s President, Dr. Ronald Vaughn, said, “Aakash has been a dedicated member of our UT community. I have the upmost confidence that he will exceed our expectations and excel in his new position.”
“Since starting my professional career in Tampa nearly a decade ago, I have always been very passionate about the Tampa Bay community, and specifically the University of Tampa,” stated Patel.
“We currently have nearly 100 dedicated young professionals as Board of Counselors,” continued Patel. “My vision is to work with our membership to raise our profile in the community as Tampa Bay’s premiere young professional organization,” concluded Patel.
About the Board of Counselors
The University of Tampa’s Board of Counselors was established in 1962. The Board works in efforts of achieving public recognition of, understanding, and assurance in the University. The members host the Board’s signature and special events to bring awareness, raise funds, and encourage networking. These members share a belief in higher education, and desire to assist students prepare for post-college life.
About Aakash M. Patel
Aakash M. Patel is the President of Elevate, Inc. – a business consulting firm providing a variety of services, based on recognizing, forming and leveraging strategic relationships. In 2014, Patel was appointed by Governor Scott to serve as Chair of the Early Learning Coalition of Hillsborough County. In addition, he serves on the Greater Tampa Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors as well as the Board of Directors for Leadership Tampa Bay. Aakash received a bachelor’s degree in English Literature & Political Science from Florida State University.
