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Florida Officials Announce Chip Wilson as Statewide Disability Coordinator

State officials from Emergency Management, Agency for Persons with Disabilities, and the Department of Health jointly announced the selection of Chip Wilson of Jacksonville to serve as the Statewide Disability Coordinator for Emergency Management today. "With Chip, Floridians now have a full-time advocate looking out for the unique disaster-related needs of persons with disabilities," said Governor Charlie Crist. "Chip will help coordinate the efforts of multiple agencies to ensure that the special needs of the disabilities community are being met."

Wilson, 57, was president of ADA Consultants of Northeast Florida. The firm specializes in accessibility issues, training in the ADA and state accessibility requirements and training in disability etiquette.

"I am truly honored to be selected for this vital role and the opportunity to continue serving Florida’s disabilities community, "said Wilson. "Governor Crist and his team demonstrate once again why the state of Florida is considered a leader in emergency management by taking on new challenges to make sure that all barriers to preparedness are eliminated."

After a 23 year career with the Prudential Insurance Company, Chip served for 6 years as Board President of the Independent Living Resource Center of Northeast Florida (formerly the Center for Independent Living of Jacksonville). He held various positions on the Florida Independent Living Council, serving as President from 2005 to 2007.

"We are glad to have Chip onboard our team," said Division of Emergency Management Director Craig Fugate. "His extensive background and community service will greatly enhance our efforts to prepare and protect all Floridians during emergencies."

From 2004 to 2006 Wilson served on the accreditation task force for the Lane Wiley Senior Citizens Center in Jacksonville and the Accessible Electronic Information Taskforce for the State of Florida. He is a member of the Board of Directors of the West Council Chamber of Commerce in Jacksonville.