Tony Rokita

Senior Vice President of Community Engagement & Social Responsibility

In 2022, Tony Rokita became The Florida Aquarium (TFA)’s first Senior Vice President of Community Engagement & Social Responsibility. In this role, Tony collaborates across departments to enhance conservation efforts, educational programs, career recruitment, and outreach that authentically engages and best reflects the diverse Tampa Bay community. His strategic insights are vital to shaping and realizing the organization’s strategic plan and addressing complex social issues. He ensures that TFA recognizes and celebrates the wins and achievements of Aquarium staff and the organization through initiatives like the “Win Wall,” fostering a culture of appreciation and continuous improvement.

Before joining The Florida Aquarium, Tony spent 32 seasons with the Chicago Bulls in various leadership capacities, notably leading the Alumni Relations, Community Relations, and Player Program departments. He has been a pioneer in championing community engagement and social responsibility in the sports sector. Tony’s innovative programs have set a precedent followed by the NBA, other NBA teams, and numerous professional sports organizations. His efforts were recognized with the NBA’s “Values of the Game” Award, and under his leadership, the Chicago Bulls Social Responsibility team was awarded the inaugural ESPN Humanitarian Team of the Year Award, a notable achievement across all professional sports leagues.

Tony is actively involved in his community. He serves on the Mayor’s Hispanic Advisory Council in Tampa, the Advisory Board of the USL Super Team Tampa Bay Sun, the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) Diversity Committee, and the Aquarium Conservation Partnership Governance Committee. An avid nature enthusiast, Tony enjoys traveling and playing tennis. He is also a dedicated Trekkie and resides in Tampa with his beloved Havanese, Louie.