George Sheldon (politician) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
George Sheldon
|
|
|---|---|
 |
|
| Secretary of the Florida Department of Children and Families | |
| In office 2008–2011 |
|
| Governor | Charlie Crist |
| Preceded by | Bob Butterworth |
| Succeeded by | David Wilkins |
| Member of the Florida House of Representatives from the 69th district |
|
| In office November 5, 1974 – November 2, 1982 |
|
| Preceded by | Guy Spicola |
| Succeeded by | Thomas Danson Jr. |
| Personal details | |
| Born | June 3, 1947 Wildwood, New Jersey, U.S. |
| Died | August 23, 2018 (aged 71) Miami, Florida, U.S. |
| Political party | Democratic |
| Alma mater | Florida State University |
| Profession | Attorney |
George Henry Sheldon (born June 3, 1947 – died August 23, 2018) was an American lawyer and politician. He worked in important government roles, including serving in the Florida House of Representatives and leading the Florida Department of Children and Families. He also worked for the federal government in the Department of Health and Human Services. Sheldon was a member of the Democratic Party.
Contents
About George Sheldon
George Sheldon was born in Wildwood, New Jersey on June 3, 1947. He grew up in Plant City, Florida. He went to Florida State University, where he earned his college degree and later his law degree.
Early Career and Public Service
Sheldon began his political career in 1969. He worked as an aide for a state senator who later became governor, Reubin Askew. From 1974 to 1982, Sheldon served as a state representative for the Tampa area. A state representative is someone elected to speak for their community in the state's government.
After his time as a representative, Sheldon worked as a private lawyer. In 1999, he returned to public service. He became a Deputy Attorney General for Central Florida. An Attorney General is the chief legal officer of a state.
Leading Children and Families Services
In 2008, George Sheldon became the Secretary of the Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF). This department helps protect children and supports families in Florida. While leading Florida DCF, Sheldon played a big part in helping refugees. These were people who came to Florida after the 2010 earthquake in Haiti.
He was also recognized for making big changes to Florida's child welfare system. Many people said he helped turn Florida's system into a leader in caring for children. From 2011 to 2013, Sheldon also worked for the federal government. He was the Acting Assistant Secretary for the Administration for Children and Families within the United States Department of Health and Human Services.
Later Life and Legacy
In 2014, Sheldon ran for Attorney General of Florida. He was the candidate for the Democratic Party, but he did not win the election.
George Sheldon passed away on August 23, 2018, in Miami, Florida. He was 71 years old. He died from problems after a fall.
