Tallahassee, FL – The Florida Society of Association Executives (FSAE) is mourning the loss of its President/CEO, Frank Rudd, who passed away after a valiant fight against cancer. Frank Rudd’s battle with this devastating illness came to an end on Tuesday, September 12th, 2023, leaving behind a legacy of leadership and dedication that will be remembered for years to come.
The Brave Battle Against Cancer
Frank Rudd’s journey was marked by his courageous fight against cancer. He had recently taken a medical leave of absence to prioritize his health, as announced by the FSAE. Sadly, despite his resilience and determination, his health declined rapidly over the past eight months, leading to his peaceful passing at home.
A Remarkable Life
Frank Hazelton Rudd, CAE, CMP, was born on October 10, 1963, to Hurley and Vickie Rudd. He attended Leon High School and graduated in 1981, before furthering his education at Florida State University, where he became one of the pioneering graduates in association management.
With over 25 years of experience in the field of associations, Frank held key leadership positions in various organizations. He served as the Executive Director of the Florida Engineering Society, Director of Meetings for the Florida Home Builders Association, Executive Director for the Florida School Nutrition Association, and Director of Meetings for the Florida Institute of Consulting Engineers. It was during his tenure as President/CEO of the Florida Society of Association Executives that he met his wife, Melissa.
Contributions Beyond the Professional Realm
Frank Rudd’s impact extended well beyond his professional achievements. In 2005, he married Melissa, and together, they adopted Emily and Andrew, now 16 and 14 years old, respectively. Frank was a devoted brother to Cheryl Alford and Ley Rudd.
His commitment to the Tallahassee community was unwavering. He actively participated in various organizations, including the boards of Synovus Bank, the Leon High Foundation, the Allied Societies Alliance, the Economics Club, and Courage through Cancer. He even served as the president of the Exchange Club and held positions as the Treasurer for St. Teresa Beach Church and Deacon for Immanuel Baptist Church. His contributions extended to the education sector, where he served as the PTA Treasurer at Kate Sullivan Elementary School for several years.
Fond Farewell
Frank Rudd will be remembered as a loving husband, a caring brother, and a friend to many. His loss will be deeply felt by all who had the privilege of knowing him. However, his profound contributions to his community and the wider world will leave an indelible mark that will continue to inspire and uplift those he touched.
Details In Short
- Name: Frank Rudd
- Title: President/CEO of the Florida Society of Association Executives (FSAE)
- Location: Tallahassee, Florida
- Date of Birth: October 10, 1963
- Date of Passing: September 12, 2023
- Age: 59
- Cause of Death: Cancer
- Medical Leave: Frank took a medical leave of absence to focus on his health before his passing.
- Educational Background: Graduated from Leon High School in 1981 and later earned a degree in association management from Florida State University.
- Career Highlights: Held leadership positions in various associations, including the Florida Engineering Society, Florida Home Builders Association, Florida School Nutrition Association, and Florida Institute of Consulting Engineers.
- Family: Married to Melissa Rudd, with two adopted children, Emily (16) and Andrew (14). He had two siblings, Cheryl Alford and Ley Rudd.
- Funeral Arrangements: Visitation on Thursday, September 14, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM, followed by the funeral service on Friday, September 15, at 10:00 AM, both at Immanuel Baptist Church in Tallahassee. Donations can be made to FSAE Foundation, Immanuel Baptist Church, or Big Bend Hospice in lieu of flowers.
Obituary and Funeral Arrangements
Friends and well-wishers can pay their respects during the visitation on Thursday, September 14, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM, followed by the funeral service on Friday, September 15, at 10:00 AM. Both events will be held at Immanuel Baptist Church. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to one of the following organizations: FSAE Foundation, Immanuel Baptist Church, and Big Bend Hospice.
Frank Rudd’s legacy as a leader, mentor, and advocate for associations and communities will be cherished and celebrated by all whose lives he touched. His memory will continue to inspire future generations in the field of association management.
