#United States #Tampa #Tampa General Hospital #Jennifer Crabtree #Tampa Medical & Research District

New Leadership in Tampa's Health Sector

In a notable advancement for the Tampa Medical & Research District (TMRD), Tampa General Hospital has announced the appointment of Jennifer Crabtree as senior vice president and president of the TMRD, effective October 1, 2025. This strategic role places Crabtree at the forefront of leading the district's development, which is recognized as a burgeoning hub for world-class clinical care, academic pursuits, research, and biotechnology.

Vision for the Future

Crabtree's leadership is seen as pivotal in shaping the strategic direction of the TMRD, aligning it with the ambitions of Tampa General, one of the nation’s premier academic health systems. John Couris, president and CEO of Tampa General Hospital, emphasized Crabtree’s exceptional contributions thus far, underscoring her capability to drive the district's vision forward. "I am confident that her skill set and passion for this work will meaningfully drive our vision for the District and unlock the true potential of our partnerships," Couris stated.

The TMRD is part of a historic initiative by Tampa General to create an ecosystem that attracts highly respected professionals in healthcare, academia, and research. This ambitious project not only aims to amplify access to renowned experts, but it also strives to transform healthcare delivery across the region through groundbreaking research and innovative health services.

Economic Impact

An independent study conducted by The Washington Economics Group indicates that, upon completion, TMRD is expected to generate nearly 58,000 jobs annually and produce an economic impact of approximately $8.3 billion. This includes a projected $4 billion contribution to the gross domestic product, alongside significant fiscal revenues at the federal, state, and local levels. The study also noted that it would result in an estimated $2.4 billion in household income.

Collaboration and Growth

As president, Crabtree will lead the TMRD Advisory Committee, a diverse group comprising executives and stakeholders from various sectors, including health care, technology, and education. This committee serves as a strategic arm, guiding the ongoing development and expansion efforts of the district. It includes notable figures: John Couris (Tampa General), Dr. Charles Lockwood (USF Health), and many others who are instrumental in fostering collaborative efforts within the community.

Working closely with the Tampa Bay Economic Development Council, Crabtree aims to attract talent and foster business recruitment in the life sciences sector. The TMRD has already successfully recruited several prominent health and life sciences firms, establishing a robust foundation for its growth.

The TMRD Landscape

The TMRD spans over 1,500 acres and includes numerous key assets such as the main campus of Tampa General Hospital, USF Morsani College of Medicine, and the newly opened TGH Behavioral Health Hospital, among others. Crabtree lauded this expansion as a continuation of the ambitious vision set by Tampa General when establishing the TMRD.

"When we first established the Tampa Medical Research District, we had an ambitious vision to create a robust and inclusive health care landscape within the urban core of Tampa," Crabtree remarked. With the ongoing rapid growth of Tampa, she expressed a determination to build upon prior successes achieved in collaboration with partners, recognizing the untapped potential remaining within the TMRD.

Crabtree's Background

Before stepping into this prominent role, Crabtree excelled in her capacity as vice president of corporate communications and chief of staff at Tampa General Hospital, emphasizing strategic communications, partnership initiatives, and overall organizational excellence. Her previous projects highlight her abilities, including her work on the Tampa Medical Research District's development, positioning Tampa General as a leading health system.

For more information on the Tampa Medical & Research District and potential partnership opportunities, visit their official website.

About Tampa General Hospital

Tampa General Hospital is the region's leading not-for-profit academic health system, recognized for providing exceptional care as the only center for Level I trauma and comprehensive burn services in the area. It is ranked among the top hospitals in the country, supported by a commitment to innovation and community service, ensuring access to care for all individuals regardless of their financial situation. With an innovative approach to patient care and a focus on advanced medical technologies, Tampa General stands out as a model for healthcare systems nationwide.