Born in Tampa, Florida, H. Lee Moffitt graduated from the University of South Florida in 1964 and received his Juris Doctor from Cumberland School of Law in 1967. Moffitt has held various legislative positions since starting his political career in 1974. He was elected and served as the Speaker of the Florida House of Representatives from 1982-1984. Moffitt has received numerous awards and distinctions for his public and community service including twice recognized by his colleagues as the Most Effective Member of the Florida House of Representatives. Perhaps he is best known for the founding of the H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute in 1986 where he presently serves on the board. He has been practicing law since retiring from the Florida legislature and also actively serves on many other boards and committees in both the public and private sectors.