Paul J. Tobin, 53, Chief Executive Officer of United Spinal Association from 2006-2013, who resided in Fort Myers, FL, passed away January 18. Paul took over the leadership position of the organization shortly after United Spinal became a national organization for all people living with spinal cord injuries and disorders, as opposed to the regional organization it had been since 1946. He made several impactful changes during his tenure.
He was retired as Lieutenant JG, since he had been finishing up his training/requirements at that time for his promotion.
Paul was a graduate of Manhattan College, where he earned an engineering degree, and Fordham University, where he earned a Masters of Social Work. After graduating Manhattan College, Paul enrolled in officers’ training school in the US Navy. He was an Ensign at the time of his spinal cord injury and retired as Lieutenant JG since he had been finishing up his training/requirements at that time for his promotion. His quadriplegia led him to Eastern Paralyzed Veterans Association’s (EPVA, which became United Spinal Association) Board of Directors. He then joined the staff in many capacities: recreation, VA benefits and hospital advocacy, and directed many projects.
Paul oversaw United Spinal Association’s merger with the National Spinal Cord Injury Association and the organization’s acquisition of New Mobility magazine. He was CEO at our first Roll on Capitol Hill. Having been a patient at VA hospitals, as well as a hospital liaison for EPVA, he was an effective expert when it came to veterans’ health issues, especially those related to spinal cord injury and mobility impairment.
On behalf of United Spinal’s staff, Board of Directors and our 60,000 members, we wish to express our condolences to Paul’s wife, Lorraine, and son, Connor. We salute Paul for his commitment and dedication to improving the quality of the lives of people with disabilities everywhere.