Tyler McCallister, Executive Vice President, Brown & Brown Insurance
Devaney Iglesias , (CHAIR) Florida Power & Light Company
Dr. Todd Fritch , (VICE CHAIR) State College of Florida
Steve Morehart , (TREASURER) Purvis Gray
Tyler McCallister , (SECRETARY) Brown and Brown Insurance
Mark Irwin , (PAST CHAIR) Truist
Commissioner Ron Cutsinger , Sarasota County
Commissioner Erik Arroyo , City of Sarasota
Commissioner Penny Gold , Town of Longboat Key
Council Member Rick Howard , City of Venice
Commissioner Barbara Langdon , City of North Port
Erin Cigich , Perform [cb]
Bill Clinebell , Relofant
Dr. Michael Crosby , Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium
Mary Daughtery , Gulf Coast Builders Exchange
Donn Githens , Goodwill Manasota
Dr. Karen Holbrook , University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee Campus
Art Lambert , S-One Holdings
Phillip Lanham , Gulf Coast Community Foundation
Alan Maio , Kimley-Horn
Joesph McKenna , Sarasota Orchestra
Charlie Murphy , The Bank of Tampa
Chip Murphy , Michael Saunders and Company
Chris Perkins , SouthState Bank
Garrett Shinn , Carr, Riggs, & Ingram
Heather Williams , Kerkering, Barberio & Co
Zachary Buffington, Esq. (Board Counsel),
Williams Parker Harrison Dietz & Getzen
SPEAKERS
Rick Severance
As President of Wellen Park , one of America’s largest and fastest-selling master-planned communities, Rick brings over 25 years of experience in community development, consulting, and financial performance to Mattamy Homes. Since joining in June 2019, he has rebranded the 11,000-acre master plan and overseen the development and sale of real estate assets to various sectors. Rick’s prior roles include President of Babcock Ranch, the first solar city in the US, CEO of Seaside Community Development Company, and Senior VP at The St. Joe Company. He also owned the international consulting firm New Vector Limited and began his career with Ernst & Young.
Vladimir Ljesevic
Vlad is a dynamic leader and innovator with experience across various industries. He is the Co-Founder and Managing Partner of CMPSE (pronounced ‘Compose’), a technology consulting and software development firm, which guides companies through their digital evolution and delivers innovative solutions for them. Outside of Compose he co-founded Sarasota.Tech, a non-profit that is on a mission to connect the dots within the local tech community.
SPEAKERS
Dr. Alex Beavers, Jr.
Dr. Alex Beavers is a high-technology executive, entrepreneur, and author, currently serving as the Chief Innovation Officer at Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium , a member of the Board of Trustees at Ringling College of Art and Design, and an instructor for the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute. His career highlights include leading technology commercialization at Stanford Research Institute, founding CEO of two Silicon Valley ventures, CEO of CAD/CAM and CEO of Thompson Industries. He holds a BSEE from Vanderbilt University, an MSEE and PhDEE from the University of Houston, and an MBA from Boston University. Beavers has one patent, over 25 published papers, and is the author of two books.
Dr. Larry Thompson
Dr. Larry R. Thompson became president of Ringling College of Art and Design in July 1999. He has significantly influenced the integration of creativity in business and education, as well as reshaping perceptions of art and design. With a background in law and education, Dr. Thompson served as Special Assistant to the President of The Ohio State University, President/ CEO of the Flint Cultural Center in Michigan and was the founding Executive Director/CEO of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum in Cleveland, Ohio. His leadership extends beyond Ringling College, as he is the former president of the Association of Independent Colleges of Art and Design, currently serves on its executive committee, chair of the President’s Council of the Independent Colleges and Universities of Florida, and contributes to various local arts and civic boards.
PRESENTING SPONSOR
BROWN & BROWN INSURANCE was founded in 1939 as a two-partner firm based in Florida and has risen to become one of the largest insurance brokerages in the world. Starting in 1953, the Ernest Smith Agency was an active local member of the Sarasota community. In 1990, Ernest Smith joined Brown & Brown, a company with long-standing history of public and community service and has continued to give back to the local community and beyond. With a team that is as connected locally as it is nationally, Brown & Brown provides the personalized, dedicated service you want from a boutique agency while delivering the peace of mind that you expect from a top brokerage.
www.bbinsurance.com
HELIOS TECHNOLOGIES is a global leader in highly engineered motion control and electronic controls technology for diverse end markets, including construction, material handling, agriculture, energy, recreational vehicles, marine and health and wellness. Helios sells its products to customers in over 90 countries around the world. Its strategy for growth is to be the leading provider in niche markets, with premier products and solutions through innovative product development and acquisition. The Company has paid a cash dividend to its shareholders every quarter since becoming a public company in 1997. Visit: www.heliostechnologies.com and follow us on LinkedIn.
www.heliostechnologies.com
CLYDE NIXON SPONSOR
Since 1931, RINGLING COLLEGE OF ART AND DESIGN has cultivated the creative spirit in students from around the globe. The private, not-for-profit, fully accredited college offers the Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in eleven disciplines and the Bachelor of Arts in two. The College’s rigorous curriculum employs the studio model of teaching and immediately engages students through a comprehensive program that is both specific to the major of study and focused on the liberal arts. The Ringling College teaching model ultimately shapes students into highly employable and globally aware artists and designers.
www.ringling.edu
MEDIA PARTNER
Since 1997, THE BUSINESS OBSERVER has been the go-to news source for Gulf Coast business leaders. Providing invaluable insights and relevant information, we thrive on delivering what every business professional needs to know. Whether you’re a CEO, owner, entrepreneur, investor or policymaker, we’ve got you covered. From Tampa Bay to Naples, we offer a comprehensive regional view of economic news, company strategies, industry changes and government impact. Available daily, weekly, online at BusinessObserverFL.com, via mobile app or in print, we cater to your preferred format. www.businessobserverfl.com
DESSERT SPONSOR
Founded in 1976, MICHAEL SAUNDERS & COMPANY is the top independent real estate company on the Suncoast with nearly 20 sales offices and 600+ agents spanning Sarasota, Manatee and Charlotte counties. International brokerage affiliations extend the company’s message to qualified buyers nationally and globally. Headquartered in Sarasota, Michael Saunders & Company provides customers the most comprehensive range of real estate services in Southwest Florida, including mortgage, title, insurance and relocation services, developer services, and a commercial real estate division. A philanthropic arm, the MSC Foundation, gives back to Gulf Coast community organizations via donations from agents and staff.
www.michaelsaunders.com
VALET SPONSOR
THE BANK OF TAMPA is one of the largest community banks in the Tampa Bay area. It has been privately held by its employees, directors and clients since the bank’s inception in 1984. It has offices in Hillsborough, Pinellas, Sarasota, and Manatee counties, as well as a loan production office in Pasco County. The Bank of Tampa’s assets total more than $3.1 billion, with outstanding loans greater than $1.5 billion. Its wealth management practice has more than $1.2 billion total assets under care. To learn more, visit www.thebankoftampa.com.
www.thebankoftampa.com
COMCAST CORPORATION (Nasdaq: CMCSA) is a global media and technology company. From the connectivity and platforms we provide, to the content and experiences we create, our businesses reach hundreds of millions of customers, viewers, and guests worldwide. We deliver world-class broadband, wireless, and video through Xfinity, Comcast Business, and Sky; produce, distribute, and stream leading entertainment, sports, and news through brands including NBC, Telemundo, Universal, Peacock, and Sky; and bring incredible theme parks and attractions to life through Universal Destinations & Experiences.
www.business.comcast.com
MOTE MARINE LABORATORY & AQUARIUM has nearly a 70-year legacy as an independent, nonprofit, global marine research and science education institution. Mote began in 1955 and flourished on the foundational pillars of “Passion, Partnership and Philanthropy,” as it still does today.
Now, Mote has grown into eight campuses from Tampa Bay to Key West, with a ninth new campus, the Mote Science Education Aquarium (Mote SEA), currently under construction. Mote has over 25 diverse world-class research programs with an emphasis on improving conservation and sustainable use of marine resources. Mote Aquarium showcases Mote research 365 days a year.
SARASOTA MEMORIAL HEALTH CARE SYSTEM offers Southwest Florida’s greatest breadth and depth of care, with 1.7 million patient visits annually across its network of locations and services. Its flagship 897-bed Sarasota hospital has been recognized among the nation’s best, with superior outcomes. It is the only hospital in Sarasota providing maternity services, newborn intensive care, pediatrics, trauma care and behavioral health services for patients of all ages. The public health system recently opened several new facilities to enhance residents’ access to care, including Sarasota Memorial Hospital –Venice, the Brian D. Jellison Cancer Institute and the Cornell Behavioral Health Pavilion.
www.smh.com
GOLD SPONSOR
We’re Banking Forward at SOUTHSTATE , with our focus on our customers first. Whatever success looks like to you, we’ll make sure you have what you need to continue to grow. With more than 5,000 dedicated team members, SouthState is one of the leading regional banks in the Southeast – serving more than one million customers. We offer robust banking solutions, including consumer banking, mortgage, small business banking, commercial banking and wealth management. We’re committed to creating a better banking experience and are proud to be recognized for the positive impact we’re making on the lives of our customers and team members.
www.southstatebank.com
Founded in 1895, PEOPLES GAS SYSTEM, INC. has grown to become Florida’s largest natural gas distribution utility, delivering safe, clean, affordable and reliable natural gas to 500,000 homes and businesses across the state. Through investments in people, technology, infrastructure and environmentally focused innovations, the company is committed to fueling Florida’s clean energy future responsibly and sustainably. Peoples Gas cultivates a diverse, inclusive and respectful workplace that includes varied backgrounds, experiences and perspectives. The company supports the communities it serves through stewardship and economic development efforts.
www.peoplesgas.com
SILVER SPONSOR
At BANK OF AMERICA , we deliver on our purpose to help make financial lives better through the power of every connection. We are growing the economy while creating tangible value for our business, our clients and the communities we serve. We’re helping create jobs, develop communities, foster economic mobility and address society’s biggest challenges around the world. Our story is all about the impact clients and communities can have and the progress they can make. And we are here to serve them, and to help them do it. What would you like the power to do?
SILVER SPONSOR
BMO is one of the country’s most-respected banks, with a reputation for being a strong, safe and stable financial services partner. By partnering with BMO Commercial Bank and our local team, you can take your business to new places. We offer businesses deeper strategic guidance to help your company as it continues to grow and evolve. You have access to expertise in a range of industries and an extensive suite of solutions, including cross border, financing, corporate and investment banking, treasury management and wealth planning – giving you the depth of resources to propel your business forward.
www.bmoharris.com
SILVER SPONSOR
CAREERSOURCE SUNCOAST supports economic development that improves our community through business growth, career advancement, and entrepreneurship. CareerSource Suncoast Youth education, training, and support services, help turn possibilities into opportunities.
www.careersourcesuncoast.com
Founded in South Florida in 2002, HOTWIRE COMMUNICATIONS is the 11th largest fiber-optic internet and television provider in the country, an industry leader specializing in providing multi-Gigabit connectivity, IPTV, home automation, and wireless services to community living environments. For nearly two decades, Hotwire has specialized in providing community-based fiber-optic broadband and customized in-home entertainment solutions for customers demanding fully future-proof, best-in-class service. More information at www.HotwireCommunications.com.
www.hotwirecommunications.com
SILVER SPONSOR
MIDFLORIDA CREDIT UNION, founded in 1954, is based in Lakeland, Florida. In its 70-year history, the credit union has grown to over sixty locations spanning from Gainesville to Naples and coast to coast. The $8 billion credit union serves more than 459,000 members making MIDFLORIDA one of the largest credit unions in the state. In addition to personal banking services, MIDFLORIDA offers business banking solutions and treasury management services. Serving the Sarasota community since 2022, the credit union actively takes part in area events, sponsors local organizations, and encourages employees to volunteer to support causes that make a positive impact on the community.
www.midflorida.com
SILVER SPONSOR
PGT ® CUSTOM WINDOWS AND DOORS , part of the MITER Brands portfolio, is the foremost authority in high-performance windows and doors and America’s # 1 impactresistant brand. With over 36 years of industry experience and 8 + million units installed with zero failures, PGT leads with safety and quality at its core.
Specializing in WinGuard ® aluminum and vinyl impact frames, and ClassicVue Max™ aluminum and EnergyVue ® vinyl non-impact frames, PGT generates lifestyle improvements for customers by combining beauty, performance, and innovation with protection from storms, noise, and intrusion. For more information, visit PGTWindows.com.
www.pgtwindows.com
PNC FINANCIAL SERVICES GROUP is one of the largest diversified financial services institutions in the country. PNC is a coast-to-coast franchise with an extensive retail branch network, and a presence in all of our 30 largest markets. With roots going back to 1865, PNC provides retail banking, residential mortgage, corporate and institutional banking, and asset management services. PNC is committed to doing the right thing for our shareholders, customers, communities, and employees, and to continuously refine our strategies to address the changing needs of the various constituencies we serve.
SILVER SPONSOR
SILVER SPONSOR
PREMIER SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY has over 1,400 sales professionals in 40 locations throughout Florida and North Carolina. Premier Sotheby’s International Realty also benefits from an association with the storied Sotheby’s auction house, established in 1744. The brokerage was founded by The Lutgert Companies, a prominent member of Southwest Florida’s business community since 1964, and is proudly associated with Peerage Realty Partners. The company delivered $8.4 million in closed sales volume in 2023. For more information, visit premiersothebysrealty.com.
www.premiersothebysrealty.com
SILVER SPONSOR
Founded in 1925, SHUMAKER is a premier legal and legislative solutions firm with more than 300 lawyers and advisors in its 12 offices located throughout Florida, Ohio, Minnesota, and the Carolinas. Shumaker is focused on being a positive and impactful difference maker for our clients and in the communities we serve by providing highquality, dependable services and supporting numerous public, private, and nonprofit organizations.
www.shumaker.com
THANK YOU TO OUR TABLE SPONSORS
FULL TABLES
HALF TABLES
THANK YOU TO OUR OUTGOING BOARD MEMBERS
Brett Henson
2021 - 2024
Scott Sensenbrenner
2018 - 2024
Eric Kowalewski
2022 - 2024
Rick Severance
2021 - 2024
EDC PAST BOARD CHAIRS
1991 - 1992 Joe R. Hembree
1992 - 1993 Tramm Hudson
1993 - 1994 Roland Piccone
1994 - 1995 Jim Bos
1995 - 1996 Debra Jacobs
1996 - 1997 Rob Lane
1997 - 1998 Michael Saunders
1999 - 2000 Susan Scott
2000 - 2001 Jimmy Dean
2001 - 2002 John Clarke
2002 - 2003 Ray Sandhagen
2003 - 2004 Dr. Laurey Stryker
2004 - 2005 Brian Meurs
2005 - 2006 John Swart
2006 - 2007 J. Hugh Middlebrooks
2007 - 2008 Dr. Sarah Pappas
2008 - 2009 Margaret Callihan
2009 - 2010 CJ Fishman
2010 - 2012 David Sessions
2012 - 2013 Ben Hanan
2013 - 2014 Rod Hershberger
2014 - 2015 Larry Fineberg
2015 - 2016 Patrick Dorsey
2016 - 2017 Jim Kuhlman
2017 - 2018 Rae Dowling
2018 - 2019 Larry Fineberg
2019 - 2020 Art Lambert
2020 - 2021 Charles Murphy
2021 - 2022 Joe C. Hembree
2022 - 2023 Mark Irwin
2023 - 2024 Devaney Iglesias
CHAIR ADVISORS
Zenith Insurance Company
WJArchitects
Willis A. Smith Construction
Williams Parker Harrison Dietz & Getzen
Wharton-Smith
Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe
Wessel Construction
Wellen Park
Visit Sarasota County
Venice Area Chamber of Commerce
Van Wezel
Valley Bank
USF Sarasota-Manatee
University of Florida Innovation Station
Sarasota County
Universal Insurance Managers
United Way South Sarasota County
Truist
TPC Prestancia
The Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce
The Corley Company
The Circus Arts Conservatory
The Bank of Tampa
TECO Peoples Gas
Taubman d/b/a The Mall at University
Town Center
Synovus Bank
Sylint Group
Sweet Sparkman Architects
Sutters Quality Foods
State College of Florida
Starling Realty
Stantec
SouthState Bank
S-One Holdings Corp
Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce
Shumaker
Shepherd Insurance
SEPA FL
School Board of Sarasota County
Sarasota Orchestra
Sarasota Opera
Sarasota Memorial Health Care System
Sarasota Bradenton International Airport
SAMA
Rogers Market
RVi Planning + Landscape Architecture
Rumble
Rite Technology
Ringling College of Art & Design
Relofant
Regions Bank
Realtor Association of Sarasota and Manatee
RE/MAX Alliance Group
Purvis Gray CPAs
Premier Sotheby’s International Realty
PPi Technologies Group
PNC Financial Services Group
PGT Innovations
Perform [cb]
Northern Trust
North Port Area Chamber of Commerce
SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR EDC INVESTORS
NDC Construction Company
Mullet’s Aluminum Products
Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium
Miles Partnership
Michael Saunders & Company
MBJ Group
Mauldin & Jenkins
Marie Selby Botanical Gardens
MakSchu Productions
Mahoney Concrete Systems
Lodgco Hospitality
Lakewood Ranch Medical Center
Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance
Kimley-Horn
Kerkering, Barberio & Co.
JP Morgan Chase
John Galt Staffing
Icard, Merrill, Cullis, Timm, Furen & Ginsburg, PA
