INFLUENCE
100
Ana CRUZ {LOBBYIST}
Ana Cruz is a consummate professional. Whether she’s delivering food to police officers protecting the great City of Tampa, fighting for policies that would move the state forward, or throwing a fabulous dinner party, you can always count on her doing it with a big smile, boisterous laugh and generous nature. Ana’s reputation precedes her. For decades, she’s been a fighter for those without a voice, a progressive leader, and an advocate for what is right. Her work on national, state and local political efforts has made her one of the most sought-after political operatives in the state. She represents her deep client base with unmatched tenacity and heart. Her competitive nature makes her a force to be reckoned with and a tireless champion when she’s on your team. Ana’s never met a stranger and never misses an opportunity to listen or lend a hand. I couldn’t be prouder to call Ana a friend and mentor. – Ashley Bauman, City of Tampa Director of Marketing & Communications
Husein
CUMBER
{INDUSTRY LEADER}
Husein Cumber is the executive vice president for Corporate Development at Florida East Coast Industries. While he is a good friend, he also is one of the primary visionaries behind Brightline, the intercity passenger rail system that will initially connect South Florida and Central Florida. Husein’s influence on Florida’s transportation system runs deep. It includes developing major projects at Port Miami and Port Everglades, which have significantly increased the ability to move freight quickly and more cost efficiently. His background in transportation also was recognized in 2005 when he was asked to serve in the Bush 43 administration as deputy chief of staff at the U.S. Department of Transportation. Husein’s political involvement started as an intern with Gov. Jeb Bush’s 1998 campaign. While young Husein has been in politics for quite some time, in 2004 The New York Times profiled him as the youngest bundler for the Bush 43 re-election campaign. Husein is also currently the vice chair of JEA, the eighth-largest community-owned electric utility company in the U.S., and a board member of the Florida Chamber of Commerce, Florida State College at Jacksonville Foundation and Take Stock in Children. Husein is a graduate of Duke University and his wife, LeAnna, is a candidate for the Jacksonville City Council. – Will Weatherford, Former Florida House Speaker SUMMER 2018 INFLUENCE | 93