THE NAPLES
COLLIER COUNT Y’S MOST INFLUENTIAL BUSINESS LEADERS
2026
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Thomas M. Moran, AIF ® Chairman | CEO | CIO
Moran includ Top 10 Media indica Jones
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Congratulations Tom Moran
FOR BEING RECOGNIZED AGAIN AS ONE OF THE NAPLES 100. We are honored to stand behind a leader who inspires such respect and confidence. Your vision for Moran Wealth Management’s future and your dedication to enhancing lives in our community gives every team member a sense of purpose we’re proud to embrace.
MORANWM.COM
Moran Wealth Management, LLC is a registered investment adviser. Registration does not imply a specific level of skill or expertise. For detailed information about Moran Wealth Management, LLC, including services and fees, request the firm’s disclosure brochure using the contact information above or visit adviserinfo.sec.gov. This advertisement highlights several accolades, including the Naples Top 100 by Palm Beach Media Group and induction into Barron’s Advisor Hall of Fame by Dow Jones & Company. The Naples Top 100 is solely based on community nominations submitted to Palm Beach Media Company. For more details on the selection process and methodology for the Barron’s Advisor Hall of Fame recognition, visit http://moranwm.com/disclosures. Please note, rankings are not indicative of future performance, nor should they be seen as an endorsement. Rankings may not reflect any one client’s experience and are based solely on the opinions of Palm Beach Media Group and Dow Jones & Company. No compensation was exchanged for any ranking. Moran Wealth Management, LLC is an independent entity and is not affiliated with any other firm or practice using the same name.
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A S P E N • T H E H A M P T O N S • PA L M S P R I N G S • M A L I B U • M A N H AT TA N • B E V E R LY H I L L S • L A G U N A B E A C H • A N D M O R E
800 HARBOUR DRIVE, NAPLES, FLORIDA 34103 (239) 261-3939 © 2024 DOUGLAS ELLIMAN REAL ESTATE. ALL MATERIAL PRESENTED HEREIN IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATION PURPOSES ONLY. WHILE, THIS INFORMATION IS BELIEVED TO BE CORRECT, IT IS REPRESENTED SUBJECT TO ERRORS, OMISSIONS, CHANGES OR WITHDRAWAL WITHOUT NOTICE. ALL PROPERTY INFORMATION, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO SQUARE FOOTAGE, ROOM COUNT, NUMBER OF BEDROOMS AND THE SCHOOL DISTRICT IN PROPERTY LISTINGS SHOULD BE VERIFIED BY YOUR OWN ATTORNEY, ARCHITECT OR ZONING EXPERT. EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY.
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11TH FLOOR SHOWCASES SWEEPING GULF VIEWS S EA S ON S # 1 1 0 3 |
N AP L E S C AY $6,750,000
MICHAEL G. LAWLER PA
HARBOUR POINT BUSINESS CENTER 239.261.3939 | 800 HARBOUR DR | NAPLES, FL 34103
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To our community for shopping local. To our customers for investing in us, so we can invest back into our community. To all of our outstanding team members who work tirelessly to serve our community through pandemics, hurricanes, and more! They have never wavered in their commitment and dedication. Since 1938 the Wynn Family has been serving the Naples Community. Michael Wynn President at Sunshine Ace Hardware
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Thank you for choosing Sunshine Ace!
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Since Since1938, 1938,we wehave havebeen beenhonored honored by by the the continued continued support and andpatronage patronageof ofour ourcommunity. community. We We take take great great in offering the finest finestshopping shoppingexperience experienceand and always always aim aim to give our customers customersextra extrapersonal personalservice service and and attention. attention. Thank you for shoppinglocal localand andfor forsupporting supporting our our family family business. business. We are shopping honoredtotobe beNaples' Naples'neighborhood neighborhood supermarket supermarket and to be honored recognizedas asNaples Naples Top Top 100! 100! recognized
Jeff JeffWynn Wynn Wynn's Family Wynn's FamilyMarket, Market,Inc. Inc.
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12/11/24 2:44 PM
The Naples 100 KOLTER URBAN
CONTENTS
12 BESPOKE LIVING
10
EDITOR’S LETTER
78
2020-2025
Growing together
BESPOKE LIVING New condo developments highlight Naples’ escalating luxury cachet
18
80
SOUND ADVICE Naples 100 honorees consider what type of advice they’d give to their 18-year-old self or a recent grad
THE DISH
RIDGWAY BAR & GRILL
12
PAST HONOREES
Great restaurants—and restaurateurs—that make Naples dining so sweet Plus: Delectable gems
30
DIRECTORY Index of 2026 Honorees
32
THE NAPLES 100 This year’s list of movers and shakers
71
MAKERS Philanthropy shapes Collier County’s destiny. A showcase of recent projects that have come to fruition—and the benefactors behind them
18 THE DISH
The Naples 100
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Outstanding Service. Extraordinary Quality. Unsurpassed Value. The Bigham Jewelers Team is committed to exceeding expectations.
BIGHAM GALLERIA | 2425 Tamiami Trail N #101 | 239.434.2800 | bighamjewelers.com
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THE NAPLES
100 PUBLISHER Kathy Beuttel EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Daphne Nikolopoulos
EDITORIAL EDITOR Cathy Chestnut CREATIVE DIRECTOR Olga M. Gustine DESIGN DIRECTOR Laurie Spector DIGITAL IMAGING SPECIALIST George Davis WEB EDITOR Abigail Duffy SOCIAL MEDIA EDITOR Megan Roberts
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Karen Feldman, Nanci Theoret
ADVERTISING ACCOUNT MANAGER Meegan Wyatt, 239-298-7511, mwyatt@naplesillustrated.com MARKETING MANAGER Rebecca Desir ADVERTISING SERVICES COORDINATOR Elizabeth Hackney
PRODUCTION PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Selene M. Ceballo PRODUCTION MANAGER Lourdes Linares DIGITAL PRE-PRESS SPECIALIST George Davis SENIOR ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Jeffrey Rey ADVERTISING DESIGN COORDINATOR Anaely J. Perez Vargas PRODUCTION COORDINATOR Ileana Caban DIGITAL MARKETING MANAGER Tyler Sansone
OPERATIONS CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Todd Schmidt ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE SPECIALISTS Ana Coronel, Avery Morales DISTRIBUTION MANAGER Judy Heflin LOGISTICS MANAGER Omar Morales CIRCULATION MANAGER Marjorie Leiva CIRCULATION ASSISTANTS Cathy Hart, Britney Stinson CIRCULATION PROMOTIONS MANAGER David Supple IT MANAGER Omar Greene GROUP PUBLISHER Terry Duffy
SUBSCRIPTIONS 800-308-7346 IN MEMORIAM Ronald J. Woods (1935-2013) HOUR MEDIA, LLC CEO Stefan Wanczyk | PRESIDENT John Balardo
PUBLISHERS OF: Palm Beach Illustrated • Naples Illustrated • Palm Beach Charity Register • Naples Charity Register • Florida Design • Florida Design Naples • Florida Design Miami • Florida Design Sarasota • Florida Design Sourcebook • Palm Beach Relocation Guide • Southwest Florida Relocation Guide • Fifth Avenue South • Naples 100 • Art & Culture: Cultural Council for Palm Beach County • Pinnacle: Jupiter Medical Center Foundation • Waypoints: Naples Yacht Club • Naples on the Gulf: Greater Naples Chamber • Jupiter • Stuart • Aventura • Vero Beach Magazine • Community Report: Collier Community Foundation • Advances: Tampa General Hospital • Naples Realtor: Naples Area Board of REALTORS® • Annual Report: Woods Charitable Trust • 850 Business Magazine • At the Beach • Emerald Coast Magazine • Footprints: Hilton Sandestin Beach • Northwest Florida Weddings • Panama City Beach Visitors Guide • Sandestin Living: Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort • Tallahassee Magazine • Tallahassee Meeting Planner • Tallahassee Newcomer • Cultural Arts Alliance #ArtMatters • Destin County Wine Auction Magazine • Tallahassee Physician & Medical Resource Guide • Visit Tallahassee: Leon County Division of Tourism • Watersound Lifestyle
Naples Illustrated 3066 Tamiami Trail N., Suite 102, Naples, FL 34103 • 239-434-6966 • Fax 239-435-0409 Naples Illustrated is a registered trademark of Palm Beach Media Group North, LLC Corporate Headquarters: P.O. Box 3344, Palm Beach, FL 33480 • naplesillustrated.com
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What inspires you inspires us. Over 40 years ago, we set forth on a remarkable journey in Naples fueled by passion and inspired by the incredible individuals who call this place home. Every design we craft is a testament to the inspiration drawn from our community, interwoven with the dreams and aspirations of our valued clientele. To our esteemed clients, visionary designers, talented artisan partners, and beloved family and friends – it is because of you that we stand proudly in the face of this prestigious honor, and for that, we extend our most sincere gratitude.
Every great design begins an even better story. Yours. 239.514.1234 I dwest.com I 445 5th Ave S., Naples, FL 34102
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The Naples 100 FROM THE EDITOR
Growing Together How would you describe the greater Naples area to someone who has never visited? A few facts are top of mind: gastronomic greatness, luxury living, and preeminent philanthropy.
W
e delve deeper into these community assets in this issue of The Naples 100, created by the publishers of Naples Illustrated each year to
showcase the impressive caliber of local talent and community commitment that makes Collier County a desirable place to live, play, and work. How desirable? • Collier consistently ranks as the second-richest county in Florida. • The county’s population is expected to continue to grow—from today’s 416,000 to more than 450,000 by 2030. • Collier County boasts 18,990 small businesses, and it is ranked among the top 5 counties in the Sunshine State to run a small business. • Collier County is the most charitable county in Florida, with 11.87 percent of tax returns itemizing charitable contributions versus the overall Florida average of 4.54, according to a 2023 SmartAsset study. Since we first published The Naples 100 in 2020, it has consistently been a challenge to winnow the honorees to 100. While this presents a challenge for the staff at Naples Illustrated, it is a true testament to the quantity of people who enhance the quality of life in the greater Naples area for everyone. We see a genuine investment from the community’s building blocks: small, locally owned businesses, corporations, the public sector, nonprofits, and extraordinary philanthropists. All these pieces come together to strengthen the mosaic of the Paradise Coast by tackling challenges head-on and planning for future issues and opportunities. Find out how Collier County’s ultra-luxe ambience is reaching new heights in “Bespoke Living” (page 12), the restaurateurs and chefs who have made Naples a dining destination (page 18), and some of the The individuals honored in The Naples 100 are not only successful in their professions, but they’re also leaders who volunteer their time, money, and expertise. They listen, inspire, and roll up their sleeves to strengthen and uplift this special place we call home.
Cathy Chestnut EDITOR
MEGAN DIPIERO PHOTOGRAPHY
exemplary philanthropists who are shaping the community’s destiny in “Makers” (page 71).
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CELEBRATING 25 YEARS OF EXCEPTIONAL QUALITY
Congratulations to Brian Stock, in recognition of your achievement as one of Naples’ top 100 influential leaders. For 25 years, the STOCK name has been synonymous with exceptional craftsmanship and incomparable lifestyle. Since the beginning, we’ve held a deep commitment to giving back to the community in which we live and work. Thank you for leading and growing our company for 25 years.
Brian Stock CEO, Stock Development
“We’re excited for what’s ahead for the next 25 years.”
To learn more about STOCK, its history and its communities, visit
StockDevelopment.com
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11/13/25 9:59 AM
The Naples 100 LUXURY RISING
Bespoke Living
OLANA NAPES
New condo developments highlight Naples’ escalating luxury cachet
KOLTER URBAN
By Nanci Theoret
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aples’ luxury real estate market is red hot, heralding a new era of businesses and residential properties catering to the mega-wealthy. The arrival of legacy brands like Lamborghini and Hermès, a Fifth Avenue South transformation that brings Porsche alongside upscale retailers, and a Restoration Hardware at Waterside Shops signal the city’s rising luxury status. Nowhere is it more pronounced than the new mid- and high-rise condominiums transforming skylines from downtown to established communities like Pelican Bay and Moorings Park, replacing older buildings lost to time and hurricanes. Fourteen new developments alone boast 954 units, some with price tags well above the $20 million median of a single-family estate in Port Royal, upward of 10,000 square feet, and new-to-the-market amenities like private inresidence wellness suites and 24/7 concierge and hospitality services, in addition to pools and fitness centers. Several also feature a luxury retail component. Here's a look at the seven top-priced projects:
#1 OLANA NAPLES
Location: Coquina Sands, Gulf Shore Boulevard Developer: BH Group, Kolter Urban Units: 12 Square Footage: 10,000 Occupancy: 2028 Starting Price: $32 million OLANA NAPLES
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The Naples 100 LUXURY RISING
Wow Factors: Designed by renowned Randall Stofft Architects, these ultra-luxe homes will feature floor-to-ceiling glass walls framing panoramic gulf views, acoustically designed theaters, clubrooms, and private wellness centers with hydrotherapy suites, including a steam room, dry sauna, cold plunge, and therapeutic tub. South-facing penthouses are $45 million. “Olana marks a new era in beachfront living and is unlike any other development in Naples,” says Virginia Amoroso, director of sales. “These are not just condos; they're full-scale estate homes on the gulf, each offering a spa and wellness suite, presentation and chef's kitchens, and full concierge service."
buildings completed in late 2025. The project also offers 95 golf condominiums overlooking The Gardens, the new 18-hole Tom Faziodesigned golf course. Residents enjoy a resort-inspired lifestyle, replete with multiple pools, golf, tennis, five dining experiences—one helmed by a two-time James Beard Award-winning chef—and 1,000 feet of white-sand beachfront. There’s also a Residents Club, a 30,000-square-foot wellness spa, and Market Square with shops, a sports pub, and bowling alley.
#3 ROSEWOOD RESIDENCES NAPLES
Location: Gulf Shore Boulevard Developer: The Ronto Group Units: 42 Square Footage: 4,226-9,700 Occupancy: First quarter 2027 Starting Price: $12.75 million Wow Factors: Priced up to $42 million for a 9,700-square-foot penthouse, Rosewood Residences, comprised of two seven-story towers, will offer the amenities and services of a five-star luxury hotel, plus 485 feet of white sand and beach concierge. “The lifestyle really is unparalleled—you get all of the benefits of hotel living without any of the transient aspects,” says Van Osborne, vice president of sales for The Ronto Group. “Someone is always at your beck and call, whether it’s walking the dog or setting up a massage. Anything they want, they’ll get.”
#2 NAPLES BEACH CLUB,
A FOUR SEASONS RESORT
Location: Old Naples, Gulf Shore Boulevard Developer: The Athens Group, Discovery Land Company Units: 153 Square Footage: 5,000 Occupancy: Late 2025 for beach-side residences/2028 for golf-side residences Starting Price: $20 million Wow Factors: Featuring sun-filled, open great rooms and expansive verandas, luxury homes at the 125-acre property on the site of the former Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club include the first 58 in three beachfront
ROSEWOOD RESIDENCES NAPLES
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The Naples 100 LUXURY RISING
#4 THE HUXLEY
Location: South Eighth Street, Old Naples AURA AT METROPOLITAN NAPLES Developer: Augusterra Group Units: 8 Square Footage: 4,386-5,483 Occupancy: Late 2027 Starting Price: $8 million Wow Factors: Two- and three-story residences only a block from Fifth Avenue South will live much like Naples’ version of a brownstone with ground-floor guest suites and kitchenettes (some also have lounges), and private four-to six-car garages with lift capabilities. Homes will boast spacious outdoor living with alfresco kitchens and second-floor or rooftop pools and spas. “The pools, location, garages, and size of the units stand out,” says Dante DiSabato, a luxury properties specialist with William Raveis Real Estate. Designed by MHK Architecture, The Huxley also offers a VIP lounge, formal boardroom, and is pet friendly without weight restrictions.
#5 TWENTY TWENTY GULF SHORE
Location: Gulf Shore Boulevard, The Moorings Developer: Barron Collier Companies, Golub & Company Units: 15 Square Footage: 3,000+ Occupancy: Not available Starting Price: $7.5 million Wow Factors: Nestled along Hidden Harbor, the development formerly known as Park Place on Gulf Shore will, like its predecessor, offer boat slips, gulf access, and three-bedroom residences highlighting unobstructed panoramic views of the gulf and Moorings Bay. Also referred to as 2020 Gulf Shore, details were limited pending its official launch. “We are offering turnkey solutions,” says Christine Lutz, director of new development sales and marketing for the Dawn McKenna Group, which represents the project. “We have an incredible design team that is going to make these homes really outstanding.”
KOLTER URBAN
#6 EPIQUE PELICAN BAY
Location: Pelican Bay Boulevard Developer: Gulf Bay Development Units: 68 Square Footage: 4,001-9,681 Occupancy: Late 2026 Starting Price: $6.5 million Wow Factors: The 19-story high-rise’s four penthouses feature rooftop oases with infinity-edge pools, spas, winter kitchens, and stellar gulf views. Representing the final newconstruction ownership opportunity in Pelican Bay, Epique also offers estate and garden residences with sunset terraces.
3300 GULF SHORE
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Congratulations
Bill Raveis
We’re proud to celebrate Bill Raveis for being named one of The Naples 100, a well-deserved recognition of his outstanding leadership, vision, and compassion. Beyond his entrepreneurial success in real estate, Bill continues to make an extraordinary impact through his charitable work. Most recently honoring the life and spirit of Candy Raveis with the dedication of The Candy & Bill Raveis Pathology Laboratory and a statue of Candy and their two Yorkies on a bench in front of the Neighborhood Health Clinic. This state-of-the-art facility will provide critical diagnostic services bringing hope to thousands of Collier County residents in need, an enduring legacy of love and generosity. Congratulations, Bill, on this remarkable award!
The Candy & Bill Raveis Pathology Laboratory
William Raveis Executive Team Celebrates the Pathology Lab Grand Opening l-r: Daniel Farr, CFO; Ray Cashen, General Counsel; Ryan Raveis, Co-President; Chris Raveis, Co-President; Lisa Carpenter, CMO; Bill Raveis, Chairman & CEO
*
*
Highest Honor in Luxury Real Estate* Highest Honor in Luxury Real Estate*
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The Naples 100 LUXURY RISING
MORE NOTABLE ADDRESSES Several other high-profile condominium and mixed-use projects are changing the Naples landscape. Two boast Fifth Avenue South addresses with luxury retail, including The Avenue, where 75,000 square feet of new retail space represents 40.5 percent of downtown’s existing 185,000 square feet. The property’s $300 million impact is one of the largest in the area, says Christine Lutz, Dawn McKenna Group sales and marketing director. Other projects include 15 condos at the former Lemon Tree Inn, a second Ritz-Carlton Residences with a Balineseinspired lagoon, and the final building at Naples Square.
TWO TEN WEST
Location: Old Naples, Ninth Street South Developer: Platinum Developments Units: 12 units | Square Footage: 3,500-5,100 Occupancy: Not available Starting Price: $4.7 million
3300 GULF SHORE
Location: Gulf Shore Boulevard, The Moorings Developer: Kolter Urban Units: 51 | Square Footage: 2,000-7,500 Occupancy: 2028 Starting Price: $3.7 million
ENCORE NAPLES SQUARE
Location: 12th Street South, Naples Design District Developer: The Ronto Group Units: 15 | Square Footage: 2,700-5,700 Occupancy: Fourth quarter 2026 Starting Price: $3.6 million
KALEA BAY TOWER 500
Location: Old Coast Road Developer: Soave Enterprises Units: 120 | Square Footage: 3,290-4,372
Occupancy: September 2026 Starting Price: $3.5 million
THE AVENUE
Location: Fifth Avenue South Developer: Aprea Units: 50 | Square Footage: 1,800-3,400 Occupancy: 2027 Starting Price: $3 million
THE RITZ- CARLTON RESIDENCES, ESTERO BAY Location: Coastal village of Saltleaf, Estero Bay Developer: London Bay Development Units: 224 | Square Footage: 2,628-3,885 Occupancy: First quarter 2026 Starting Price: $3 million
AURA AT METROPOLITAN NAPLES
Location: Fifth Avenue South Developer: Jerry Starkey, Fred Pezeshkan Units: 56 | Square Footage: 1,890-6,300 Occupancy: Fall 2026 Starting Price: $2 million
Residents will enjoy a full floor of indoor and outdoor social and wellness amenities, 24-hour concierge service, and access to Pelican Bay’s private beaches and amenities. A private dining club features masterful mixology, inspired menus, and a room that can be reserved for intimate events.
#7 THE RITZ-CARLTON
RESIDENCES, NAPLES
Location: Vanderbilt Beach Road and Gulf Shore Drive Developer: Stock Development Units: 128 THE AVENUE Square Footage: 3,000-10,000 Occupancy: Mid-2026 Starting Price: $5.2 Wow Factors: From its kid’s room and Formula 1 racecar simulator in the teen hangout to a 22-slip marina and gulf-view dining on the twelfth floor of both towers, the residences cater to all members of the family. The property also offers 50,000 square feet of amenities, full concierge service,
RENDERING BY PANOPTIKON
and a marina captain to facilitate shelling, deep-sea fishing, and sunset excursions. “There are so many opportunities to be entertained and enjoy the luxury lifestyle,” says Claudine Leger-Wetzel, vice president of sales and marketing for Stock Development.
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northerntrust.com/next
Congratulations to Ron Ciesla for being recognized as one of Collier County’s top 100 most influential business leaders. What worked for the last 50 years will not work for the next 50. Northern Trust offers unmatched insight and expertise to help you meet the ambitions you have for your wealth.
Ronald B. Ciesla , CFA, Managing Director / 239.262.5560 Northern Trust Downtown Naples / 500 Fifth Avenue South / Naples, Florida 34102
I N V E ST I N G / B A N K I N G / T R U ST & E STAT E S E R V I C E S / W E A LT H P L A N N I N G / FA M I LY O F F I C E Member FDIC. © 2026 Northern Trust Corporation.
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The Naples 100 THE DISH ON RESTAURATEURS
RIDGWAY BAR & GRILL
The Dish Great restaurants that make Naples dining so sweet By Karen Feldman in town. Ridgway Bar & Grill earned a DiRōNa (Distinguished Restaurants of North America) Award of Excellence. Bayside Seafood Grill & Bar They have continued to succeed and thrived Ridgway Bar & Grill in the face of hurricanes, recessions and Sukie’s Wine Shop business downturns, and the COVID-19 Tony’s Off Third Wine Shop & Bakery pandemic. He has mentored multiple successful chefs Few can recall Naples BTR—Before Tony who now run their own restaurants and Ridgway. In 1971, the 27-year-old Kenyon published a cookbook, Kitchen Privileges: A College graduate and Air Force veteran—with Hands-On Account of Life, Food, and How to Cook, virtually no restaurant experience—bought the that’s as appetizing as it is informative. sausage-centric The Wurst Place. He went on to move Ridgway believes success is, in part, “measured by how Naples’ dining options beyond meat and potatoes with SUKIE HONEYCUTT AND we treat our employees. There is no success without a strong gems such as The Chef’s Garden and Truffles, Villa Pescatore, TONY RIDGWAY base. We’re busy, we have great staff, we have thousands of and Plum’s. Sukie Honeycutt came on board in 1979 and they committed customers who happily support us. All that feels very partnered in 1981. Today, they co-own Ridgway Bar & Grill, much like success to me.” Bayside Seafood Grill & Bar, Tony’s Off Third Wine Shop & Bakery, and Honeycutt cites making customers happy and overcoming major Sukie’s Wine Shop. challenges as proof of success. “It’s being in one of the toughest of all Ridgway’s 600-bottle master wine list boasts Wine Spectator’s “Best businesses,” she says, “yet still looking forward to coming to work every day of Award of Excellence.” Honeycutt’s exceptional palate has won her after 46 years.” (ridgwaybarandgrill.com) devotees among major winemakers, who stop in to see her when they are
TONY RIDGWAY AND SUKIE HONEYCUTT
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The Naples 100 THE SECOND GENERATION AT BLEU PROVENCE
THE DISH ON RESTAURATEURS
(Cameron Mitchell Restaurants) Prime Social Reserve Rick Giannasi isn’t a chef, and he gave up bartending decades ago. But, having successfully launched three Fifth Avenue South restaurants, he’s a well-known restaurateur around town. He served as general manager for the opening of Ocean Prime, then for Del Mar, and is now the general manager of Prime Social Reserve, an exclusive rooftop dining experience. Before all that, he helped open several Ocean Primes around the country. All those openings taught him “it takes a village. Surrounding yourself with great people who want to deliver genuine hospitality has been key,” Giannasi says. “I’ve learned in such a close-knit town the importance and reward of being a good neighbor. I’ve never felt a closer restaurant community.” His previous acting career CAME RON MI may inform his method in his TC HE LL RE current role. “Managing is ST like being Oz behind the curtain, organizing, directing and guiding all those moving parts,” Giannasi says. “And when the curtain opens and you step out, hopefully the road ahead is smooth and you don’t scare anyone.” (primesocialreserve.com)
AU
KEVIN AND CLEMENT CARIOT
RICK GIANNASI
S
Bleu Provence. Just hearing the name can halt conversation as the memory of an exquisite bite of duck confit or sip of sublime Burgundy savored there comes to mind. One of the restaurants that sets Naples apart, Bleu Provence is nationally known for its extraordinary southern French and local cuisine, with wines and hospitality to match. Lysielle and Jacques Cariot opened it in 1999, shortly after retiring and relocating from the region of Provence in southeastern France. The restaurant has thrived, added a wine store and has earned one of only 96 Grand Awards on the annual Wine Spectator list. The couple retired and moved to Costa Rica last year, leaving their beloved restaurant in good hands: those of their sons, Clement and Kevin, who have been there for years. “As the second generation leading Bleu Provence, our aspirations are to honor our legacy while elevating the experience for our guests,” says Kevin, the general manager. Clement, an advanced sommelier in the prestigious Court of Master Sommeliers, oversees the wine program, which includes 3,500-plus selections and upwards of 30,000 bottles. “We want to expand our wine program, curating rare and unique selections to maintain our world-class list,” Clement says. The Cariots have worked with the Naples Winter Wine Festival for many years and plan to strengthen ties with other community organizations. Their goal, Kevin says, is to “keep Bleu Provence a timeless destination in Naples, blending tradition with innovation for years to come.” (bleuprovencenaples.com)
NT
Bleu Provence Bleu Provence Fine Wines
RA
KEVIN AND CLEMENT CARIOT
RICK GIANNASI
RENDERING OF PRIME SOCIAL RESERVE
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The Naples 100 THE DISH ON RESTAURATEURS
VINCENZO BETULIA
A Kendall Culinary Institute graduate and former Campiello chef, Betulia hungered to (Campagna Hospitality Group) spread the word about the Naples dining scene. Bar Tulia/Bar Tulia Mercato He held the first Friends of James Beard Osteria Tulia Benefit dinner in Naples in 2015, raising Tulia Catering & Events money for culinary scholarships. A year later, Tulia Italian Steak the foundation invited him to present a dinner at the iconic James Beard House in Greenwich Since opening Osteria Tulia in 2013, Village, New York. Vincenzo Betulia has built a hospitality Campagna Hospitality Group supports empire. His Campagna Hospitality Group several nonprofits and fundraising efforts. includes Osteria Tulia, Tulia Catering & Among them: Blessings in a Backpack during Events, Bar Tulia downtown and at Mercato, Sizzle Dining, Naples Winer Wine Festival, Beverly's and Tulia Italian Steak, formerly The French Angels through Flavors on Fifth, and Youth Haven. Brasserie Rustique. During the pandemic, he launched a $100,000 challenge to He has succeeded in the face of all the challenges VINCENZO BETULIA help feed Collier County teachers. restaurants face in Naples—the top one being its seasonality. He and his restaurants have won recognition locally, statewide “We deal with market challenges, weather challenges, labor and nationally. Among those are Florida Trend’s Golden Spoons and, challenges, cost challenges, and all the air conditioners failing during the in 2025, Osteria Tulia earned a DiRōNa Award of Excellence. hottest months of the year,” he says. “All restaurants have challenges; it’s (campagnahospitalitygroup.com) how you handle them.”
FABRIZIO AND INGRID AIELLI (The Aielli Group) Barbatella Bakery at Grappino Grappino Sea Salt Fabrizio and Ingrid Aielli have done much for the city’s culinary profile and the community at large during their 20 years in Naples. Upon opening in 2008, Esquire magazine named Sea Salt one of its “Best New Restaurants.” It’s INGRID AND FABRIZIO AIELLI a perennial winner in Wine Spectator’s annual awards, now in the second tier, the “Best of Award of Excellence.” Their success comes from their boundless creativity, energy, and generosity combined with their well-matched talents. Fabrizio creates restaurant concepts and dishes while mentoring young talent. Ingrid focuses on Aielli Group business and philanthropy. They are longtime supporters of the Naples Winter Wine Festival. It was his experience as a wine festival celebrity chef in 2005 that inspired them to leave their top-drawer restaurant in Washington, D.C. and move to Naples. “Over the past two decades, we’ve worked hard to create a legacy that extends beyond our dining rooms—one that has a lasting impact on the culinary landscape and the community that welcomed us,” Fabrizio says. PHOTOS: CAMPAGNA HOSPITALITY GROUP
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Celebrating Over 60 Years of Excellence CONGRATULATIONS TO HOWARD GUTMAN, FOR BEING RECOGNIZED AMONG THE NAPLES TOP 100.
LUTGERT DEVELOPMENT
LUTGERT CONSTRUCTION, LLC
For over 60 years, The Lutgert Companies has set the benchmark for innovative, forward-thinking, and environmentally conscious development. Howard’s visionary leadership as president and chief executive officer reflects an unwavering commitment to excellence and integrity instrumental in shaping our community. As we look to the future, we are excited to continue building upon this legacy, contributing to an even brighter and more vibrant place to live.
E X P E R I E N C E T H E E XT R AO R D I N A RY
We extend our gratitude for your dedication, insight, and leadership. 2 3 9 . 2 6 1 . 6 1 0 0 | L U T G E R T.C O M
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The Naples 100 THE DISH ON RESTAURATEURS
Ingrid has served on the boards of Youth Haven and Chaîne des Rôtisseurs, the international gastronomy association. They support Angels Undercover, Make-a-Wish Southern Florida, Patty Baker Humane Society Naples, David Lawrence Centers for Behavioral Health, Champions for Learning, The Shelter for Abused Women & Children Naples, and St. Matthew’s House, among many others. Looking back, Ingrid says, “There are many milestones we are proud of, FABRIZIO AIELLI but above all it’s our deep partnership with the Naples community and the relationships we’ve built through supporting local charities and initiatives.” (aielligroup.com)
And, although the pandemic hurt many of them, his business grew with new patrons who discovered him thanks to the spacious courtyard seating and to-go meals during the shutdown. His success isn’t accidental. He thinks “consistency is most important. Once you have people coming in and they like it, when they come back it’s got to be the same, not just in the food but all the way around—the service, the cleanliness, the pricing.” (alexandersnaples.com)
REBECCA MADDOX Celebration Park Rebecca’s Naples The Maddox Naples Three60 Wine
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Entrepreneur. Real estate developer. Wine maven. Accountant. Restaurateur. All these terms fit Rebecca Maddox, but even when combined, they don’t accurately define her. Visionary isn’t too strong a word. “I’m a very curious person, REBECCA MADDOX a learner,” Maddox told Naples Illustrated. “Some people have a talent for singing or playing piano. My talent is to look at a vacant piece of property, and an idea pops up.” Take, for example, her ability to see the potential of the Bayshore Arts District in east Naples when it was still considered unsavory and unsafe. She bought property there and built Three60 Market, a waterfront restaurant and market, then later converted it to Three60 Wine—with all bottles just $3.60 over cost. She now has three locations in Naples and Estero. Next came Celebration Park, with a full liquor bar and nine food trucks. In the same neighborhood, she opened Rebecca’s Wine Bar, a stylish spot for wine and dining along with her wine shop. And then The Maddox, a private social club and event venue, designed to engage and involve members in its many programs, talking with one another and, of course, drinking wine. Other entrepreneurs are now seeing the potential that Maddox saw all along. (rebeccasnaples.com)
ALEXANDER BERNARD Alexander’s Garden Restaurant
CARONCHI PHOTOGRAPHY
ZION BAKER
Much has changed in 30 years, but Naples food lovers could always count on Alexander’s Garden Restaurant for its consistently delicious New American and European-influenced cuisine. And let’s not forget that lush courtyard. Chef/owner Alexander Bernard transformed a modest coffee shop, whose windows overlooked that courtyard, into a cozy restaurant and a perfect setting for al fresco dining under lights twinkling in the trees. His wife, Monika, a professional dancer and studio owner, handles the business side. The menu continues to evolve, often with flavors he’s discovered during the annual three-month hiatus he and Monika enjoy in Carmel-by-the-Sea, California. Bernard has seen many restaurants come and go in three decades.
ALEXANDER BERNARD
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MICK MOORE AND PETER TIERNEY The Turtle Club
PETER TIERNEY The Claw Bar The London Club Syren Oyster & Cocktail Bar IRG
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Watching the sun drop into the gulf while dining at a candlelit table on The Turtle Club’s beach never gets old. In 1998, Michael Moore and Peter Tierney opened The Turtle Club on the grounds of the Vanderbilt Beach Resort, which Moore’s family has owned since 1968. Today, Tierney is business partners with his son, Mick Moore. Its old Florida charm, superb sunset view, and sophisticated coastal cuisine—such as its Famous PETER TIERNEY Oysters “Turtlefeller” and Seafood Salad Croissant—draw visitors and longtime residents alike. During the almost two years it was closed for repairs following Hurricane Ian, its loyal fan base kept a close and impatient eye for its reopening. The Vanderbilt Beach Resort is the last family-owned resort remaining in Naples and the Moores work hard to preserve this rare remnant of the city’s origins. It’s an iconic space in which people create memories. Meanwhile, Tierney has expanded his restaurant holdings extensively, with his latest, the waterfront Syren Oyster & Cocktail Bar, a seafood-focused restaurant in the Naples Boat Club showcasing delicacies such as ceviche, crudos, and a chilled seafood bar. Inside the Bellasera Hotel, where Tierney is a partner, are two popular venues. The Claw Bar is a popular destination for Southern-inspired dishes with an emphasis on seafood, while The London Club offers reservation-only dining featuring The Claw Bar menu and live music on Friday and Saturday evenings. (turtleclubnaples.com) (syrenoysterbar. com) (bellaseranaples.com)
GRANT PHELAN (Phelan Family Brands) The Bay House Caimàn Cantina Chop’s City Grill CJ’s on the Bay Deep Lagoon Seafood & Oyster House Keewaydin’s on Fifth Pazzo! Cucina Italiana Phuzzy’s Boat Shack Pinchers Texas Tony’s BBQ Shack
GRANT PHELAN
Grant Phelan wants people to know that Phelan Family Brands is not “just another chain.” “This is deeply personal for me and my family,” says the secondgeneration CEO. “We’ve called Southwest Florida home for 35 years, starting with a tiny 12-table seafood spot in Bonita Springs, and growing right alongside this community. Every step of the way, we’ve worked hard, taken care of THE TURTLE CLUB people like family, and stayed committed to serving the freshest food possible.” Phelan helped his father, Tony, open the family’s first restaurant and has grown the company to include multiple concepts and 26 restaurants, ranging from the casual Pinchers to upscale spots like The Bay House and Chops City Grill. “I’ve always believed dining should create memories—not just meals,” he notes. Why so many? “Many of the restaurants we’ve acquired have long histories in this community. When those owners were ready to pass the torch, I saw an opportunity to keep their legacies alive,” Phelan explains. “We don’t just take over restaurants—we invest in them, breathe new energy into their spaces, support their teams, and ensure they have a future here in Naples. Every concept has its own story and soul; my motivation has always been to protect that and help it thrive.” (phelanfamilybrands.com)
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Delectable Gems 13 eateries that excite different sets of tastebuds By Cathy Chestnut
RHODE’S END
It’s not an exaggeration to say that Naples is a foodie's paradise
countries. Special Sauce: Feeling like you have been transported to Europe. (mediterrano-naples.com)
with delicious options around every corner, making it impossible to distill the best into a short list. Here are 13 gems based on their popularity,
The family-owned Buzz’s Lighthouse has been a waterfront gem on
staying power, atmosphere, or gastronomical excellence—each with its
Gulf Shore Drive since opening in 1980. With its illuminated lighthouse
own special sauce.
outside and nautical-themed décor inside, it’s a casual place to take the whole family for the vista and Buzz’s Famous Grouper Reuben. Special
At The Local, executive chef, founder, and owner Jeff Mitchell “works
Sauce: Vintage vibes. (buzzslighthouse.com)
closely with local ranchers, farmers, sea mongers, and artisans to source products with integrity, flavor, and soul. With this profound commitment
Lake Park Diner is a casual eatery featuring Smith Organics produce
to local ingredients, the team changes the menu daily based on the day’s
with two locations: Founders Square and Seventh Avenue North in
delivery,” according to the restaurant’s website. Mitchell is a classically
downtown Naples. It’s a Paul Fleming concept focused on healthful
trained chef and wine expert with 20 years of experience. Special Sauce:
offerings. Special Sauce: A “diner with a conscience.” (thelakeparkdiner.
From ricotta cheese to sourdough to pickles, many ingredients are created
com) Molto is Italian for “plenty of” and Molto Trattoria dishes up plenty
in the scratch kitchen—and artisanal kombucha is on tap. Named several times among the “100 Best Al Fresco Dining
of Neri family recipes at this Fifth Avenue South mainstay. It has earned
Restaurants in America” by OpenTable and No. 1 in Naples by TripAdvisor,
national and statewide accolades and has been spotlighted on the Food
Mediterrano's cuisine showcases the traditions and delicacies of the
Network’s “Guy Fieri's Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives.” Special Sauce:
coasts of Spain, Greece, Italy, Morocco, and other Mediterranean
Housemade pizza, pastas, gnocchi, and sauces. (moltonaples.com)
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In early 2025, Rooster Food + Drink in the Empire Plaza was featured in Season 14 of the Food Network’s “Guy Fieri's Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives,” which highlighted the cafe’s Texas Reuben— sliced brisket on marbled rye with jalapeno coleslaw, heat cheese, and siracha aioli—and the Rooster Hot and Crunchy Grouper. Special Sauce: Its Southern flare on breakfast and lunch fare by a veteran local chef (and hummingbird cake). (theroosternaples.com) Family-owned, locally operated Sunburst Café in the Pine Ridge Crossing Plaza has served up an extensive selection of coffees and teas, fresh-baked muffins, and a hearty lunch and breakfast for more than 20 years. Special Sauce: The interior art and 18 x 6 mural of the Costa Rican mountainside. (sunburstnaples.com) Reservations are strongly recommended at Amore Ristorante, where Italian cuisine created with fresh, high-quality natural ingredients in a relaxing atmosphere has been served since 1997. Special Sauce: An ideal locale for celebrating special occasions. (amoreristorante.com) The Naples Grande Beach Resort’s Rhode’s End is a beachfront spot with outdoor seating and views of the gulf. It’s a popular place to grab a casual lunch from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. or a frosty cocktail until sunset without a reservation. Secret Sauce: Its location at the end of the Clam Pass boardwalk. (naplesgrande.com) In Neapolitan Way Shopping Center, Stephen Karakosta carries on the restaurant legacy of his grandparents and parents at Mr. Big Fish with a simple menu accentuating fresh, local seafood delivered daily, hand-cut steaks, and salads. Special Sauce: Excellent sides, including cauliflower mash and O-Gratin potatoes, and lobster bisque. (mrbig fish.com) The 239 Local focuses on non-GMO and organics and the gluten-free and vegan offerings are extensive. With a commitment to sustainability, the restaurant incorporates produce from local farms, fresh-caught fish, and responsibly sourced meats. The focus is on health without comprising taste. Special Sauce: Seed oils are
HOGFISH HARRY’S
not in use here; instead, olive oil, grass-fed beef tallow, and coconut oil are used. (the239naples.com) The award-winning Twisted Sheep Pizza & Brew is known for its wacky pizza stylings (with a buffalo sauce base, cheddar cheese,
scallops, lobster, crab, mussels, and more. Special Sauce: Hogfish.
chopped buttermilk fried chicken, among other toppings) and appetizers
(hog fishharrys.com)
with a twist, like Kung Pao Brussels and Candied Bacon Bruschetta.
Marco Island has many hidden gems, including the waterfront
Special Sauce: Graffiti-inspired art you can buy off the walls.
Sunset Grille (sunsetgrilleonmarcoisland.com), Dolphin Tiki Bar &
(twistedsheeppizza.com)
Grill (dolphintikibar.com) at Angler’s Cove, Island Gypsy Café & Marina
The name says it all: Hogfish Harry’s. Tucked away at Park Shore
Bar (theislandgypsy.com) at Capri Marina, and the upscale 844 Gulf & Prime (844gulfandprime.com).
Resort, the island-inspired restaurant zooms in on seafood—shrimp,
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C ON G R AT U L AT ION S NA PL E S NA N T UC K E T YAC H T G ROU P ON BE I N G H ON O R E D A M ON G T H E NA PL E S 10 0.
C E L E BR AT I NG 2 0 Y E A R S ON T H E WAT E R ! Twenty years ago, Bill Charbonneau set out to share his love of the sea through unforgettable yachting experiences by founding Naples Nantucket Yacht Group. Today, alongside his wife, Jacquie, and their sweet four-legged daughter, Chatham, that original dream has grown into a family-driven company built on heart, integrity, and a passion for creating moments that last a lifetime. From bespoke charters to fractional ownership, yacht sales, and full-service management, Naples Nantucket Yacht Group proudly serves discerning clients around the globe, helping them celebrate life’s most meaningful moments on the water in comfort, beauty, and effortless luxury. Here’s to 20 years of beautiful journeys…and the many still to come.
Naples Nantucket Yacht Group 850 Central Avenue #110, Naples, Florida 34102 239.331.6868 · bill@nnymg.com · nnymg.com
A T R A DI T ION O F YAC H T I N G E XC E L L E N C E
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The Team at Gulf Coast International Properties® proudly congratulates
TIM P. SAVAGE, P.A., Owner and Principal of GCIP, in recognition of your outstanding achievement as one of Naples’ Top 100 Influential Leaders. Your record-setting sales, exceptional leadership, and unwavering commitment to serving the community are truly exemplary. Your proven results speak for themselves – Over $369,206,000 in 2025 Pending and Closed Sales year to date. Your dedication to your team, clients and community continue to set the benchmark for excellence in Naples luxury real estate.
®
1144 Third Street South Naples, Florida 34102 239.434.2558
www.gcipnaples.com www.portroyalwaterfronthomes.com www.gcipluxuryrentals.com According to GCIP Records/MLS 01.01.2025 to date.
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JON KLING Chief Operating Officer
MARA HAMMOND Chief Impact Officer
Congratulations We proudly congratulate Jon Kling and Mara Hammond for being recognized among Naples Illustrated’s Top 100. Their leadership and dedication reflect the very heart of NCH, an unwavering commitment to excellence, compassion, and quality healthcare for our community.
POWERED BY
Philanthropy NCHmd.org/donate
Their vision and passion inspire us to reach higher, care deeper, and continue advancing our mission to help everyone live a longer, happier and healthier life.
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A COMMITMENT TO OUR COMMUNITY Congratulations to Claudine Léger-Wetzel, in recognition of your achievement as one of Naples’ top 100 influential leaders.
Claudine Léger-Wetzel Vice President of Sales & Marketing, Stock Development
As one of Southwest Florida’s most dedicated community partners, Stock Development donates time and financial resources to assist those in need. Our core values guide us to create homes and communities that people are proud to call home. Thank you for your enduring commitment to excellence and to giving back to the community.
“Proud to be part of this vibrant community.” To learn more about STOCK, its history and its communities, visit StockDevelopment.com
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1. MICHAEL D. BENSON 2. WILLIAM N. BEYNON 3. KATHY BIGHAM
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30. KIRAN GILL 31. HALLIE GIRARDEAU 32. BRIAN GOGUEN 33. LINDA GOLDFIELD 34. KAREN GOVERN
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41. JAY HARTINGTON 42. BETH HATCH 43. ARMANDO HERNANDEZ 44. ANDREW “ANDY” HILL
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45. CHRISTINE FRERKS INSLEE 46. DONNA ISSENMANN 47. JENNIFER JOHNSON 48. LISA JULIANO 49. MELANIE KALNINS
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Meet this year’s class of 100 Collier County residents who are making their mark on business, philanthropy, and community. Their vision and leadership has helped shape Collier County into the thriving, dynamic place that residents are proud to call home. Turn the page to read more about the remarkable individuals who made this year’s list.
96. BRIAN M. WILSON 97. GEORGE A. WILSON 98. MARK D. WILSON 99. JEFF D. WYNN 80
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The Naples 100
MICHAEL D. BENSON
WILLIAM N. BEYNON
Managing Partner Benson Blackburn, an Alera Group Agency, LLC Founder, NextGen Speaker Series
Partner, President, and CEO Capital Wealth Advisors
During his 45-plus-year career, Michael D. Benson has been a successful entrepreneur, co-founding or investing in multiple firms that help clients with their wealth planning objectives, including Benson Blackburn, a charitable administration company, and two multi-family offices, with combined assets under administration or management of more than $12 billion. Benson founded the NextGen Speaker Series in 2013 to foster leadership, mentorship, empowerment, and philanthropy in the greater Naples community.
As president and CEO of Capital Wealth Advisors, William “Bill” N. Beynon leads a team of more than 45 professionals focused on wealth management and estate planning. During his 25-year career, Beynon was director of estate planning at Creative Asset Services in Pittsburgh and a partner at First Financial Resources in Naples. Beynon co-founded Capital Wealth Advisors in 2004. He and his wife, Nena, were co-chairs of the 2023 Naples Winter Wine Festival. EDUCATION: West Virginia University NOTABLE ACCOMPLISHMENTS: In 2025, Beynon was named by Forbes as; “Top Financial Security Professionals,” “Top Financial Security Professionals Best-in-State,” and “Best-In-State Wealth Advisors in Florida (High Net Worth).” His company was listed on Financial Advisor Magazine’s 2025 “America’s Top RIAs.” TOUGHEST CHALLENGE: Riding my bicycle across America LESSON LEARNED: Break up your largest tasks into smaller segments and they will be easier to complete. HOBBIES: Golf, cycling, fishing, hunting CHARITIES: Naples Children Foundation, St. Matthew’s House, American Cancer Society, Education Foundation of Collier County–Champions For Learning
NOTABLE ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Chartered Life Underwriter and Chartered Financial Consultant designations LESSON LEARNED: Always look to find common ground and ways to work together. ADVICE FOR A RECENT GRAD: Perseverance is the most important quality. TOUGHEST CHALLENGE: Building several businesses from scratch FAVORITE TRAVEL DESTINATION: Cabo San Lucas for beautiful sunsets and fantastic weather CHARITIES: Naples Comprehensive Health, First Tee–Naples/Collier, The Immokalee Foundation
ERIN BLANKENSHIP
KATHY BIGHAM
President and CEO Holocaust Museum & Cohen Education Center
President and CEO Bigham Jewelers
Kathy Bigham dreamed of owning her own store as a child; while in college, she began selling jewelry out of a suitcase. After moving to Naples, Bigham founded 2,800-square-foot Bigham Jewelers. A decade later, she opened the 28,000-square-foot Bigham Galleria, creating one of the largest independent jewelry stores in the country. It was named the “Coolest Jewelry Store in America” by InStore magazine. She is the proud mother of a grown son and daughter.
Erin Blankenship is an award-winning curator who arrived at the Holocaust Museum & Cohen Education Center in February 2025. She leads all aspects of the organization, including educational programming and fundraising, with a focus on organizational excellence and audience growth. For almost 24 years, Blankenship worked as curator and deputy director of The Florida Holocaust Museum, where she grew its collection of artifacts from 1,000 to 27,000-plus objects during her tenure. She has curated dozens of original exhibitions including the award-winning “Courage & Compassion: The Legacy of the Bielski Brothers.”
EDUCATION: Kent State University WHY I CHOSE THIS FIELD: I was fascinated with the jewelry my teacher wore. LESSON LEARNED: Listen more than you speak! ADVICE FOR A RECENT GRAD: Be coachable! TOUGHEST CHALLENGE: Starting Bigham Jewelers as a first-generation jeweler SOMETHING FEW PEOPLE KNOW ABOUT ME: I love fast cars. HOBBIES: Paddleboarding, running, and skiing FAVORITE COLLIER COUNTY PLACE TO VISIT: I love the beach near Doctor’s Pass. FAVORITE TRAVEL DESTINATION: So far Italy and Spain—I love the people, the food, and the beauty.
EDUCATION: University of Leicester (United Kingdom) HOMETOWN: Fort Fairfield, Maine NOTABLE ACCOMPLISHMENTS: 2009 Florida Association of Museums “Innovator of the Year;” 2019 “Best Exhibition” from Southeastern Museums Conference; and leading the acquisition of a fishing boat that ferried Danish Jews to safety in Sweden during World War II WHY I CHOSE THIS FIELD: I am dedicated to sharing the stories of Holocaust survivors, many of whom became my friends, to teach the lessons of hope, resilience, and the power of taking action to improve another person’s life. HIDDEN TALENT: I can tap dance.
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The Naples 100
ROBYN BONAQUIST
RUSSELL BURLAND
Founder, CEO, and President B-Squared Advertising
Regional Business Development Executive Affinity Management Services
Robyn Bonaquist’s Naples-based, full-service advertising and marketing agency serves local, regional, national, and international clients. Founded in 2001, the agency will soon celebrate its 25th year in business and has been recognized nationwide for its award-winning creative abilities and sound marketing strategies. A resident of Naples for more than 40 years, Bonaquist and her husband, Jim, raised five children. She has earned recognition from local organizations including the Florida Home Builders Association, Collier Building Industry Association, and the Women’s Foundation of Collier County.
Russell Burland has called the Naples community home for 53 years. With a deep love for his hometown, Burland is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for today’s residents while keeping an eye on the needs of future generations. His career has taken him from launching new, profitable business ventures to serving in leadership roles. Outside of business, Burland is passionate about protecting local waterways, actively supporting marine habitat restoration and large-scale water initiatives that help preserve the beauty and vitality of Collier County. EDUCATION: University of South Florida FIRST JOB: Factory worker at Mars Signal Light Company in Naples BEST ADVICE RECEIVED: Avoid comparing yourself to others; instead, focus on improving each day and showing respect and kindness in your actions. HOBBIES: One of my hobbies through my small company Burco USA, LLC is curating the Mars Collection, a legacy from my grandfather and father, both inventors who held patents through the family business, Mars Signal Light Company CAUSES: Serves on the Collier Mosquito Control District Commissioner (elected position) and Advisory Board of Directors of the Water School, Vester Marine Field Station at Florida Gulf Coast University, and supports the Neighborhood Health Clinic
EDUCATION: Syracuse University FUNNIEST WORKPLACE EXPERIENCE: I worked for the Naples Daily News as the Family Living editor from 1980-84. While interviewing a young, handsome wellness director in Collier County for a story, I noticed upon my return to my car that I had blue ink smeared across my upper lip that created a very unattractive blue mustache. MOST INSPIRING PEOPLE: Betty Butcher and Glenna Hayhoe, founders of the local Planned Parenthood offices LESSON LEARNED: Not everyone is going to like you but if you are a good person, you’ll sleep well at night.
G U L F S H O R E P L AY H O U S E Baker Theatre and Education Center
Kristen Coury Founder, CEO & Producing Artistic Director
As Naples’ only professional LORT theatre, Gulfshore Playhouse stands at the heart of Southwest Florida’s vibrant arts scene. Fresh off its inaugural season in a stunning new, state-of-theart facility with a Broadway-sized stage, Gulfshore Playhouse is delivering world-class productions that rival the finest theaters across the country.
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The Naples 100
CHRISTIAN BUSK
KENDALL CARLIN
Landscape Architect, Contractor, and Preservationist Busk & Associates, Inc.
Veterinarian von Arx Wildlife Hospital at Conservancy of Southwest Florida
A native of Florida’s Palm Beach County, W. Christian Busk is a licensed landscape architect with more than 35 years of experience. He is the founder and principal in charge of project design and administration of Busk & Associates, Inc. Busk has unique expertise in the art and science of landscape design and development, as well as a keen familiarity with what plants grow best in Florida’s subtropical climate. He is recognized for his tropical design of outdoor pool spaces throughout Florida and the Caribbean. The firm’s outstanding work has been featured in many regional, state, and national publications.
Before arriving at the Conservancy of Southwest Florida, Kendall Carlin, DVM, was a veterinary intern at Partners for Wildlife at University of Minnesota’s The Raptor Center and the Wildlife Rehabilitation Center of Minnesota (20,000-plus animal admissions annually) and Tufts Wildlife Clinic at Tufts University. Prior to her veterinarian achievements, Carlin gained research experience in academic laboratories and worked abroad in New Zealand and Taiwan. More than 4,000 injured, sick, and orphaned native animals are admitted to the von Arx Wildlife Hospital each year.
EDUCATION: University of Florida AWARDS: Numerous awards from leading industry organizations: American Society of Landscape Architects; Design Center of the Americas; Florida Nurserymen & Growers Association; Southeast Builders Conference; and Collier Building Industry Association. WHY I CHOSE THIS FIELD: I love transforming ugly spaces into lavish gardens. TOUGHEST CHALLENGE: Starting a horticulture degree at the University of Florida and deciding three years into it that I loved landscape architecture. I switched majors midstream and completed both majors—a rewarding accomplishment CAUSES: Historic preservation. I spared the 1886 Haldeman House from demolition by moving it from Naples to Bonita Springs.
EDUCATION: Cumming’s School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University (DVM) FIRST JOB: Server at Chuck E. Cheese’s when I was 16. Yes—I sometimes had to dress up as Chuck E. FUNNIEST WORKPLACE EXPERIENCE: I was working late and kept hearing clicking from the hallway. It turned out to be the toenails of a 7-kilogram Florida soft shell turtle that pushed out of her enclosure. She’d stop in the open doorway every few minutes and peer inside, using her long periscope neck, and then move on. She was my supervisor for the night. ADVICE TO A RECENT GRAD: You’re probably a good worker; now try to figure out how to be a good co-worker.
WILLIAM “BILL” G. CHARBONNEAU
PAUL F. CICCARELLI
Founder and Principal Nantucket Yacht Group
Vice President and Senior Partner Ciccarelli Advisory Services, Inc.
Bill Charbonneau’s journey from luxury real estate to yachting is a testament to his entrepreneurial spirit. With more than 30 years in Boston’s elite real estate market, he channeled his passion for innovative design into the yachting world by founding Naples Nantucket Charter Group in 2004. Today, the company’s $60 million fleet offers exclusive charters in premier destinations. A licensed United States Coast Guard Master Captain, Charbonneau splits his time between the sea and his favorite coastal retreats with his wife, Jacqueline, and their golden retriever, Chatham.
Paul F. Ciccarelli has over 40 years’ experience in advanced financial and estate planning with Ciccarelli Advisory Services, an independent registered investment advisory firm. Committed to his clients’ best interests, Ciccarelli builds lasting relationships based on trust and transparency. He serves as a board member and investment committee member for the Bentley Village Foundation, Inc. He was formerly a long-time board trustee of the YMCA Collier, chair of the YMCA Endowment Fund, and Special Olympics-Collier board member. Ciccarelli lives in Naples with his wife, Neri, and has two sons, Jonah and Noah.
EDUCATION: Connecticut College NOTABLE ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Earning MVP in lacrosse in 1983 and receiving recognition from New England Construction & Development for Innovative Design WHY I CHOSE THIS FIELD: My passion for yachts and the ocean FIRST JOB: Construction—cleaning jobsites, framing homes—and waiting tables as soon as I was legally eligible TOUGHEST CHALLENGES: The credit crisis in 2008 and the loss of my parents ADVICE FOR A RECENT GRAD: Surround yourself with great people. If your dreams are challenged, use that as motivation to strive even harder.
EDUCATION: American College (CFP); University of South Florida (ChFC) NOTABLE ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Certified Financial Planner certification and Chartered Financial Consultant and Chartered Life Underwriter designations; named Naples YMCA Volunteer of the Year and earned YMCA Collier County Lifetime Achievement Award WHY I CHOSE THIS FIELD: I was good with numbers, but I liked people too much to be an accountant. FIRST JOB: Cutting lawns in the neighborhood and at a local restaurant. At 15, I had my own pizza shop in the New York summer lake community, the Chautauqua Institution. HIDDEN TALENT: Chess
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The Naples 100
RONALD B. CIESLA
KAREN CONLEY
Senior Vice President and Managing Director Northern Trust
Founder, President, and CEO Charity for Change
Through a variety of roles in the wealth management industry, Ron Ciesla has more than 40 years of experience advising corporate executives, business owners, and families of wealth. He began his career in investment research, then led the sales effort for the private banking group of a major financial institution in New York City. Ciesla came to Northern Trust’s Naples office in 2011. He serves on the boards of the Naples Botanical Garden and the Forum Club of Southwest Florida and previously served on the boards of The Shelter for Abused Women & Children, Fun Time Early Childhood Academy, and The LPGA Foundation.
The Naples-based nonprofit educational program founded by Karen Conley in 2008 is poised for its next chapter, with state funding to expand the pre-K-5 program statewide. The resiliency and citizenship curriculum teaches positive character traits, generosity, and charitable and community involvement in a platform that meets academic standards. The program—which builds resiliency and life-skill competencies while improving academic success—is serving students from 466 school and afterschool providers in Florida and other states. Charity for Change has reached 160,000 students since it began.
EDUCATION: Seton Hall University NOTABLE ACCOMPLISHMENT: Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation BEST ADVICE RECEIVED: Vince Lombardi, one of my heroes, said, “Perfection is not attainable, but if we chase perfection, we can catch excellence.” TOUGHEST CHALLENGE: Climbing the Elevator Shaft Trail up Mount Colvin in the Adirondacks FAVORITE TRAVEL DESTINATION: There are many favorites but my go-to is The Lodge at Sea Island. Lowcountry Southern charm, great golf facilities, and oh, so very civilized! FAVORITE COLLIER COUNTY RESTAURANT: There are many favorites, but we’re very fortunate to be members of the Naples Yacht Club,
EDUCATION: Orange Coast College LESSON LEARNED: Live life from a place of love and kindness, not fear. HIDDEN TALENT: Painting SOMETHING FEW PEOPLE KNOW ABOUT ME: I was a barrel racing champion and dressage rider. HOW I START MY DAY: In gratitude BUCKET LIST: To serve 33.6 million children nationwide through Charity for Change
CASmoneymatters.com 239.262.6577
Proudly Serving the Naples Community for Over 40 Years Investment Advisory Services offered through Ciccarelli Advisory Services, Inc., a registered investment adviser independent of Osaic Wealth Inc. Additional securities and investment advisory services offered through Osaic Wealth Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC and a registered investment adviser. 9601 Tamiami Trl N, Naples, FL 34108
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The Naples 100
EILEEN CONNOLLY-KEESLER
DAVID CORBAN
President and CEO Collier Community Foundation
Architect David Corban Architects
Since 2013, Eileen Connolly-Keesler has led the Collier Community Foundation (CCF), overseeing the foundation’s mission, addressing community needs, and providing collaborative leadership. During the past decade, assets have grown from $62 million to $357 million. Connolly-Keesler has coordinated Collier Comes Together emergency relief funds in the wake of several natural disasters and the pandemic and has spearheaded vital public-private partnerships that are creating solutions for affordable housing, emergency preparedness, and community resilience. The foundation manages 850-plus funds.
David Corban, AIA, has dedicated his practice to community and environmental sustainability. The firm’s work was recently recognized internationally. Rebecca’s and The Maddox won two LIV International Hospitality Awards and were featured on CBS’ “America ByDesign,” a syndicated program. The Shelly Stayer Shelter was awarded a 2025 National AIA Honor Award. The firm’s extensive renovation and expansion of The Naples Players at Sugden Community Theatre was also featured on “America ByDesign.” Corban serves on the Mississippi State University School of Architecture Alumni Advisory Board. Corban is a LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Accredited Professional.
EDUCATION: University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh (MPA) HIDDEN TALENT: I am famous for my cocktail weenies! Every time we’re headed to a party, my phone lights up with friends asking if I’m bringing them. The secret? A decadent mixture of brown sugar, honey, butter, and pecans. I roll the weenies in crescent dough, coat them in the mixture, and bake. Apparently, they’re an all-day delicacy—my latest text read, “Finished the last weenie tonight for dessert! It’s true they’re good for breakfast, lunch, or dessert!” FAVORITE COLLIER COUNTY PLACE TO VISIT: You might just find me at one of my favorite local hangouts—the Moose Lodge in Golden Gate. You never know who you’ll run into!
EDUCATION: Mississippi State University School of Architecture NOTABLE AWARD: AIA Florida Citizen Architect Award WHY I CHOSE THIS FIELD: I figured if Mike Brady, as an architect, could support a family of eight in Los Angeles with a maid (on the 1969-1974 television sitcom “The Brady Bunch”), it must be a pretty good field! SOMETHING FEW PEOPLE KNOW ABOUT ME: I used to race sailboats. FAVORITE TRAVEL DESTINATION: Japan. The civility of the people is inspiring. FAVORITE COLLIER COUNTY RESTAURANT: Bicyclette Cookshop
KRISTEN COURY
MARK DANNI
Founder, CEO, and Producing Artistic Director Gulfshore Playhouse
Founder and Producing Artistic Director TheatreZone
Kristen Coury founded Gulfshore Playhouse in 2004 with a starting budget of $0. With an entrepreneurial spirit, and the proceeds from the sale of her New York apartment, Coury built the company into a team of 83 staff members with an annual budget of $14.5 million. Over the last 21 years, she has worked tirelessly to create a regional theater that offers a full season of Broadway-level plays and musicals and unparalleled educational opportunities. This culminated in the fall of 2024 with the opening of the Baker Theatre and Education Center, a $75 million iconic cultural center in downtown Naples.
Mark Danni founded TheatreZone, a professional Actors’ Equity theatre company, in Naples in 2005. He was involved with many Broadway, OffBroadway, and regional productions as a director, music director, conductor and drummer/percussionist, on such shows as The Phantom of the Opera, Chicago, Miss Saigon, and Les Misérables. Danni also has directed opera productions with Opera Naples, Gulfshore Opera, and Opera Roanoke. He works closely with the Florida Gulf Coast University Theatre Department and created the Community School of Naples theater program. Danni is a member of the American Federation of Musicians and Stage Directors and Choreographers Society.
EDUCATION: University at Albany – State University of New York NOTABLE ACCOMPLISHMENT: Recipient of the 2023 Murray Hendel Civic Achievement Award from the Collier Citizens Council; serves on the board of the Greater Naples Chamber; and was appointed to the State Council for Arts and Culture by Senator Kathleen Passidomo TOUGHEST CHALLENGE: The global pandemic was an industry-crushing time, requiring laying off three-quarters of our staff, moving quickly to quarterly budgets, and pivoting in every way imaginable. LESSON LEARNED: Good leadership is finding the balance between leading and being led. FAVORITE COLLIER COUNTY PLACE TO VISIT: Gordon River Greenway
EDUCATION: Baldwin-Wallace University WHY I CHOSE THIS FIELD: I loved all forms of music since I was very young, and I found that I really loved combining music with action. When I was young, I loved Kiss and Alice Cooper, and I realized later it was because they were so theatrical. FIRST JOB: When I was 16, I lied and said I was 18 and got a job playing drums in a downtown Buffalo, New York nightclub for a show called “Bravo Broadway” on the weekends. SOMETHING FEW PEOPLE KNOW ABOUT ME: I played football in high school for a championship team (and we played against Dallas Cowboy star Daryl Johnson).
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CONGRATULATIONS
JAMIE ULMER! HONORING A NAPLES 100 LEADER Through exceptional leadership and vision, Jamie Ulmer advances Healthcare Network’s mission to serve Collier County. His dedication to excellence ensures compassionate care for all who call our community home.
Jamie Ulmer, President and CEO
239.658.3000 | HealthcareSWFL.org YOUR FAMILY’S MEDICAL & DENTAL HOME
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The Naples 100
CINDY DARLAND
ELYSIA DAWN
CEO First Tee–Naples/Collier
CEO United Arts Collier
Now in her nineteenth year at the helm of First Tee-Naples/Collier, Cindy Darland continues to chart an ambitious course for youth and their access to First Tee’s after-school programming. She expanded the organization’s reach from 30 to more than 1,000 children annually so they have access to safe places and caring adults who can help them grow socially, emotionally, and academically. She is leading a $10 million capital campaign to build the First Tee Naples/Collier Learning Center and serves on the First Tee National Chapter Advisory Board.
Drawing on her arts experience at world-class institutions, Elysia Dawn measurably demonstrates her advocacy for United Arts Collier’s (UAC) mission with business acumen and artistry. With a background in professional ballet and a nonprofit management master’s degree from Columbia University, Dawn curated live arts at The Metropolitan Museum of Art before arriving to lead the UAC. A Naples native, Dawn is a member of Leadership Collier and was recently appointed to the Florida Council on Arts and Culture.
NOTABLE ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Co-founded First Tee-Naples/Collier in 2007 and broke ground on the First Tee Academy/Learning Center in 2025 LESSON LEARNED: Always have a backup plan. HOW I START MY DAY: Exercising at the gym or swimming in the pool FAVORITE COLLIER COUNTY PLACE TO VISIT: Vanderbilt Beach for morning walks FAVORITE COLLIER COUNTY RESTAURANT: Amore Ristorante and the waterfront Gumbo Limbo at The Ritz-Carlton, Naples ADVICE FOR A RECENT GRAD: Work hard, keep your feet grounded, and enjoy the journey.
EDUCATION: Columbia University (BA, MS) NOTABLE ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Receiving multiple King’s Crown leadership and community service awards from Columbia University; being selected to perform with Mikhail Baryshnikov; founding the Naples International Dance Festival; and being recognized by Gulfshore Life as one of the “Visionaries Building a Better Tomorrow” WHY I CHOSE THIS FIELD: There’s a saying in dance: “You don’t choose dance; it chooses you.” Working in the arts is a calling that I’m privileged to answer. FIRST JOB: Performing George Balanchine’s Serenade at the Kennedy Center SECRET TO SUCCESS: Leading in faith and being supported by phenomenal family, friends, and colleagues
DAVID DIAMOND
JOHN DEANGELIS
CEO and co-founder DeAngelis Diamond Co-founder Venture X
President and Co-founder DeAngelis Diamond
As the son of a builder in West Virginia, John DeAngelis remembers painting and mowing at properties when he was 10 years old. He teamed up with David Diamond in 1996 to establish DeAngelis Diamond in Naples, which has grown into an award-winning, national construction firm. He continues to establish new ventures and has been honored for his leadership and innovation. DeAngelis is active in Summit Church and supports at-risk youth in foster care and human trafficking. He and his wife, Kelly, co-chaired the 2025 Sound Minds fundraising event for the David Lawrence Centers for Behavioral Health.
David Diamond was inspired by Walt Disney’s innovation and creative spirit. The creation of EPCOT inspired Diamond toward a career in architecture and largescale developments. He co-founded DeAngelis Diamond with John DeAngelis in 1996. Today, it is one of Florida’s largest companies. Diamond has launched more than 20 start-ups, including Venture X with his son, Brett, which they sold while maintaining a financial stake. Diamond was ordained as a deacon at the age of 29. HOMETOWN: West Palm Beach EDUCATION: University of Florida LESSON LEARNED: My grandfather, who lived through the Great Depression and owned a wholesale fish market, decided to never borrow money or take on debt, not even a home mortgage or car loan. I started my first company DeAngelis Diamond with that principle. I sacrificed and saved for 10 years to start the business. Twenty-six year later, we have never borrowed money or received outside investments. SOMETHING FEW PEOPLE KNOW ABOUT ME: I ran with the bulls in Pamplona, Spain, during the San Fermin Festival “Running of the Bulls.” I was also a paid extra in the movie Smokey and the Bandit.
EDUCATION: University of Florida NOTABLE ACCOMPLISHMENT: My wife, Kelly, and I are expecting our seventh grandchild! HIDDEN TALENT: I can perform a pretty good cartwheel. SOMETHING FEW PEOPLE KNOW ABOUT ME: My two favorite TV shows are “The Andy Griffith Show” and “Seinfeld,” in that order. FAVORITE COLLIER COUNTY RESTAURANT: Blackbird Modern Asian TOUGHEST CHALLENGE: Raising five kids (also biggest blessing) BUCKET LIST: Traveling to Hawaii, Figi, and New Zealand. The problem is, I weigh those against Italy and usually choose Italy again.
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The Naples 100
BRANDON DOWDY
STUART DUNKIN
Executive Director Pathways Early Education Center of Immokalee
Owner Dunkin’s Diamonds
Brandon Dowdy brings more than 25 years of nonprofit management experience, having previously served as CEO of the YMCA of West Central Illinois. Under Dowdy’s leadership, Pathways has reached its most successful financial performance to date. Known for his transparent and inclusive style, he has substantially enhanced programs, resulting in an impressive level of kindergarten readiness among vulnerable children in Immokalee. He fosters collaboration and innovation, encourages teamwork, and invests in staff development while emphasizing meaningful community impact and measurable outcomes.
Stuart Dunkin is a leading jeweler in Southwest Florida, proudly operating five locations. For over 65 years, he has dedicated his life to perfecting his craft, buying and selling diamonds around the world, and offering only the finest jewelry, craftsmanship, and designs. His unwavering commitment to quality and exceptional service has built defines Dunkin’s Diamonds’ reputation. Dunkin’s vision extends beyond jewelry. He has cultivated a talented team and developed innovative designs, and his influence guides the future of Dunkin’s Diamonds, securing a legacy of excellence and integrity that will endure for generations.
EDUCATION: Springfield College (MS) WHY I CHOSE THIS FIELD: To gather enough good karma to sneak into the pearly gates! BEST ADVICE RECEIVED: A second chance is a golden opportunity—don’t squander it by repeating past mistakes. TOUGHEST CHALLENGE: The loss of my beloved wife after over 20 years together. Even with the heartache, I’m honestly amazed by the silver linings and unexpected blessings that came from that tough time. Sometimes, life’s challenges show us our own strength and resilience in ways we never could have imagined. For that, I am grateful. SOMETHING FEW PEOPLE KNOW ABOUT ME: THE Sheryl Crow was my elementary school music teacher. Go, Kellison Tigers!
HOMETOWN: Aurora, Illinois WHY I CHOSE THIS FIELD: I wanted to be a part of people’s most memorable moments. FIRST JOB: Dunkin’s Diamonds MOST INSPIRING PERSON: Warren Buffet SECRET TO SUCCESS: I never gave up and continued to strive for perfection. LESSON LEARNED: Helping others succeed always pays off. SOMETHING FEW PEOPLE KNOW ABOUT ME: I have one heck of a sweet tooth. HIDDEN TALENT: I am one of the best backgammon players. ADVICE TO 18-YEAR-OLD SELF: Love what you do and do what you love.
mhkarchitecture.com
LIC. AA26001988, REG. FLORIDA AR16971
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The Naples 100
ROBERT T. EDWARDS
CURT C. EDWARDS
CEO, Chief Investment Officer, and Senior PIM® Portfolio Manager Edwards Asset Management
Managing Director, Wealth Management Southeast Region Wilmington Trust
With a national clientele but a focus on the Southeastern United States, Curt Edwards is responsible for overseeing the delivery of wealth management services, including planning, trust, investment management, family office, and private banking, to high-net-worth clients. Edwards has more than two decades serving as a leader of wealth management teams. He provides guidance and solutions to successful families throughout the Southeast, including corporate executives, business owners, entrepreneurs, and others who have transitioned to retirement.
Bob Edwards helms a successful asset management team of 30, with over $2.5 billion in assets as of 08/01/2025. Beyond finance, he and his wife, Terry, are philanthropic pillars in the community, serving leadership roles in various organizations, including the Guggenheim Museum in Venice, Italy. Edwards is deeply rooted in the community and has received numerous accolades for his service. His unique blend of professional expertise and social commitment makes him a trusted advisor and revered community figure. FUNNIEST WORKPLACE EXPERIENCE: The team swapped my office chair for a balance ball. Portfolio balancing is easier. BEST ADVICE RECEIVED: Warren Buffett says to be greedy when others are fearful—words to invest and live by. TOUGHEST CHALLENGE: Expanding Edwards Asset Management in Naples and Fort Lauderdale simultaneously was like flying a plane and servicing its engine in mid-flight. HIDDEN TALENT: I can recite Pi up to the fiftieth decimal place. Not very useful in finance, but it kills at parties! CHARITIES: Naples Zoo, Naples Children Foundation, Artis-Naples and The Baker Museum, Naples Botanical Garden, Guggenheim Museum, Conservancy of Southwest Florida
EDUCATION: Boston University NOTABLE ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Certified Financial Planner, Chartered Financial Consultant, Chartered Alternative Investment Analyst, Chartered Life Underwriter, Certified Divorce Financial Analyst; graduate of Leadership Collier; holder of FINRA Series 7, 9, 10, 24, 63, and 65 licenses SOMETHING FEW PEOPLE KNOW ABOUT ME:: I am a bit of an adrenalin junkie—skydiving, scuba diving, and I completed ground school for a private pilot license. CHARITIES: Naples Therapeutic Riding Center, The Immokalee Foundation, Leadership Collier, Naples Comprehensive Health, and the Collier Community Foundation
CYNDI FIELDS
JACLYNN FAFFER
Chief Development Officer The Shelter for Abused Women & Children
President and CEO Baker Senior Center Naples
Cyndi Fields joined The Shelter for Abused Women & Children in 2000. In the last 25 years, Fields has established and cultivated The Shelter’s Board of Trustees and managed two capital campaigns, established The Shelter’s endowment and planned giving programs, and formed a professional fundraising department. Fields holds a Certified Fund Raising Executive designation and Certified Fundraising Management certificate from the Indiana School of Philanthropy. She is a past president of the Association of Fundraising Professionals Everglades Chapter and a 2006 graduate of Leadership Collier.
Jaclynn Faffer, DSW, is a visionary leader, advocate, and systems builder in the field of human services, with more than three decades of experience. Faffer spearheaded the development of a 30,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art center on a 13-acre campus. She has pioneered essential programs for the region’s growing senior population. She is chair of the Collier County Dementia Care and Cure Initiative and past chair of the Collier County Leadership Coalition on Aging. EDUCATION: Tulane University (MSW), Wurzweiler School of Social Work, Yeshiva University (DSW) TOUGHEST CHALLENGE: Bringing awareness to the unique issues facing older adults and getting seniors on the agenda locally. ADVICE FOR A RECENT GRAD: Do not let anyone deter you from following your dream. HOW I START MY DAY: Reading good, old-fashioned print copies of both the Naples Daily News and New York Times over breakfast FAVORITE TRAVEL DESTINATION: Kiawah Island, South Carolina. I have always loved the Lowcountry, studying about the land and environment, the smell of “pluff ” mud, and reading about the history.
EDUCATION: University of Wisconsin, Eau Claire FIRST JOB: Flight Attendant for Pan Am ADVICE FOR A RECENT GRAD: Nothing happens overnight. HOW I START MY DAY: Practicing gratitude LESSON LEARNED: Don’t worry about what you can’t control. FAVORITE COLLIER COUNTY RESTAURANT: Blackbird Modern Asian FAVORITE TRAVEL DESTINATION: Washington Badgers football games in the fall BUCKET LIST: Banff and Lake Louise
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The Naples 100
BILL GASTON
HALLIE GIRARDEAU
Founder and Principal BUILD, LLC
General Manager Naples Yacht Club
Originally from Texas, Hallie Girardeau moved to Southwest Florida in 2004 to attend Florida Gulf Coast University on a golf scholarship. She earned a degree in Resort & Hospitality Management and began her career at Naples Yacht Club as a Food & Beverage intern, quickly advancing to director of human resources and secretary to the board. Today, she is a Club Management Association of America Certified Club Manager who brings passion for culture, governance, and hospitality. Girardeau also is a Society for Human Resource Management Senior Certified Professional. Her greatest joy remains her two sons, ages 9 and 13.
BUILD, LCC is an industry leader in both commercial and luxury residential construction that has experienced steady sustainable growth over the last 19 years. Bill Gaston also serves as board chair of the YMCA of Collier County, where he supports community enrichment and youth initiatives. Gaston brings strategic vision and dedication to his professional and philanthropic efforts, fostering growth across Collier County. A proud father of three, Gaston enjoys boating and traveling, drawing inspiration from both for his ongoing personal and professional pursuits.
EDUCATION: Florida Gulf Coast University (MBA) FUNNIEST WORKPLACE EXPERIENCE: When I was an intern at the club over 15 years ago, a guest asked me for another scotch…and some Benadryl. He explained that he had a shrimp allergy but decided to eat one anyway. I wasn’t sure whether to laugh or panic, but I did get him the Benadryl, and he seemed to enjoy the rest of his evening. SECRET TO SUCCESS: Lead with empathy and your heart, but don’t shy away from making the hard calls. People will remember how you made them feel far longer than they’ll remember the decision itself. HOBBIES: I played golf for Florida Gulf Coast University, so I still love getting out on the course when I can. But now most of my free time is happily spent as a baseball mom.
EDUCATION: University of Florida HOMETOWN: Marco Island MOST INSPIRING PERSON: For certain it is my father. He worked hard, believed in himself, had an incredible ability to analyze and figure things out, and was not afraid of taking risks and being an entrepreneur. ADVICE TO 18-YEAR-OLD SELF: Travel more while you’re still young. HOW I START MY DAY: Going to CrossFit or running HOBBIES: Family time, boating, fishing, working out FAVORITE COLLIER COUNTY PLACE TO VISIT: Anywhere on the boat FAVORITE TRAVEL DESTINATION: The Out Islands of The Bahamas
Congratulations to Amy Hale on being named one of The Naples 100 honorees!
Amy Hale, CFP® | Regional President – Sunbelt | Central Executive Sponsor (U.S.) – Women & Wealth 239-592-2470 amy.hale@bmo.com “BMO Wealth Management” is a brand name that refers to BMO Bank N.A. and certain of its affiliates that provide certain investment, investment advisory, trust, banking, and securities products and services. Investment products and services are: NOT A DEPOSIT – NOT INSURED BY THE FDIC OR ANY FEDERAL GOVERNMENT AGENCY – NOT GUARANTEED BY ANY BANK – MAY LOSE VALUE. The 2026 Naples 100 recognizes influential business leaders in Collier County, FL. Naples Illustrated selects honorees each year based on nominations by individuals and organizations highlighting the nominee’s community involvement and impact. Naples Illustrated is produced by Palm Beach Media Group. BMO and its employees provide no compensation in exchange for these nominations or awards. CFP Board owns the marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®, and CFP® (with plaque design) in the U.S.
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The Naples 100
ASHLEY GERRY
KIRAN GILL
Ashley Gerry is a Southwest Florida philanthropist, wife, and mother who has made it her job to invest in our community. For more than 15 years, Gerry has championed successful Southwest Florida nonprofits serving those most in need. She is a Naples Children Foundation trustee and a Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples board member, and supports the Golisano Children’s Hospital, Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, and Community School of Naples. She also is a City of Naples Ethics Committee Commissioner. Following Hurricane Ian in 2022, Gerry helped spearhead the Boots on the Sand benefit concert that raised more than $1.5 million for victims
Dr. Kiran Gill is a board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon with specialty fellowship training in aesthetic surgery of the face, breast, and body. As one of the only female plastic surgeons in Naples, Gill has garnered the respect of her patients, colleagues, and community. Her professional integrity, compassionate care, precise surgical technique, and creative innovation has elevated her into one of Naples’ premier plastic surgeons. She is a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons.
Philanthropist and Community Advocate Collier County
Owner and Plastic Surgeon Naples Aesthetic Institute
EDUCATION: Rush Medical College (MD), Cleveland Clinic (plastic and reconstructive surgery training), Few Institute (Fellowship) NOTABLE ACCOMPLISHMENTS: 1997 Freshman Volleyball All-American Team; 1997 Big East Volleyball Rookie of the Year; and 1998 and 1999 All Big East with Georgetown University; and recipient of the Arthur Dean Bevan Award in Surgery at Rush Medical College TOUGHEST CHALLENGE: Starting my plastic surgery fellowship with a 5-week-old son LESSON LEARNED: Balance in life takes effort to achieve. CHARITIES: Naples Botanical Garden, The Shelter for Abused Women & Children, Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples BUCKET LIST: Starting a volleyball club in Southwest Florida
EDUCATION: University of Missouri-Columbia AWARD: Named a 2023 “Women of Initiative” by the Women’s Foundation of Collier County HOMETOWN: Cape Girardeau, Missouri BEST ADVICE RECEIVED: Stand up for what you believe in, even if you stand alone. SECRET TO SUCCESS: Say yes but also learn to say no. Balance matters. FAVORITE TRAVEL DESTINATION: Italy is always a good idea! However, this summer we went to Bali, and it truly was one of the most incredible experiences in my life. ADVICE TO A RECENT GRAD: Invest in yourself. Prioritize your own health, mindset, and financial well-being.
BRIAN GOGUEN
LÄRA FISHER
Chief Investment Officer Barron Collier Companies
CEO Grace Place for Children and Families
Since 2020, Lära Fisher has led Grace Place for Children and Families, a nonprofit family literacy center providing educational and academic support for 1,300 students (ages 1 to their 80s). Founded in 2004, Grace Place operates on a fiveacre campus in a 30,000-square-foot instructional space in Golden Gate with more than 100 staff members. Under Fisher’s leadership, the organization has grown its budget from $3 million to $7.1 million. She has 20 years of experience serving underserved communities. She attended the Harvard Business School Strategic Perspectives in Nonprofit Management program for executives.
In his role at Barron Collier Companies, Brian Goguen is involved in developing and investing in master planned communities, homebuilding, multifamily, retail, office, and mixed-use real estate projects. Goguen is active in the Urban Land Institute (ULI) at the state and national levels. He is the past chair of the ULI Florida Residential Council. He is a graduate of Leadership Collier and is the past chair of the Leadership Collier Foundation. On a statwide level, Goguen is a graduate of Leadership Florida and served as a Leadership Florida board member.
EDUCATION: University of Northern Iowa (MA) HOMETOWN: Cascade, Iowa FUNNIEST WORKPLACE EXPERIENCE: A farewell party where everyone surprised me by dressing up like me MOST INSPIRING PERSON: My dad. He was an equine surgical veterinarian who fought through Parkinson’s disease to continuing doing what he loved. LESSON LEARNED: Great ideas come from everywhere. SOMETHING FEW PEOPLE KNOW ABOUT ME: I rode on horseback from New York City to Sacramento, California.
EDUCATION: Florida Gulf Coast University (MBA) FIRST JOB: Washing dishes…I didn’t last long. SECRET TO SUCCESS: I feel like I am a very reliable person. LESSON LEARNED: Always be there for your family and friends. ADVICE TO A RECENT GRAD: Find good mentors and work hard. HIDDEN TALENT: Body surfing in ice-cold Maine water FAVORITE TRAVEL DESTINATION: Jackson Hole, Wyoming /Yellowstone FAVORITE COLLIER COUNTY PLACE TO VISIT: Audubon’s Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary BUCKET LIST: More international travel
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The Naples 100
LINDA GOLDFIELD
KAREN GOVERN
CEO Youth Haven
CEO STARability Foundation
Youth Haven is Collier County’s only emergency and residential shelter for abused, neglected, and homeless children and teens, ages 6–21. Since joining Youth Haven in 2021, Linda Goldfield has expanded programs, strengthened partnerships, and launched a capital campaign to build a new therapeutic enrichment center. With 20-plus years of nonprofit leadership, she is dedicated to advancing Youth Haven’s mission of providing home, hope, and healing. She completed the Harvard Business School Strategic Perspectives in Nonprofit Management program for executives.
The STARability Foundation is a nonprofit dedicated to providing comprehensive programming focused on vocational training, social engagement, and lifelong learning for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Since stepping into her role in 2016, Karen Govern has led the organization through transformative growth, including a full rebrand and strategic expansion that has brought STARability into the community spotlight. It serves more than 370 “STARs” annually. Govern completed the Harvard Business School Strategic Perspectives in Nonprofit Management program for executives. She is spearheading a $60 million campaign to develop a new, five-acre campus.
EDUCATION: American University LESSON LEARNED: Leadership isn’t about having all the answers, it’s about creating space for others to find their voice and thrive. TOUGHEST CHALLENGE: Balancing urgency and patience. Working with children in crisis requires immediate action but true healing takes time. HIDDEN TALENT: Race car driver HOW I START MY DAY: Chanting in Sanskrit ADVICE TO A RECENT GRAD: “The universe conspires to help the dreamer.” —Paulo Coehlo FAVORITE COLLIER COUNTY PLACE TO GRAB A DRINK: My kitchen island with loved ones
EDUCATION: John Jay College (MPA) ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Leadership Collier Class of 2021 graduate, and a member of the Greater Naples Leadership Master Class XXVIII WHY I CHOSE THIS FIELD: Serving a mission, a purpose, is extremely important to me, as is giving a voice to underserved populations. HOBBIES: Hiking, biking, hosting dinner parties, and reading book club books ADVICE TO A RECENT GRAD: Follow your passion. If you don’t find joy in your work, it’s not worth doing.
MARY ANN GUERRA
HOWARD GUTMAN
Chief Clinical Officer David Lawrence Centers for Behavioral Health
President and CEO The Lutgert Companies
Mary Ann Guerra is a psychiatric registered nurse with more than 35 years of experience in behavioral health administration. She is a clinical expert in a variety of treatment settings, including hospital inpatient psychiatry, crisis stabilization, residential, and outpatient services. Guerra has worked for the David Lawrence Centers for Behavioral Health since March 1993 and has served in numerous leadership roles. She is dedicated to reducing stigma associated with behavioral health, and to growing and innovating programs and services in support of access to mental health and substance use treatment for all in need.
After graduating from the University of Florida in 1976, Howard Gutman moved to Naples to work at The Lutgert Companies. He has been president/CEO since 2000 and serves on the real estate advisory boards at the University of Florida and Florida Gulf Coast University. The company’s proud legacy includes Premier Sotheby’s International Realty, Mercato, The Estuary at Grey Oaks, Linville Ridge, 25 high rises in Park Shore and Bonita Bay, Lutgert Title, Lutgert Insurance, and numerous other projects throughout Florida and North Carolina. EDUCATION: University of Florida FIRST JOB: Driving a truck delivering eggs at 5 a.m. before high school MOST INSPIRING PERSON: My father, who did not graduate high school and worked four jobs to put six kids through college. TOUGHEST CHALLENGE: The aftermath of the 2007-2008 recession HOBBY: Sports memorabilia FAVORITE TRAVEL DESTINATION: Ben Hill Griffin Stadium FAVORITE COLLIER COUNTY RESTAURANT: Michelbob’s Championship Ribs & Steaks CHARITIES: Founding board member of Education Foundation of Collier County–Champions For Learning and Winged Foot Scholarship Foundation
EDUCATION: University of Miami NOTABLE ACCOMPLISHMENTS: 2006 David Lawrence Center Leadership Award; 2012 Negley Risk Retention Group Chairman’s Award-Keeping People Safe; 2025 Florida Behavioral Health Conference co-presenter on “Caring Contacts: An Evidence-based Intervention to Prevent Suicide” WHY I CHOSE THIS FIELD: After witnessing behavioral health treatment save a life in my family, I wanted to help others by improving access to behavioral health care and offering hope. HOW I START MY DAY: I meditate, listen to inspirational music on K-Love or WayFM, and say my morning prayers. Prayer is a powerful way to center my thoughts and emotions, and this helps me to prepare for the day’s work ahead.
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The Naples 100
STEVE HAGENBUCKLE
AMY HALE
Founder and Managing Partner TerraCap Management Founder and Executive Producer Live Fest Naples Premier Festival
Regional President, Sunbelt-Central Region Executive Sponsor (US), Women & Wealth
Steve Hagenbuckle has been a successful developer, builder, and investor in commercial real estate since 1996. Since that time, he has participated in more than $4 billion of transactions across major commercial real estate properties. Hagenbuckle co-founded and has sold multiple technology companies to both public and private entities, including technical consulting and service firms and a community bank. He is on the National Board of the UF Foundation and is the founder and producer of Live Fest Naples Premier Festival.
Amy Hale oversees a team of professionals dedicated to providing high-net-worth individuals, families, and organizations, including closely held and family-owned business, endowments, and foundations, with a full range of wealth services. A Certified Financial Planner, she joined BMO in 2009 and has more than 25 years of experience in the financial services industry. Hale is devoted to the wealth management needs of high-net-worth women, including building their financial knowledge, and is a founding member of the BMO National Committee of Women and Wealth. She is actively involved with the Women’s Foundation of Collier County.
EDUCATION: University of Florida NOTABLE ACCOMPLISHMENT: Four-time winner of the Gator100 Award recognizing the fastest-growing Gator-owned businesses BEST ADVICE RECEIVED: Life is not a dress rehearsal. SECRET TO SUCCESS: I’m a patient and persistent believer in attaining all goals. SOMETHING FEW PEOPLE KNOW ABOUT ME: I have saved two people from drowning. HIDDEN TALENT: I am a pilot and the lead singer of The Good Intentions Band. FAVORITE COLLIER COUNTY PLACE TO VISIT: Marco Island CHARITIES: St. Matthew’s House, Tunnel to Towers, Smile Train, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Cure Search
EDUCATION: Florida Gulf Coast University NOTABLE ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Hale serves on the boards of the Garden of Hope and Courage and The Immokalee Foundation and is a former board member of Swinging With Purpose. She is a graduate of the Leadership Collier Class of 2013, a former “40 under 40” recipient, and a past treasurer of the Women’s Network of Collier County. WHY I CHOSE THIS FIELD: I wanted to drive lasting impact in the financial lives of others. SECRET TO SUCCESS: Stay curious and always ask questions. CAUSE: The Immokalee Foundation has a strong impact on our community through their commitment to fostering success through education.
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The Naples 100
MARA ARICA HAMMOND
GARY HARLAN
Chief Impact Officer Naples Comprehensive Health (NCH)
Founder, Expert Stylist, and Colorist N Color Salon and Boutique
Mara Hammond is powering a radical $750 million transformation of local health care. Since joining Naples Comprehensive Health in 2023, she has accelerated fundraising to $400 million, building upon the legacy that NCH has always been built by the community, for the community. Hammond, who studied philosophy, the Middle East, and international affairs in college, is a former human rights advocate and philanthropy strategist. Hammond served in the Israeli Defense Force as an intelligence officer. She is fluent in Hebrew and Arabic, a certified yoga teacher, and a force for top-quality, innovative, and profoundly compassionate care.
Gary Harlan has been in the beauty industry for more than 30 years who says, “I believe that a person’s hair is their best accessory that they wear every day.” He says his passion for his field is stronger today than ever before. Harlan grew up with humble roots in Bremen, Kentucky. His father was a coal miner and farmer, and he drew inspiration from his mother and a grandfather, who instilled his work ethic to build a successful life. He did just that, pursuing his passion, talent, and business opportunities in his first job at the Guys and Dolls hair salon in Madisonville, Kentucky. EDUCATION: University of Kentucky, Madisonville, Western Kentucky Beauty College AWARD: Has been named among the Top 100 Salons by Salon Today magazine. BEST ADVICE RECEIVED: Don’t live beyond your means. Be a 25 percent saver. Luxury is not about spending recklessly—it’s about living well within your reality and making intentional choices. When you master that, you can invest in what truly matters to you without stress of debt or regret. (From my grandfather) FAVORITE TRAVEL DESTINATION: My favorite travel experience was an unforgettable African safari. Immersing myself in the wild beauty and vibrant culture was truly life changing. ADVICE TO 18-YEAR-OLD SELF: Hang in there.
EDUCATION: Rutgers University HOMETOWN: San Francisco, California BEST ADVICE RECEIVED: If you have something nice to say, say it! SECRET TO SUCCESS: Root every decision in service, solution, and action. HOW I START MY DAY: Cold plunge and cold brew FAVORITE TRAVEL DESTINATION: Yosemite, California FAVORITE COLLIER COUNTY PLACE TO VISIT: Kayaking through mangrove tunnels
JAY HARTINGTON
BETH HATCH
Owner and CEO Marissa Collections Co-founder RumbaTime, MakeupDrop, Ballast & Topanga Project, LLC
CEO NAMI Collier
Following college graduation, Jay Hartington worked in investment banking, specializing in the energy sector, before joining his parents, Marissa and Burt Hartington, at Marissa Collections, the luxury boutique they founded in 1975. Under his leadership, the brand has expanded with a second location in Palm Beach in 2021, a new pop-up boutique opened in 2025 on Nantucket, and future plans for The Carnelian. An Accredited Jewelry Professional, Hartington serves on the Couture Retail Advisory Council and the Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens Board of Directors.
Beth Hatch began her career as an exceptional student education teacher for Collier County Public Schools, working in Immokalee and East Naples. She honed her skills in program development, strategic planning, team building, community partnerships, and collaboration. Hatch joined NAMI Collier in 2022 to further its mission of removing stigma and instilling hope and healing. In 2023, NAMI Collier moved its operations to meet the growing needs. EDUCATION: University of South Florida MOST INSPIRING PERSON: My son Max is my inspiration. I believe he came into my life and those closest to us with a purpose in this world to remind us even on the hardest days to always keep swimming. Love, laughter, hope, faith, and a heart of gold can heal anything. ADVICE TO A RECENT GRAD: If you are fortunate to have a great mentor ensure to take every opportunity to learn and grow. If an internship or hands-on experience is not part of your educational journey, create one yourself to ensure you get every experience you deserve to be able to choose the path that is best for you. SOMETHING FEW PEOPLE KNOW ABOUT ME: I received the “Unsung Heroes of Compassion” award with my son from the Dalai Lama at The Ritz-Carlton in San Francisco. HIDDEN TALENT: Received best handwriting award in elementary school
EDUCATION: Emory University, Gemological Institute of America SOMETHING FEW PEOPLE KNOW ABOUT ME: I attended culinary school in Florence, Italy. HOBBIES: Driving my daughter to soccer practice FAVORITE TRAVEL DESTINATIONS: Italy and Japan, two places that inspire me CHARITIES: Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens, Naples Botanical Garden, Florida Wildlife Corridor BUCKET LIST: Skiing in Hokkaido, Japan—the northernmost island, world-renowned for its legendary powder, or as they call it, “Japow.”
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The Naples 100
ARMANDO HERNANDEZ
ANDREW “ANDY” HILL
Senior Director of Florida Home Base – Veteran & Family Care
President and Co-founder Andrew Hill Investment Advisors, Inc.
After graduating from Naples High School, Armando Hernandez enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps from 2003-2007, including a deployment to Fallujah and Ramadi, Iraq. Upon being honorably discharged, he earned his undergraduate and graduate degrees and joined Home Base in 2014, Hernandez is married to his wife of 20 years, Jina, and they have two children, Lilliana and Xavier. Hernandez serves on the Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU) Military Advisory Committee and FGCU Alumni Association Board of Directors and supports the Shady Rest Institute for Positive Aging at FGCU.
Originally from Toronto, Canada, Andrew “Andy” Hill has more than 30 years of portfolio investment management experience. He co-founded the Naples-based Andrew Hill Investment Advisors with partner Jennifer Figurelli in 2010. The firm currently has more than $230 million in assets under management. Hill has held leadership roles in numerous nonprofits focused on the environment, education, animals, and economic development. Hill serves on the Greater Naples Chamber Board of Directors and is serving his second term on the Big Cypress Basin Board through 2026, appointed by Gov. Ron DeSantis.
EDUCATION: University of Florida (MBA) NOTABLE ACCOMPLISHMENT: 2016 FGCU Soaring Eagle Alumni Award WHY I CHOSE THIS FIELD: My own service in the U.S. Marine Corps and the opportunity to continue mission-driven work with a purpose FIRST JOB: Sunshine Ace Hardware TOUGHEST CHALLENGE: Earning the title of United States Marine LESSON LEARNED: Other peoples’ perceptions can become your reality. HOBBIES: Jiu-jitsu, exercise, chess, and golf ADVICE TO 18-YEAR-OLD SELF: The next few years will show you the world can be a dark place, but it’s worth fighting for.
EDUCATION: Syracuse University (MBA) ACCOMPLISHMENTS: He is a Chartered Financial Analyst and Certified Public Accountant (not practicing) FIRST JOB: Dish washer at The Brass Rail in Lewiston, New York BEST ADVICE RECEIVED: Be the best in whatever you do. HOBBIES: Fishing in the Everglades and hockey FAVORITE COLLIER COUNTY PLACE TO GRAB A DRINK: The Ritz-Carlton, Naples CHARITIES: Captains for Clean Water, The Water School at Florida Gulf Coast University, The Immokalee Foundation, Greater Naples Chamber of Commerce
Cоgratulatiоs
LORI OLIVER! Founder/CEO/Producing Artistic Director
We are so thankful for your leadership and inspiration in so many young people’s lives! The Naples Performing Arts Center is the premier destination for youth arts education in Southwest Florida. Here, students discover a place where creativity thrives and every child is encouraged to shine. Our programs go beyond teaching young performers the skills of the stage. We cultivate an environment where confidence is nurtured and self-belief is strengthened. From the first class to the final curtain call, children are empowered to explore their passions boldly. NPAC is a community that celebrates individuality and personal growth. Join us and watch your child grow not only as an artist, but as a confident young person, knowing that they can accomplish whatever they dream.
For more information visit us at www.naplesperformingartscenter.com The Naples 100
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The Naples 100
CHRISTINA FRERKS INSLEE
DONNA ISSENMANN
Senior Vice President, Wealth Management Advisor Merrill Lynch
President, MarketThis! Inc. Founder and President, Jingled Elves, Inc.
Christina Frerks Inslee, CPWA, CRPC, began her career as the youngest financial advisor at Merrill Lynch in 1982 in New York City. She built a multi-generational wealth management practice, and earned designations as a Certified Private Wealth Advisor and as a Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor. In 1990, she co-founded Inslee Wealth Management with her husband, Guy, to serve and empower generations of families across the country and in Naples. After moving to Naples, Inslee connected with The League Club, volunteering her skills as a former Junior League president and with decades of experience on nonprofit boards as comunications director.
Donna Issenmann’s corporate career includes more than 20 years with Disney/ ABC Television, Inc., Times Mirror Corporation, Belo Broadcasting, and Murdoch Publications in sales and sales management positions. Today, she is president of Naples-based MarketThis! Inc., which specializes in quality branded merchandise. In 2017, Issenmann founded Jingled Elves with a trolley ride event benefiting local families affected by Hurricane Irma. It evolved into a 501c3 with a focus on charities supporting women and children. In 2025, Jingled Elves gave $300,000 to 17 nonprofits. It is on target to give more than $1 million cumulatively in 2026.
NOTABLE ACCOMPLISHMENT: Recognized as a Forbes “Top Women Wealth Advisor Best-in-State” in 2023 and 2024 SOMETHING FEW PEOPLE KNOW ABOUT ME: I helped celebrate Women’s History Month at the New York Stock Exchange Closing Bell on March 2, 2020 as a chapter president of Merrill’s Women’s Exchange. I was a featured participant in the U.S. Department of Labor study, “Shattering the Glass Ceiling.” HIDDEN TALENT: Restoration and decor of our historic New England homes CHARITY: The League Club, based in Naples, which has supported nonprofits in Collier and Lee counties since 1987. Inslee is the passionate founding public relations chair of Naples Tables.
EDUCATION: Arizona State University, Simmons College Graduate School of Management HOMETOWN: Dubuque, Iowa FIRST JOB: With my newly minted degree in opera (not really marketable in a recession), I took the first job that was offered—public relations for a mortuary. AWARD: 2024 Collier Community Foundation “Excellence in Civic Leadership” Award BEST ADVICE RECEIVED: Never mistake kindness as weakness. HOW I START MY DAY: My husband and I ride our bikes for at least five miles around the neighborhood.
LISA JULIANO
JENNIFER JOHNSON
Senior Vice President, Naples Winter Wine Festival & Event Production Naples Children Foundation (NCF)
Founder and Entrepreneur True Fashionistas and The Confident Entrepreneur
Jennifer Johnson, a former model and actress, transformed her career to become a successful entrepreneur. She founded True Fashionistas, the largest lifestyle resale store in Florida. She also is a professional speaker and coaches small businesses through her online academy. Johnson is the Amazon bestselling author of Grace & Grit Becoming a Confident Entrepreneur and the host of a nationally recognized podcast. Her expertise has been recognized with numerous honors and national media features. Johnson’s journey into business leadership exemplifies her ability to balance professional success with personal well-being, making her a sought-after mentor for aspiring entrepreneurs.
Lisa Juliano’s responsibilities include the management and oversight of logistics, management, and production for the annual Naples Winter Wine Festival, which is the nation’s premiere charitable wine auction. Since its inception in 2001, the event has raised more than $336 million to serve the most vulnerable children in Collier County. Juliano joined NCF in 2010.
EDUCATION: Indiana University Bloomington WHY I CHOSE THIS FIELD: My position is unique in that each year I am presented with a new group of NCF trustees to work with as festival chairs who bring new and exciting ideas to the table about how to reinvent what we can do to put together the top charity wine auction in the country. In addition to getting to work with the wonderful support of our trustees, we are doing great work for children in need in the community. Each year, NCF serves 35,000 children in Collier County. You could not ask for a better opportunity. BEST ADVICE RECEIVED: Stay humble and remain true to the mission of the organization, while delivering a best-in-class experience year after year. FAVORITE TRAVEL DESTINATION: I love going back “home” to the Jersey Shore every summer. I take my daughter back to where I grew up so she can visit the beach and bay.
EDUCATION: Florida Gulf Coast University WHY I CHOSE THIS FIELD: I love fashion and I love the ability to work with other entrepreneurs who want to grow their businesses—that is what fills me up. FUNNIEST WORKPLACE EXPERIENCE: My second job (at the age of 16) was at Hardee’s, a fast-food restaurant. It was there that my now husband walked in and saw me, and we chatted. He came through the drive-thru an hour later with his business card and voilà, the rest is history. CAUSES: Project Help, Village School Board, Greater Naples Chamber Board, Junior Women of Initiative, March of Dimes, Toastmasters, co-chair of the American Heart Association “Go Red for Women” initiative
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Congratulations to
Andrea Nickrent, Vice President & Chief Revenue Officer of Naples Botanical Garden, on being recognized as one of The Naples 100.
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The Naples 100
CRYSTAL K. KINZEL
MELANIE KALNINS
Collier County Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller Collier County Government
Executive Director Opera Naples
Melanie Kalnins is a seasoned arts administrator with more than 20 years of experience, including leadership roles at the Chicago Symphony Orchestra Association and Artis—Naples. She has a proven track record in marketing, increasing Chicago Symphony revenues by $5 million. Kalnins is also an accomplished vocalist and pianist. During her tenure at the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, she met her husband while they were performing in a rock band. With a degree on communication studies, her professional background spans advertising, arts marketing, and live performance across multiple genres.
Clerk Crystal K. Kinzel has been elected by Collier County voters three times. She is a Certified Government Financial Manager and Certified Florida Clerk of Court, and remains dedicated to fiscal responsibility, customer service, and upholding public trust through integrity and transparency. Kinzel is a graduate of Leadership Collier 2000, Leadership Institute 2003 and was one of five founding women of Youth Leadership Collier, established in 2005. In 2022, Kinzel received the Diamond Award from East Naples Civic and Commerce in recognition of “achievement, contribution, and faith in the future of East Naples.”
EDUCATION: Northwestern University WHY I CHOSE THIS FIELD: I enjoy delivering deeply meaningful experiences for others. FUNNIEST WORKPLACE EXPERIENCE: Watching Maestro Riccardo Muti throw the opening pitch at a Chicago Cubs game MOST INSPIRING PERSON: Abraham Lincoln SECRET TO SUCCESS: Stay organized and friendly. TOUGHEST CHALLENGE: I have had Bell’s palsy three times! HOBBIES: Running, swimming, working out at Orangetheory, singing, playing piano, boating, and golfing
EDUCATION: George Washington University HOMETOWN: Wellsville, Ohio NOTABLE ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Appointed to the Governor’s Task Force on Governmental Accounting Standards for GASB 34 and served on the Statewide Task Force on Guardianships. She was appointed by Senate President Kathleen Passidomo to serve on the Clerk of Courts Corporation Executive Committee. She currently serves on numerous statewide clerk’s committees. She received the 2022 Partnership Collaboration Award from the Florida Court Clerks and Comptrollers and the 2024 Giving Tree Award. LESSON LEARNED: Pursue opportunities in all areas of your life. HOBBIES: Reading and grandchildren
JASON HUNTER KORN
JON KLING
Managing Shareholder, Florida Office Dentons Cohen & Grigsby
Chief Operations Officer Naples Comprehensive Health (NCH)
Jonathan Kling has been with Naples Comprehensive Health since 2003 and was promoted to system chief operations officer in July 2021. Kling has held various positions during his career at NCH, including system chief nursing officer, clinical coordinator, ICU, director of critical care and emergency services, and associate chief nursing officer. With bachelor’s degrees in nursing and health care administration, he has a clinical practice background in critical care, burn, and trauma nursing. He led the NCH COVID-19 Task Force and the successful EPIC conversion project for the health care system and is currently overseeing $500 million in capital construction projects.
Jason Hunter Korn concentrates his practice in the areas of complex business, construction, and commercial litigation at Dentons Cohen & Grigsby, the largest global firm in the world. His litigation style earned him recognition earlier in his career as one of the “Go-to Lawyers” and “A-List Advocates” in Southwest Florida. He is the former chair of the Judicial Nominating Committee and Florida Bar’s Ethics Committee, and former president of the Trial Lawyers Section of the Collier County Bar Association. Korn serves as Greater Naples Chamber of Commerce Chair-Elect, and on the board of and chair of the Gulfshore Playhouse Governance Committee.
EDUCATION: Columbia Southern University (MBA) BEST ADVICE RECEIVED: It’s okay not to be the smartest person in the room. MOST INSPIRING PERSON: Winston Churchill TOUGHEST CHALLENGE: The COVID-19 pandemic and ever-changing landscape of health care economics LESSON LEARNED: Positive disruption is a powerful strategy. FAVORITE TRAVEL DESTINATIONS: Costa Rica and Scotland FAVORITE COLLIER COUNTY PLACE TO GRAB A DRINK: The Warren American Whiskey Kitchen
EDUCATION: Boston University School of Law (JD) AWARDS AND ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Collier County Bar Association Lion of the Law Award; Greater Naples Chamber of Commerce Chairman’s Award; Collier County Education Foundation Men of Distinction Award; 2025 Best Lawyers in America; selected for The Best Lawyers in America in the areas of Commercial Litigation and Litigation–Construction; 2025 “Lawyer of the Year” by The Best Lawyers in America for Litigation-Construction Law; Naples Illustrated list of Top Lawyers; 2025 Florida Super Lawyers, Business Litigation; Leadership Collier Class of 2025 SOMETHING FEW PEOPLE KNOW ABOUT ME: I was in a high school rock band with Trey Anastasio, who is the co-founder and lead guitarist of the band Phish.
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The Naples 100
KEITH LAAKKONEN
MATTHEW KRAGH
Sanctuary Director Audubon’s Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary
President MHK Architecture
Matthew Kragh, AIA, has been a practicing architect in the state of Florida for the past 25 years. He is mostly proud of creating a dynamic team of architects that spans nine office locations with more than 100 staff members: Naples, Islamorada, Sanibel Island, Palm Beach Island, and Sarasota in Florida; Charleston and Greenville in South Carolina; Highlands, North Carolina; and Denver, Colorado. New ultra-luxe condominium projects on the boards—including Rosewood Residences, 330 Gulf Shore, Two Ten West, and Cayden of Olde Naples—are joining the firm’s extensive portfolio of stunning private residences. Kragh also focuses on adaptative reuse projects.
With more than two decades of experience in environmental management, Keith Laakkonen oversees the 13,000-acre sanctuary and its staff responsible for land conservation, research, policy, and public engagement. At the helm of a visionary transformation of the Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary campus, Laakkonen and his team have secured nearly $16 million to date for the construction of new facilities to strengthen the student and visitor experience and become a collaborative conservation hub in Southwest Florida. EDUCATION: Florida Gulf Coast University (MS) SOMETHING FEW PEOPLE KNOW ABOUT ME: I have a severe fear of heights. I grew up in Cape Coral, Florida, where there are no mountains and few buildings over one story, so I guess it makes sense. FAVORITE COLLIER COUNTY PLACE TO GRAB A DRINK: Ankrolab Brewing Company on Bayshore. It’s a laid-back atmosphere with a great food truck, games, and they brew a fantastic imperial stout. BUCKET LIST: Visiting New Zealand. I want to see all those amazing landscapes, learn about the M āori culture, and, of course, the birding. New Zealand has some amazing endemic birds like the kiwi and a flightless ground parrot called a kākāpō.
EDUCATION: Illinois Institute of Technology (M.Arch.) AWARDS: The AIA Florida Southwest W.R. Frizzell Medal of Honor and Humanitarian of the Year Award; Junior Achievement Laureate; 2024 Man of the Year (Gulfshore Life) FUNNIEST WORKPLACE EXPERIENCE: When I play “client golf” and they realize I am not going to let them win SECRET TO SUCCESS: Expertise gained by hard work TOUGHEST CHALLENGE: Local politics SOMETHING FEW PEOPLE KNOW ABOUT ME: I donated a kidney 20 years ago to a friend.
n o i t s , a l u t a r g n o C Sandi Moran! We’re thrilled to celebrate you being named one of Naples Top 100 Most Influential Business Leaders! Your accomplishments as a theater producer inspire us, and we are endlessly proud of the dedication and passion you bring to our Naples community. With all our love,
38 years of d n a sb u h d u ro p r You grandchildren r u fo d n a ge ia rr a m of The Naples 100
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The Naples 100
MICHAEL G. LAWLER
RICHARD LEBER
Luxury Real Estate Consultant Lawler Group | Douglas Elliman Real Estate
President and CEO Harry Chapin Food Bank of Southwest Florida
Michael G. Lawler began his luxury real estate career in New York in 1988. By 1999, he moved his business to Naples, where he focused his expertise on luxury residential properties in the most desired coastal communities throughout Southwest Florida. With a keen, expert knowledge of the industry, a highly targeted market, and an established network, Lawler quickly began adding the most desired waterfront estates to his “sold portfolio.” Lawler has designed a staff of experts in listing management, contract management, and marketing to ensure each client experiences exquisite service and stellar communications.
The Harry Chapin Food Bank is the largest hunger relief organization in Southwest Florida. The food bank feeds a quarter of a million people each month in Charlotte, Collier, Glades, Hendry, and Lee counties. Since Richard LeBer joined, the food bank has added programs and almost doubled food distribution in response to the pandemic, hurricanes, inflation, and other unpredictable challenges. LeBer has 20-plus years of experience at food banks. Prior to that, he had a long for-profit business career and was CEO of the National Linen Service.
HOMETOWN: Ottawa, Ontario, Canada EDUCATION: Harvard Business School (MBA) NOTABLE ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Named 2024 Gulfshore Life Man of the Year and among the 2025 “Top 30 Nonprofit Executive in Southwest Florida” by The Community Foundation; 2022-2024 President of the Harvard Club of Naples; 2019 graduate of Leadership Collier. MOST INSPIRING PERSON: Harry Chapin. His energy, heart, and commitment to feeding the hungry fuels our mission every day. TOUGHEST CHALLENGE: Ensuring that the food bank has the capacity and partnerships to serve every neighbor who turns to us for help.
SOMETHING FEW PEOPLE KNOW ABOUT ME: Most people see me through the lens of real estate, but nothing makes me happier these days than spending time with my kids as they step into adulthood. My three children went to college and have since moved back to Naples. They now all work in different facets of the industry, which allows me to collaborate with them professionally. When we’re not working, you’ll often find us out on the water together. HOW I START MY DAY: The morning is my favorite time of day. It’s when I feel most fresh and focused. I’m usually up about 5 a.m. and I love to sit on my dock, watch the sun come up, and enjoy my first cup of coffee. From there, I review the day ahead and have some personal check-in time with my family and then touch base with my team to establish the goals of the day.
CLAUDINE LEGER-WETZEL
ELYSE LIPMAN
Vice President, Sales and Marketing Stock Development
CEO Lipman Family Farms
Originally from Montréal, Canada, Claudine Leger-Wetzel has called Naples home since 1985. For 20 years, Leger-Wetzel has been an integral part of Stock Development, a diversified real estate company. She is involved in all aspects of the company, including master community planning, product design, hospitality, amenities, sales, and marketing. Stock was recently named the thirteenth largest privately held company in Southwest Florida and it continues to expand in Florida and beyond.
Elyse Lipman is a fourth-generation owner and current CEO of Lipman Family Farms, North America’s largest supplier of tomatoes and fresh vegetables. She is an experienced strategist with a unique blend of skills in international business development, strategic communications, and multi-disciplinary partnerships. Lipman formerly worked at the World Economic Forum, where she launched its Center for the Fourth Industrial Revolution focused on unlocking emerging technologies for global companies and markets. She lives with her husband, Story, their (soon-to-be) three kids, and Vizsla dog, Augustus, in Naples.
EDUCATION: Florida State University FUNNIEST WORKPLACE EXPERIENCE: For my birthday, a co-worker hired a provocative dancer to come to the office—and she had no idea how embarrassed I could possibly be. MOST INSPIRING PERSON: My mother raised 10 children as a widow. She taught us that hard work, honesty, resilience, faith, and family are the most important rules for success. FAVORITE TRAVEL DESTINATIONS: Montana and Montréal FAVORITE COLLIER COUNTY RESTAURANT: Sea Salt CHARITIES: Pace Center for Girls-Collier at Immokalee, American Cancer Society, Kids’ Minds Matter, and Warrior Homes of Collier, to name a few
EDUCATION: University of Pennsylvania, World Economic Forum (MA), The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania (MBA) FIRST JOB: Inspecting tomatoes on the farm when I was 6 years old FUNNIEST WORKPLACE EXPERIENCES: Meeting James Cameron, his submersible, and a tiger in the lobby of National Geographic while working as a photo editor for National Geographic magazine MOST INSPIRING PERSON: My great-grandmother Ella who became the first investor in Lipman Family Farms 76 years ago. HOBBIES: Traveling, trekking, biking, skiing, co-piloting with my husband, playing mermaids with my 4-year-old daughter
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The Naples 100
JOSEPH MATINA
KEITH MAPLES
Managing Director and Private Wealth Advisor UBS Private Wealth Management
Chief Executive Officer Neighborhood Health Clinic
With more than three decades of nonprofit leadership, Keith Maples has been instrumental in expanding the Neighborhood Health Clinic into a 40,000-squarefoot campus offering comprehensive, sustainable care. His philanthropic career began at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, where he contributed to raising over $200 million annually. Since joining the clinic in 2015, Maples has led a successful capital campaign and expanded medical services and critical specialty care. Maples has strengthened donor relationships and laid the foundation for continued growth—ensuring quality care for the community well into the future.
Joseph Matina founded The Matina Group, a 13-person UBS Private Wealth Management team, in 2000. He has more than 30 years of investment industry experience. He and his team are nationally recognized for developing best-inclass, customized solutions for individuals and families. Matina and his wife Dana support local women’s and children’s causes. The Matina Group partners with Barron’s to provide its Investing in Education-Financial Literacy Program to students and faculty at Ave Maria University.
EDUCATION: University of Kentucky NOTABLE ACCOMPLISHMENT: Successfully completed Strategic Perspectives and Nonprofit Management at Harvard Business School LESSON LEARNED: Helping a colleague grow in their career and master their craft can be just as rewarding as advancing your own. Their success becomes part of your legacy. FAVORITE TRAVEL DESTINATION: Michigan. Since adopting my daughter, raising her alongside family is creating a lifetime of cherished memories. FAVORITE COLLIER COUNTY PLACE TO GRAB A DRINK Panera, for iced tea on a daily basis. Thank you, Sip Club.
EDUCATION: Albright College ADVICE TO A RECENT GRAD: Spend more time reading and less time on social media. FAVORITE COLLIER COUNTY RESTAURANT: Amore Ristorante CHARITY: Joseph and his wife, Dana, are proud to serve as trustees for the Naples Children Foundation. Supporting this organization is deeply meaningful to the Matinas, not only because of the profound impact it has on underprivileged children, but also because it reflects their shared passion for giving back—especially to causes that support women and children. Beyond that, the couple has a love for all things travel and wine-related, and are always eager to connect those passions with opportunities to give back to the community in creative ways.
Congratulations Mr. Spano We are proud to celebrate Bob Spano, Vice President of Programs at Guadalupe Center, for his recognition in The Naples 100. With more than three decades of service in education, Bob leads with heart, experience, and a deep commitment to student success. His guidance helps shape transformative programs that create opportunities for children in Immokalee — from early learning to college. Through his leadership, Guadalupe Center continues to break the cycle of poverty and create endless possibilities.
Stay Connected: 509 Hope Circle, Immokalee, FL 34142 239.657.7711 | GuadalupeCenter.org The Naples 100
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The Naples 100
JOSEPH “JOE” MCCABE
PHILIP E. MCCABE
Vice President of Development, Gulf Coast Commercial Corp. Founder, Naples Jet Sales
Vice President of Operations Gulf Coast Commercial Corp.
Naples native Joe McCabe is full of energy and tenacity. He majored in business administration with a concentration in entrepreneurship. McCabe has served on the board of the Fifth Avenue South Business Improvement District for seven years as vice president and is currently treasurer. He joined the family business founded by his father, Philip J. McCabe, upon graduating from college. “It was a pre-determined route which I am most honored and appreciative to be a part of,” he says.
Philip E. McCabe grew up in hospitality, learning from his father, Naples hotelier and developer Philip J. McCabe. His earliest experiences ranged from helping in the kitchen at the former McCabe’s Irish Pub to working at The Inn on Fifth during high school summers. After studying economics at Trinity College and abroad in Lausanne, Switzerland, he returned to Naples to join the family business, Gulf Coast Commercial Corp. In 2021, he opened The Vine Room, Naples’ first speakeasy. Today, McCabe leads the creative vision behind the upcoming Carnelian Hotel and Sterling’s Club, curating design, partnerships, and experiences that redefine modern luxury and community.
EDUCATION: High Point University WHY I CHOSE THIS FIELD: Simply put, I joined the family business as soon as I graduated college. FIRST JOB: Growing up, my father had me work every role in one of our hotels, from housekeeping to the front desk. I was able to experience all aspects of the operation. FAVORITE COLLIER COUNTY PLACE TO VISIT: Naples Municipal Airport FAVORITE COLLIER COUNTY RESTAURANT: Le Colonial, a fantastic addition to Naples’ dining scene FAVORITE COLLIER COUNTY PLACE TO GRAB A DRINK: The Vine Room FAVORITE TRAVEL DESTINATION: Skiing in Courchevel, France or Anguilla
EDUCATION: Trinity College NOTABLE ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Opening The Vine Room, a destination cocktail lounge; spearheading the renovation of Inn on Fifth prior to its sale; being named a Naples Illustrated “Top 5 Young Locals” BEST ADVICE RECEIVED: Take care of people, and they will take care of you. HOBBIES: I very much enjoy attending music and theater performances in my free time. The Blue Note/Birdland in New York City, Ronnie Scott’s in London, and Le Duc des Lombards in Paris are all places I like to listen to all genres of music. I try to visit the newest shows on Broadway, and of course Artis—Naples and Gulfshore Playhouse shows.
COREY R. MCCLOSKEY
COURTNEY MCNEIL
President John R. Wood Properties | Christie’s International Real Estate
Museum Director and Chief Curator Artis—Naples, The Baker Museum
Corey R. McCloskey, a Certified Real Estate Brokerage Manager, is a dedicated professional with a 20-plus-year tenure at John R. Wood Properties, the oldest real estate company in Southwest Florida. McCloskey’s influence extends beyond the company founded by her grandfather. She was named the 2022 Naples Area Board of REALTORS® (NABOR®) REALTOR® of the Year. In 2021, she served as president of NABOR® and as the District 5 Vice President of Florida Realtors®. She is actively involved with Florida Realtors® and the National Association of REALTORS®.
Courtney McNeil is an award-winning curator, art historian, and museum leader with more than two decades of museum experience. Now in her sixth season with Artis—Naples as museum director and chief curator, she provides artistic vision and strategic direction for The Baker Museum, crafting a vibrant curatorial program that highlights the organization’s multidisciplinary nature. Most recently, she led the museum through the process of achieving accreditation from the American Alliance of Museums, an honor conferred on only 3 percent of museums nationwide. She is an active lecturer and writer and has served as a judge for numerous exhibitions and art fairs.
HOMETOWN: Naples, Florida FIRST JOB: At a shoe store in the Coastland Mall, where you used to have to put shoes on people. Yuck! ADVICE TO 18-YEAR-OLD SELF: Don’t be in a rush to grow up. Enjoy every stage of your life. BEST ADVICE RECEIVED: Sleep on it. When you have to make a hard choice, give yourself 24 hours before making a decision. SOMETHING FEW PEOPLE KNOW ABOUT ME: I’m an introvert by nature. FAVORITE TRAVEL DESTINATION: Aruba FAVORITE COLLIER COUNTY PLACE TO VISIT: Clam Pass canoe trail
EDUCATION: Courtauld Institute of Art in London (MA) NOTABLE ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Her exhibitions have been recognized regionally and nationally with awards and grants from organizations including the Southeastern Museums Conference, National Endowment for the Arts, Florida Association of Museums, and Terra Foundation for American Art. In 2024, Courtney was admitted to the prestigious Association of Art Museum Directors. WHY I CHOSE THIS FIELD: My mother spent her career as a public school teacher in Boston, and accompanying her class on museum field trips opened my eyes to the transformational effects that museums can have on their communities.
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The Naples 100
TIFFANI MENSCH
GLENN MIDNET
President and CEO United Way of Collier and the Keys
Founder and CEO Design West
With 20 years of nonprofit service, Tiffani Mensch is committed to building strong communities. Taking over the helm of the United Way of Collier and the Keys in 2023, she leads initiatives in disaster recovery, financial stability, and environmental workforce development. Mensch has secured transformative funding to tackle systemic issues and strengthen partnerships across sectors. She has served on numerous boards and contributes her expertise to local and national councils focused on cradle-to-career success and community resiliency.
Glenn Midnet has 40-plus years of experience creating renowned interior design projects with a commitment to excellence and personalized attention that makes each finished space as special as the unique stories that inspire them. The New York native established Design West in Naples in 1994, becoming one of the region’s top interior designers. Midnet is proud to lead an award-winning design firm, calling it “a passion and a labor of love.” His offices, design studio, and showroom are located on Fifth Avenue South.
EDUCATION: Rhode Island School of Design (MA) NOTABLE ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Named a 2024 “Top 30 Nonprofit Executives in Southwest Florida” and 2020 graduate of the Consortium for Social Enterprise Effectiveness Program at the University of Tennessee Haslam College of Business FIRST JOB: Salesclerk at a local video store, back in the VHS days! Be kind, rewind. SECRET TO SUCCESS: Saying yes, even when it’s scary—that’s how the best opportunities have found me FAVORITE COLLIER COUNTY RESTAURANT: My husband and I love The Capital Grille—I order the off-menu lobster bisque. Le Indya is a new favorite. The Peshwari Naan is to die for. BUCKET LIST: A European Christmas market river cruise
EDUCATION: Indiana State University SECRET TO SUCCESS: My “PhD” = pig-headed determination TOUGHEST CHALLENGE: Overcoming the physical and emotional battle with cancer HOW I START MY DAY: By releasing any negative thoughts or emotions and replacing them with positive ones like faith, hope, and gratitude FAVORITE TRAVEL DESTINATION: The south of France FAVORITE COLLIER COUNTY RESTAURANT: Le Colonial CHARITY: American Cancer Society BUCKET LIST: A cruise through the Greek Isles on a private yacht
SANDI MORAN
THOMAS M. MORAN
Theater Producer Moran Productions, LLC
Chairman, CEO, and Chief Investment Officer Moran Wealth Management®
Sandi Moran is a three-time Tony Award-winning Broadway producer. She has served as chair of the Naples Children Foundation, the United Arts Council, and the Naples Chaine des Rotisseurs, and is a member of the Tastevin and Commanderie wine societies. Moran is an accomplished pro/am ballroom dancer, having competed and won numerous regional and national dance competitions. She and Tom, her husband of 38 years, are blessed with a large, wonderfully unique family that includes four grandchildren.
Tom Moran is the founder and driving force behind Moran Wealth Management, LLC, a Naples-based registered investment advisor. The boutique practice is responsible for client assets in excess of $5 billion. Moran Wealth specializes in asset management and private wealth advisory, offering tailored investment solutions and financial planning for individuals, families, and institutions. Operating on a 100 percent fee-only basis, the firm adheres to strict fiduciary standards. Moran Wealth has a team of more than 40 professionals, including many equity partners, and is committed to providing attentive client service.
EDUCATION: Vanderbilt University NOTABLE ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Three Tony Awards BEST ADVICE RECEIVED: You are allowed to be both a masterpiece and a work in progress. TOUGHEST CHALLENGE: Lung cancer LESSON LEARNED: Life is not about being happy all the time or being sure of all your choices. It’s about knowing life is precious, even when things are tough. SOMETHING FEW PEOPLE KNOW ABOUT ME: I’m a sixth-generation Floridian. HOW I START MY DAY: Taking care of the two cutest French bulldogs ever! FAVORITE TRAVEL DESTINATION: Africa and summers in Linville Ridge, North Carolina FAVORITE COLLIER COUNTY PLACE TO VISIT: The new Gulfshore Playhouse Baker Theatre and Education Center
EDUCATION: University of Colorado SOMETHING FEW PEOPLE KNOW ABOUT ME: I was a four-letter athlete in high school. ADVICE FOR A RECENT GRAD: Graduation isn’t the finish line—it’s the beginning of lifelong learning. Keep building skills, whether through certifications, online courses, or mentorship. HOW I START MY DAY: Checking the S&P futures FAVORITE TRAVEL DESTINATION: Linville Ridge, North Carolina FAVORITE COLLIER COUNTY PLACE TO VISIT: The Old Collier Golf Club FAVORITE COLLIER COUNTY RESTAURANT: Amore Ristorante CHARITIES: Gulfshore Playhouse, Youth Haven, St. Matthew’s House
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The Naples 100
ADRIAN MOSES
MARY MORTON
General Manager Sports Facilities Companies (Paradise Coast Sports Complex)
Chief Financial Officer Moorings Park Communities
At Moorings Park Communities, Mary Morton drives financial innovation and growth in senior living, enhancing resident experience through impactful initiatives. Morton is a licensed certified public accountant in Florida. Prior to joining Moorings Park in 2012, Morton served as assurance manager for a national public accounting firm where she performed audits, reviews, and other assurance and attestation services for companies in a range of industries across the country.
Adrian Moses has 24 years of experience in the sports, recreation, and service industries. His career began coaching soccer with Major League Soccer at MetroStars/New York Red Bulls and then with the Dynamo Organization in Houston, serving the dual role of director of soccer programs and general manager of the Houston Sports Park. Moses has been bringing his expertise to his role as general manager of the Paradise Coast Sports Complex since 2021. The programming at the sports complex has grown dynamically during his oversight, including establishing it as the home field of Collier County’s first professional sports team, FC Naples.
EDUCATION: Washington University in St. Louis (BA, MBA) HOMETOWN: Sheboygan Falls, Wisconsin SOMETHING FEW PEOPLE KNOW ABOUT ME: I am a dual citizen of the United States and Luxembourg. HOBBIES: Golf, scuba diving, fishing ADVICE TO A RECENT GRADUATE: Prioritize learning and relationships over status. True growth comes from building meaningful connections and remaining adaptable. FAVORITE COLLIER COUNTY PLACES TO VISIT: Bonita Bay Club, Everglades Rod & Gun Club, and Bayview Park FAVORITE COLLIER COUNTY RESTAURANT: Kelly’s Fish House CAUSES: Bonefish & Tarpon Trust and the Hook’em in the Glades fundraiser for Everglades City School
HOMETOWN: Reigate, Surrey, United Kingdom EDUCATION: St. Mary’s University (Twickenham, London) SECRET TO SUCCESS: Keep score on yourself and compete to win. TOUGHEST CHALLENGE: Overcoming brain cancer in 2016 LESSON LEARNED: Always try to maintain positive body language. SOMETHING FEW PEOPLE KNOW ABOUT ME: I only have two more Major League Baseball ballparks to visit until I’ve been to them all, Detroit and Toronto. HIDDEN TALENT: Geographical trivia
CONGRATULATIONS MELANIE KALNINS
Opera Naples congratulates Executive Director Melanie Kalnins for her well-deserved inclusion in Naples Illustrated’s The Naples 100, recognizing Melanie as one of our region’s top influential people.
NAPLES 100
Melanie’s leadership, in tandem with the groundbreaking artistic vision of Artistic and Music Director Ramón Tebar, has sparked a renaissance in the region’s cultural landscape, with enhanced community outreach, growth in philanthropic support and record attendance for our Festival Under the Stars. We celebrate Melanie’s extraordinary impact and her tireless dedication to expanding the reach, excellence and future of opera in Southwest Florida.
Brava! Melanie Kalnins, Executive Director
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The Naples 100
JACK MULVENA
ANDREA NICKRENT
President and CEO Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens
Vice President and Chief Revenue Officer Naples Botanical Garden
Having successfully completed its $30 million 2015-2025 master plan, and the many major new features and habitats that the master plan included, the zoo now shifts its focus to major upgrades and renovations to its most iconic experiences. Beginning in 2026 and continuing through 2028, the zoo will complete an anticipated $7.5 million in major upgrades to its 400-seat theater and ambassador animal experience and the zoo’s iconic Primate Expedition cruise experience. Plans also include a brand-new okapi habitat, a new lion habitat, and the full restoration of the zoo’s historic buildings.
Andrea Nickrent has more than 20 years in the nonprofit sector in a variety of roles. She joined Naples Botanical Garden in 2019 and leads the teams responsible for revenue and audience development. Prior to coming to Naples, she spent 11 years at Missouri Botanical Garden in St. Louis, Missouri. Nickrent served in creative roles in the nonprofit and corporate sectors early in her career and is a Certified Fund Raising Executive. EDUCATION: Eastern Michigan University (MS) NOTABLE ACCOMPLISHMENTS: I went to Southern Illinois University (SIU) on a golf scholarship and am a two-time Missouri Valley Conference champion. I currently serve on SIU’s Alumni Board. FIRST JOB: Graphic designer BEST ADVICE RECEIVED: Focus on what you can control; plan for what you can’t. LESSON LEARNED: Nothing is more humbling than answering the main phone line for your organization. Our frontline team are rock stars. HIDDEN TALENT: I make really good granola. ADVICE TO 18-YEAR-OLD SELF: The days are long, but the years are short. Don’t take anything for granted.
EDUCATION: University of Rhode Island (MBA) WHY I CHOSE THIS FIELD: I’ve always wanted to serve the public through organizations recognized as vital community resources. I began as a United Way executive before moving into the zoo world—unique and cherished places that connect people with animals and nature, especially through education. Outside in nature has always been where I’m happiest. HOBBIES: Fishing, tennis, hiking, biking, movies, and cooking HOW I START MY DAY: I’m usually up around 5 a.m. and I use the time and the quiet and the peace to think about the day before and the day ahead and the people in my life who provide amazing love and support and how I might be able to support them. BUCKET LIST: A trip to Portugal
CHAD OLIVER
LORI OLIVER
Chad Oliver leads the award-winning CCPS Office of Communications and Community Engagement, overseeing media relations, public records, design, video, web, and community partnerships. Before joining CCPS in 2018, Oliver spent 14 years anchoring and reporting for NBC2 and ABC7 in Southwest Florida, earning multiple Emmy Awards. He and his wife, Lori, live in Naples and are the proud parents of Allie and Luke. They met in 2011 while participating in the Naples fundraising event “Dancing with the Stars” (where they won for the “Best Dance”). Oliver is an avid tennis player.
Lori Oliver’s hands-on approach at the Naples Performing Arts Center ensures each student feels supported and valued. She opened the Naples Performing Arts Center in 2012. Her vision has made the center a hub for dynamic musical theater productions, alongside strong partnerships with the Greater Naples YMCA and Community School of Naples. Oliver’s enthusiasm shines in every aspect of this nonprofit—from music and dance lessons to the bright lights of the stage. She is married to Chad Oliver and mother to two children, Allie and Luke.
Chief Communication Officer Collier County Public Schools (CCPS)
Founder, CEO, and Artistic Director Naples Performing Arts Center
EDUCATION: North Central University NOTABLE ACCOMPLISHMENTS: 2021 “Best Director of the Decade,” “Artistic Director of the Decade,” “Theater Educator of the Decade,” and “Best After School Program of the Decade” by BroadwayWorld. WHY I CHOSE THIS FIELD: I wanted to create a place where children can come not only to develop a love for the arts but a belief and a confidence in themselves that they can accomplish anything they dream. BEST ADVICE RECEIVED: Always ask yourself, “Will this matter in five minutes, five days, five months, or five years?” Things feel less overwhelming when you put it into perspective. ADVICE TO A RECENT GRAD: Mistakes are not failure but steps to success. Show yourself grace!
EDUCATION: University of Georgia NOTABLE ACCOMPLISHMENTS: President, Sunshine State School Public Relations Association; recognized by the National School Public Relations Association; and recipient of an Emmy Award and multiple Associated Press Awards and Edward R. Murrow Awards. FUNNIEST WORKPLACE EXPERIENCE: I was co-anchoring a midday newscast when we aired a story about the world’s tallest and shortest men—both dressed in tuxedos, strolling side by side. The visual caught us completely off guard, and we couldn’t stop laughing. I’m talking tears. Even in live news, sometimes you just need to laugh. ADVICE TO 18-YEAR-OLD SELF: When you’re 29 years old and in between jobs, don’t go skiing in Lake Tahoe without health insurance.
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The Naples 100
ERIN OTTERBECK
KRISTINA PARK
Vice President of Operations Allikriste Custom Cabinetry & Kitchen Design
President and CEO Greater Naples Chamber
Erin Otterbeck began her career in the medical field, rising from paramedic to hospital administrator and working in mergers and acquisitions for a major health system. Fifteen years ago, she moved to Naples, where she stepped into the world of luxury cabinetry and millwork. As director of operations at AlliKriste Naples, Otterbeck brings creativity, leadership, and heart to overseeing projects that turn houses into homes. Named the 2020 Collier Building Industry Association Associate of the Year, she is a passionate community advocate. A proud mother of two, Otterbeck believes in empowering women and children.
With more than two decades of experience in community-building organizations, Kristina Park was recruited to Naples in January 2024 to serve as the president and CEO of the Greater Naples Chamber, Partnership for Collier’s Future Economy, and Leadership Collier Foundation. Here, she leads a dynamic team that brings together for-profit, nonprofit, and governmental partners to strategically accomplish organizational and community development goals. Park’s passion for data-driven solutions and creative strategies consistently delivers measurable results and growth.
HOMETOWN: Hibbing, Minnesota EDUCATION: DePaul University SOMETHING FEW PEOPLE KNOW ABOUT ME: I am not a princess…with my heels off, you’ll find me mucking stalls and chasing the perfect ride with my horse. HIDDEN TALENT: I can be ready in 10 minutes for any situation. FAVORITE COLLIER COUNTY RESTAURANTS: Gumbo Limbo and Sea Salt CHARITIES: She is as a longtime executive board member for the Pace Center for Girls-Collier at Immokalee. Otterbeck also serves on Youth Haven’s Cherish the Children Luncheon Committee and supports the STARability Foundation and Habitat Collier.
EDUCATION: University of North Carolina at Greensboro HOMETOWN: High Point, North Carolina FIRST JOB: I wore a giant cellphone costume and flipped a directional sign near my father’s cellphone store. Luckily, we’ve still uncovered no photographic evidence to date. SECRET TO SUCCESS: Collaboration. Together we can overcome challenges more effectively, inspire each other, and achieve goals that might be difficult to reach solo. HOW I START MY DAY: With a cold plunge. As someone who really dislikes the cold, I never thought this would be something I’d ever try, let alone make part of my daily routine. But I’ve found incredible benefits, and it wakes me up better than the strongest coffee!
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The Naples 100
VELJKO PAVICEVIC
GRANT PHELAN
Co-founding Partner Sails, Butcher Private, Omasava, Sava, and Founder
President and CEO Phelan Family Brands
Veljko Pavicevic is a visionary entrepreneur and luxury hospitalitarian known as the quintessential “Butler to Billionaires.” Co-founder of Sails Restaurant, Butcher Private, and Omasava in Naples, he is celebrated for delivering signature hospitality with precision, discretion, and warmth. A master of traditional, impeccable, French service honed at the Ritz, Veljko continues to elevate the city’s dining scene. In 2025, he debuted Sava and Founder, aiming to position Naples as a premier global destination worthy of Michelin recognition.
Grant Phelan is a respected Southwest Florida restaurateur who is continuing his family’s legacy. Phelan Family Brands boasts an impressive portfolio of more than 26 restaurants with 10 concepts, and his innovative business strategies have earned him recognition as a visionary industry leader. Since 1997, the company’s establishments have become favorite dining destinations. With a team of 1,800plus employees, Phelan’s empire continues to grow. In 2023, three longestablished Fifth Avenue South restaurants were added to the portfolio.
EDUCATION: University of Belgrade WHY I CHOSE THIS FIELD: Hospitality gave me a way to live my values in every moment: treating people with dignity, creating beauty through service, and making others feel at home, no matter where they come from. FUNNIEST WORKPLACE EXPERIENCE: Witnessing a guest attempt to sneak a slice of chocolate gateau into their Birkin bag BEST ADVICE RECEIVED: Always prioritize culture before strategy—great teams create great experiences. TOUGHEST CHALLENGE: Building a hospitality brand in the middle of a pandemic HOBBIES: Exploring the world through its restaurants and mentoring the next generation of hospitality leaders
EDUCATION: Cornell University SOMETHING FEW PEOPLE KNOW ABOUT ME: My wife, Laurie, and I started dating when we were seniors at Barron Collier High School. We have been together ever since. HOW I START MY DAY: A fresh cup of coffee and reviewing the numbers from our restaurants from the day before. FAVORITE COLLIER COUNTY PLACE TO VISIT: Keewaydin Island. It’s tough to find a prettier or more serene setting anywhere in the world and it’s right in our backyard. We even named our newest restaurant concept on Fifth Avenue South in Naples after it to celebrate how amazing it is to experience. FAVORITE TRAVEL DESTINATION: Whitefish, Montana
CRAIG PRICE
OLGA PLACERES
Director of Community Enrichment The Naples Players
President Preferred Travel & Company
Olga Placeres is a travel professional with over 35 years of experience. She joined Preferred Travel in 1988, becoming the managing business partner and chief financial officer in 2001. In 2019, she became president and owner overseeing the day-to-day operations and guiding the agency into the future. The company has offices in Naples, Bonita Springs, Dunedin, Fort Lauderdale, and The Villages. Placeres grew the company’s footprint during the pandemic and now runs the company with her daughter and son-in-law, Kristina and Kody Gear.
Craig Price has been a volunteer actor, staff teacher, and director of education with The Naples Players. Price and the Arts Access Team design and teach classes for kids and adults with developmental and intellectual disabilities. These online and in-person classes focus on teaching communication skills through improv games. Price trained and performed in Chicago at The Second City and IO Theater and with ComedySportz of Denver, and as a stand-up comedian. In Southwest Florida, Price served as the Centers for the Arts of Bonita Springs youth theatre director and was assistant director for the award-winning “Curious Kids” show on the local public broadcasting station WGCU TV.
NOTABLE ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Appointed to serve on several nationally recognized industry advisory boards, including for: Travel +Leisure A List, Lindblad Expeditions, Silversea Cruises International Travel, Tauck Travel, Travel Elevates, and as board chairperson of Signature Travel Network. Recognized with the 2021 Michelle Morgan Leadership Award by the Signature Travel Network FIRST JOB: Entenmann’s Bakery accounting office WHY I CHOSE THIS FIELD: By accident—I love travel and the endless adventures associated with it! LESSON LEARNED: When you lead with your heart, success usually follows. SOMETHING FEW PEOPLE KNOW ABOUT ME: I came to this country at age 9 and wholeheartedly believe that this is the land of opportunity!
EDUCATION: Wittenberg University NOTABLE ACCOMPLISHMENT: Certificate of Awesomeness for “being supportive, modeling vulnerability, and being a swell guy” from “Camp Yes And” at the Indiana Institute on Disability and Community at the Center on Education and Lifelong Learning, Indiana University WHY I CHOSE THIS FIELD: I love helping people better communicate with each other and the world around them through theater. Once I started working with kids and adults with disabilities, I quickly realized that I could help them and their care partners through the amazing art form of improv comedy.
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A lesson in creating positive impact. Here in Southwest Florida, excellent teachers are in high demand. At FGCU, our education and mentoring programs prepare students with the skills and confidence to quickly join the local workforce. Because we know the value of helping build stronger schools. And we can’t wait to make our mark. Your University | fgcu.edu
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The Naples 100
MICHAEL J. PUCHALLA
WILLIAM “BILL” M. RAVEIS JR.
CEO/Executive Director The Housing Alliance, Inc.
Founder and CEO William Raveis, Inc.
Michael J. Puchalla serves as the CEO/Executive Director of The Housing Alliance, Inc., which is affiliated with the Housing Development Corporation of SW Florida, Inc., d/b/a HELP and the Collier County Community Land Trust, Inc. These three affiliated entities create a holistic approach to solving housing affordability challenges in Collier County. In his role, Puchalla also serves as the executive director of both HELP and the community land trust. Puchalla has served on many local boards and committees, including the Collier County Continuum of Care and Emmanuel Communities.
In 1974, Bill Raveis launched William Raveis Real Estate with a game-changing vision to help agents achieve success as their operating partner. The company has gained national and global recognition, including 2025 “Top Luxury Brokerage” by Inman Golden Club, Inman Innovators 2023 “Top Brokerage,” and as a “Top 100 Luxury Real Estate Brokers of the World” consecutively since 2022. Raveis has more than 4,500 agents and 140 offices and is the No. 1 independent familyowned real estate company in the Northeast, Florida, and South Carolina today. TOUGHEST CHALLENGE: The day my wife, Candy, was diagnosed with acute myeloma leukemia, and the doctor said she had four months to live. It wasn’t easy. My advice is don’t listen to naysayers. Forge your own path. The results may surprise you. Candy surpassed expectations for the next 10 years. BEST ADVICE RECEIVED: My parents instilled in me a sense of confidence and optimism. They’d say, “You can be anything you want to be,” and for a kid with dyslexia, it was a gift. CHARITIES: The 12,000-square-foot Candy & Bill Raveis Pathology Laboratory at the Neighborhood Health Clinic opened in November 2025. The William Raveis Charitable Fund has donated more than $5 million for cancer research since 2004. The fund has partnered with Damon Runyon Cancer Research Foundation and the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute to support groundbreaking research.
EDUCATION: University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire HOMETOWN: Independence, Wisconsin NOTABLE ACCOMPLISHMENT: 1997 UW-Eau Claire College of Business Student of the Year WHY I CHOOSE THIS FIELD: I was working in the wholesale mortgage industry until the recession in 2007–2009. I realized how challenging it was for so many who were experiencing financial difficulties to communicate with their mortgage servicers. I connected with a local nonprofit housing organization, and we applied for HUD certification in early 2009 and received funding to provide foreclosure intervention counseling services. We have continued to expand the housing-related services and programs we offer to the community.
BRIAN ROLAND
MICHAEL RAYMOND
Founder, Owner, and Chef Crave Culinaire, Crave Management Group, Crave Event Staffing
CEO, The Perry Hotel Naples Managing Director, FOD Capital, LLC
Michael Raymond brings over four decades of leadership in corporate finance, private equity, and hospitality. A visionary with extensive experience in resort development—including ski resorts, multi-use projects, and landmark properties on Stock Island and Key West—he has a proven track record of success in guiding major ventures from concept to completion. As managing director of FOD Capital, the parent company of The Perry Hotel Naples, Raymond oversees strategic direction and cultivates community partnerships. Earlier in his career, he practiced securities and corporate finance law, with a focus on mergers and acquisitions and general corporate matters.
Brian Roland, who trained under Daniel Boulud, began making headlines more than two decades ago as executive chef at Cru in Fort Myers and for revitalizing the M Waterfront Grille. In 2013, he created Crave Culinaire, a catering and special events company, which grew quickly due to the myriad charitable events to which he lent his talents. Crave Culinaire also partnered with developers to create and run restaurants for their communities. In December 2021 during an catering event, he suffered a devastating accident, which required several years of recovery. He and his wife, Nicole, have a young daughter, Remington “Remi.” EDUCATION: Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, New York NOTABLE ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Certified Chef de Cuisine, Commandeur Gold/ Maître Rôtisseur for the Chaine des Rôtisseurs, and was featured on CNBC’s “Restaurant Startup” BEST ADVICE RECEIVED: Never let the fear of failure stop you from reaching your dreams. HIDDEN TALENT: I can finish a Rubik’s Cube in 1 minute and 54 seconds FAVORITE COLLIER COUNTY PLACES TO VISIT: Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens, Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples, and the Naples Botanical Gardens—all with our daughter, Remi FAVORITE COLLIER COUNTY RESTAURANTS: Tough choice! Bicyclette Cookshop and Bha Bha! Persian Bistro are two big favorites.
EDUCATION: Georgetown University Law School (LLM), John Marshall Law School (JD) NOTABLE ACCOMPLISHMENTS: He is an adjunct professor at Wayne State University Law School, teaching securities regulation, and is an author and frequent public speaker on both the business and hospitality sectors. FUNNIEST WORKPLACE EXPERIENCE: A janitor unexpectedly walked into my unlocked office while I was changing clothes—a story that still makes me laugh today. LESSON LEARNED: Diversify your risk. HIDDEN TALENT: I’m a talented carpenter. ADVICE TO A RECENT GRAD: Don’t be shy.
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The Naples 100
TIM SAVAGE
CHRIS ROZANSKY
Principal Gulf Coast International Properties (GCIP) and GCIP Luxury Rentals
Executive Director Naples Airport Authority
Gulf Coast International Properties is the foremost luxury real estate boutique in Naples, rooted in community values with over 15 years of proven success. Tim Savage has achieved some of the most significant sales in county history, including an $85 million record-breaking transaction in April, the highest price recorded at the time for a single-family home in Collier County and highest for a nonbeachfront residence. In February, he closed the second-highest non-beachfront sale in Naples at $43.1 million, marking the top sale of 2024 and 2025 at the time and one of the six highest ever recorded in Naples.
In 2016, Chris Rozansky joined the Naples Airport Authority, an independent government agency that operates Naples Airport. It serves more tan 200,000 passengers annually and has an estimated $781 million annual economic impact. A certified member of the American Association of Airport Executives, he was named Florida Department of Transportation Aviation Professional of the Year in 2012 and 2023 and earned the 2022 Florida Airports Council Vision Award. His family are members of Summit Church. EDUCATION: The Ohio State University HOMETOWN: Cream Ridge, New Jersey, a rural town with one traffic light WHY I CHOSE THIS FIELD: I grew up near an Air Force base and was always looking skyward—and I haven’t stopped since. FIRST JOB: Pumping gas at the local airport for the traffic watch plane at 5 a.m. FUNNIEST WORKPLACE EXPERIENCE: I was a costume character at Six Flags Great Adventure. Marvin the Martian was best. Porky Pig the worst. BEST ADVICE RECEIVED: “This is the day the Lord has made. We will rejoice and be glad in it.” – Psalm 118:24 FAVORITE COLLIER COUNTY PLACE TO VISIT: Isles of Capri. It’s one of the few remnants of old Florida.
EDUCATION: Florida State University ADVICE TO A RECENT GRAD: Focus on efficiency and quality of service. HOBBIES: Outdoor sports with my kids, any type of race car driving, exercise, and traveling HOW I START MY DAY: With prayer and gratitude FAVORITE COLLIER COUNTY PLACE TO GRAB A DRINK: The Maddox CHARITIES: Hope for Haiti, Pace Center for Girls-Collier at Immokalee, Child Evangelism Fellowship BUCKET LIST: To race in the Porsche Sprint Cup Challenge series
Congratulations! Congratulations, Kristina Park! Your leadership inspires progress and your vision continues to shape the future of Collier County’s business community. Honored as one of Naples Illustrated’s Top 100 Most Influential Business Leaders.
CONNECT. LEAD. GROW. napleschamber.org | 239-262-6376 | 2390 Tamiami Trail North, Suite 212, Naples, FL 34103
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The Naples 100
CHRISTOPHER SHUCART
REINHOLD SCHMIEDING
President JCS Realty Group
President and Founder Arthrex Inc.
Reinhold Schmieding has led the development of more than 20,000 surgical devices and implants for less invasive surgery during the past 40-plus years, with over 2,000 product and method patents. A technology pioneer in arthroscopic surgery, Schmieding developed some of the first instruments for arthroscopic knee and shoulder surgery with leading orthopedic surgeons from Europe and North America. The Michigan native founded Arthrex from a drafting table in Munich, Germany in 1981 and returned to the U.S. in 1991 to relocate the global headquarters to Naples. The university-style, 80-acre campus is one of the most advanced product design and surgical skills education centers in the world.
From an early age, Christopher Shucart was drawn to building and construction, an interest that led him to various jobs in the industry throughout the country. After relocating to Naples in 2003, he and his father, James, launched JCS Realty Group. The Naples-based, full-service commercial real estate investment and development company provides management, leasing, and construction services for its properties. JCS Realty partnered with Cameron Mitchell Restaurants on the new rooftop Prime Social Reserve on Fifth Avenue South, an exclusive venue. EDUCATION: Arizona State University NOTABLE ACCOMPLISHMENTS: In 2025, I proudly celebrated several milestones: the opening of Prime Social Reserve around Thanksgiving after nearly six years of development; marking 20 years of success at JCS Realty Group; recognizing my son’s outstanding scholastic and athletic achievements; and cherishing another year together with my beautiful wife, Rochelle. HOW I START MY DAY: In the office before the sun is up with coffee and quiet before Naples wakes up HOBBIES: Sporting events, boating, and traveling with the family FAVORITE COLLIER COUNTY RESTAURANTS: Chops City Grill, The Bay House, The Mini Bar, District Sushi, Cheeky Tiki, and Prime Social Reserve
EDUCATION: Michigan State University AWARDS: Recipient of the American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine Circle of Honor Award and Edison Innovation Award from the Thomas Edison Society, and honorary doctorate from Florida Gulf Coast University BEST ADVICE RECEIVED: Specialize. MOST INSPIRING PERSON: David Attenborough CHARITIES: Arthrex is proud to support hundreds of charities in the local community and around the world. One that I am especially aligned with is First Tee–Naples/Collier which uses the game of golf to teach youth participants valuable life skills.
ANNALISE SMITH
ANTHONY SOLOMON
Chief Philanthropy Officer Avow
President and Owner The Ronto Group
A certified hospice administrator, Annalise Smith leads a dedicated fundraising team, developing creative initiatives to support Avow’s nonprofit hospice, palliative care, and grief support services. A resident of Collier County since 2001, Smith is the past chair of the Parkinson’s Association of Southwest Florida executive board and a current member of its governance committee, and past president of the Naples Interagency Council. A 2010 graduate of Leadership Collier, she is also a member of the Alpha Gamma Delta Southwest Florida Alumnae Club and the Association of Fundraising Professionals.
Anthony Solomon grew up in Toronto, Canada, and moved to Southwest Florida in 1997 to join The Ronto Group after college. The development company has been well-known for more than 30 years, and today it is one of the largest real estate developers in Southwest Florida, with projects from Naples to Tampa. It has been recognized internationally for building communities that exemplify the luxury lifestyle, thoughtful planning, and craftsmanship. The Ronto Group is working on several luxury residential developments, including Encore Naples Square, Rosewood Residences Naples, and Infinity in Pelican Landing.
EDUCATION: Hodges University NOTABLE ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Smith is a Florida CORE trained assisted living facility administrator. She earned a certificate in Fundraising Management from the Lilly Family School of Philanthropy at Indiana University and is a Certified Fund Raising Executive. WHY I CHOSE THIS FIELD: My father was a podiatrist and would have appointments on weekends and I would tag along with him. I always enjoyed talking to the elderly patients and listening to their incredible stories. FAVORITE TRAVEL DESTINATION: My lake house in North Carolina CHARITIES: Avow, Baker Senior Center Naples, Harry Chapin Food Bank of Southwest Florida, Drowning Prevention Coalition
EDUCATION: Concordia University RECENT ACCOMPLISHMENT: Named among the 2025 Top Entrepreneurs by the Business Observer LESSON LEARNED: Don’t try to force things; trust your instincts. If you’re stretching to find a way to make something work you probably shouldn’t do it. ADVICE TO A RECENT GRAD: Don’t be dogmatic about your career path. You never know where life will take you or what career you may find interesting. CAUSE: The Guardian ad Litem program. My wife is a Guardian ad Litem and they do amazing work advocating for children who are in the foster care system through no fault of their own. BUCKET LIST: Going on a safari
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The Naples 100
MEG STEPANIAN
BOB SPANO
Executive Director Fifth Avenue South Business Improvement District
Vice President of Programs Guadalupe Center
Bob Spano brings 35 years of teaching and education administration to the Guadalupe Center. The nonprofit works to break the cycle of poverty in Immokalee through education, reaching more than 1,938 students per year with three successful programs. Spano has served as principal in three schools that earned a statewide “A” rating. Since 2016, Spano has been helping to expand Guadalupe Center’s K-12 programs and prepare students for higher education and plan their future careers. Spano earned a bachelor’s degree in education, master’s in education administration, and an advanced Education Specialist Degree.
With a deep-rooted commitment to collaboration, creativity, and community, Meg Stepanian plays a pivotal role in shaping the avenue’s vitality. Her strategic vision and marketing expertise have elevated the district’s profile, drawn visitors from near and far, and empowered local businesses to thrive. Guided by a philosophy of purposeful partnerships and dynamic storytelling, Stepanian champions initiatives celebrating the avenue’s unique character, securing its place as the cultural and economic heartbeat of Naples. EDUCATION: Ithaca College HOMETOWN: Syracuse, New York WHY I CHOSE THIS FIELD: I used to watch “Bewitched,” and I always thought it was magical when Darin created the advertising solution for the client in the nick of time. Also, even as a little girl, I had a profound sense of awe and respect for Walter Cronkite. FUNNIEST WORKPLACE EXPERIENCE: Shooting TV commercials in a barn full of cows and other random farm animals SOMETHING FEW PEOPLE KNOW ABOUT ME: I was involved in the development of Paradise Reef. I spent four years helping to raise funds and market the deployment of 36 man-made reefs off Collier County’s to support tourism and marine life.
EDUCATION: Nova Southeastern University (MEd), University of Miami (EdS) NOTABLE ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Earned an athletic scholarship for college; coached a state championship girls softball team; and opened a new high school and a new elementary school as principal WHY I CHOOSE THIS FIELD: I wanted to help children reach their greatest potential. BEST ADVICE RECEIVED: “D squared” = delegate and disappear SECRET TO SUCCESS: Never stop learning and work well with others. HOBBIES: Exercising, pickleball, and hunting with my boys ADVICE TO A RECENT GRAD: Set goals and work hard to obtain them.
Congratulations LINDA GOLDFIELD, YOUTH HAVEN CEO
Congratulations to Linda on her inclusion in the 2026 Naples Illustrated Naples 100. As the leader of the only emergency and residential shelter for children and teens in Collier County, Linda has expanded critical programs, strengthened community partnerships, and launched Building Hope for Tomorrow—the most pivotal capital campaign in our 53-year history. We are grateful for her vision, dedication, and commitment to providing Home, Hope, and Healing to the abused, neglected, and homeless youth who depend on Youth Haven.
5867 Whitaker Road, Naples, FL 34112 • YouthHavenSWFL.org • 239.7 74.2904 NI_Naples100Ad26.indd 1
The Naples 100
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The Naples 100
BRIAN K. STOCK
AYSEGUL TIMUR
Owner and CEO Stock Development
President Florida Gulf Coast University
Founded in 2001 by K.C. and Brian K. Stock, Stock Development is a familyowned, diversified real estate company with a legacy of success in high-end development, construction, ownership, and management. It has been recognized with more than 500 awards for its outstanding communities, product design, amenities, marketing, and overall quality. Brian Stock has been instrumental in the company’s growth and expansion into premier Florida markets. He oversees all facets of the company, including development, design, construction, financing, marketing, sales, and leasing.
Aysegul Timur, PhD, is Florida Gulf Coast University’s fifth president. The Istanbul native is a first-generation college student who made the crosscontinental move to Collier County 25 years ago. An economist by training, Timur earned a PhD and has dedicated most of her career to higher education. She led FGCU’s efforts to receive a historic $22.9 million grant through the U.S. Department of Commerce Economic Development Administration bureau.
EDUCATION: University of South Florida (PhD) WHY I CHOSE THIS FIELD: I am an extrovert by nature and really love math. I found my passion in telling stories with numbers—how you can interpret math and relate it to current events and trends. TOUGHEST CHALLENGE: After moving to Naples from Istanbul, I had my sights on earning my doctorate. But there was one major obstacle: I had absolutely no words in English. So I enrolled in ESL classes. About four months later, I was able to speak, listen, and write in very broken English but it got better with time. I enrolled at the University of South Florida in Tampa to begin my doctoral program. That came with another challenge for my audacious plan: I traveled from Naples to Tampa four days a week for four years.
EDUCATION: St. Norbert College FIRST JOB: Cleaning garbage at the lumber yard my father owned BEST ADVICE RECEIVED: You are only as good as the people you surround yourself with. MOST INSPIRING PERSON: My dad, K.C. Stock SECRET TO SUCCESS: Our team at Stock Development. Also, treat people how you would like to be treated. TOUGHEST CHALLENGE: Recession HOBBIES: Watching sports, golfing, and fly fishing FAVORITE TRAVEL DESTINATION: Bozeman, Montana
JAMIE ULMER
BRIAN M. WILSON
President and CEO Healthcare Network
Executive Vice President Wilson Lighting
Jamie Ulmer arrived in July 2022 to lead the nonprofit Healthcare Network, a Federally Qualified Health Center that ensures primary medical care is accessible to everyone in the community, regardless of job or insurance status. Ulmer most recently served as CEO for Heart of Florida in Marion County, Florida. His wealth of health care leadership includes 24 years of service in the military, where he progressed from a combat medic to a Medical Service Corps officer; he was assigned to multiple deployments.
Brian M. Wilson played a key role in expanding the family business from its original location in Overland Park, Kansas to multiple locations, including Naples and Bonita Springs. He also helped create and launch the Mariana Home brand, designing and developing premier lighting and home furnishings from around the world. Providing interior designers, custom homebuilders, architects, and homeowners a unique and elevated experience has been Wilson’s passion and focus. Outside of work, Wilson enjoys travel, boating, and spending time with family and friends.
LESSON LEARNED: Humility has moved me more in life than being prideful. SOMETHING FEW PEOPLE KNOW ABOUT ME: I grew up on a large farm, farming many different crops and livestock. HIDDEN TALENT: Event planning—I have a knack for throwing the best and most exciting parties. ADVICE FOR A RECENT GRAD: Have a backup to the backup plan. It will lower your stress levels. FAVORITE COLLIER COUNTY PLACE TO VISIT: Keewaydin Island—the level of beauty and peace is priceless.
EDUCATION: University of Kansas HOMETOWN: Overland Park, Kansas BEST ADVICE RECEIVED: Don’t reward yourself too much in good times and don’t beat yourself up too much in challenging times. MOST INSPIRING PERSON: My father, the founder of our family business, is the wisest and most honorable person I know. LESSON LEARNED: Appreciate and be thankful for all the gifts and blessings in one’s life. HOBBIES: Travel, boating, and golfing FAVORITE COLLIER COUNTY PLACE TO VISIT: The beach at sunset with my wife
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NAPLES TOP 100 HONOREE
Congratulations Mary Morton Chief Financial Officer Moorings Park Communities
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Celebrating the Best in Senior Living Moorings Park Communities is the premier provider of luxury retirement living. Our three gorgeous campuses offer stunning residences, beautiful vistas, amazing amenities, and concierge physicians dedicated to helping you age successfully.
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Download Your Information Kit Today 120 Moorings Park Drive, Naples MooringsPark.org/MPCInfo
239-345-2866
11/20/25 10:40 AM
The Naples 100
GEORGE A. WILSON
MARK D. WILSON
Managing Partner Wilson & Johnson
President and CEO London Bay
Originally from Cincinnati, Ohio, George A. Wilson has practiced in the areas of estate and tax planning, charitable giving, and trust and estate administration in Naples since 1981. He is certified by the Florida Bar as a specialist in wills, trusts and estates. A frequent speaker on topics related to estate planning, Wilson authored a chapter on “Domicile and Avoiding Ancillary Administration” in a text published by Callahan and Company and a multi-volume estate planning treatise titled “Estate and Personal Finance Planning.” He co-founded the firm in 1986.
After writing his master’s thesis about American real estate investment, England native Mark Wilson ventured across the pond, working in commercial construction before transitioning into custom homebuilding. In 1990, he founded London Bay with his wife, Gemma. London Bay builds custom single-family and multi-family homes priced from $1 million to more than $20 million in exclusive neighborhoods and communities. It has garnered about 500 industry awards and has been named “America’s Best Builder” by Builder magazine several times.
EDUCATION: University of Toledo (JD) and University of Miami (LLM) WHY I CHOSE THIS FIELD: In my role as a trust and estate attorney, it is rewarding to help families pass their legacy on to the next generation. FIRST JOB: Laying cement roads during college MOST INSPIRING PERSON: Warren Buffett SECRET TO SUCCESS: The harder you work, the luckier you get. HIDDEN TALENT: I love to cook, especially Cajun dishes like gumbo. FAVORITE TRAVEL DESTINATION: The Omni Grove Park Inn & Spa in Asheville, North Carolina
EDUCATION: Manchester Business School (MBA) HOW I START MY DAY: Either a workout or a cup of coffee on the dock watching the sun come up. I try to make sure I enjoy both during the week. ADVICE TO A RECENT GRAD: There is no substitute for hard work. Always be learning. Find work that you are passionate about. TOUGHEST CHALLENGE: The 2008 financial crisis and housing downturn was an extremely tough time for the business and an important learning lesson. Fortunately, we came out strong and have continued to grow the company. FAVORITE TRAVEL DESTINATION: Somewhere remote and beautiful. I love the mountains. Travel allows for very rich experiences.
MICHAEL A. WYNN
JEFF D. WYNN
President and Owner Sunshine Ace Hardware Chairman Wynn Companies
President Wynn Properties, Inc.
Jeff D. Wynn stepped into the role of president of Wynn Properties, which owns and manages commercial real estate in Collier and Lee counties, in 2012. He has experience in commercial real estate sales, leasing, development, and management, specializing in financing. Wynn is also an officer of Wynn’s Family Market and assists in overseeing the management of the 88-year-old Wynn’s Grocery division. Wynn serves on the Wynn Family Board of Directors and is vice president of the Fifth Avenue South Business Improvement District.
Growing up in the family business, Michael A. Wynn learned the value of hard work and community engagement. As chairman of the Wynn Companies and president of Sunshine Ace Hardware since 2005, he has led the company’s growth to 18 locations serving five counties and recognition as a best place to work. He was named as Naples Daily News’ 2019 “Outstanding Citizen of the Year” and among Florida Trend’s “Top 500.” He is a member of the Florida Council of 100. EDUCATION: Florida Gulf Coast University (MBA) NOTABLE ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Serving as chairman of the Florida Gulf Coast University Board of Trustees and co-founding the annual Resnick-Wynn Family Business Conference BEST ADVICE RECEIVED: Trust takes years to build, seconds to break, and forever to repair. SECRET TO SUCCESS: Putting people over profit and adhering to our family’s core values SOMETHING FEW PEOPLE KNOW ABOUT ME: At 16, I survived a near-fatal crash when the car I was in was hit by a cement truck. ADVICE TO A RECENT GRAD: Consistency builds trust and trust builds lifelong relationships and opportunities. FAVORITE COLLIER COUNTY PLACE TO GRAB A DRINK: The Founders Lounge at the Gulfshore Playhouse Baker Theatre and Education Center
EDUCATION: University of Florida (MBA) HOMETOWN: Naples, Florida SOMETHING FEW PEOPLE KNOW ABOUT ME: I have a twin brother. HOW I START MY DAY: Either with a run or biking, then chasing around four kids to get them ready for school FAVORITE COLLIER COUNTY RESTAURANTS: Bleu Provence, Chops City Grill, Nosh on Naples Bay FAVORITE COLLIER COUNTY PLACE TO GRAB A DRINK: The Mini Bar or Bar Tulia BUCKET LIST: To visit Japan with my wife
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Honored Among Naples’ Top 100 We are proud to celebrate George A. Wilson, recognized among Naples’ Top 100 for his leadership, integrity, and lasting impact on the community he calls home. Through Wilson & Johnson, he has guided families and businesses across Southwest Florida with clarity, compassion, and trust. And through the Wilson & Johnson Private Foundation, he continues that same commitment—helping generosity create lasting change across Collier County.
Clarity today. Confidence for tomorrow.
ESTATE PLANNING | BUSINESS | TAXATION
WWW.NAPLESESTATELAW.COM | 239.436.1500 2425 TAMIAMI TRAIL N., SUITE 211 | NAPLES, FLORIDA 34103
NAPLES TOP 100 HONOREE
Cyndi Fields, CDO
The Shelter for Abused Women & Children
Leading and collaborating with the community to PREVENT • PROTECT • PREVAIL over domestic violence & human trafficking
The Shelter for Abused Women & Children CRISIS HOTLINE: (239) 775-1101 Office: (239) 775-3862 • naplesshelter.org
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A TASTE OF NAPLES
A LEGACY OF EXCELLENCE
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SEA SALT
BARBATELLA
GRAPPINO
1186 3RD ST S. SEASALTNAPLES.COM
1290 3RD ST S. BARBATELLANAPLES.COM
90 9TH ST N. GRAPPINONAPLES.COM
BAKERY AT GRAPPINO
90 9TH ST. N. GRAPPINONAPLES.COM
11/11/25 11:12 AM
The Naples 100 PHILANTHROPY
MAKERS
Each year, the Collier County community is enriched by the powerful philanthropy that fuels health care, cultural amenities, human services, and environmental education and protection
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The Naples 100 MAKERS
Naming Rights Collier County continues to grow stronger, healthier, and more resilient thanks to the exemplary generosity of local philanthropists By Cathy Chestnut
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aples is synonymous with a special kind of philanthropic generosity that most communities wish for. Through their family foundations or donor-advised funds, they make a wide-ranging and lasting impact in our community, often anonymously, though their names also grace buildings, scholarships, and muchneeded programs. Here is a look at some of the projects that came to fruition in 2025—and the benefactors behind them—often following years of behind-the scenes funding initiatives and strategizing. BRYCE ALEXANDER WITH THE BAKERS
JAY AND PATTY BAKER Patty Baker Humane Society Naples The Humane Society Naples officially changed its name At The Naples Players, which underwent a $22 million renovation two years ago, the Bakers, major to Patty Baker Humane Society Naples on April 1 in recognition of the landmark $5 million gift from megabenefactors, named the new mainstage the Kizzie Theater JAY AND PATTY philanthropists Patty and Jay Baker—the largest in the for one of their beloved dogs. BAKER organization's history that brought their total support of the Alexander co-wrote with his wife, Katie, The Bakers by the nonprofit no-kill shelter to $7 million. Dog lovers through and through, Sea, published in 2025, celebrating the enduring impact of the Bakers. the Bakers are longtime animal welfare advocates. Together, they explain, True to their spirit, the book is raising funds for several local nonprofits. “Remember that, for all animals, we speak for “It’s about how generosity shapes lives and them, and they speak to us.” how giving back builds stronger, kinder communities. We wrote this for our own son, Ellis, and hope it inspires families The Baker Day School everywhere to talk about the joy of helping @ The Naples Players Academy of others,” he says. Dramatic Arts In September, The Naples Players launched its full-time performing arts school, The Naples Players Academy of Dramatic Arts, for middle and high school students. It was named for the Bakers, “in large part by a generous $1 million pledge ensuring that the school…has the resources it needs to establish a strong foundation during its first several years,” says The Naples Players CEO and Executive Artistic Director Bryce Alexander. “Patty and Jay’s commitment to education and the arts continues to transform our community. This incredible gift helps us create a school where young people can thrive artistically, academically, and personally.”
Baker Theatre and Education Center @ Gulfshore Playhouse Patty, a Tony Award-winning Broadway producer, and Jay, the retired founding partner and president of Kohl's, are outstanding performing arts patrons. They were the also largest benefactors— totaling $20 million—of Gulfshore Playhouse’s $72 million Baker Theatre and Education Center, which enjoyed its first full year of operation in 2025. Their early donations inspired many others to step up with generous donations.
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SCOTT B. AND KATHLEEN KAPNICK Kapnick Ambulatory Surgery Center @ HSS at NCH
The Kapnick family has been instrumental in the growth of the Naples Botanical Garden and the KATHLEEN AND Collier Community Foundation SCOTT KAPNICK since their nascent beginnings, thanks to the vision of Harvey and Mary Kapnick. Today, their son, Scott, and his wife, Kathleen, continue their legacy through the The Kapnick Foundation. Both Scott and Kathleen have taken handson roles in the community through service on the boards and committees of prominent local nonprofits, including his service on the HSS Board of Trustees in New York City. The Kapnicks donated $7.5 million to support the construction of this new orthopedic surgical center in Naples, building upon the Kapnicks’ previous support to expand facilities on the HSS main campus in New York City. Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS), the world’s leading academic medical center focused on musculoskeletal health, was founded in 1863. “Naples is a special community. Kathleen and I are excited to help make the vision of providing greater access to best-in-class musculoskeletal care a reality for those in Southwest Florida,” Scott says.
HSS AT NCH IN NORTH NAPLES PATTY AND JAY BAKER PAVILION
Patty and Jay Baker Pavilion @ Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) at NCH
The center, which opened in June, is affiliated with the New York Citybased academic medical center and research institution that specializes in the treatment of orthopedic and rheumatologic conditions. It ranks as the No. 1 hospital in the U.S. for orthopedics and No. 3 for rheumatology. The Bakers kicked off the fundraising for the center with a $20 million gift. The Bakers jumped into local philanthropy shortly after arriving in Naples in the mid-1990s, and began to shape the destiny of several institutions through their leadership on boards and the more than $100 million they have donated, benefiting residents throughout Collier County. A sample of their impact includes: The Baker Museum at Artis—Naples; Jay and HSS AT NCH KAPNICK AMBULATORY Patty Baker Patient Care Tower at North Naples SURGICAL CENTER LOBBY Hospital; NCH Baker Hospital Downtown; Baker Park; Baker Senior Center Naples; Jay & Patty Baker Preschool of the Arts; and Baker Field at the Boys & Girls Club of Collier County. The Bakers have also made an indelible impact throughout the United States—and the world. Their consistent donations often fly under the radar, too, like their $10 million donation to the R.M. Schulze Family Heart and Stroke Critical Care Center at NCH currently under construction. “A long time ago, we decided to give while we’re alive so we can see the good that it does to students, families, communities, and nations,” Patty has said. “Seeing is believing, and we feel joy every day when we see people engaged, creating, and working to make a better world.”
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JEFFREY AND JULIE DIERMEIER
A RENDERING OF THE GARDEN VIEW AT THE FUTURE FIVESTORY R.M. SCHULZE CARDIAC AND STROKE CARE TOWER
Diermeier Access and Integrated Care Center @ David Lawrence Centers for Behavioral Health Construction is underway at the David Lawrence Centers (DLC) for Behavioral Health campus on the 15,000-square-foot Diermeier Access JEFFREY AND JULIE and Integrated Care Center, thanks to a $4 million gift DIERMEIER from Jeffrey J. and Julie Diermeier, local philanthropists and trustees of the Diermeier Family Foundation. People will be able to walk into the mental health urgent care without an appointment to be assessed and treated preventively and proactively. The integrated care center also will offer primary care because adult patients with serious mental health challenges have younger mortality rates than the general population because of co-occurring medical challenges, according to DLC CEO Scott Burgess. The $12.5 million center will offer telehealth options for behavioral health urgent care, integrated mental health and physical health outpatient programming, medication-assisted treatment for patients with substance use disorders, and trauma-focused therapy for veterans. It is part of DLC’s “Hope for Collier: Building Stronger Minds Together” initiative to fund significant capital and program investments. “The Diermeier Access and Integrated Care Center represents a new era of accessible, integrated, and compassionate care,” Burgess says. “This center will serve as a beacon of hope where individuals can find immediate support, comprehensive services, and a path to lasting wellness.” Jeff Diermeier, who is the past president and CEO of the nonprofit CFA Institute and the former global chief investment officer of UBS Global Asset Management, says that he and his wife believe the integrated care center will provide vital services. “This is not just another initiative,” he says. “It’s movement to build a future where everyone has access to the behavioral health care they need, when they need it.” About 2,000 patients are expected to get treatment annually at the walk-in center. It is expected to open in fall 2026.
RICHARD M. SCHULZE
RICHARD “DICK” M. SCHULZE
R.M. Schulze Family Cardiovascular and Stroke Critical Care Center @ NCH
In June, ground was broken for the $295 million R.M. Schulze Family Cardiovascular and Stroke Critical Care Center on the site of the former Telford Education Center at the Downtown Baker Hospital campus. Schulze provided a $20 million gift in 2023, which inspired other residents to make equal donations. Construction is expected to take two-and-a-half years to complete by 400 to 500 workers in various trades. He also provided a lead donation for Harry Chapin Food Bank of Southwest Florida’s $50 million, 110,000-square-foot Hunger Action Center going up in Fort Myers to meet increasing need in the five-county region. The food bank feeds more than 300,000 people every month, and the need is expected to double by 2030. The new facility also received a major gift from Lipman Family Farms. Construction will continue through fall 2026. Richard “Dick” M. Schulze, founder of the Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation, is also founder and chairman emeritus of Best Buy. Born and raised in St. Paul, Minnesota, Schulze has adhered to life-long values of integrity, humility, honesty, and respect in his professional career and personal life. He started the Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation in 2004; it is focused on the Twin Cities area of Minnesota and Southwest Florida because he has owned a home in the area for two decades.
JULIA VAN DOMELEN
Van Domelen Community Health Center @ Healthcare Network Van Domelen Children’s Center of Excellence @ David Lawrence Centers for Behavioral Health When it opens this spring, the Healthcare Network’s $15 million Van Domelen Community Health Center will ensure that more than 41,000 A RENDERING OF THE FUTURE DIERMEIER ACCESS AND INTEGRATED CARE CENTER
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LOUISVENNE
MAKERS
In early 2027, construction is expected to begin on the two-story, 31,000 square-foot Van Domelen Children’s Center of Excellence at the David Lawrence Centers for Behavioral Health (DLC). It will house all children’s programming under one roof and a new 30bed children’s crisis stabilization unit, which will double the capacity of the current DLC children’s unit. Children and families will also access triage services, outpatient therapy and medication, and intensive community-based care.
ABOVE : THE GROUNDBREAKING
CEREMONY FOR THE VAN DOMELEN COMMUNITY HEALTH CENTER WAS ATTENDED BY LOCAL AND STATE OFFICIALS.
LEFT : HEALTHCARE NETWORK CEO
AND PRESIDENT JAMIE ULMER WITH JULIA VAN DOMELEN DURING THE LAUNCH OF THE VAN DOMELEN HEALTH EXPRESS MOBILE MEDICAL AND DENTAL UNIT.
residents in the Orangetree area, including Golden Gate Estates, will have access to high-quality medical care. According to the Healthcare Network: “The once-rural region of Orangetree is now one of Southwest Florida’s fastestgrowing areas, but it remains a “health care desert” without any health clinics or medical centers.” It was named after the Bill and Julia Van Domelen Foundation—which focuses on housing, health care, children, and education—for its landmark gift of $5 million. The new facility will offer an array of services including obstetrics and gynecology, primary medical, dental, and integrated behavioral health services for children and adults, a drive-thru pharmacy, and basic lab and X-ray services. Bill, a Michigan entrepreneur, passed away in 2015. Julia remains in Naples and is a major supporter of Grace Place for Children, leading to the Van Domelen Education Center. A Collier resident since 1993, Julia has served multiple terms on the Naples Children Foundation board and continues to serve as a trustee. She donated funds to build the Van Domelen Education & Wellness Center at the Neighborhood Health Clinic to help the uninsured, working poor access medical care. She also partnered with the Healthcare Network to provide comprehensive services to medically underserved residents through the establishment of the Julia Van Domelen Pediatric Center and Van Domelen Health Express mobile medical and dental unit. Through the years, her foundation has also provided $22 million to NCH.
ABOVE : NCH PRESIDENT AND CEO PAUL HILTZ
WITH PAT AND SCOT KAUFMAN
LEFT : STEVE AND BARBARA SLAGGIE WITH HILTZ
PAT AND SCOT KAUFMAN STEVE AND BARBARA SLAGGIE @ NCH Marco Urgent Care Center
In addition to raising the five-story R.M. Schulze Family Cardiovascular and Stroke Critical Care Center, NCH has been busy expanding, thanks to community support. Two Marco Island couples—Pat and Scot Kaufman and Steve and Barbara Slaggie—donated a total of $9 million for the new NCH Marco Urgent Care Center, which opened the first floor to patients in November, though the second floor is still being completed. The Pat and Scot Kaufman Healthcare Center is located on the Steve and Barbara Slaggie Marco Campus. Pat Kaufman serves on the NCH Marco Island board.
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MAKERS
THE FUTURE JOHN & CAROL WALTER NATURE EXPERIENCE AT THE CONSERVANCY OF SOUTHWEST FLORIDA
Wild About Nature
Audubon’s Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, Conservancy of Southwest Florida, and Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens are undertaking ambitious projects to enhance their facilities, conservation capabilities, and visitor experience By Cathy Chestnut
AUDUBON’S CORKSCREW SWAMP SANCTUARY
natural destination and protect the world’s largest remaining old-growth bald cypress forest, marsh, and upland habitats. The capital campaign had reached the $18 million by November and groundbreaking is planned for April. It also received $5 million in state funds toward this ambitious undertaking. The project began last spring with the unveiling of 50 new interpretive displays along the 2.25-mile boardwalk that explain prescribed fire, wetlands, the region’s watershed, cultural history, species identification, and other topics. It also celebrated the opening of the redesigned exhibit hall within the Blair Visitor Center. Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary—a Ramsar Wetland of International Importance that is also recognized as a Wetland of Distinction by the Society of Wetland Scientists—has been an Audubon-protected site for more than 100 years. It protects the world’s largest remaining, old-growth bald cypress forest. DAVID CORBAN ARCHITECTS
Audubon’s Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary undertook a $20 million capital campaign to create a new Western Everglades research center, in addition to the Heidi and Brian Miller Land Stewardship Operations Center and the place-based Paul Pacter Outdoor Classroom, named for local, generous donors. The transformation will eliminate outdated facilities and build within previously disrupted areas, creating a new campus to advance Audubon’s conservation leadership in a rapidly developing region. These enhancements will improve the organization’s ability to conduct the science and collaboration needed to preserve the premier, 13,000-acre
CONSERVANCY OF SOUTHWEST FLORIDA The Conservancy of Southwest Florida is undergoing a major transformation with the development of the John & Carol Walter Nature Experience. The state-of-the-art welcome center will offer immersive exhibits, hands-on learning, and expanded programs to inspire environmental stewardship and enhance the region’s quality of life. The Walters have split their time between Chicago and Naples for a decade and support other significant causes here and in Illinois. John has served on the Conservancy of Southwest Florida board in various capacities, and the couple has co-chaired its annual signature fundraising gala, Magic Under the Mangroves.
A RENDERING OF THE FUTURE RESEARCH AND OPERATIONS CENTERS AND OUTDOOR CLASSROOM AT CORKSCREW SWAMP SANCTUARY
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NAPLES ZOO AT CARIBBEAN GARDENS
In 2025, the Walters took their commitment to new heights when they donated $25 million through the John & Carol Walter Family Foundation—the largest philanthropic commitment in the Conservancy’s 60-year history. The Walters’ donation will transform the organization’s nature center, creating a new welcome center and other spaces. CAROL AND Construction on the $18 million John & Carol JOHN WALTER Walter Nature Experience is expected to start in 2027 with an opening in 2028. The remaining $7 million will fund an endowment and a half-acre stormwater lake to improve water quality and provide habitat for wildlife on the 21-acre campus. The generous gift was part of the Conservancy’s $70 million “Now & Forever: The Campaign to Protect our Quality of Life” to ensure the nonprofit’s long-term sustainability. “The Conservancy, more than any other organization in the community, really helps preserve and protect our way of life,” John explains. “Our way of life is unique. If we can protect the natural environment, it serves us all well. Plus, I think it will expand the visibility and awareness of it and what we’re trying to accomplish.” The new facilities will make it “a much more dynamic experience for the community and hopefully bring people back so they absorb and embrace what we’re trying to do.” In addition, the new John & Carol Walter Discovery Wing featuring galleries focused on invasive species and climate change was added to the Dalton Discovery Center.
All is new at the century-old Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens as upgrades continue to unfold through its multi-year “Roaring into the Future” capital campaign to enhance, replace, and renovate facilities throughout the 43-acre property. Through 2028, the zoo will complete an anticipated $7.5 million in major upgrades to its 400-seat wildlife presentation theatre and ambassador animal experience and the zoo’s iconic Primate Expedition Cruise. Formerly known as the Safari Canyon Theater, the renovated Pacter Family Theater and Wilson Family Stage will feature upgraded animal habitats, improved educational technology, and an accessible, state-of-the-art environment designed to deepen connections between guests and wildlife. The theater is expected to open in 2026. Plans also include new okapi and lion habitats, and the full restoration of the zoo’s historic buildings. In 2024, Naples Zoo completed its ambitious $30 million, 10-year master plan with investments that dramatically improved and transformed the Zoo’s commitment to animal care and welfare, educational programming, conservation, and the guest experience. In March 2024, the zoo celebrated the opening of the new $14 million entrance and visitor complex comprising the Jeanne Guglielmi Welcome Center, Hoff mann Family of Companies Courtyards, and Wyman Family Gift Shop. Now zoo officials are turning their focus on these two iconic experiences—the Primate Expedition and educational theater. “Unlike most zoos and nonprofit organizations, Naples Zoo’s operating budget is fully funded from earned revenues,” says Naples Zoo President and CEO Jack Mulvena. “Therefore, 100 percent of charitable gifts, contributions, and pledges are dedicated to capital improvements and making the zoo an even better experience and even greater resource for our community for generations to come.”
RIGHT : PAUL PACTER FOCUSES HIS
NAPLES ZOO AT CARIBBEAN GARDENS
PHILANTHROPY ON ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION.
THE NEW, ELEVATED ALLIGATOR BAY BOARDWALK AT THE NAPLES ZOO GIVES VISITORS A BETTER VIEW OF THE ICONIC REPTILES, ESPECIALLY DURING FEEDING TIME.
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The Naples 100
Past Honorees 2020-2025 AbuAwad, Mazen K.
Bua, Emily K.
Ellison, Vann R.
Hollingsworth, Kristine
Aielli, Fabrizio
Bua-Bell, Tade
Evans, Barbara
Honeycutt, Sukie
Aielli, Ingrid
Budd, Russell
Feld, Jeffrey David
Hughes, Ann
Alexander, Bryce
Burgess, Scott
Ferland, Mark
Hughes, Mike
Allbritten, Jeffery S.
Burns, Laura
Fleming, Anne
Ice, Christopher P.
Alves, Antonio
Campbell, Patricia “Patty”
Foerster, Jonathan
Isbell, Elizabeth Kurtz
Antik, Randy
Cardillo, John P.
Fruscione, David
James, Emily
Arsenault, Paul
Cariot, Jacques
Gable, Blake
Jaron, Amanda
Avola-Brown, Michelle
Cariot, Lysielle
Gaddis, Renee
Jensen, Chad
Baeckler, Sarah
Cartwright, Timothy J.
Gates, Todd E.
Jimenez-Lara, Maria
Baker, Jay *
Cheffy, Edward K.
Gatian, Rebecca
Johnson, Nicole
Baker, Patty *
Cieply, Kevin
Gaynor, Lavern Norris *
Kao, Daniel
Barkoukis, Athan
Cohen, Janet G. *
Geier, Mary Beth
Kaplan, Jarred
Barnett, Bill
Collins, Kim
Goetz, Ellin
Kaplan, Melissa
Barone Jr., Bruce
Cooney, John M.
Golisano, B. Thomas *
Kapnick, Kathleen *
Barr, Amber
Dalby, Michael
Goodlette, J. Dudley
Kapnick, Scott B. *
Bay, Susan
Dalton, Susan L. *
Gordley, David C.
Kearns, Marianne
Beasley, Troy
Daniels, Myra Janco *
Greer, Megan
Kendall, Benjamin
Betulia, Vincenzo
Dauphinais, Nancy
Gregg, Brittany
Korest, Alan *
Boët, Lisa
DePasquale, Vin
Hartington, Marissa
Kreski, Susan
Boët, Philippe
Depue, Zachary
Haytac, Onur
Krupp, Kelly
Box, Ilona
Dewji, Ashley
Herman, Tim
Labbe, Ron
Boyajian, William
Di Falco, Luca
Hernandez, Rufino
Lascheid, Leslie
Brandt, Mary
Donahue, April
Heuerman, Amy Moglia
Lavender, Dan
Brisson, Greg
DuPont, Sherri
Hiltz, Paul C.
Lefkow, Lisa B.
Brody, Paula
Echevarria, Ilia M.
Hodges, Thelma *
Liegeois, Judith
Brown, Andrea Clark
Eido, Rachid
Hoffmann, David
Logan, Deb
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The Naples 100
Past Honorees 2020-2025 Lowe, Scott
Neri, Francesca
Ryan, Corrine
Vasquez, Amelia
Lubner, Clive
O’Connor, Brenda
Sanderson, Steven L.
Verpoorten, Frank
Lubner, Daniel
O’Callaghan, Carol A.
Saunders, Burt L.
Von Arx, William “Dolph” *
Lutgert, Scott
Oakes, Alfie
Schmelzle, Julie A.
Von Arx, Sharon *
Maddox, Rebecca J.
Oberhaus, Linda
Schulberg, K.C.
Wallace, Dave
Mainella, Fran P.
Passidimo, Kathleen C.
Schulze, Richard M. *
Wallin, Deanna
Martin, Janeice T.
Passidomo, John M.
Siegel, Mitchell
Watkins III, Henry B.
Martin, Mike
Patton, Kamela
Smallwood, Joe
Watkins, Mike
McCabe, Philip J.
Pearson, Amanda
Soukup, Sheryl
Wert, Jack
McDonald, Jinx
Perez, Noemi Y.
Starkey, Adria
Wood, April
McDonald, Minka
Perry, Marco
Starkey, Jerry
Wood, John R.
McGinnis, Donna
Pezeshkan, F. Fred
Staros, Edward V.
Wood, Phil
McGuann, Jon
Ptaszek, Emily
Stayer, Ralph C. *
Woodward, Craig R.
McKenna, Dawn J.
Rambosk, Kevin
Stayer, Shelly *
Woodward, Mark J.
McManus, Susan
Raznoff, Tami
Stevenson, Ana
Woolley, Cyndee
Meek III, William J.
Reed-Spitzer, Michelle
Stofft, Randall
Wynn, Timothy D.
Meyer, John
Reed, Elaine L
Stoneburner, Kevin L.
Midnet, Glenn
Reiter, Timothy J.
Suarez, Susan L.
Mir, Michael
Ricciardelli, Leslie C.
Summers, Shari
Moher, Rob
Richter, Garrett
Thompson, Jett
Moll, Gerri
Ridgway, Tony
Tobin, Joan E.
Monaghan, Thomas S. *
Riley, Ben
Touchette, Lindsey
Montecalvo, Dawn
Riley, Matt
Towey, Jim
Mueller, Charles G.
Ritchey, Leah
Tracy, Vicki
Mullin, Dale
Roa, Jaysen F.
Tusa, Jay
Myers, Heather
Rose, Megan
Van Arsdale, Karen
Nelson, Jackie
Ross, Don
Van Bergen, Kathleen
Note: This list does not include past honorees who are included in this year’s The Naples 100 listing. * Featured in 2020 “Legends of Philanthropy”
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Sound Advice
Well-earned Wisdom A dozen Naples 100 honorees share their insights: What advice would you give to your 18-year-old self or a recent graduate?
Find good mentors and
When you’re 29 years old and in between jobs, don’t go skiing in Lake Tahoe without health insurance. — Chad Oliver
work hard.
Hang in there.
Travel more while you’re still young.
— Brian Goguen
– Bill Gaston
— Gary Harlan
DONʼT BE SHY. — Michael Raymond
DONʼT BE IN A RUSH TO GROW UP. ENJOY EVERY STAGE OF YOUR LIFE. — Corey R. McCloskey
NOTHING HAPPENS OVERNIGHT. — Cyndi Fields
The days are long, but the years are short. Don’t take anything for granted. — Andrea Nickrent
YOUʼRE PROBABLY A GOOD WORKER; NOW TRY
Dream bigger and act faster.
TO FIGURE OUT HOW TO BE A GOOD CO-WORKER.
— Veljko Pavicevic
– Kendall Carlin
Get out of your comfort zone. Doing things that scare you helps you grow, both in your career and personal life. — Jeff D. Wynn
HAVE A BACKUP TO THE BACKUP PLAN. IT WILL LOWER YOUR STRESS LEVELS. — Jamie Ulmer
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