Leadership Charlotte Class of 2026 revealed
On Thursday, Sept. 11, at the Charlotte Harbor Event & Conference Center, the Charlotte County Chamber of Commerce held a special reception announcing the incoming Leadership Charlotte Class of 2026.
The Leadership Charlotte Program is the premier initiative of our organization. This year’s class marks our 37th year, creating a legacy with a lasting impact. Since 1989, over $1 million has been given directly back to the needs of Charlotte County.
On behalf of our board of directors and staff, it is our pleasure to congratulate and reveal our Leadership Charlotte Class of 2026:
Dayna Adams, The Animal Welfare League of Charlotte County; Jordan Aquila, Buffalo Graffix; Karen Ballina, Southwest Florida Insurance; Aaron Bowles, Farr Law Firm; Theresa Brackett, Rotary Club of Punta Gorda; Connie Britton, Fellowship of Christian Athletes; Lora Carter, Loveland Center; Trae Christian, Elite Hurricane Protection; Alfred Current, III, Wampler Varner Insurance Group; Kimberly Forstner, Parks for the Arts; Cassidy Heck Amboyan, Re/Max Palm Realty; Isaac James, Military Heritage Museum; Shannon Johns, Health & Home AIDE; Kimberly Kelley, Charlotte Board of County Commissioners; Brandi Leclaire, Crews Bank & Trust; Mitchell Medevic, Ambitrans Ambulance; Maria Muentes, Gulf Coast Partnership; James Robinson, James Robinson Roofing; Laura Rossi, Protean Design Group; Suzanne Smith, Charlotte County Airport Authority/Punta Gorda Airport; William Thompson, Charlotte County Administrative Office ; Jackie Thornberry, Thornberry Custom Builders; Maria Vastola, Charlotte County Economic Development; Donald White, Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office; Michele Winsor, Charlotte County Administration Office.
Again, please help welcome and congratulate the Leadership Charlotte Class of 2026. We are looking for to their amazing collaboration, effectiveness, and contributions to leave their mark in our community!
MEMBER EVENTS
Registration is required for these members-only events. Visit charlottecountychamber.org or call 941-627-2222.
- Third Wednesday Coffee, 8-9 a.m. Sept. 17 at the Realtor Association, 3320 Loveland Blvd, Port Charlotte. Coffee Sponsor is the Punta Gorda Rotary. Guest speaker is Denise Dull, president of the Florida International Air Show. She will present the amazing overall local impact the airshow provides. The airshow will be Nov. 1-2. We are fortunate to have the Blue Angels headlining amongst many other acrobatic displays of amazing maneuvers. Immediately following our program, we’ll conduct a ribbon-cutting ceremony for Fellowship of Christian Athletes.
- Business Card Exchange, 5-7 p.m. Sept. 25 at Valerie’s House, 233 E. Mckenzie St., Punta Gorda. Food, refreshments, and a fun game for all to enjoy. Please bring a gift to promote your business.
RIBBON CUTTINGS
Ribbon cuttings are an effective way to meet the business owners — and fellow chamber members — in an informal atmosphere and develop great connections. Plus, you get familiar with their products and services provided. Please take the time to show your support and attend our ribbon cuttings. Register at charlottecountychamber.org or 941-627-2222.
- Wayne Wiles Floor Coverings open house, 5-6 p.m. Sept. 16, 416 Dexter St., Port Charlotte. Ribbon cutting at 5:30 p.m. Beer, wine, refreshments and light appetizers will be provided. Facility tours.
- 7 Brew Coffee, 5-7 p.m. Sept. 23 at 4275 Tamiami Trail, Port Charlotte. Ribbon cutting at 5:30 p.m. Free drinks for all attendees.
SPECIAL EVENT
The 100th Charlotte County Chamber of Commerce Annual Anniversary Awards Gala is 5-10 p.m. Sept. 27 at Charlotte Harbor Event & Conference Center. Formal attire. This special event marks a century of leadership, advocacy, collaboration, community growth, and success, and you are all part of this momentous celebration.
Please join us for a celebratory evening of networking, distinguished awards, and memorable moments as we honor outstanding members and community leaders who have contributed to our shared success over the past century.
Registration is required. To RSVP by purchasing your tickets or table, visit charlottecountychamber.org or call the chamber office. We look forward to celebrating this landmark achievement with you and expressing our gratitude for your continued support.
Thank you for being an essential part of our community’s history and future. Let’s make this centennial anniversary a night to remember!
Bob White is executive director of the Charlotte County Chamber of Commerce and may be reached at bwhite@charlottecountychamber.org or 941-627-2222.