October Member Spotlight

"One of the things I value most about FPN is the opportunity to connect with colleagues working in communities across Florida. Our state is remarkably diverse, and the experiences of others can help us see challenges and opportunities differently. I appreciate being able to learn from colleagues, share what we've experienced, and contribute when our own work might be helpful to someone else. Those relationships make all of us better at what we do."

"The diversity of Florida's communities and the many ways philanthropy responds to them. In one community, philanthropy may be helping drive economic development and expand opportunity. In another, it may be focused on environmental preservation, improving access to healthcare, strengthening education, or addressing the needs of vulnerable populations. The priorities and approaches may differ considerably, but there's tremendous value in learning from one another. What I find particularly special is the willingness of people working in Florida philanthropy to share their experiences, including what's worked, what hasn't, and what they're still figuring out. Despite the differences among our communities, there's a shared commitment to making them stronger."

"Over the past two years, our Board of Governors at Pinellas Community Foundation has spent considerable time exploring what makes collaboration and partnership successful, and how we can play a more valuable role in bringing people and organizations together. That work has challenged us to think beyond simply supporting individual organizations or initiatives and consider how we can help amplify the impact of collective efforts. I've found this especially meaningful because it has reinforced something I believe strongly: successful collaboration takes intention, trust, and a willingness to understand what each partner brings to the table. We've begun putting that thinking into practice in new ways, and I'm excited about what lies ahead."

"One of the biggest challenges right now is the growing expectation that philanthropy can fill every gap, particularly as public resources become more constrained and community needs continue to grow. Philanthropy has an important role to play, but it cannot and should not be expected to solve every problem. I've tried to approach that challenge with candor about what we can do, what we cannot do, and what we still need to learn. That honesty helps establish realistic expectations, but it also creates opportunities. By building strong relationships before a crisis arises, we are better positioned to work together, identify where charitable resources can make the greatest difference, and find solutions that no single organization could accomplish on its own."

"At work, it's the people. I get energy from being around people who care deeply about their communities, who bring different experiences and perspectives, and who are willing to work together to make something better. I particularly enjoy the conversations that challenge my thinking or lead to an unexpected connection. Outside work, it's time with my family, travel, and experiences that help me see the world a little differently. I love spending time in the natural world, whether that's hiking, diving, or simply being on or near the water. Those experiences help me recharge, stay curious, and maintain perspective."

"Practice compassionate curiosity. Be genuinely interested in people, their experiences, and the perspectives they bring, especially when those perspectives differ from your own. Be willing to ask questions, listen carefully, and recognize that you may not have the right answer or even be asking the right question. Philanthropy is fundamentally about people and relationships. Approach others with compassion and curiosity. Have the humility to learn and be willing to change your mind."