Leadership Sanibel-Captiva continues with sessions
The Charitable Foundation of the Islands (CFI) reported on the highlights of its annual Leadership Sanibel-Captiva Program’s recent sessions that its Class of 2025 participants are taking part in.
The second session on Jan. 28, Government Day, provided an inside look at the decision-making processes of local government. It featured an in-depth overview of the Sanibel Plan by city of Sanibel Deputy Planning Director Craig Chandler and facilitated conversations with Sanibel Mayor Richard Johnson, City Manager Dana Souza, Sanibel Planning Commissioners Kate Sergeant and Erika Steiner, Lee County Commission Chairman Kevin Ruane, Sanibel Public Library Director Amber Cox and Captiva Community Panel President David Mintz. Nancy Elting served as the class liaison.
“My biggest takeaway was that it really ‘takes a village.’ There are so many moving pieces behind the scenes,” participant Lathan Cram said. “I appreciated how open the speakers were in sharing some of the challenges and processes behind the scenes.”
The third session on Feb. 11, Business & Community Prosperity Day, took place at the ‘Tween Waters Island Resort & Spa on Captiva. It explored the economic landscape of the islands, with industry leaders offering perspectives on sustaining a prosperous, community-focused business environment. Participants also had the opportunity to hear from key leaders throughout the county, gaining insights into the economic status of the islands and learning from industry experts. Melissa Halliburton, Brian Rist and Audrey Stewart served as the class liaisons.
“This session provided a deeper understanding of the economic landscape of the islands and the importance of fostering a strong, sustainable community,” participant Arielle Cohen said.
The fourth session on Feb. 25 — the first of two Environment Days — was hosted by the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF). Participants toured the Island Water Association, visited the SCCF’s Marine Lab, and engaged in beach restoration and resiliency at Dixie Beach with Coastal Watch.
The last sessions are Community Resources Day on March 11, Water Quality Day on April 8, and Arts & Culture Day on March 27. The program will conclude with a graduation and dinner on April 29.
The eight-week program is designed to equip 15 emerging leaders with a deeper understanding of the islands’ history, challenges and opportunities, empowering them to contribute to the community.
“Our goal is to connect passionate individuals with opportunities to lead, whether by serving on nonprofit boards or taking on other influential community roles,” CFI Executive Director Dolly Farrell said.