CFI continues Leadership Sanibel-Captiva program
The Charitable Foundation of the Islands’ (CFI) Leadership Sanibel-Captiva Class of 2026 recently finished two sessions focused on the economic vitality and cultural life of the islands community.
During the Business & Prosperity session on Feb. 18, program participants explored the forces that support a thriving island economy. The day began at the ‘Tween Waters Inn & Marina, where Sanibel Captiva Beach Resorts owner Tony Lapi welcomed the class and shared an overview of the resort’s history and role hospitality plays in the islands’ economy.
They also visited the Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum & Aquarium, where they toured the museum and learned about its contributions to education, conservation and the visitor experience on Sanibel.
The class later attended a SanCap Chamber luncheon, where it heard presentations from Lee County Visitor & Convention Bureau Executive Director Tamara Pigott and Economic Development Office Director John Talmage about tourism trends, regional partnerships and the economic outlook for Southwest Florida. Afterward, it participated in a private question-and-answer session with Talmage, Pigott and chamber President and Chief Executive Officer John Lai, exploring how collaboration between businesses, nonprofits and civic leaders supports the islands’ economy.
The day concluded at the Shalimar Beach Resort, where participant Sean Niesel and Class of 2025 participant Kelly Niesel welcomed the class for a tour of the historic property and hosted a business happy hour bringing together program alumni and local business owners.
Leadership Sanibel-Captiva continued on March 11 with the Arts & Culture session, highlighting the organizations and institutions that contribute to the islands’ creative community. Participants began the day with a guided tour of the Sanibel Historical Museum and Village, learning about the history and preservation of island life.
Thanks to the generosity of Sanibel Carts, which donated transportation for the day, the class traveled by golf cart between locations — adding a fun, uniquely island-inspired element to the experience.
The class then visited BIG ARTS for a behind-the-scenes experience and hands-on art activity, followed by lunch at the Sanibel Public Library and a discussion about the library’s Author Series and its role in connecting the community through literature and the arts.
The session continued with a mini Art Hop, where participants visited local galleries including the Odessa Art Gallery, Tower Gallery and Rachel Pierce Art Gallery, meeting artists and exploring how creativity and collaboration strengthen the island community.
The day concluded at The Community House, where the class learned about the organization’s role as a gathering place for the community.
“Leadership Sanibel-Captiva is designed to connect emerging leaders with the people, organizations and issues that shape our community,” program lead and CFI Director of Community Engagement Savannah Kelly said.
For more about the program, visit mycfi.org/leadership.