IMPACT INITIATIVE
As part of our new Impact Initiative, we honor individuals who have courageously and unapologetically paved the way for future generations. Whether emerging leaders or established trailblazers, we celebrate those who inspire and uplift our community through their dedication, innovation, and vision for a brighter future.
Orlando Shakes’ mission is to enrich our community with engaging professional theater, inspiring educational experiences, and thought-provoking new plays. We value building community through art, language, imagination, excellence, professionalism, mentorship, inclusion, diversity, equity, and accessibility.
WEEK 1
OCTOBER 2, 2024
Dr. Ruth Edwards
Edwards is the Director of Education at the Winter Park Library, where she is responsible for ensuring the library’s classes and events connect people to knowledge and resources that amplify learning. Whether conducting a training session or teaching a class, her work focuses on guiding the individual to self-discovery, which creates a paradigm shift leading to personal change. Her commitment to social justice and anti-oppression is present in everything she does. She engaged intentionally with social justice activism and advocacy after completing a Building an Inclusive Community Workshop presented by the National Conference for Community & Justice (NCCJ) in St. Louis. Throughout her journey, which includes her time in Charlotte as both a radio announcer and television producer and host, she has used her platform to share her experiences and wisdom with others. Edwards earned her PhD in Human Development and her MS in Organizational Systems at Fielding Graduate University, Santa Barbara, CA. She is the author of two books: Becoming a Black Woman: A Theory of Internalized Collection Consciousness, and Step Into Yourself: Spiritual Affirmations for Embracing Change. She is a member of Delta Sigma Theta, Sorority, Inc. and the CMSgt Richard R. Hall Central Florida Chapter of Tuskegee Airmen, International.
Alejandra Escobar
Alejandra Escobar is a seasoned professional in Entrepreneurship, Marketing, and Management, and the founder of “Empodera Tu Camino,” a platform empowering Hispanic women leaders. With over 15 years of experience leading cross-functional teams, she excels at aligning human capital with strategic goals to drive business success. Currently serving as Vice President of the Hispanic Chamber of Metro Orlando, Alejandra oversees operations, revenue targets, and member programs. She also contributes to the United Arts of Central Florida board and has been honored for her leadership, including being named Future Leadership Trailblazer at the Hispanic Heritage Awards.
OCTOBER 3, 2024
Latrice Stewart
Latrice Stewart is a seasoned healthcare executive with over 15 years of leadership experience, currently serving as Chief Executive Officer at 26Health. Known for driving organizational growth and operational excellence, Latrice has successfully led teams through significant transformations, including financial recovery, improved patient care, and strategic business development. Prior to this role, they held leadership positions such as Chief Operations Officer at 26Health and Executive Director at ABA Centers of Florida, consistently delivering measurable results.
Throughout their career, Latrice has implemented key initiatives that boosted revenue, enhanced patient satisfaction, and reduced employee attrition. With expertise in business process improvement, project management, and leadership development, Latrice is dedicated to continuous improvement and long-term organizational success.
Linda Chapin
The Honorable Linda Chapin served as the first elected Mayor of Orange County, Florida, from 1990-1998. Her accomplishments in public office include the construction of the nation’s second-largest convention center, a new Orange County Courthouse, the Orange County Regional History Center, fifteen new parks and recreational trails, and the purchase of over twelve thousand acres of environmentally sensitive lands. In 1999 Ms. Chapin was named Distinguished Alumni of the Year by the Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University. In 2001 she founded the University of Central Florida Metropolitan Center for Regional Studies. She is the first woman honored with the James B. Greene Economic Development Award from the Metro Orlando Economic Development Commission which she received in 2004. Ms. Chapin was the first woman and the first layperson appointed to the Judicial Nominating Commission. The Honorable Chapin served as Orange County Commissioner prior to serving as Orange County Mayor and served two terms as Chairman of the Board for the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority. Ms. Chapin also served as the Chairman and Director of Orlando Regional Healthcare Board.
Kristian Jenkins
Kristian Jenkins is the Director of International Marketing at SelectFlorida, formerly known as Enterprise Florida. Since joining the company in 2006 as an intern, she has risen through the ranks to her current role, where she has played a pivotal role in leading Florida business delegations to countries such as Tanzania, Kenya, Guyana, Japan, and Israel. Additionally, she has been instrumental in supporting Florida companies participating in major trade shows in Germany, France, and the United Arab Emirates, all with the goal of stimulating Florida’s economy by fostering global business opportunities.
Ms. Jenkins holds an undergraduate degree in Political Science with a concentration in International Studies and a Minor in Spanish from the University of Central Florida. She also earned a Master’s in International Business Administration from Nova Southeastern University.
Beyond her professional achievements, Ms. Jenkins is deeply involved in her community. She currently serves as the president of the Orange County (FL) Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., a chapter with over 215 members. Under her leadership, the chapter has launched impactful initiatives, including a period poverty campaign, book drives emphasizing the cultural impact of minorities, voter engagement, and education efforts, scholarships for high school students in Orange and Osceola counties, and active participation as a poll worker. Ms. Jenkins also dedicates her time to volunteering with middle and high school youth in her community.
OCTOBER 4, 2024
DaVonda Simmons
Ms. DaVonda Simmons is a versatile entertainer known for her captivating performances in Jazz, Rhythm & Blues, Classical, and Broadway genres. With a Bachelor of Music degree from Florida International University, she has headlined in Florida’s top venues, including the Fontainebleau Hilton Hotel and Downtown Disney’s Pleasure Island Jazz Company. Her extensive career includes over 10 years as a principal performer for Walt Disney Entertainment and opening for music legends like Joe Williams, Diane Schuur, and Marvin Hamlisch. She has also performed for high-profile events, including the Daytona 500 Pre-Race Show for the President of the United States.
Ms. Simmons has showcased her dynamic vocal talents in various settings, from recording studio albums and commercial jingles to performing aboard Cunard Crown Cruise Line ships. She has provided backup vocals for artists such as Vanessa L. Williams and Gloria Estefan, and her voice can be heard in campaigns for brands like Chevrolet and Disney. Currently, she stars in “The Dooley and Pals Show” on PBS, continuing to impress audiences with her rich musicality and show-stopping performances.
Vicki Landon
Vicki Landon has dedicated her career to advancing the nonprofit arts and cultural sector, excelling in fundraising, arts administration, and community mentorship. As the Arts & Cultural Affairs Administrator for Orange County Government, she oversees the County’s $15M+ annual investment in arts and culture, connecting artists, nonprofits, and community members to funding, collaboration, and development opportunities.
With a rich history of impact, Vicki has held leadership roles at Central Florida Community Arts, Orlando Family Stage, and the Orlando Opera Company. She has developed new programs, authored eight-figure grant proposals, and mentored individuals and organizations in fundraising best practices. Recognized as one of Orlando Family Magazine’s “Super Women of Orlando” and a 40 Under 40 honoree, Vicki continues to be a leading figure in the arts community.
OCTOBER 5, 2024
Toni Jennings
Toni Jennings was the first Republican woman Senate President, serving two successive terms. Jennings launched Florida’s successful efforts to move citizens from the welfare rolls into the workforce. A champion for public education, she ushered Florida’s first school readiness program through the state legislature, ensuring the readiness of the state’s youngest citizens to enter school for the first time. Jennings served 25 years in the Florida Legislature, and as the president of Jack Jennings and Sons, Inc., General Contractors, established herself as an energetic leader in an industry dominated by men. Jennings has received numerous awards including the Florida School Board Association’s Legislator of the Year, and the Florida Commission on the Status of Women’s, “Women in the Workplace Appreciation Award.”
Liz McCausland
Liz McCausland was a partner at a mid-sized insurance defense firm when she realized her career no longer aligned with her passion for helping others. Wanting to make a more meaningful impact, she left firm life to establish Liz McCausland PA, where she now focuses on bankruptcy and mediation. Specializing in bankruptcy mortgage modification mediation, Liz has successfully mediated over 4,000 cases across five states using remote and cloud-based technology.
A proud double Gator graduate from the University of Florida, Liz has practiced law for over 25 years. She is a Past President of the Orange County Bar Association, serves on the Executive Council of the Florida Bar’s Solo & Small Firm Section, and frequently speaks at conferences and on podcasts. In addition to her practice, Liz travels nationwide to train attorneys and mediators on navigating mortgage modifications in bankruptcy. A self-proclaimed gadget enthusiast, Liz enjoys exploring new technology and apps.
OCTOBER 6, 2024
Ybeth Bruzual
Ybeth Bruzual has been a key figure at Spectrum News 13 since 1998, progressing from an assignment editor to the anchor of Your Morning News. A University of Central Florida graduate and a native Spanish speaker, Ybeth has been a prominent journalist in Central Florida since moving to Orlando from Puerto Rico in 1981. Known for her passion for delivering news around the clock, she is dedicated to great storytelling that resonates with the community. Ybeth is a two-time Emmy winner, recognized for her coverage of the Orlando United Pulse vigil and Hurricane Maria’s impact on Puerto Rico, along with several other prestigious accolades for her work.
In addition to her journalism career, Ybeth is an avid cyclist and enjoys cooking, gardening, and exploring Central Florida’s parks and restaurants. She has a strong connection to the community she grew up in and often reflects on its growth and diversity. Ybeth is also a proud mother and enjoys traveling with her family in search of the best roller coasters. Her husband, a former professional basketball player from Puerto Rico, shares her love of adventure
Gina Duncan
Gina Duncan is the Director of Transgender Equality at Equality Florida and a prominent advocate for transgender rights. After a successful 31-year career in mortgage banking, where she held leadership roles at organizations such as the Mortgage Bankers Association of Central Florida and Wells Fargo Home Mortgage, Gina transitioned to advocacy work. She has been deeply involved in the LGBTQ+ community, serving on the HRC Orlando Steering Committee, chairing events like the Transgender Day of Remembrance, and leading the Metropolitan Business Association as its President.
Gina now chairs TransAction Florida’s Advisory Council and Equality Florida’s Transgender Inclusion Initiative, where she advocates for transgender equality at both the national and international levels. Her work has been instrumental in passing human rights ordinances in Central Florida, and she is a recognized speaker on transgender rights and public policy. Gina has been featured in *Florida Trend* magazine and was named one of Florida’s Top 100 LGBT Movers and Shakers.
WEEK 2
OCTOBER 11, 2024
Carolyn Fennell
Carolyn Fennell is an experienced executive in strategic communications. She has had an impactful career in Public Affairs and community organizations. Recently retired, her experience as the first female executive at the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority included progressive positions in marketing, media relations, emergency/crisis communications and event management for Orlando International and Orlando Executive Airports.
She served as primary spokesperson for over four decades as the airport transferred from the Air Force base quonset hut facilities to the innovative facility it is today with the opening of Terminal C. During her tenure, the commercial airport grew from 6 to 57 million passengers annually and now ranks 9th busiest in the United States.
Her previous professional experiences include positions at Walt Disney World, ABC news in London and host of a weekly television show “Impact” for a Central Florida network station. Fennell is currently owner of a communications consulting company Perle Enterprises.
OCTOBER 12, 2024 at 2 p.m.
Lundy Langston
Lundy Langston is an inaugural faculty member at the College of Law and previously served as Associate Dean for Academic Affairs. Professor Langston taught at several law schools prior to joining the FAMU faculty. She has lectured or researched in programs in Ghana, West Africa, Spain, and China and has presented her scholarship at a number of leading law schools, including Columbia University Law School, the University of Michigan Law School, Duke Law School, and Howard University Law School. In addition to publishing a number of law review articles, she has also co-authored a torts casebook. Professor Langston holds an LL.M degree from Columbia University Law School and the J.D. and B.S. degrees from North Carolina Central University. While a student at NCCU School of Law, she was Editor-in-Chief of the law journal. After law school, Langston clerked at the North Carolina Supreme Court with Justice Henry Frye.
Monica May
Monica May is a seasoned radio and television veteran with over 40 years of experience, known for her dedication to community relations and her influential voice in the media. As the founder of Monica May Communications (MMC) and the nonprofit organization Let’s Spill the Tea (LSTT), Monica has made a significant impact by developing workshops and keynote presentations on topics ranging from professional team building to familial relationships. Her flagship initiative, “Let’s Spill the Tea,” emerged from personal experiences with her daughter and aims to strengthen mother-daughter bonds through open dialogue. She co-authored the book *Let’s Spill the Tea: A 21-Day Mother-Daughter Journal* with her daughter, Monique, to further this mission.
In addition to her consulting work, Monica has played a key role in fundraising and community outreach, such as spearheading a $4 million campaign for Houston’s homeless population. Currently, she serves as the host of the Tom Joyner Morning Show and the Director of Community Affairs for WCFB-FM STAR 94.5 in Orlando, where her initiative “STAR Cares” has raised $1.3 million for Central Florida communities. Throughout her career, she has been honored with numerous awards, including Billboard’s Top Programmer Nominee, the Gracie Award, and Orlando Magazine’s “Best of Orlando” Community Leader recognition. Monica resides in Orlando with her husband, George, and their dog, Jean Gray.
OCTOBER 12, 2024 at 7:30 p.m.
TANISHA NUNN GARY, ESQ.
A consummate business professional and accomplished attorney, Tanisha Nunn Gary is the President and CEO of the African American Chamber of Commerce of Central Florida – a leading advocate for business development and economic empowerment.
As head of the established nonprofit, she is responsible for cultivating strong relationships with key community leaders and corporate entities in an effort to enhance opportunities for members and engage partners on initiatives. Tanisha oversees all outreach efforts for the Chamber (AACCCF), which encompasses six counties, and she executes strategic planning to ensure the Chamber’s voice is included in economic, education and community conversations that impact the region.
The AACCCF boasts a varied membership and revolves around four pillars: Advocacy, Access to Capital, Contracts, and Entrepreneur Training and Development. As a former business owner, Tanisha is intimately familiar with what it takes to thrive as an entrepreneur and is uniquely qualified to lead the AACCCF into its next chapter of growth.
Prior to being named President and CEO of AACCCF, she was principal of a private law firm focused on all aspects of litigation for wrongful death cases and medical negligence. Her solo practice and earlier work as a Senior Associate with Gary, Williams, Parenti, Watson & Gary, landed multi-million-dollar settlements. In addition to her legal prowess, Tanisha served as the Executive Director of The Gary Foundation, where she identified major donor prospects to help provide scholarships to Florida youth.
Tanisha is an active member with several civic and professional associations, including Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Initiative, Truist Advisory Board, Orlando Economic Partnership Board, United Arts Board, Career Source of Central Florida Board and Florida Association of Chamber Professionals. In 2020, Tanisha was recognized as one of ONYX Magazine’s Women on The Move. In 2021, Tanisha was named as one of the Orlando Business Journal’s CEOs of the Year and 50 Central Florida Power Players. Additionally, the Orlando Magic recognized Tanisha as a Hometown Hero and a Social Justice Game Changer and in 2022, Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., honored her with a “Getting Into Good Trouble” Award. In 2022 and 2023, Orlando Magazine named her as 50 Most Powerful Ones to Watch.
She is also a member of Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated, Orlando (FL) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated, a Life Member of the National Alumnae Association of Spelman College and a Life Member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. A graduate of Spelman College and the Quinnipiac University School of Law, she enjoys traveling, reading, baking, and spending time with her son.
DR. ILENE E. WILKINS
Dr. Ilene E. Wilkins joined UCP of Central Florida in 1995 and has been the President and CEO of the organization since 2002. Prior to taking on her current roles, Dr. Wilkins was UCP of Central Florida’s Center Director. She has been instrumental in growing the agency’s capacity to serve from 150 children to over 3,500 children with and without disabilities in Central Florida.
EDUCATION
- Bachelor’s from New York University
- Master’s in Public Administration from Suffolk University
- Doctorate in Exceptional Education from University of Central Florida
COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT
- National and statewide leader in the field of disabilities
- Appointed by the governor as Chairman of Florida Inter-Agency Coordinating Council for infants and toddlers with disabilities for children’s medical services
- Regional chair for the United Cerebral Palsy Association Southeast Region
- Head of various policy task forces
- Current member of the Early Learning Coalition of Osceola County
RECOGNITION
- 2010 Central Florida Woman of the Year by the Women’s Executive Council
- 2016 CEO of the Year Award by the Orlando Business Journal
- 2018 Kathleen O. Maul Leadership Award by UCP National
- 2021 Dr. Phillips Leadership Award by Dr. Phillips Charities
- 2021 Top Women Business Leaders by Orlando Family Magazine
- 2021 Brave Women of Orlando by Jewish Federation of Greater Orlando
- 2021 New York University Alumni Changemaker Award
INTERESTS
Dr. Wilkins was also a foster parent for ten years, fostering over 150 children and teens. She has a passion for traveling, roller coasters and reading.
where her initiative “STAR Cares” has raised $1.3 million for Central Florida communities. Throughout her career, she has been honored with numerous awards, including Billboard’s Top Programmer Nominee, the Gracie Award, and Orlando Magazine’s “Best of Orlando” Community Leader recognition. Monica resides in Orlando with her husband, George, and their dog, Jean Gray.
Summer Knowles
Summer Knowles is an award-winning journalist, who co-anchors WESH 2 News at 4, 6 & 11. She joined WESH 2 News in January of 2015.
Since arriving in Central Florida, Summer has landed multiple high-profile interviews including but not limited to former US Rep. Corrine Brown before she was convicted of fraud, Stacey Abrams, local Congresswoman Val Demings, Vice President Mike Pence and Presidential Candidate Joe Biden (shortly before the presidential election).
Summer is most proud of her work in the aftermath of George Floyd’s death on the Project Community: Crusade for Change news documentary. It was awarded an Edward R. Murrow award in 2021 (her second such award). She is equally proud of her short series spotlighting COVID-19’s impact on local prisons and their families in the beginning of the coronavirus pandemic.
Summer came to Central Florida from Miami, where she was a Reporter/Fill-in Anchor for CBS 4 News. While in Miami, Summer covered several high-profile national stories, including the 2014 Florida Gubernatorial debate between Gov. Rick Scott and Gov. Charlie Crist (now often referred to as Fangate), the release of Alan Gross and the US’s intent to normalize US/Cuba relations as well as the George Zimmerman trial. Shortly after the trial ended, Summer scored the first local TV interview with Rachel Jeantel (the teenager who was on the phone with Trayvon Martin the night he died).
Karen Rugerio
After 34 years of teaching in Orange County Public Schools, Karen J. Rugerio retired to dedicate herself to her private acting studio. Initially teaching at Jones High School, Karen helped create the Visual and Performing Arts Magnet (VPA) at Dr. Phillips High School in 1995. As Director of the Magnet, she continued to serve as Theatre Director until her retirement in 2014. In that time she directed over 120 shows, winning national and international recognition for DPHS with amazing alumni including Wayne Brady, presently on Broadway as the Wizard in THE WIZ; Wesley Taylor in Only Murders in the Building/Season 3; Michael James Scott, starring as Genie in Aladdin on Broadway; Matt Lauria, CSI: Vegas; Joey Fatone of ‘NSync and My Big Fat Greek Wedding (1,2, and 3), and many more, earning her the moniker “Director to the Stars”.
Karen recently became artistic director and cofounder of The Bridge Theatre Company which will debut its first production, The Diary of Anne Frank, to an audience of 2000 OCPS students in November, 2024. The Bridge Theatre Company is dedicated to producing theatre that combats racism, bigotry, bullying and anti-Semitism. She continues to develop her private acting studio, Act III Acting Studio, which is dedicated to bringing theatre into the lives of special needs students.
OCTOBER 13, 2024 at 2 p.m.
Judge Denise Beamer
The Hon. Denise Kim Beamer is a judge for the 9th Judicial Circuit Court of Florida. She was appointed to the bench by former Governor Rick Scott in 2018, filling a vacancy created by the resignation of the Hon. Kim Shepard. The 9th Judicial Circuit encompasses Osceola County and Orange County. Beamer has held assignments in Orange County, presiding over cases in the Criminal Division. She has also served as the Associate Administrative Circuit Judge for the Civil Division (2021 to 2023).
Beamer earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration and mass communications from the University of Florida in 2004. She then completed a J.D. at Barry University, Dwayne O. Andreas School of Law, in 2009.
After graduating from law school, Beamer began her legal career as an assistant state attorney in the Office of the State Attorney for the 11th Judicial Circuit. She served in that capacity until 2011, at which time she became a senior assistant attorney general in the Consumer Protection Division of the Florida Office of the Attorney General.
Her memberships have included the Orange County Bar Association, the Greater Orlando Asian American Bar Association, and the Central Florida Association for Women Lawyers. She has also been actively involved with the Federalist Society, the Tiger Bay Club of Central Florida, and the Gator Guard 2003.
Tonja Graham
Tonja Graham is a proud graduate of Jones High School who has embraced every twist and turn on her life’s journey with resilience and determination. As a young student, she aspired to become an attorney, drawing inspiration from icons like Claire Huxtable, Jonnie Cochran, and Thurgood Marshall, with dreams of fighting for justice and equality for African Americans and other minorities. Though life led her down a different path, including becoming a single mother, she remained determined to finish college and pursue a meaningful career.
Today, Tonja serves as a Supplier Diversity Manager at Duke Energy, where she continues her fight for justice, albeit in a different capacity. In her role, she helps minorities not only secure opportunities at major business tables but also empowers them to create their own, fostering the development of generational wealth. Tonja credits her Jones High “Fightin’ Tiger” spirit for giving her the strength and perseverance to overcome challenges and succeed in her life’s mission.
Dr. Deb German
Dr. Deborah German is the Founding Dean of the University of Central Florida (UCF) College of Medicine, appointed in 2006, and serves as UCF’s Vice President for Health Affairs. Under her leadership, the College of Medicine has played a pivotal role in establishing Medical City at Lake Nona, where it has gained national recognition for innovation and academic excellence. During her tenure, Dr. German achieved full accreditation for the college, raised funds for full four-year scholarships for the charter class, and oversaw the construction of a state-of-the-art medical campus. She also led the opening of the UCF Lake Nona Hospital and Cancer Center and created a growing graduate medical education program to address Florida’s physician shortage. Dr. German’s efforts have made the UCF College of Medicine a leader in medical education and healthcare innovation.
OCTOBER 13, 2024 at 7:30 p.m.
Marni F. Stahlman, Ph.D., ABD
Marni Stahlman has a 37-year career in C-suite health care delivery management in medical, educational and mental and behavioral health care organizations. She is currently the President/CEO of the Mental Health Association of Central Florida, Inc (www.mhacf.org) one of the oldest nonprofits in Central Florida (1946) and the leading community-based nonprofit dedicated to promoting mental wellness and equity of access to mental health care by providing mental health services, support and information to the members of the Central Florida community. Additionally, she has been an Adjunct Professor in the department of Social Innovation at Rollins College, Winter Park, FL since 2019.
Prior to her current role, Marni was President/CEO for five years of Shepherd’s Hope (www.shepherdshope.org) the largest free and charitable clinic system in Florida with 5 locations that cumulatively provided, through her tenure, over 221,000 free, acute care and specialty care patient visits to the uninsured. Preceding Shepherd’s Hope, Stahlman was the Senior Director of Operations at United Cerebral Palsy of Central Florida (www.ucpcfl.org) for six years where she oversaw pediatric physical, occupational and speech therapy outpatient services, across seven locations, for approximately 800 patients.
Stahlman’s behavioral care expertise arose when she was made the first female CEO of a large hospital in Central Florida, of Laurel Oaks Behavioral Healthcare, an 80-bed adolescent in- patient and out-patient facility with 150+ employees and an onsite Charter School. While there, Marni developed companywide clinical and performance management protocols for a national behavioral healthcare network, re-engineered the system’s clinical programs, and initiated new on-site/home based clinical programs while successfully leading a JCAHO re-accreditation.
Previously she was the State Administrator of Rehab Provider Network – Florida, Novacare, Inc., where she led a statewide initiative to create a rehabilitation therapy network for 100+ affiliate clinical practice sites in 40 Florida counties.
Currently, Marni is the President of the Florida Executive Women (member since 2016), an Advisory Member of the AdventHealth for Children Mental Health Board and the Reed Charitable Foundation, an appointed member of the Orange County Public Schools Mental Health Commission and Disciplinary Task Force and an Executive Board Member to the Primary Care Access Network.
Consecutively in 2015 and 2016, Marni was recognized by the Orlando Business Journal as a CEO of the Year and in 2018 was one of ten people featured in Orlando Weekly’s annual “People We Love” edition. In 2017 she was recognized by the Women’s Executive Council as Woman of the Year in Healthcare. In 2016 Marni received the prestigious Bud Bell Florida State Advocate of the Year award from the Florida Community Health Action Information Network. Additionally, she was selected in both 2014 and 2015 as a Women Who Mean Business nominee by the Orlando Business Journal and in 2014 was a Women of Distinction Nominee for the Girl Scouts of Citrus Council.
In 2014 she completed her second three-year appointed term as a lay member to the Florida Bar Grievance Committee for the Ninth Judicial Circuit and from 2008-2012 was a Florida Supreme Court appointee to the Florida Bar’s Citizen’s Forum.
Shally Wong
Ms. Shally Wong is the Special Assistant of Mayor Jerry L. Demings of the Orange County Government. A Hong Kong immigrant, Shally has proudly served the Central Florida Asian American community since 2005 through the Asia Trend Magazine. Her programs include cultural outreach, unity, and inclusion for all peoples of the Asian American community and beyond. Shally invests in all her responsibilities a vision of diversity, understanding, acceptance, and respect that nurtures present and future generations. She takes great pride in representing her culture and being a voice for those underrepresented within her community.
If you would like me to mention one of my proud accomplishments, besides the Dragon Parade and the Orange County Diwali, I would say organizing the Orange County Asian-inspired Art Contest for the County in May as we celebrate the Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month. We accepted more than 150 art submissions this year in May and exhibited 40+ art pieces to highlight the Asian-inspired art pieces. Students and parents are pleased to participate in this first-of-its-kind program.
Kathleen “Kat” Butler Gordon
Dr. Kathleen “KAT” Butler Gordon has dedicated over four decades to education, serving as a teacher, counselor, and school board member in Orange County, Florida. Elected to the Orange County School Board in 2000, she spent 20 years advocating for students, including holding leadership roles such as Vice Chair. Throughout her career, Dr. Gordon made significant contributions to the educational system, including chairing various committees and spearheading initiatives to improve school facilities and engage the community in school design. A former librarian and counselor, she earned numerous accolades, including Teacher of the Year awards and recognition from national organizations for her service to education and cultural diversity.
Beyond her work in Orange County, Dr. Gordon has traveled internationally to assist librarians and worked with schools in the Bahamas and Hawaii. She has held leadership positions with the National School Boards Association and the Florida School Boards Association, earning board certifications and receiving awards such as the Junior Achievement Educator of the Year and the Humanitarian Award from Orange County. An advocate for diversity and student achievement, she continues to serve as a librarian at the New Beginnings Educational Center, while being recognized for her contributions to education and the community, including the prestigious Women’s Achievement Award for Education in 2015. Dr. Gordon is also an accomplished academic, holding a Ph.D. in Education with a specialization in Organizational Leadership.