Leadership takes many forms—and this event celebrates the people who make Sarasota stronger through their vision, service, and commitment to our community.

Join us for Celebrate Outstanding Leadership Awards, an annual luncheon that honors exceptional leaders while bringing together Leadership Sarasota alumni, Chamber members, business leaders, and community members for an afternoon of recognition, connection, and inspiration.

This event is open to everyone. Whether you're a Leadership Sarasota graduate, a colleague supporting a nominee, or someone who simply believes in celebrating community leadership, we invite you to be part of this special tradition.

Each year, we recognize Leadership Sarasota alumni who have demonstrated extraordinary leadership through their careers, community involvement, and dedication to the Leadership Sarasota program through the following awards:

Lifetime of Leadership Award
Recognizing a Leadership Sarasota alumnus whose lasting contributions have made a significant impact on our community.

Impact in Action Award
Honoring a Leadership Sarasota alumnus who is currently leading meaningful change and helping shape Sarasota's future.

Leadership Sarasota Dedication Award
Celebrating a Leadership Sarasota alumnus whose commitment and service have strengthened the program and its mission.

New for 2026

This year, we are expanding our recognition of leadership throughout the community with two new awards:

Civic Champion Award
Recognizing an individual who has demonstrated outstanding leadership and service through education, government, or the public sector.

Community Catalyst Award
Honoring an individual whose volunteerism, philanthropy, and dedication to giving back have created a meaningful impact in Sarasota.

Unlike the alumni awards, nominees for these two new categories do not need to be Leadership Sarasota graduates, allowing us to recognize exceptional leaders from across the broader community.

Click Here to Nominate!

Don't miss this opportunity to celebrate leadership in action, reconnect with familiar faces, make new connections, and recognize the individuals who continue to move Sarasota forward.

For sponsorship opportunities, please contact Pete Bartosik at [email protected].

Please note: All cancellations must be received at least 48 hours in advance.

Nominations Are Open!

Do you know someone whose leadership is making a lasting impact in our community? Or are you interested in recognizing your own contributions? We encourage you to submit a nomination and help us celebrate the individuals shaping Sarasota’s future.

Nomination Deadline: June 22, 2026

Click Here to Nominate

2025 Honorees

Lifetime of Leadership Award
• Renee Eppard

Impact in Action Award
• Dennis Murphy

Leadership Sarasota Dedication Award
• Kameron Hodgens

Click Here to View Previous Winners!