From 9 am - 10:15 am

The Power of Proximity with Gregory Haile, J.D. - Deputy Chair, Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta

From 10:30 am - 11:15 am

Leading Volunteers to Increase Your Capacity:

Looking to boost your nonprofit’s capacity through better volunteer engagement? This session will offer practical strategies for empowering volunteers, creating meaningful programs, and harnessing their strengths to drive your organization’s impact. Learn how to turn volunteer management into a powerful tool for increasing efficiency and expanding your reach.

Diversifying Revenue Streams: The Art of Keeping Your Eggs in More Than One Basket: 

You've heard the expression, "Don't put all your eggs in one basket." The reason is that if the basket falls, you could break all your eggs. If your eggs are in multiple baskets, you have a much better chance of getting home safely with enough eggs to make that cake!!! The Objectives of this breakout include: Income options for nonprofits; the value of revenue diversity, Fundraising lessons from previous crises, Tools for prioritizing and protecting your core work, How to engage your donors more effectively.

Local Media's Role in Non-Profit Success:

Join a panel of experts as they discuss how press and media outlets can amplify your organization’s mission and impact. This session will dive into best practices for building strong relationships with journalists, creating compelling narratives, and leveraging different media platforms to highlight your stories and community successes. Gain valuable insights on how to raise awareness, increase engagement, and strengthen your organization’s presence in the community.

From 11:30 am - 12:15 pm

What Companies Look for in Non-Profit Collaborations:

In an era where corporate social responsibility is key, understanding what motivates businesses to partner with non-profits is essential. Hear from local business leaders as they share what drives their support for specific organizations, how they differentiate between corporate donations and sponsorships, and what makes a sponsorship truly valuable. Learn how to position your nonprofit to attract and maintain meaningful corporate partnerships.

From Snap to Share: Practical Social Media Skills and Storytelling Tips for Non-Profits:

Are you ready to transform your social media strategy and storytelling skills? ‘From Snap to Share: Practical Social Media Skills and Storytelling Tips for Non-Profits’ will help you take steps towards enhancing and optimizing your social media efforts to make a bigger impact on your non-profit organization’s brand awareness, reach, fundraising, and more.

From 12:15 pm - 1:30 pm

Inside the Grant Process: A Conversation with Local Funders:

Sit down for a lunch panel with local grant funders as they share valuable insights into their funding processes, tips for submitting successful applications, and key information that can help your organization stand out. This discussion will provide non-profits with practical advice on how to strengthen proposals, avoid common pitfalls, and build stronger relationships with funders to increase your chances of securing support.

From 1:30 pm - 2:15 pm

From Mission to Milestones: Strategic Planning for Non-Profits:

In a rapidly changing world, effective strategic planning is essential for non-profit organizations to achieve their mission and make a lasting impact. This course will equip you with the tools and knowledge to develop a comprehensive strategic plan that aligns your organization's goals, resources, and activities.

Intentional Leadership: Building and Motivating High-Performing Teams:

Building strong teams starts with intentional leadership. By clearly defining and documenting a strategic vision with SMART goals, leaders can develop OKRs and KPIs that align at every level—organization, function, team, and individual. When employees understand their responsibilities, what success looks like, and how they’ll be supported—whether through peers, tools, mentorship, or strong management—they are empowered to succeed and drive growth. This session will explore how a collaborative, goal-driven environment fosters natural culture-building, where teams focus on achieving shared outcomes rather than competing for recognition.

Building Bridges: Fostering Fairness and Equity:

Unconscious biases are deeply ingrained attitudes and perceptions that affect our understanding, actions, and decisions without our conscious awareness. These biases are formed based on our experiences, upbringing, cultural background, and societal influences. This training will equip participants with the knowledge and tools necessary to recognize and mitigate unconscious biases in themselves and others. By fostering awareness and promoting inclusive behaviors, individuals can create a more equitable and welcoming environment where diversity is valued, and everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

From 2:30 pm - 3:30 pm

Success Tactics; The 10 Basic Laws of Success with Bert Thornton - Retired Vice Chairman Emeritus, Waffle House

 Gregory Haile, J.D. - Deputy Chair, Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta

Gregory Haile, J.D., is a Senior Fellow at the Mossavar-Rahmani Center for Business and Government at the Harvard Kennedy School. Haile’s work at Harvard focuses on the intersection of 3 key elements of American national security: economic mobility, engaging low income and marginalized communities to support our nation’s workforce needs, and AI. 

 Haile is also the Deputy Chair of the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta. He is the first educator to serve as Deputy Chair of the Atlanta Fed in approximately 70 years. Further, he is the Bank’s Audit and Operational Risk Committee Chair. Haile recently served on the U.S.- EU Talent for Growth Task Force. Co-chaired by the U.S. Secretary of Commerce and the U.S. Secretary of State, the task force assembled 6 U.S. leaders from business, labor and education, with counterparts from the EU to build on workforce initiatives from both sides of the Atlantic, to catalyze and advance human capital in technology fields. 

 Haile previously served as the president of one of America’s largest colleges (Broward College) with over 55,000 students. He was recognized as one of the top five community college CEOs in the nation by the American Association of Community Colleges, and led the college to a top ten ranking (from more than one thousand colleges) by the Aspen Institute at every eligible year under his tenure. His leadership garnered the largest grant and the largest gift in the College's history, and he set the national example for engaging low-income communities. 

 Haile has 20+ years of board experience and has held 15+ chairmanships. He is a member of the Council on Foreign Relations and the Young Presidents Organization. He has also taught a self-designed course on Higher Education Law and Policy at the Harvard Summer School. Haile graduated from Columbia University’s School of Law as a Harlan Fiske Stone Scholar and served as the Editor-in-Chief of the National Black Law Journal and as an Editor of the Journal of Gender and Law. He holds a B.S. from Arizona State University, Magna Cum Laude, and was recognized as the most outstanding undergraduate in his college. He has an Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters from Nova Southeastern University. 

 Bert Thornton - Former President, Waffle House

Albert S. (Bert) Thornton was born in New Orleans, LA in 1945 and grew up in Tampa, Florida. He played football at T. R. Robinson High School, where he was President of the Student Body and attended the Georgia Institute of Technology on a full football scholarship. Bert was a member of the Alpha Tau Omega fraternity at Georgia Tech and graduated in 1968.

Bert served two years as an artillery officer in the United States Army and served one tour with the 5th Battalion, 2nd Artillery in South Vietnam.

Upon separation from the service, he worked as a systems analyst and salesman in NCR’s IT Division, and in 1971, Bert joined Waffle House as a manager trainee. Four years later, he became a Vice President. In 1994, he was elected to the Board of Directors. For over 40 years, Bert worked with both Company and Franchise Operations in Waffle House and in 2004 was named President and Chief Operations Officer of Waffle House, Inc. Today, he is the retired Vice Chairman Emeritus of Waffle House.

Bert is also very active at Georgia Tech, serving from 1996-2000 as a member of the Alumni Association Board of Trustees. In 1999 he chaired Tech’s highly successful $7.8 million-dollar annual giving “Roll Call” initiative and was named President of the Alumni Association in 2001 and 2002. He has been a member of the Georgia Tech Foundation Board of Trustees since 2001 where he has served on the Finance, Development and Stewardship Committees. In 2016 Bert received the Joseph Mayo Pettit Alumni Distinguished Service Award, the highest award conferred by the Georgia Tech Alumni Association.

Bert is a member of the board of directors of The Studer Community Institute in Pensacola, Florida and is an Entrepreneur in Residence at the University of West Florida, College of Business- Center for Entrepreneurship.

He also has an Advisory Board role with The Museum School of Avondale Estates, a top state-ranked charter public elementary-middle school in DeKalb County, Georgia where he is a former founding trustee of the school and was honorary chair for The Museum School’s successful five-million-dollar expansion capital campaign.

Bert is the author of two books. His first, Find an Old Gorilla: Pathways Through the Jungle of Business and Life was awarded the 2022 Bugbee-Falk national book award and is recommended by the Association of University Programs in Healthcare Administration in over 100 colleges and universities. It is a self-mentoring handbook for the development of rising high achievers and emerging leaders. Bert’s second book, High Impact Mentoring: A Practical Guide to Creating Value in Other People’s Lives (co-authored with Dr. Sherry Hartnett) is a handbook for both one-on-one mentors and C-suite leaders coaching how to conduct a positive, successful, impactful mentoring experience across the table and how to scale that singular impact into a successful program for any size organization.

Bert lives in Perdido Key, Florida with his wife, Kathy, who devotes her time to several “not for profit” organizations. Kathy and Bert have three daughters: Aspen, Chaice, and Mayson. All three girls are very successful graduates of Georgia Tech and members of the Alpha Delta Pi sorority.

 Diane Fraser - Director, Emerald Coast Science Center

For the past 10 years, Diane Fraser has been the director of the Emerald Coast Science Center. As a chemistry major in college, she has always loved science. Since 2003 she has used her Master’s Degree in Forensic Science as an adjunct professor at UWF. She considers it an honor to inspire and grow a scientifically engaged community.

 Candy Nowling - Managing Director, The Matrix Community Outreach Center 

Candy Nowling is the Executive Director of the Matrix Community Outreach Center, where she focuses on enhancing volunteer engagement and maximizing organizational impact. With extensive experience in leadership and community service, Candy is passionate about developing high-performance teams and creating opportunities for volunteers to thrive. In her role, she has successfully implemented strategies that empower volunteers and expand the reach of the organization’s programs. Candy’s expertise in fostering relationships with community partners and funders has been instrumental in driving initiatives that benefit the community. In recognition of her dedicated service, Candy was awarded the 2020 Volunteer Agency Service Award from the Governor's Hurricane Conference for the Matrix’s efforts in sharing over 1.8 million pounds of food during their COVID-19 response. As an engaged speaker, Candy shares her knowledge on optimizing volunteer programs and scaling organizational capacity, inspiring audiences to take action and enhance their own volunteer efforts. In addition to her work at the Matrix, Candy serves as the Human Services Branch Director for Walton County Emergency Management during disasters, overseeing five Emergency Support Functions: including EFS 15 Volunteers and Donations. She is a Certified Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) Instructor and is currently pursuing a certificate in Emergency Management and Homeland Security from Florida State University. Candy is a graduate of Northwest Florida State College. Married for 29 years, she is a proud mother of four and grandmother of two, embodying her belief in community and service both personally and professionally.

 Lindy Wood, MSN - Founder & President, Westonwood Ranch

Lindy Wood holds a Master’s Degree in Adult Psychiatric Advanced Practice Nursing from the University of South Alabama and was the recipient of the 2005 USA Advanced Practice Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Excellence in Practice Award. Originally from Livingston Alabama, the Wood Family relocated to the Florida Emerald Coast in 2016 in pursuit of therapeutic opportunities for their son Weston, who was diagnosed with severe autism at the age of 2. Lindy is the Founder and CEO of Westonwood Ranch, a non- profit organization established in 2017. Located in Freeport, FL, Westonwood Ranch offers programs to bridge the service gaps for children, teens and young adults with developmental disabilities.

 Bobby Parker - Principal & Chief Creative Officer, Parker Gene Creative

Meet Bobby, the creative visionary behind Parker Gene Creative, a boutique marketing and public relations agency that's changing the game for nonprofits and small businesses. As Founder and Chief Creative Officer, Bobby brings a wealth of experience to the table.

Before launching Parker Gene Creative in October 2022, Bobby made his mark as the VP of Marketing for Corcoran Reverie, a top-tier real estate brokerage in Northwest Florida and Nashville, affiliated with The Corcoran Group. During his tenure, Bobby masterminded marketing and PR strategies that catapulted Corcoran Reverie into the spotlight across multiple markets.

With an extensive background in marketing, communications, and public relations, Bobby is a force to be reckoned with in business circles spanning from Panama City, Florida to Mobile, Alabama, and north to Nashville, Tennessee. He's navigated various industries, from real estate and nonprofits to radio, tourism, hospitality, and restaurants, leaving an indelible impact everywhere he goes.

Bobby's accolades and achievements are nothing short of impressive. He's the recipient of several prestigious awards, including the Joe Curley Rising Leader NWFL Coast Chapter Award (2020), NWFL Coast Chapter of FPRA Member of the Year (2020), United Way of the Emerald Coast's 40 Under 40 Emerging Leaders (2021), and an Award of Distinction from FPRA for Collateral Tools of Public Relations (2022). Notably, he was recognized as one of Business Elite's 40 Under 40 in North America (2022), featured in VIP Destin Magazine's I Am Destin (2022), and celebrated in Scarlett Magazine's A Few Good Men (2023).

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Bobby is a fervent advocate for his local community in Northwest Florida. He actively serves on multiple boards and committees, including the Northwest Florida Coast Chapter of the Florida Public Relations Association (FPRA), United Way of the Emerald Coast, the Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County, the Fort Walton Beach Cultural Arts League, and the Destin Chamber of Commerce.

When he's not shaping the world of marketing and public relations or giving back to his community, Bobby finds joy in supporting diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, especially for the LGBTQ+ community. He loves immersing himself in the vibrant cultural arts scene, exploring farmers' markets, trying out new restaurants and shops, attending local festivals, and, above all, cherishing moments with friends, family, and his adorable fur babies.

In the realm of creativity and innovation, Bobby is a true trailblazer, leaving his mark on every project and endeavor he embarks upon. He's a game-changer, a community builder, and a passionate advocate, all rolled into one. Whether it's marketing for a nonprofit or making dreams come true for small businesses, Bobby's talents and passion shine through, making him a force to be reckoned with.

 Steve Barber - Publisher, Scarlet Magazine

Steve Barber is known among colleagues and clients for his integrity, extensive market knowledge, and disciplined communication strategies. He's been privileged to serve as a Public Relations/Publisher and Community Volunteer and Ambassador of the Gulf Coast. Over the years, he's built strong relationships and stayed current in the dynamic PR industry, all while keeping a humble dedication to giving back to the community. Steve's journey in PR began in South Georgia, and for the past two decades, he's called Destin/Fort Walton Beach/Pensacola and the Gulf Coast home. Alongside his successful career, Steve cherishes his role as a father to three and a loving "Biggie" to his four grandchildren: Scarlett, Hudson, Henry and Magnolia. His commitment extends beyond his professional life, as he's actively involved with various local nonprofits. Serving as the Current President and Board Member of Sinfonia Gulf Coast, and a Board Member of Children's Home Society in Pensacola, Steve embodies the spirit of community service. Additionally, he lends his time to organizations like the White Wilson Foundation, Emerald Coast Foundation, Destin Chamber of Commerce, Emerald Coast Advertising Federation, St. Simons on the Sound Episcopal Church, Northwest Florida Coast-Florida Public Relations Association, American Red Cross, American Cancer Society, Boy Scouts of America, and Leadership Albany, GA. Through it all, Steve remains grateful for the opportunities to make a positive impact, both personally and professionally, in the lives of those around him.

 Jared Williams - Web Design and Content Marketer, Get the Coast

Well, let’s see…I’m a husband, dad, CrossFitter, and known to always order tacos if they are on the menu. I can also appreciate a really good meme or gif. Oh, and I produce most of the content for Get The Coast!

   McKenzie Burleigh - Publisher, Rowland Publishing

As a 18 -year employee of Rowland Publishing, publisher of Emerald Coast Magazine, Tallahassee Magazine and more is currently serving as the company’s Publisher. McKenzie Burleigh works with her colleagues to inspire, educate and support communities throughout Northwest Florida. A proud graduate of Florida State University, she has been involved as a company leader in the launching and publication of more than 40 titles including 850 Business Magazine and Northwest Florida Weddings magazine, to name just a few. She has developed and carried out fundraising community engagement events that have generated more than a half-million dollars for local nonprofits and charities, and she has established her own signature event, Yoga for a Cause. She is a certified yoga and fitness instructor whose passions include teaching others about mindful practices. McKenzie has served numerous organizations as a board chair, board member and volunteer. Especially important to her are her efforts in behalf of the United Way’s Women United leadership society; Impact 100; Women for FSU; and the FSU Alumni Association Mentoring Program. She enjoys the great outdoors, gardening, music, her family and friends and her dogs, Ruby Lynne and Kili Rose.

 Maureen Bierman - Marketing Director, Step One Automotive Group 

Maureen Bierman is the Marketing Director for Step One Automotive Group, with 13 locations in Florida and Alabama, that is headquartered in Fort Walton Beach, Florida. Step One Automotive Group ranks in the top 100 dealer groups in the United States and was recently recognized in the Inc 5000 list of fastest growing companies in the United States. Maureen most recently served as the chair of the board of directors of the Greater Fort Walton Beach Chamber of Commerce for 2023. In the past she has served on the board of the United Way of the Emerald Coast for the last two years and the Emerald Coast Foundation in 2020-2021. Maureen was honored to be selected as one of Okaloosa County’s Women of Honor in May 2023. Prior to Step One Automotive Group, Maureen was the Marketing Director for Lee Automotive Group in Fort Walton Beach. She also spent 10 years as the Marketing Director for Lakeside Shopping Center in Metairie, Louisiana. Born in New York City, Maureen left to attend Tulane University in New Orleans at 18 years old. She has been married for 27 years and has lived in Fort Walton Beach since 2005 with her husband Don.

 Bernard Johnson - Regional External Affairs Manager, Florida Power & Light 

Bernard H. Johnson, Jr. is the Regional External Affairs Manager for the Central District of Florida Power & Light Company, a subsidiary of Nextera Energy headquartered in Juno Beach, Florida. In this role, Johnson provides oversight for the Customer Service, Sales, Operations, and Economic Development in the Fort Walton District, to include Fort Walton Beach, Destin, Niceville, Crestview, DeFuniak Springs and West Walton County. Bernard serves as a representative of FPL on several community boards and engages with regional governments, elected officials, and military affairs. He has over 37 years of service with FPL. Starting out in the line crew, then to Engineering, Customer Service, and Marketing and is now the Regional External Affairs Manager. Married for 33 years and living in Niceville, we have five children and two grandchildren.

 Neko Stubblefield - Senior VP of Membership and Community Development, Eglin Federal Credit Union

Ms. Stubblefield serves as the Senior Vice President of Membership and Community Development for Eglin Federal Credit Union (EFCU), one of the largest Credit Unions in the state of Florida with over 124,000 members and $2.9 billion in assets. Neko oversees membership growth, community development, and financial education efforts across the footprint of the Credit Union which currently spans four counties in Florida and Alabama. Ms. Stubblefield has received numerous awards and recognitions throughout her over 30-year tenure in the industry. Her extensive career has allowed her to foster partnerships with various organizations, military installations, businesses and schools throughout Okaloosa, Santa Rosa, Walton and Escambia counties. Neko’s dedication to her community is reflected in her active involvement and leadership roles within several organizations. She is a member of seven local Chambers of Commerce and has served as Chairman of the Board and an Executive Board Member for the Crestview Area Chamber of Commerce. Additionally, she is 2024-25 Chairwoman of the One Okaloosa Economic Development Council and a Board Member for Rocky Bayou Christian School, Okaloosa Public Schools Foundation, and the Northwest Florida State College Foundation. Her commitment to serving her community extends to her role as Civic Leader for the Air Force Materiel Command (AFMC), representing the 96th Test Wing at Eglin AFB. She also serves as an Honorary Commander for the 7th Special Forces Group (A) Group Support Battalion at Camp Bull Simons. Neko’s volunteer efforts span numerous organizations, including the Crestview Mentor Program, Habitat for Humanity, Boys and Girls Club of the Emerald Coast, and Okaloosa Saves. Her dedication to her community is evident through her involvement in multiple community advisory boards. In her spare time, Neko prioritizes her role as “Mother in Chief” and cherishes the time she spends with her children, Joshua and Madison.

 Sarah Peavy - Marketing Director, Emerald Coast Harley-Davidson 

A proud Air Force brat, Sarah Peavy calls Fort Walton Beach home, where she serves as the Director of Operations for Emerald Coast Harley-Davidson. Although not originally drawn to the company as an H-D enthusiast, she quickly became impressed by the organization’s dedication to the community, its philanthropic efforts, and its commitment to both its employees and success as a local business. Now a rider herself, Sarah has been deeply integrated into the Harley-Davidson family and the local community. Alongside her husband, Chris, and daughter, Hazel, Sarah embraces the importance of community involvement. She has served on the board of the Emerald Coast Foundation and has been lucky enough to serve as an honorary commander at both Hurlburt Field and the ACC Commander’s Group at Eglin AFB. Volunteering and supporting local causes remain central to her philosophy, believing that giving back not only strengthens the community but also fosters a deeper connection to the place she calls home. In her role at Emerald Coast Harley-Davidson, Sarah actively encourages her team to engage in community service, taking pride in helping connect her staff with causes that resonate with their passions. She believes in creating a meaningful impact, both within their organization and across the Emerald Coast community.

  Emily Cowan - Vice President of Member Services & External Affairs, Choctawhatchee Electric Cooperative, Inc. (CHELCO)

Emily Cowan currently serves as the Vice President of Member Services and External Affairs at Choctawhatchee Electric Cooperative, Inc. (CHELCO). Emily received a Bachelor of Science in Business from Indiana University in Fort Wayne and a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Indiana Wesleyan. She also completed the MIP (Manager Internship Program) from the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association. She previously worked at Kosciusko Rural Electric Membership Cooperative (KREMC) for 11 years in Warsaw, IN, on the executive team as the manager of marketing and member services. Under her leadership, KREMC won four national Touchstone Energy Spotlight on Excellence awards. Emily brings with her experience in managing member services, marketing, and communications functions, which includes a comprehensive energy marketing program. Under Emily’s leadership at CHELCO, the communications team has won three Touchstone Energy Spotlight on Excellence awards. Emily also serves on the national Cooperative Performance and Research committee for Touchstone. Emily currently serves on the Walton Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors and the board of directors for Habitat for Humanity of Walton County. Emily has previously been extensively involved with a number of organizations and served in several leadership positions. She served on the following board of directors: Kosciusko Chamber of Commerce (Past Chairperson), Kosciusko Visitor’s Center (Past Chairperson), The Watershed Foundation (BOD President), Kosciusko Economic Development marketing committee, Kosciusko Youth Leadership Academy (Past Chair). At CHELCO, Emily provides strategic direction and leadership to the cooperative, specifically in the areas of member services, member credit and collections, marketing, communications, community relations, legislative activity and economic development.

 Shaye Smith - Director of Marketing, The Center for Sales Strategy, LeadG2, Up Your Culture 

Shaye Smith is the Director of Marketing at The Center for Sales Strategy and its portfolio of brands including LeadG2, Up Your Culture, and Robertson Lowstuter, four national brands providing performance solutions for medium to enterprise B2B organizations. Recently, The Center for Sales Strategy was recognized as a 2024 Inc. Best Workplaces honoree and one of Selling Power’s Top Virtual Sales Training Companies. Shaye’s passion for creating purposeful content and her dedication to quality and educational marketing have significantly contributed to her team’s success. Her efforts in thought leadership, lead generation, digital communication, and sales enablement have been pivotal. With a robust background in digital communications and social media, she has a proven track record of aligning marketing and sales strategies and storytelling through content to grow thought leadership, improve performance, and drive revenue. During her time at CSS, she has supported the launch of Up Your Culture, the acquisition of Robertson Lowstuter, new product launches, shift in services during the pandemic, grown media exposure to include placements in Forbes, Inc., and others, and launched three podcasts. Her expertise spans beyond the B2B space, with prior marketing roles in the non-profit, retail, tourism, and SaaS industries. Prior to joining the team at The Center for Sales Strategy in 2016, she held marketing and communications roles at eLead CRM, Silver Sands Premium Outlets, Children’s Volunteer Health Network, and Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort. She is an advocate for professional development and networking, having served as president (and other board roles) of the Northwest Florida Coast Chapter of the Florida Public Relations Association, and president (and other board roles) of Walton County Chamber’s young professionals board (formerly called YP at The Beach). She values giving back through her talents and has used her marketing skills to support volunteer work throughout the community over the years. Her commitment to community service is evident through her volunteer work at her church, community events supporting local non-profits, and her recognition as one of United Way’s inaugural class of “40 Under 40” Emerging Leaders in 2021. Outside of her professional life, Shaye enjoys traveling, fitness, RunDisney races, and spending time with her son, Josiah (8). She is also a passionate ballet dancer and teacher, with a history of performing with prestigious ballet companies like The Moscow Ballet and The Washington Ballet, and in notable productions like The Nutcracker on Broadway in New York City and the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. She now teaches, choreographs, and performs with studio6twenty5, a classical ballet studio in Destin.

 Ashley Saba - Market Development Manager, Florida Blue

Ashley is a devoted Market Development Manager for Florida Blue in Northwest Florida, where she focuses on advancing health solutions that benefit the community she loves. With 35 years of roots in the region, Ashley is passionate about local involvement and serving the people and communities that call Northwest Florida home. Throughout her career, Ashley has demonstrated versatility and expertise in Regional Business Development, Marketing, Sales, Fitness Training, and Youth Education. Her achievements have earned her recognition as an InWeekly Rising Star and UWEC 40 Under 40 in 2024. She is also a proud graduate of Leadership Pensacola (2023) and the UAB Excellence Academy in Leadership (2021). Ashley holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Health Science, cum laude, with a minor in Public Administration from the University of West Florida, as well as a degree from Pensacola State College. Committed to giving back, Ashley serves on the Board of Directors for the Escambia County Sheriff's Foundation, supporting programs that positively impacts local youth. She was honored as Santa Rosa County Schools Partner of the Year in 2015. When not working or volunteering, Ashley can be found cheering on her two daughters at the ballpark, where she proudly serves as a "Team Mom." Guided by her faith and a strong sense of social responsibility, Ashley believes that each new day brings opportunities to make a positive difference in the lives of others. She is driven by the motto "the only easy day was yesterday," and strives to live a life of purpose, service, and love. n

 April Wilkes - Executive Director, St. Joe Foundation

Ms. April Wilkes has served in various capacities for The St. Joe Company since 2001.  In early 2018, April was presented with an opportunity to make a significant change from her position of Regulatory & Public Affairs Manager to Executive Director of The St. Joe Community Foundation.  In her new role, she has led the Foundation’s efforts to enrich the quality of life in Northwest Florida in the areas of Education, Healthcare, Environmental Stewardship and Cultural Arts and led the Foundation’s response to Hurricane Michael, Hurricane Sally and a world-wide pandemic.   

Ms. Wilkes holds an undergraduate degree in Business Administration from Husson University in Maine.  After relocating to Panama City, Florida in 1999, April married Michael Wilkes, a 3rd generation Bay County native, in 2000.  Michael has worked as a lineman for Gulf Power, now Florida Power & Light, since prior to their marriage and they share two daughters, Olivia and Ava Page.  Additionally, April has served on the Gulf Coast State College Foundation Board and the Panama City Beach Chamber Board.  With her understanding of the community needs and her network of contacts, April is a great resource. 

 Mary Tinsley - Chair of the Grants Committee, Impact 100 

Mary is originally from Pensacola, FL, graduating from the University of West Florida in 2003. After marrying her husband, Kent Tinsley in 2007, she moved to Fort Walton Beach, and they have spent the last 18 years growing their family here in our community. Mary and Kent are the very proud parents of two sons, William and Brooks. William is a senior at Fort Walton Beach High School, while his little brother Brooks is in 7th grade at Liza Jackson Preparatory. Mary’s career as a Financial Advisor has blessed her with flexibility in her workday that not only supports her clients but also her non-profit passions. She is dedicated to “making a difference in the lives of others”. In this pursuit, she has served on several local non-profit and community boards, to include the Greater Fort Walton Beach Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, The Emerald Coast Science Center Board of Directors, Arc of the Emerald Coast Board of Directors, and currently is in her “fourth year of a three-year term” on the Impact100 of Northwest Florida Board of Directors. She serves Impact100 NWF as the 2023-2043 Chair of the Grants Committee.

 Kelley Fuller - Founder, 100+ Women Who Care Emerald Coast

Kelley is the Founder of 100+ Women Who Care Emerald Coast. Since its inception in 2015, the 150-member giving circle has donated over $400,000 to 33 nonprofit organizations in Okaloosa, Walton, and Santa Rosa counties. Kelley is a court-appointed Guardian ad Litem representing abused and neglected children, past Chair and board member of Healing Paws for Warriors Inc, a board member for the Episcopal Diocese of the Central Gulf Coast’s Beckwith Camp and Conference Center, a Vestry member of St. Simon’s Episcopal Church, and member of the Choctawhatchee Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution. She also is a former President of the Navarre Area Chamber of Commerce and board member of the Fort Walton Beach firefighter’s pension fund. She was a proud Air Force spouse for thirty years, and is an even prouder Air Force mom. She and her husband, Van, have one son Kyle, an AF Civil Engineer/EOD Officer, a beautiful daughter in law, two grandsons, and a granddaughter.

 Kelly Jasen - President & CEO, United Way Emerald Coast 

Kelly Jasen joined United Way Emerald Coast (UWEC) in November 2019, becoming the first female President & CEO of the non-profit organization. She oversees day-to-day operations and leads the dynamic team committed to creating lasting change in Okaloosa and Walton counties. With over a dozen years in the nonprofit sector, Kelly previously served as Director of Development at another United Way, where she led fundraising and managed key donor and corporate relationships. Her extensive background also includes advocacy and support for seniors, individuals with disabilities, and homeless children. A true champion for her community, Kelly is passionate about making a difference in the lives of others. She is actively involved with several Boards of Directors, including The Rotary Club of Destin, United Way of Florida, the Greater Fort Walton Beach Chamber of Commerce, and the Walton Area Chamber of Commerce. She serves as Honorary Commander of the 96th Test Wing Mission Support Group at Eglin Air Force Base. Additionally, she is involved with UWEC's Women United and is a proud graduate of Mentoring Emerald Coast, Destin Forward, Leadership Okaloosa, and Leadership Pensacola. She has been recognized as a 40 Under 40 Honoree by United Way, the Emerging Leader of the Year by the Crestview Area Chamber of Commerce, and was a Rising Star by Inweekly Magazine. She holds a bachelor's degree in Interdisciplinary Studies from University of Central Florida. When she's not leading UWEC, you can find her spoiling her mini australian shepherds (Laila and Linus), hitting the road for adventures, or immersed in true crime podcasts. She is honored to lead our local United Way and strives to bring innovative and energetic leadership to the organization.

 Thomas Greek - Life and Leadership Coach, Thomas Greek Coaching

Thomas is a lover of learning and a wellness and wellbeing enthusiast who is passionate about building better leaders! His purpose is to seek wisdom, share insights, and inspire those around him. With over 25 years of leadership experience, Thomas strives to motivate others to show up as their best selves at work and in life.

Thomas has served as an executive in varying roles for nearly two decades. He directed Learning & Development at Navy Federal Credit Union, a Fortune 100 Best Place to Work and the world’s largest institution of its kind. He was a founding member of the organization’s Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) initiative. Thomas has also headed a multi-billion-dollar credit card lending department, where he oversaw a tripling of the portfolio, and has managed multiple operational and support teams, including Collections, Fraud, and Communications.  Throughout his career, he has designed and led award-winning talent programs and has expertise in strategic planning, succession planning, and in developing C-Suite and other Senior Leaders. He is committed to his community and volunteers on several non-profit boards.

Thomas is a Professional Certified Coach through the International Coaching Federation. He studied Philosophy at George Mason University and has specialized training in Executive Development through Virginia’s Darden School of Business. He has successfully helped hundreds of leaders achieve their goals by co-creating meaningful and sustainable change in their lives. Other relevant professional certifications include:

• Myers Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI)
• EQ-I 2.0 (Emotional Intelligence)
• Prosci Change Management
• Leadership Circle Profile 360 Assessment
• Be Well Lead Well Pulse
• Leading for Diversity & Inclusion (USC Marshall)

When he’s not Coaching, you can find Thomas reading a good book, practicing self-discipline through martial arts, playing the piano, and enjoying life on the farm with his husband, cats, dogs, and chickens.

 Ryan Harris - SVP Strategic Growth, Sr. Management Consultant, Think Consulting

Ryan Harris is a dynamic business leader with deep expertise in driving operational efficiencies, building high-performing teams, and delivering strategic growth. As SVP of Strategic Growth at a leading management consulting firm, Ryan has guided executive leadership across various industries in optimizing human capital management, cultural transformation, and digital innovation. With a proven track record in creating scalable solutions and elevating client outcomes, Ryan blends sharp business acumen with a fresh, forward-thinking approach. Beyond traditional consulting, Ryan has a passion for cutting-edge technology and human performance optimization, always pushing the boundaries of what's possible to deliver value for clients and organizations.

 Wanjiku Jackson - Emerald Coast Community Advocate, Kristina’s B.E.E.S. (Business, Education, & Enrichment Services)

With a passion for personal growth and professional excellence, Wanjiku Jackson is dedicated to empowering individuals and organizations to contribute their best. With a background in Business, Leadership & Organizational Effectiveness, Higher Education, Career & Technical Education, and Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, & Accessibility, Wanjiku brings a unique blend of expertise to equipping individuals and organizations with the tools they need to thrive in today's ever-evolving landscape. Wanjiku is committed to creating a more harmonious society as she actively participates in community initiatives and advocacy efforts aimed at promoting education, diversity, equity, and social justice.

Throughout her career, Wanjiku has worked with organizations across various industries to develop and implement inclusive practices that drive long-term change. She believes positive relationships are not only a moral imperative but also a strategic advantage, leading to greater innovation, creativity, and organizational success.Wanjiku engages audiences with thought-provoking insights, compelling storytelling, and practical strategies for fostering and developing authentic relationships while inspiring attendees to embrace diversity as a catalyst for growth and resilience.