CFI Prepares Next Generation of Leaders with 2025 Class
/The Charitable Foundation of the Islands (CFI) continues its mission to strengthen the Sanibel and Captiva communities through philanthropy, leadership, and collaboration. A key initiative under the "leadership" pillar is the annual Leadership Sanibel-Captiva Program. This immersive 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 meaningfully to the community.
Now in full swing, the 2025 Leadership Program has successfully completed its first three sessions: the Opening Session (January 7), Government Day (January 29), and Business & Community Prosperity Day (February 11). Each session features discussions with influential community leaders and behind-the-scenes insights into the workings of the Islands.
CFI launched the program in 2021 under the leadership of inaugural chair Ralph Clark, and it has already shown results. Twenty-four members have completed the program, and more than 1/2 now serve in leadership roles in local nonprofit organizations and civic groups.
“The program provides participants with invaluable knowledge that they can apply in their current and future leadership roles,” said Ken Washuta, CFI Board Member and Chair of the Leadership Sanibel-Captiva Program. “It’s an investment in the future of our community, and directly aligned with our Leadership Class mission of connecting and inspiring the future volunteer leaders of the islands."
Highlights from the 2025 Leadership Program So Far
The Opening Session on January 7th featured a dynamic conversation between Sanibel’s first mayor, Porter Goss, and his son, CFI Board Member Chauncey Goss. Sponsored by Bank of the Islands, this session set the stage for participants to gain historical insights and inspiration from those who have shaped the Islands.
Pam Norton, Leadership Class of 2025 member, reflected on the Opening Session, saying, "This is a truly amazing opportunity to learn more about the Islands, and it was motivational for me on how important it is to be engaged in the community."
Ken Washuta, Melissa Halliburton, and Audrey Stewart served as liaisons for this session, ensuring a smooth and impactful experience for all participants.
The Leadership program plays a vital role in shaping future Island leaders, providing participants with the knowledge, connections, and inspiration needed to make a lasting impact on the Islands communities.
On January 28th, Government Day provided an inside look at the decision-making processes of local government, featuring an in-depth overview of the Sanibel Plan by Craig Chandler and facilitated conversations with Sanibel Mayor Richard Johnson, City Manager Dana Souza, Lee County Commissioner Kevin Ruane, Planning Commission Members Kate Sergeant and Erika Steiner, Sanibel Library’s Amber Cox, and Captiva Community Panel’s David Mintz. Nancy Elting served as the class liaison for the day, helping to guide discussions and provide valuable context.
“Porter Goss was just 35 when he led the creation of the City of Sanibel,” noted Mayor Johnson. “We need the next generation to step up now.”
As one Leadership Class of 2025 member reflected on the experience, saying, "My biggest takeaway was that it really 'takes a village.' There are so many moving pieces behind the scenes. I appreciated how open the speakers were in sharing some of the challenges and processes behind the scenes."
Having an inside look into the City of Sanibel's operations was invaluable for the class, offering a deeper understanding of the city's past initiatives and future plans.
February 11th marked Business & Community Prosperity Day at Tween Waters Resort and Spa, made possible by the generous sponsorship of Tony Lapi. The session explored the economic landscape of the Islands, with industry leaders offering perspectives on sustaining a prosperous, community-focused business environment. Melissa Halliburton, Brian Rist, and Audrey Stewart served as the liaisons for this session, helping facilitate discussions and providing valuable insights.
"This session provided a deeper understanding of the economic landscape of the Islands and the importance of fostering a strong, sustainable community," Arielle Cohen Leadership Class of 2025 member.
The Leadership Class had the opportunity to hear from key leaders throughout Lee County, gaining valuable insights into the economic status of the Islands and learning from industry experts.
Upcoming Sessions & Community Impact
The program continues with the first of two Environment Days on February 25th, hosted by the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF). Participants will tour the Island Water Association, visit the SCCF Marine Lab, and engage in beach restoration and resiliency at Dixie Beach with Coastal Watch. Sanibel Captiva Community Bank is the proud sponsor of this year’s Environment Days. "Investing in future leaders who are passionate about environmental stewardship is essential for the Islands' long-term sustainability," said Kyle DeCicco, Sanibel Captiva Community Bank President.
Upcoming sessions include Community Resources Day (March 11), Water Quality Day (April 8th), and Arts & Culture Day (March 27), all leading up to the program’s closing dinner sponsored by the Bank of the Islands April 29th.
CFI Executive Director Dolly Farrell emphasized the program’s impact: “Our goal is to connect passionate individuals with opportunities to lead, whether by serving on nonprofit boards or taking on other influential community roles.” Since its inception in 2021, 24 individuals have completed the program, with more than half now serving in leadership positions across local nonprofits and civic groups.
The class will complete six immersion days covering key community topics, culminating in a celebratory graduation reception on April 29th.
"The need for strong, committed leaders has never been greater," said CFI Board Chair Lisa Riordan. "Hurricane Ian reinforced the importance of stepping up, and this program is a vital pipeline for developing the next generation of leaders who will shape our Islands’ future.”
For more information on the CFI Leadership Program, visit mycfi.org/leadership.
About Charitable Foundation of the Islands
The Charitable Foundation of the Islands (CFI) is dedicated to fostering philanthropy, leadership, and collaboration for a vibrant Sanibel and Captiva community. Rooted in the Francis Bailey Society’s legacy since the 1990s, CFI officially became a 501(c)(3) nonprofit in 2011. Learn more at charitablefoundationoftheislands.org.
