Elisha González Bonnewitz

VICE PRESIDENT OF GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS AND COMMUNITY RELATIONS, FAIRWINDS Credit union, ORLANDO

Fairwinds Credit Union has been in operation in one form or another for 75 years. It’s consistently named a top employer of choice, including by American Banker and Credit Union Times. It builds financial literacy in the region through its Fairwinds Foundation, which Bonnewitz leads as executive director. She is chair of the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Metro Orlando and a board member of the Florida Chamber Foundation, Heart of Florida United Way and Junior Achievement of Central Florida.

EDUCATION: University of Central Florida (BS), Nova Southeastern University (MS)

READING/LISTENING: Books include Unreasonable Hospitality, by Will Guidara, The Ride of a Lifetime, by Robert Iger, and The Algorithmic Leader by Mike Walsh. Podcast: The Journal by The Wall Street Journal. Digital Publication: McKinsey & Company.

INSPIRING FLORIDIAN: Bob Graham. As a former governor and U.S. senator, Graham dedicated his career to public service and advancing Florida’s interests.

MOTIVATIONAL MANTRA: ‘Innovate, adapt, and lead.’ I prioritize innovation to stay ahead in a dynamic business landscape, constantly adapting to change. Through decisive leadership, I guide my team towards growth and excellence, fostering a culture of creativity and resilience.