NEISEN O. KASDIN

CO-OFFICE MANAGING PARTNER, AKERMAN, MIAMI

In many ways, Kasdin has helped change the face of South Florida. He led the creation of Miami's downtown master plan as the Downtown Development Authority's vice chair. He helped revitalize South Beach as chair of its Community Development Corporation and during a term as mayor of his native Miami Beach. In his practice as a land-use attorne,y he has helped bring projects in Wynwood, the Design District and other communities to fruition, including a $1.5-billion, 5.5-million-sq.-ft. mixed-use development in the city's Brickell financial district. In community service, he's supported work to safeguard children who have been abused or neglected.

EDUCATION: Northwestern University (BA), University of Florida (JD)

NEXT GEN ADVICE: Decency, honesty and dedication still count.

giving back: The New World Symphony. It is the preeminent post-graduate music fellowship in the world and on the cutting edge of the future of orchestral music, including presentation formats and multimedia. I am proud to have been instrumental in the development of the Frank Gehry-designed New World Center and West 8-designed Soundspace Park in Miami Beach, from my time as mayor when we provided city land to my service as chairman of the board when the New World Center was designed and built.

DAILY RITUALS
“Work hard during the week then enjoy golf and grandchildren on the weekend.”