WENDY WALKER

FORMER EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, LEADERSHIP FLORIDA, TALLAHASSEE

Created in 1982 by the Florida Chamber of Commerce, Leadership Florida is a bright spot in maintaining a semblance of unity and understanding in a state of self-interested regions. Walker was instrumental in the success of the program, having led it for 28 years before retiring in 2017. She led the creation of a local government leadership program for the League of Mayors. She created Connect Florida for leaders ages 21-39 and a weekend Leadership Florida experience called the Executive Leadership program for CEOs who are new to Florida or their CEO roles. “Leadership Florida is one of the few, if not the only, entities that bring together people from different heritages, beliefs and builds bridges of trust,” she’s said.