Stacey Corley and Jennifer Vigne. Photography by Rod Millington.
See gallery from National Philanthropy Day.
The National Philanthropy Day Luncheon brought out more than 400 of the Suncoast's philanthropic leaders to the Michael's On East ballroom.
Attending the event - hosted by the Association of Fundraising Professionals - were Amy Sankes, Heidi Brown, Janet Ginn, Pete Lefferts, Nikki Taylor, Alex Quarles, Ann Logan, Lori Sims, Ellen Berman, Larry Thompson, Kurt Stringfellow Chris Pfahler, Debbie Dannheisser, Lois Watson, Debra Flynt-Garrett, Karen Bogues, Andrea Stephens, Sam Shapiro, Kim Noyes, Stephanie Grosskreutz, Peggy Olsen, Christine Meeker-Lange, Renee Eppard, John LaCivita, Nathalie and Nigel Mould, Susan Gilmore, Eva Slane, Flora Major, Scott Anderson, Flori Roberts, Linda Gould and Betty Schoenbaum.
Co-chairs Stacey Corley of Ringling College of Art and Design and Jennifer Vigne of Mote Marine, welcomed guests to the event and introduced AFP Chapter President Donna Dunio, who called the a Gulf Coast "an inspiring community," adding, "You have shared your time, talent and treasure, asking for nothing in return except to make the community a better place."
Roxie Jerde, CEO of the Community Foundation for Sarasota County, then spoke about the importance of this event, saying it gives us the opportunity "to shine a bright light on those who enrich our community through philanthropy."
Following lunch, emcee Bob Carter got down to the business of the day: presenting this year's National Philanthropy Day awards.
Outstanding Corporate Partner was awarded to Willis Smith Construction, with president David Sessions accepting the award. His company has partnered with numerous area non-profits including Mote Marine, Tidewell Hospice and Ringling College of Art and Design.
Outstanding Fundraising Volunteer was Wendy Surkis - the driving force behind the fundraising for the Sarasota Museum of Art. "I never conceived of receiving an award for something that came so naturally to me," she said. Calling the event the "Sarasota fundraising Oscars," she presented every guest with a beautiful flower as they left the ballroom.
Outstanding Individual Philanthropist was Joan Armour Mendell, who has made significant contributions to a variety of organizations, notably Asolo Repertory Theatre. "My award has been the pleasure of being in a position to give back to the community," she said.
And finally, Outstanding Foundation/Civic Organization Partner went to The Siemer Family Foundation. Though she was out of town (serving on a panel on Women and Philanthropy), in a video presentation, Barbara Siemer summed things up when she said, "You have to give back or you're taking up space and air that you don't really deserve."
