0226 SFBW Magazine

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RETHINKING THE OFFSITE | WHAT TODAY’S CORPORATE RETREATS LOOK LIKE AT THE APEX | INSIDE THE 2025 APOGEE AWARDS

New for Outdoor Season

It’s that time of year when the temps are dropping and we’re all heading outside.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

THE FRONT

20 EDITOR’S LETTER

23 NEWS IN BRIEF

Short takes — because time is money.

30 WHY I BUILT IT

Alexandra Milton explains how Rose Café became a business rooted in wellness, not trends.

36 HEALTH LEADERSHIP

Silvia Quintana, CEO of Broward Behavioral Health Coalition, on the value of mental health at work.

THE

MIDDLE

40 COVER STORY

Brad Tuckman on The Fort and the business of bringing people together.

46 ON THE JOBSITE

Inside DPR

Construction’s peoplefirst approach to building.

48 OFFSITES WITH INTENT

Why companies are designing retreats that align with culture, goals, and team dynamics.

58 PRENUPS THAT PROTECT

How smart legal strategies safeguard companies, families, and legacies.

THE BACK

62 BUILDING CONNECTIONS

ON THE COVER

Brad Tuckman, founder of The Fort, on turning play into a modern business platform.

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With local decision-makers, tailored solutions, and a community-first mindset, we’re here to help you grow. Because when local businesses succeed, our community thrives.

That’s why we built Locality Bank: To empower local businesses to maximize their potential.

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The ROI of Wellness

healthy business isn’t defined solely by revenue or growth curves. It’s reflected in how well teams collaborate and how consistently leaders show up with focus and perspective. Companies that endure tend to share one trait: a willingness to invest for the long term, in people, culture, and the conditions that support sustained performance.

That idea anchors this issue of South Florida Business & Wealth, where corporate wellness is framed not as a trend or a perk, but as a strategic advantage. We explore how leaders are rethinking workplace culture and using shared experiences to restore focus, strengthen connection, and support be er decision-making.

That long-view mindset has guided our cover subject, Brad Tuckman, cofounder of The Fort. An entrepreneur known for turning vision into reality, Tuckman has created and sold multiple businesses by prioritizing longevity over short-term wins. The Fort reflects that philosophy in practice, built as a space that invests in people through movement and connection. That same commitment to building for the future extends beyond The Fort. The Tuckmans’ nearly 10,000-square-foot cantilevered home along the New River, designed with architect Max Strang, is a familiar sight on Water Taxi routes. Brad and his wife, Shona, an independent film director, share the home with their two children. He also led the effort to raise and reinforce the seawall along the peninsula, strengthening the area’s long-term resilience. Throughout this issue, we examine how investing in people today helps build businesses that endure tomorrow. Because the strongest returns are rarely immediate, but they last.

Jessica Graves

Editor-in-Chief, South Florida Business and Wealth

The Arcadian: Building Forward on Sistrunk

HOW THE MIXED-USE DEVELOPMENT AIMS TO RESET THE TRAJECTORY OF A HISTORIC CORRIDOR.

The Arcadian was not built to chase a trend. It was built to answer a gap.

For decades, Fort Lauderdale’s historic Sistrunk District has sat at the intersection of promise and neglect, rich in cultural legacy yet underserved by long-term investment that benefits the people who live and work there. The Arcadianrepresents a deliberate response to that imbalance—one rooted in a ainable housing, small-business opportunity, and economic durability.

The project is led by Fuse Group, founded by Eyal Peretz, in partnership with KREA Developments. Together, the firms set out to create a development that acknowledges Sistrunk’s past while positioning it for sustainable growth tied to Fort Lauderdale’s westward expansion.

At its core, The Arcadian is designed for working professionals and families who are often priced out of new construction. The 151-unit development is designated for residents earning 100 to 120 percent of area median income, addressing a critical housing segment frequently overlooked in urban development conversations. The project is supported by a $10 million investment from the Fort Lauderdale Community Redevelopment Agency, reinforcing the city’s commitment to a ainable housing as an economic strategy—not a concession. Beyond housing, The Arcadian includes 15,000 square feet of ground-floor commercial space intended to a ract neighborhood-serving businesses and local entrepreneurs, creating daily foot traffic, employment opportunities, and longterm commercial stability.

This is not redevelopment as displacement. It is redevelopment as infrastructure—designed to benefit residents, strengthen small business, and anchor a historic district with something it has long deserved: intentional, future-facing investment that stays.

A Century of Staying Power

AS FLORIDA’S REAL ESTATE MARKET EVOLVED THROUGH BOOMS, BUSTS, AND REINVENTION, THE KEYES COMPANY DID THE SAME—BY DESIGN.

As Florida enters another era of growth, The Keyes Company is marking a milestone few firms reach: 100 years of continuous operation. Founded in February 1926, the state’s largest independent real estate brokerage has built its longevity not on nostalgia, but on disciplined adaptation—an approach that has carried it through nearly every economic and market shift Florida has faced.

Established by Kenneth Keyes during Florida’s first major real estate boom, the company has navigated the Great Depression, World War II, postwar expansion, demographic shifts, and the rise of a digital, data-driven housing market. At each inflection point, leadership returned to a central question: what do buyers and sellers need now?

“Keyes didn’t survive by standing still,” says Christina Pappas, president of The Keyes Company. “Every generation chose to evolve.”

That philosophy now defines a fully integrated organization with a statewide footprint and a broad family of services spanning residential, commercial, property management, title, mortgage, and insurance. Technology and data have become essential tools, but leadership remains focused on trust, local expertise, and long-term relationships—constants in an industry shaped by cycles.

As the company enters its second century, priorities remain forward-looking: serving Florida’s increasingly diverse communities, expanding services in response to shifting consumer expectations, and equipping agents to navigate a more sophisticated market. One hundred years on, adaptability remains The Keyes Company’s most enduring advantage.

WHY I BUILT IT

Inside the Intentional Rise of Rose Café

More than a restaurant, Rose is a study in nourishment, leadership, and purpose-driven growth.

■ BY JESSICA GRAVES

WHEN THE WORLD

went quiet, she listened.

In the immediate aftermath of the pandemic, as businesses rushed to reopen and recalibrate, Alexandra Milton, the founder of Rose Café, chose a different starting point: reflection. “The pandemic forced all of us to slow down and reevaluate what truly nourishes us, physically, emotionally, and spiritually,” she says. “I wanted to create a space that felt like a soft landing after a turbulent time.”

That instinct became Rose Café. Not as a reaction to market conditions, but as a deliberate business decision rooted in values. From the beginning, the goal was not scale for scale’s

sake, but building a brand anchored in consistency, care, and long-term relevance. “It was born from a desire to rebuild community through comfort and intention,” she explains.

Years of international exposure and philanthropic work informed her approach to hospitality and sourcing. “Food is one of the most universal expressions of care,” she says. “That perspective shaped how I think about responsibility, quality, and impact in a business context.”

Those principles are embedded throughout Rose: globally influenced menus, disciplined ingredient standards, and a

wellness-driven model that is operational rather than performative. Wellness, here, is treated as infrastructure.

As the café gained traction, expansion followed customer behavior. Guests stayed longer. They asked for dinner service, a bar program, and a more robust evening experience. “Our guests were asking for more,” she says. “Expanding into dinner and cocktails felt like a natural next step.”

The shift from café to all-day restaurant introduced new operational complexity. “Scaling while preserving the guest experience is one of the hardest parts of hospitality,” she notes. Staffing, systems, and menus expanded, but decision-making remained tightly focused on protecting brand consistency and service quality.

That balance defines daily operations. Guests are recognized, preferences are documented, and dietary needs are handled with fluency and care. “We train our team to connect, not just serve,” she explains. “Hospitality has to feel intentional at every touchpoint.”

The menu reflects that same discipline. Free of refined oils and processed sugars, it prioritizes clean ingredients without sacrificing flavor. “Food should energize, not inflame,” she says. Ingredient integrity is treated as a business standard, not a marketing message.

The new dinner menu marks a strategic evolution. Still grounded in wellness, it introduces greater technique, broader global influence, and a more elevated evening identity. “It reflects our evolution from a café into a culinary destination,” she says.

Design was treated as a brand asset, not an aesthetic afterthought. Working with designer Heather Ashton, the space blends European warmth with Miami’s Art Deco influence to create an environment that

feels elevated but accessible. “Every detail supports that balance,” she notes.

Storytelling, she believes, is critical to brand cohesion. “A restaurant is a narrative,” she says. “When design, menu, and service align, the experience becomes intuitive.”

Operational leadership is shared with business partner Sebastian Garaviz, whose focus on systems and execution complements her vision and creative direction. “It’s structure and instinct,” she says. “That balance is essential.”

Purpose extends beyond the dining room. Rose partners with Agape Foundation, a Florida-based nonprofit focused on food access and community garden initiatives, with select produce sourced from the Agape Garden. The relationship reinforces Rose’s commitment to responsible sourcing and local impact, grounded in action rather than ideology. Looking ahead, Milton views wellness-driven dining not as a fleeting trend, but as a durable shift in how hospitality operates. Growth opportunities are under consideration, but always through the lens of discipline and brand integrity. “Expansion only works if the values scale with it,” she says.

rosecafeandrestaurant.com

THE STANDARD OF ELEGANCE ON FORT LAUDERDALE BEACH

AC Hotel Fort Lauderdale Beach is an oasis in the heart of one of the world’s most celebrated destinations: tranquil, indulgent and endlessly sophisticated. You’ll feel like we’re here just for you. Because we are.

OUT OF OFFICE, OUT OF THE BOX

From highadrenaline adventures to radical wellness resets, today’s retreats are anything but ordinary.

■ BY JESSICA GRAVES

For years, corporate retreats were easy to dismiss. Too indulgent. Too expensive. Too reminiscent of trust falls, group dinners no one remembered, and awkward icebreakers everyone pretended to enjoy. Then came the pandemic, the reshuffling of work, and a workforce that now expects more than compensation. They expect meaning, connection, and clarity.

In response, the modern retreat has undergone a quiet but decisive evolution. Today’s retreats are shorter, sharper, and far more intentional. And increasingly, they are anything but conventional. What once centered on conference rooms and cocktail hours now stretches into unexpected territory—race tracks, remote coastlines, culinary labs, even tech-free wilderness se ings. The common thread is not extravagance. It is purpose.

From perk to performance strategy

The most effective retreats begin with a clearly defined objective. Alignment after

“

PERHAPS MOST IMPORTANTLY,

RETREATS CREATE SPACE—SPACE FOR HONEST CONVERSATION, STRATEGIC THINKING,

AND REFLECTION THAT RARELY HAPPENS INSIDE DAILY OPERATIONS OR OVER VIDEO CALLS.

a merger. A leadership reset following rapid growth. Cultural recalibration in a hybrid environment. When leaders articulate the “why” before choosing the venue, the payoff becomes tangible.

Executives report clearer strategic priorities and faster decision-making within weeks of returning. Employees describe feeling reconnected—not only to colleagues, but to

the company’s direction. In a talent market where disengagement quietly erodes performance, that reconnection ma ers.

The four core retreat models—plus a new twist

At their foundation, retreats still fall into four primary categories: strategy, culture, performance, and wellness. What has changed is how boldly companies are executing them. Strategy retreats remain leadershipdriven and outcome-focused, but many are now designed around immersive experiences rather than boardroom marathons. Executive teams may spend mornings in facilitated planning sessions and afternoons navigating competitive challenges that mirror decisionmaking under pressure.

Culture retreats are moving far beyond icebreakers. Some organizations are staging immersive, theme-driven experiences—think historical estates, private island takeovers, or tightly curated journeys that encourage vulnerability, trust, and shared narrative. The goal is not entertainment. It is emotional buy-in. Performance and skills retreats are increasingly experiential. Leadership development paired with hands-on challenges. Innovation labs integrated into creative se ings. Culinary or design-based workshops that reward collaboration and problem-solving rather than hierarchy.

Wellness retreats, once dismissed as soft, have taken on new urgency. Burnout is expensive, and companies are responding with structured resets that emphasize mental resilience, physical recovery, and sustainable performance. Breathwork before strategy sessions. Guided hikes instead of happy hours. Recovery is no longer the opposite of productivity—it is a prerequisite.

The rise of the unconventional

What truly distinguishes today’s retreat landscape is a willingness to break form entirely.

High-adrenaline retreats are placing teams behind the wheel— motorsport simulations, off-road challenges, or competitive endurance activities designed to reinforce trust and decisiveness. Nautical retreats are taking teams off land altogether, using sailing or expedition-style travel to strip away hierarchy and routine.

Others are embracing radical simplicity. Tech-free wilderness retreats, volunteer-based experiences tied directly to corporate values, or regional micro-retreats that last just one or two days but disrupt pa erns enough to spark meaningful conversation.

These formats are not chosen for novelty alone. They work because they force perspective. When leaders and teams step outside familiar environments, conversations shift. Titles fade. Assumptions get challenged.

What it really costs—and what it replaces

Costs vary widely, from modest regional offsites to high-touch executive experiences that reach five figures per a endee. The smarter question is not what retreats cost, but what they replace.

A well-designed retreat can offset months of inefficiency, prevent costly turnover, and eliminate the drag of misalignment that rarely shows up on a balance sheet—but always shows up in results. Compared to the cost of replacing senior talent or repairing a fractured culture, retreats increasingly look like preventative maintenance.

Where the real ROI shows up

The impact of a retreat rarely announces itself immediately. It appears in clearer priorities and leadership teams that move with shared confidence rather than cautious consensus.

Retreats create space—space for honest conversation, strategic thinking, and reflection that rarely happens inside daily operations or over video calls. In today’s business environment, ge ing away is no longer about indulgence. It is about intention. And when companies choose the right format at the right moment, they do not just return refreshed. They return aligned, focused, and ready to move forward— together.

QUIZ

What Kind of Corporate Retreat Does Your Company Actually Need? Answer each question by choosing the option that best reflects your organization right now.

(There are no trick answers. Patterns matter more than perfection.)

1. What is the primary reason leadership is even discussing a retreat?

A. We need to align around strategy or priorities

B. Morale and engagement are slipping

C. Teams aren’t collaborating effectively

D. We want to develop leadership or skills

E. We’re not sure—something feels off

2. How would you describe decisionmaking at the executive level?

A. Clear, fast, and aligned

B. Thoughtful but slow

C. Fragmented across departments

D. Reactive rather than proactive

E. Largely confined to a few voices

3. What best describes your company culture today?

A. Strong and clearly defined

B. Functional but strained

C. Disconnected or inconsistent

D. Evolving faster than leadership can guide

E. Hard to articulate

4. How often does your leadership team spend meaningful, uninterrupted time together?

A. Regularly and by design

B. Occasionally

C. Rarely

D. Almost never

E. Only in crisis mode

How to Interpret Your Answers

Mostly A responses:

5. What is your biggest talent concern right now?

A. Retention of top performers

B. Burnout and workload sustainability

C. Leadership pipeline development

D. Skill gaps affecting performance

E. Maintaining engagement in a hybrid or remote environment

6. Which outcome would matter most 90 days after a retreat?

A. Clear strategic direction

B. Higher engagement and energy

C. Better collaboration across teams

D. Stronger leadership capabilities

E. Fewer internal friction points

7. How measurable do you want the retreat’s outcomes to be?

A. Highly measurable with defined deliverables

B. Somewhat measurable

C. Qualitative but observable

D. Cultural, long-term impact

E. We haven’t defined that yet

8. What level of investment feels appropriate right now?

A. Premium, leadership-focused

B. Moderate, company-wide

C. Targeted to specific teams

D. Phased or pilot approach

E. Minimal until clarity improves

A Strategy or Executive Retreat will deliver the highest ROI. Focus on alignment, decision-making, and long-term direction.

Mostly B or C responses:

A Culture or Wellness-oriented Retreat is appropriate. Address engagement, trust, and sustainability before performance erodes.

Mostly D responses:

A Performance or Leadership Development Retreat is the right move. Prioritize skill-building with clear metrics.

Mostly E responses:

Pause before planning. Clarify objectives first. A retreat without intention rarely produces meaningful results.

FROM PIXELS TO PICKLEBALL

or much of his career, Brad Tuckman built businesses that lived in the cloud. Digital production. Creative systems. Global teams that could be spun up, aligned, and deployed across continents with speed and precision. Today, his most ambitious venture is unapologetically physical: The Fort, a sprawling pickleball, hospitality, and community destination in Fort Lauderdale that is fast becoming a case study in second acts done right. The pivot was neither impulsive nor nostalgic. It was earned.

“I had to remind myself where I came from,” Tuckman says, reflecting on the shift from an asset-light creative empire to a capital-intensive destination business. “In the later years of my previous business, I was used to having a global team of experts I could pull into a room, align on strategy, and trust that execution would follow quickly. When I started The Fort, that muscle memory didn’t apply.”

That dissonance was deliberate. After selling CreativeDrive to Accenture following more than two decades of building digital production companies, Tuckman found himself at a rare crossroads. The financial outcome was strong. The identity shift was harder.

“In many ways, it felt like going back 30 years to the early days, when everything was a grind and progress took time,” he says. “What I’ve come to appreciate again is that the journey is often more meaningful than the destination.”

A Builder’s DNA

Tuckman’s entrepreneurial instincts were formed early, long before pickleball entered the picture. A graduate of Rochester Institute of Technology with a background in photographic illustration, he built early businesses that evolved alongside digital imaging and internet technologies, operating under names such as Studio FX and later OneKreate. Those ventures combined creative services with a meaningful technology offering that grounded the business and propelled its growth, allowing it to adapt as the industry changed and remain resilient over time. “My career didn’t start with some grand plan,” he shares. “I said yes to opportunities, showed up early, and tried to outwork everyone around me.”

That approach eventually culminated in CreativeDrive, a global creative services platform that scaled across

ABOVE: Brad Tuckman

markets and disciplines. Along the way, Tuckman learned how to build systems that could grow without breaking, how culture travels faster than org charts, and how small inefficiencies multiply at scale.

“I learned quickly that if you treat people well and deliver results, doors open—even if you don’t have everything figured out yet,” he says.

Those lessons now underpin The Fort, even as the industry could not be more different.

“The biggest adjustment has been learning to let the business breathe,” he says. “I can see very clearly where The Fort needs to go, but it’s now a living, breathing entity, really several businesses under one roof.”

Pickleball is the entry point, not the endgame. The Fort blends sport, hospitality, wellness, retail, and events within a single

campus, anchored by a public-private partnership with the City of Fort Lauderdale. It also serves as the headquarters and training facility for the Association of Pickleball Players, giving it national relevance from day one.

Calculated Risk, Grounded Vision

Like most projects of scale, The Fort was never risk-free. The greatest unknown was timing.

“The biggest perceived risk when we started the process over five years ago was timing,” Tuckman says. “Were we too early?”

What mitigated that risk was proximity without emotional bias. Tuckman was close enough to pickleball to recognize its momentum, but far enough to see its limitations as a standalone business.

“Pickleball alone wouldn’t support the scale we envisioned,” he explains. “We knew we had to layer in additional services, amenities, programming, and private and corporate events to truly de-risk the model.”

That discipline mirrors how he built his creative businesses: study the data, walk the landscape, learn from adjacent categories, and hire people who fill your blind spots. The Fort’s ownership group spans data, operations, and large-scale food and beverage, a deliberate counterbalance to any single-founder tunnel vision.

“Culture ma ers.

Kindness ma ers. Listening ma ers,” Tuckman says. “If you lose the trust of your customers or members, you lose even faster.”

Learning in Public

Not every assumption held. One early miscalculation was underestimating how much behavioral change the model required.

“Many players were coming from a public park mindset into a more structured, country-clubstyle environment,” he says. “At the core, they still wanted the same thing: to play with friends, meet new people, and have fun, just in a more organized and predictable way.”

That organization, particularly around skill ratings and court flow, proved more complex at scale than anticipated. Communication quickly emerged as an operational challenge.

“We can send emails, post signs, push notifications, and send texts,” Tuckman says. “But we can’t force people to read them.”

Rather than resist, the team adapted. Systems were simplified. Education improved. The model continues to evolve in real time, guided by data and member behavior rather than ego. It is a reminder, Tuckman notes, that no amount of vision replaces daily execution.

Vision Versus Reality

Running The Fort means managing parallel

businesses with different rhythms and demands. Teaching pros, chefs, facilities teams, event managers, and retail staff all operate under one roof, but not with one playbook.

“The vision is the North Star,” Tuckman says. “Operations are the reality you manage every day.”

Financial discipline, right-sizing teams, and accepting early inefficiencies are part of the process. “You have to accept that you’ll make mistakes, waste some money, and learn quickly,” he says. “The goal is to grow into the vision, not chase perfection before you’re ready.”

That realism is also why The Fort has resonated with corporate users. Companies are increasingly using the space for employee perks, wellness programs, leadership retreats, social leagues, and B2B networking. In a business climate where culture and retention matter as much as compensation, The Fort functions as a third place, neither office nor home, where teams connect through shared experience.

“I wasn’t interested in just another office space,” Tuckman says. “I wanted to build an environment where people enjoyed being there and felt respected.”

A Second Act, Fully Chosen

THE GOAL IS TO GROW INTO THE VISION, NOT CHASE PERFECTION BEFORE YOU’RE READY.”

For founders contemplating life after an exit, Tuckman is candid. Experience changes ambition. It also clarifies motivation.

“I’m happiest when I’m building something that’s truly mine,” he says. “That realization was just as valuable as anything financial.”

Family has been a grounding force throughout that journey, offering perspective as the pace and stakes changed. His Fort Lauderdale home on Mola Avenue, designed with architect Max Strang, reflects the same problem-solving mindset that defines his business life. The now-iconic cantilevered waterfront home was shaped by practical constraints, flooding concerns, privacy, and a willingness to invest in doing things the right way rather than the easy way.

“Building something worthwhile is never linear,” Tuckman says. “Each act teaches you something new. The key is staying open to the learning and honest with yourself about why you’re doing it in the first place.”

Celebrating Two Decades of Growth: Banesco USA Marks 20 Years of Banking with Purpose

As Banesco USA celebrates its 20th anniversary, the Miamibased bank reflects on two decades of serving as a trusted financial partner for businesses and communities across the region. Over the past five years, the Bank has more than doubled its size, growing from $2 billion in assets in 2020 to surpassing $5 billion in total assets by 2025, an achievement that is driven by robust deposit growth, expanded loan portfolios across commercial, residential, and small business segments, and strategic investments.

Through years of banking industry consolidation, Banesco has stood out for its personalized service and relationship-driven approach, offering a stability that has earned deep trust among its clients. “Our success is built on longstanding relationships— with our clients, our communities, and our team,” said Calixto “Cali” Garcia-Vélez, President and CEO of Banesco USA. “We take pride in being a relationship-driven bank where decisions are made locally by talented professionals who understand our markets and our clients’ needs. This local insight, combined with the scale and resources of a growing institution, allows us to help our clients thrive in an ever-changing economy.”

Strengthening Offerings and Serving More Clients

The end of 2025 marked one of the bank’s most significant milestones yet. Banesco executed a decisive growth strategy through the acquisition of a prominent national SBA lending business and an approximate $95 million loan portfolio. Beyond the asset purchase, Banesco secured the servicing rights for these loans and established a strategic partnership to manage the SBA portfolio retained by the seller. This positions Banesco as a dominant operational leader in the sector and a national player in SBA lending and introduces its brand to the Greater Tampa Bay region.

The expansion of Banesco’s SBA operations complements ongoing investments across key business lines, including Commercial & Industrial (C&I), Business and Professional (B&P), International, Residential and Commercial Real Estate (CRE). These strategic investments underscore Banesco’s focus on delivering relationship-based banking solutions tailored to help clients succeed.

At the same time, Banesco continues to invest in technology to enhance the customer experience and improve operational efficiencies across digital banking, payment systems, and treasury management.

Geographic Expansion

As South Florida continues to experience growth momentum, with businesses relocating, populations expanding, and economic opportunities surging, Banesco is strategically positioned to address the evolving needs of its clients through targeted expansions, further cementing Banesco’s commitment to personalized service and relationship banking approach.

In 2025, Banesco opened a new banking center in Hialeah that enhances client experience through modern amenities, expanded services, and greater convenience. The bank also strengthened its Broward County footprint with a new Loan and Deposit Production Office in Plantation.

Expanding its footprint beyond South Florida, Banesco established a strategic operational center in St. Petersburg in late 2025. This dedicated hub for SBA business serves as a cornerstone for the bank’s commercial and SBA lending expansion. The move fuels Banesco’s momentum heading into 2026, positioning the institution to cultivate deep-rooted relationships with entrepreneurs throughout Tampa Bay, across Florida, and on a national scale.

Investing in Community Impact

Banesco’s success is deeply rooted in its commitment to the people and neighborhoods it serves. To mark its 20th anniversary, the Bank is expanding its community-focused initiatives with a series of dedicated efforts designed to empower local businesses

and residents. This milestone year serves as a reflection of Banesco’s core belief: that a bank’s true value is measured by the progress and prosperity it helps create within its community.

Banesco partners with over 20 nonprofits across South Florida supporting women, children, minorities, small businesses, and the homeless, advancing initiatives in affordable housing, education, small business, and financial literacy. Team members also serve on 18 community boards and volunteer in programs focused on empowerment, mentorship, and family support.

Looking Ahead

As Banesco embarks on its next chapter, its focus remains clear: People first.

“Banesco’s 20-year journey is defined by trust, commitment, and service,” said Garcia-Vélez. “We look forward to the next chapter— empowering businesses, strengthening communities, and creating lasting value for our stakeholders.”

THE BUSINESS OF CARE

The CEO of Broward Behavioral Health Coalition on growth, governance, and why mental health is a strategic imperative.

■ BY

JESSICA GRAVES

n a region defined by rapid growth, cultural diversity, and widening social needs, few leadership roles are as quietly consequential as Silvia M. Quintana’s. As Chief Executive Officer of the Broward Behavioral Health Coalition, Quintana oversees the development, implementation, and management of Broward County’s Substance Abuse and Mental Health System of Care. It is a role that requires fluency in policy, compassion in practice, and discipline in execution, often simultaneously.

A licensed mental health counselor and certified addictions professional, Quintana brings clinical credibility to a job that is fundamentally about systems. Since stepping into the CEO role, she has grown the organization’s budget from $44 million to $118.3 million, expanded access to care through a broad provider network, and secured significant federal and state funding. The numbers ma er, but they are not the point. For Quintana, scale is only meaningful when it translates into access, dignity, and continuity for people navigating behavioral health challenges. Her leadership style is rooted in inclusion and accountability. Inside the organization, Quintana is deliberate about listening. “Our staff is our greatest asset,” she says, a refrain she reinforces not as rhetoric but as practice. Flexible schedules, professional development, and visible recognition are part of the Coalition’s culture, not perks layered on after the fact. Staff contributions are acknowledged publicly, in meetings and in community se ings, signaling that wellness starts with being seen and valued.

That philosophy extends beyond the office walls. Under

Quintana’s leadership, the Coalition launched Broward County’s first Suicide Prevention Coalition in collaboration with United Way of Broward County, expanded multilingual youth mental health resources, and partnered with Memorial Healthcare System to establish the county’s first detoxification program for women with substance use disorders, including pregnant women. These initiatives are operationally complex and politically sensitive, yet Quintana has been recognized statewide for introducing best practices that address the needs of vulnerable populations, particularly children with complex behavioral challenges.

Cultural responsiveness has been a defining throughline of her tenure. Quintana championed the Spanish translation of the Community Health Worker Certification exam and supported the launch of Broward’s first Hispanic-focused mental health and substance abuse prevention program. In a county where language and cultural barriers can determine whether someone ever enters the system of care, these efforts are not symbolic. They are structural.

For CEOs watching rising burnout among working professionals, Quintana’s vantage point is instructive. She sees the pressures clearly: the cost of living, long

both children and aging parents. “Everyone is feeling the stress of life,” she notes. Her advice is not prescriptive but practical. Simplify where possible. Distinguish between what is truly necessary and what is merely habitual. Make space for presence, whether with family or with oneself.

From an organizational standpoint, she argues that supporting employee mental health does not require sprawling programs

“AN

ENGAGED TEAM THAT FEELS SUPPORTED IS A MORE PRODUCTIVE TEAM”

or unsustainable budgets. What it does require is intention. Creating channels for employee input. Building opportunities for connection. Allowing flexibility within operational realities. Recognizing effort, not just outcomes. Many supports already exist through community partnerships and Employee Assistance Programs, she points out. Leaders simply need to be willing to look beyond their own balance sheets.

Quintana is equally clear about a misconception she encounters often:

work hours, and the growing weight carried by the sandwich generation, professionals caring for

that wellness is a cost center. “An engaged team that feels supported is a more productive team,” she

says. Destigmatizing mental illness and investing in protective factors improves not only morale but performance. For boards and investors focused on outcomes, the case is straightforward. Organizations that care for their people deliver be er goods, be er services, and more sustainable results.

Her own leadership stamina is maintained through discipline and balance. Quintana schedules time off throughout the year, walks daily as a form of meditation and prayer, and stays active through dance and sports. Time with her grandchildren and family anchors her. These routines are not indulgences. They are what allow her to lead one of the county’s most complex behavioral health networks with clarity and steadiness.

Recognition has followed. Quintana has received the EPIC Mental Health Award, multiple ECCO federal awards, the Health Foundation of South Florida’s Inspiring Women of Healthcare Award, SFBW’s Apogee Award, Hispanic Women of Distinction honors, and the 211 Broward CEO of the Year title. She serves on boards including the Broward County Homeless Continuum of Care and the National Art Exhibitions of the Mentally Ill, and she has acted as principal investigator on several federal SAMHSA grants. She has also taught as an adjunct faculty member at the University of Miami, reinforcing her commitment to developing the next generation of leaders.

Yet for all the accolades, Quintana remains focused on responsibility. “We all share a responsibility to strengthen our communities,” she says. Not seasonally. Not performatively. But through consistent service, connection, and care. In a business climate increasingly a uned to the human cost of growth, her leadership offers a compelling reminder: wellness is not separate from performance. It is foundational to it.

DPR CONSTRUCTION SOUTH FLORIDA

Redefining leadership on the jobsite

■ BY JOSEPH A. MANN JR.

In America’s male-dominated construction industry, women at the South Florida division of DPR Construction, a general contractor and construction management firm with a worldwide scope, play an essential role in management.

“The company absolutely encourages women to join and step confidently into leadership roles,” said Adriana Aponte, a Healthcare Project Executive at DPR Construction’s South Florida Business Unit, one of several women managers at the firm.

“You see women running projects, stepping into technical roles and contributing at every level without feeling they need to adjust their personalities to ‘fit’ into the construction industry,” said Aponte, who has worked at DPR for seven years and earned a BS degree in Construction Management at Florida International University (FIU).

“It is refreshing to work in a place where respect for the individual and diversity aren’t just buzzwords. They are the norm. It’s a big part of what makes our team stronger and our projects be er,” she said.

But it wasn’t always easy. “It has definitely been a challenging journey, learning to lead as a woman in a male-driven industry,” Aponte said. “Early in my career, there were moments when being the only woman in the room felt like an extra

Women at Work: Valerie Diaz-Harbich, Superintendent, Adriana Aponte, Project Executive, Aishwarya Shinde, Project Engineer

hurdle I had to clear. I had to build credibility in spaces where some people assumed I was in the wrong place before I even introduced myself. But over time, I learned that those initial assumptions didn’t define the outcome. The moment people see that you are willing to work, that you are fair and respectful, and that you are willing to roll up your sleeves alongside them, the tone changes.”

DPR: A major player in South Florida construction

Based in Fort Lauderdale, DPR’s South Florida division has 132 employees and carries out $200 million a year in complex and environmentally responsible construction projects throughout MiamiDade, Broward, and Palm Beach counties. The company does new construction, renovations,

and expansions on projects in advanced technology, the commercial sector, higher education, and life sciences. Moreover, DPR has developed specialized expertise in the region’s rapidly expanding healthcare sector.

The unit’s parent is Californiabased DPR Construction, with more than 11,000 employees globally and 2024 revenues reported at $9.4 billion, according to Construction Dive, a trade publication.

Established in 1990, the three founders, Doug Woods, Peter Nosler, and Ron Davidowski, used the first le ers of their first names to denominate the company.

Women managers: “The company leads by example” Valerie Diaz-Harbich, who received her degree in Civil Engineering, is another woman

Adrian Barrios, Business Unit Leader

who has a ained a leadership post at DPR as a Project Superintendent.

“As a Project Superintendent, you are in charge of everything in the field: safety, quality, logistics, schedule, morale, organization, inspections, and the most challenging part … the people,” said Diaz-Harbich, who worked as a summer intern at DPR in Texas before joining the company full time in 2017.

While the U.S. construction sector has been opening up to some women professionals, they still face an uphill ba le. “If you think of construction as a whole, women managers are not common,” Diaz-Harbich said. “At DPR, they are common … the company leads by example.”

Her last two Project Executives were women, she noted, and her Operations Leader is a woman. “More than half of the Business Unit leadership team are women. It just happened because these women kick ass at what they do, and it only encourages more women to do the same. You have to be a li le ruthless and confident to work in construction as a woman.”

And diversity is a constant at DPR South Florida. Diaz-Harbich pointed out that on one of her current project teams, the Project Executive is a woman originally from Venezuela, the Project Manager is an American man, the Project Superintendent is a woman originally from Mexico, the Assistant Superintendent is a British man, the Project Engineer is a woman from India, the Safety Manager is a woman from

Colombia, and the Project Accountant is a woman from Cuba.

“How amazing is that?” she said. “You know how many women can say that in construction?”

Of course, some difficulties crop up when women are supervising men in construction, Diaz-Harbich said. “You can’t take away the first impression of them thinking, ‘What could you possibly know about construction?’”

But she is an engineer who knows every detail of her projects and can drive a forklift, scissor lift, and boom lift, or dig out a trench with a mini excavator. “Eventually, people get to know me and learn to respect me.”

“An important role every day”

Adrian Barrios, the Unit Leader at DPR South Florida, manages Aponte and DiazHarbich, as well as the division’s other 130 employees.

With a BS degree in Building Construction and an MS in Architectural Studies from the University of Florida, Barrios, who joined DPR in 2013, believes DPR’s commitment to women and employee diversity in general makes it a strong and forward-looking enterprise.

“We have numerous women who lead, manage, and play an important role every day at DPR,” he said. “DPR believes that everyone is capable of succeeding in the construction industry through our inclusive environment that respects all individuals, by working against biases and misconceptions. Women at all levels across the organization make DPR truly

great and actively move this company forward every day.”

Enhancing and upgrading South Florida healthcare facilities

Barrios also pointed to another aspect that distinguishes DPR’s work in South Florida: its active role in upgrading the region’s increasingly sophisticated healthcare centers.

Recent projects include the construction of a new medicalsurgical and recovery unit at Broward Health Coral Springs, a new freestanding emergency department for the Memorial Healthcare System in Miramar, and the new proton therapy treatment facility at Baptist Health’s Eugene M. and Christine E. Lynn Cancer Institute at Boca Raton Regional Hospital, all part of the hundreds of millions of dollars in construction work

DPR carries out each year.

DPR distinguishes itself, he added, by developing innovative techniques to advance construction work at hospitals that reduce noise, dust, and other impacts on patients and hospital activities near construction sites.

“We utilize a variety of tools and methods to mitigate impacts to the ongoing operations of active hospitals,” Barrios said. These include dust and vibration monitoring stations, as well as robust hard and soft barriers that separate active hospital areas from construction sites.

“Our teams work diligently to ensure we have protected all aspects of our site so as not to disrupt the hospital. We work closely with hospital administrators, charge nurses, and doctors to perform disruptive activities off hours or between cases to make it more convenient for the facility.”

2025 APOGEE AWARDS

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MEDIA PARTNERS/ ENTERTAINMENT

EXECUTIVE EXCELLENCE IN ACCOUNTING

MIKE BALTER

regional leader for the Southeast at CBIZ

Mike Balter serves as regional leader for the Southeast at CBIZ, a leading professional services firm serving middle-market businesses nationwide. In his role, he provides strategic direction and oversight for client relationships, operations, and growth— fostering success for both clients and professionals across the region.

With nearly 30 years of experience as an auditor and business advisor, Balter specializes in the construction, consumer and industrial products, and service industries. He has guided privately held and private equity–backed companies through mergers, acquisitions, and complex financial transactions on both the buy and sell sides.

A respected voice in his field, he also serves on the Accounting Advisory Board at the University of Florida, helping shape the future of the profession through mentorship and academic collaboration.

2025 APOGEE AWARDS

EXCELLENCE IN LEADERSHIP AVIATION

GEOFFREY JACOBS

Mayor of Pembroke Park & Argentum Airways

Geoffrey Jacobs is an accomplished airline captain, aviation executive, and public servant whose leadership spans both aviation and local government. Beginning his flying career at just 14, he advanced to become a Part 121 system chief pilot, overseeing training, safety, and operations for a commercial airline. He also served as CEO and founder of a charter airline, successfully guiding multiple startups and earning recognition for his results-driven leadership.

In public service, Jacobs has served as city commissioner, police commissioner, and mayor of Pembroke Park, Florida. As mayor, he ended a decades-long contract with the Broward Sheriff’s Office and established a professional, communitybased police department now regarded as a statewide model.

A U.S. Navy veteran and advocate for accountability, Jacobs continues to advance policy through the Florida League of Cities and Florida League of Mayors, championing transparency, fiscal responsibility, and public trust in government.

CEO ENTREPRENEUR AVIATION

ANTHONY MARINELLO

president and owner of Tropic Air Rescue

With more than 35 years of leadership in law enforcement, aviation, and public safety, Anthony Marinello has built a career defined by innovation and service. He is president and owner of Tropic Air Charters, a 30-year U.S. air carrier providing passenger and cargo service between Florida and the Bahamas, and founder and CEO of Tropic Air Rescue, the Bahamas’ only fully certified helicopter rescue membership program.

A New Jersey State Police officer for 28 years, Marinello logged more than 14,000 flight hours in VIP transport, surveillance, and medical evacuations and later launched the state’s first full-time municipal aviation unit with the Newark Police Department, helping reduce violent crime by 20 percent in a single year.

Honored as State Trooper of the Year, Marinello exemplifies courage, vision, and lifelong dedication to public safety.

BANKING & FINANCIAL ADVICE

MARÍA PEURIOT

executive director of Pibank USA

María Peuriot is a leader in global finance whose visionary approach has redefined success across multiple markets. As executive director of Pibank USA, she led the brand’s U.S. launch after successful expansions in Spain and Colombia. Under her guidance, Pibank quickly became a major player in the high-yield savings sector, exceeding revenue projections by more than 400 percent within months of its August 2024 debut.

A dynamic leader in a traditionally maledominated field, Peuriot exemplifies resilience and purpose—relocating to the U.S. with her two daughters while driving Pibank’s meteoric rise with determination and grace. Beyond the boardroom, she mentors Hispanic women through the Women’s Hispanic Executive Association and advocates for diversity and inclusion in corporate leadership. Her journey reflects a rare balance of business brilliance, personal courage, and a deep commitment to empowering others.

BANKING AND FINANCE

KEITH COSTELLO

president and ceo of Locality Bank

Keith Costello leads Fort Lauderdale–based Locality Bank, one of South Florida’s most innovative financial institutions. Launched in January 2022, it became the region’s first new bank since 2009, created to empower local businesses through digital-first banking and community lending.

With over three decades of experience, Costello previously served as president and CEO of First GREEN Bank and founding CEO of Broward Bank of Commerce, and held senior roles at Bank of Florida, City National Bank, and NationsBank.

A former U.S. Army captain, he began his career at Merrill Lynch and holds degrees from the University of Tampa and the University of Miami. He serves on the boards of the Broward Workshop, Greater Fort Lauderdale Alliance, and Florida Bankers Association.of the Broward Workshop, Greater Fort Lauderdale Alliance, and Florida Bankers Association.

EXCELLENCE BUSINESS ADVISORY

THOMAS R. MILANA

partner and master certified business intermediary, transworld

Thomas R. Milana, P.A., MCBI, CBI, CM&AP, is a partner and master certified business intermediary with Transworld Business Advisors and Transworld M&A Advisors, the world’s largest business brokerage and lower-middle-market M&A firm. With more than $1 billion in closed transactions and over three decades of experience, he guides owners of privately held companies through valuation, marketing, buyer qualification, negotiation, and closing. His team represents businesses with revenues from $1 million to $100 million across sectors including construction, manufacturing, distribution, and hospitality.

Milana advises entrepreneurs, private equity groups, and international buyers throughout Florida, the Caribbean, and Europe. He is active in the International Business Brokers Association (IBBA), M&A Source, and TRANSEO, helping advance global professional standards.

2025 APOGEE AWARDS

CEO WOMEN OWNED BUSINESS

DANIELLE GAUDREAU

founder and CEO The Pretty Nomad

Danielle Gaudreau is an entrepreneur, certified master life coach, awardwinning celebrity stylist, and lifelong animal advocate whose passion and purpose intersect across business and philanthropy. She is the founder and CEO of The Pretty Nomad, The Vintage Nomad, Salon Bark, and Well Brimmed— four South Florida brands that reflect her creativity, innovation, and deep community roots.

Through her ventures, Gaudreau blends timeless style with modern vision, redefining luxury while inspiring others to pursue their passions with confidence. A devoted advocate for animal welfare, she has volunteered and served on the board of PAWS, an auxiliary of the Humane Society of Broward County, for more than two decades. She also serves on the board of the Royal Dames of Cancer Research, extending her impact to causes that uplift both people and animals.

CONSTRUCTION AND DEVELOPMENT

ADRIAN BARRIOS

South Florida Business Unit

Leader dpr construction

As South Florida business unit leader for DPR Construction, he oversees the performance and execution of all projects from Miami-Dade to Palm Beach County, guiding teams that deliver excellence across the region.

Since joining DPR in 2013, Barrios has been involved in more than $1.5 billion in construction projects, establishing the firm as one of South Florida’s leading healthcare builders. With a strong background in healthcare and a deep understanding of client needs, he has managed projects across both private and public sectors with integrity and precision.

A South Florida native who spent part of his childhood in Venezuela, he earned a bachelor’s degree in building construction and a master’s in architectural studies with a focus on sustainable design from the University of Florida. He lives in Victoria Park with his wife and two daughters.

CONSTRUCTION AND DEVELOPMENT

CODY KIESS

president of CORE Construction

Cody Kiess leads CORE Construction’s Florida operations, one of the state’s top builders of civic, educational, and public safety facilities. A lifelong Broward County resident and graduate of its public schools, he is deeply committed to strengthening the communities that shaped him. Under his leadership, CORE Florida has expanded across the region, establishing its headquarters in downtown Fort Lauderdale and completing major projects for cities, counties, and school districts.

Guided by integrity, collaboration, and local partnership, Cody believes construction is a people business—built on trust and lasting relationships. His teams are known for working closely with clients, architects, and community stakeholders to deliver excellence with minimal disruption.

CORPORATE CHAMPIONS

MATTHEW TINSLEY

chief of staff 5 Stones Intelligence

As chief of staff at 5 Stones Intelligence (5Si), Matthew Tinsley plays a critical role in coordinating global operations for the Miami-based intelligence and investigations firm. His combination of elite field experience, strategic vision, and innovation has helped solidify 5Si’s standing as a trusted partner for mission-critical operations worldwide.

A South Florida native and Westminster Academy graduate, Tinsley holds a Global Business MBA and executive certifications from Oxford, Yale, and MIT. A certified personal protection specialist and Muay Thai fighter with advanced tactical training, he previously led 5Si’s Global Surveillance & Protection Operations across the U.S., Israel, and the West Bank. He also serves as director of Warriors-Walk, a nonprofit that empowers law enforcement, special operations, and defense personnel through immersive experiences in Israel.

Third Bank proudly sponsors South Florida Business & Wealth's 2025 Apogee Awards

Your support transforms care for those we serve

Dr. Farah H. Garmany, Fetal and Pediatric Cardiologist

Congratulations to Dr. Farah Garmany and to all the distinguished honorees of the Apogee Awards.

At Nicklaus Children’s, we are truly grateful for your passion and dedication. Your support helps us place children and families at the heart of everything we do, and we are honored to have you in our community.

As Presenting Sponsor of the Apogee Awards, we proudly celebrate this year’s Honorees, your achievements inspire us all!

2025 APOGEE AWARDS

CEO ENTREPRENEUR HOSPITALITY

TRACY THOMPSON

Business leader Thompson Hospitality

Tracy Thompson is a transformational leader whose journey from adversity to achievement embodies resilience, purpose, and perseverance. With more than a decade of leadership experience in the hospitality and retail industries, they have built a career defined by people development, operational excellence, and a deep commitment to culture. Guided by the belief that leadership is measured by impact, not title, Thompson has led diverse teams to record growth while fostering empowerment and belonging.

Beyond business, Thompson is passionate about community engagement, mentorship, and storytelling, and is authoring Through Trails & Tribulations Comes Transformation (2026), a book on resilience, faith, and turning pain into purpose.

CEO SOCIAL ENTERPRISE

ERICA HERMAN

president and ceo of voices for Children of Broward County

With more than 19 years of experience in nonprofit leadership, Erica Herman has dedicated her career to strengthening communities and improving the lives of children and families. As president and CEO of Voices for Children of Broward County, she leads an organization that provides advocacy, resources, and enrichment for more than 1,000 children in foster care each year.

Under her guidance, Voices has expanded programs, strengthened partnerships, and created new pathways for children to build stability, confidence, and success through compassionate, strategic leadership. Before joining Voices, Herman held leadership roles in development and social services, supporting survivors of domestic violence and human trafficking. She also serves on the Broward Domestic Violence Council, the Children and Families Leadership Association, and the Nonprofit Executive Alliance.

CEO WOMEN OWNED BUSINESS

SHIRA KASTAN GOLDSTEIN

founder and principal of ADG

Strategy Group

Shira Kastan Goldstein’s career has redefined how strategic communication and advocacy drive meaningful impact. As founder and principal of ADG Strategy Group, she brings more than two decades of experience leading transformational initiatives across healthcare, higher education, public safety, and the nonprofit sectors.

Her talent for blending strategy with authentic storytelling has elevated organizations such as Nicklaus Children’s Health System, the University of Miami’s Gordon Center for Simulation & Innovation, and First There First Care, helping strengthen reputations, advance legislative priorities, and create measurable community change.

Her award-winning campaigns have earned national coverage from NBC Nightly News to the Associated Press.

CEO SOCIAL ENTERPRISE

GREG SCHILLER

ceo of child rescue coalition

Greg Schiller leads the Child Rescue Coalition, a global nonprofit dedicated to protecting children from sexual abuse and exploitation. The organization has trained law enforcement in 106 countries free of charge— helping arrest more than 17,000 predators and rescue over 3,800 children from abuse. By combining technology and education, Child Rescue Coalition empowers investigators and expands its worldwide reach to prevent child exploitation.

Before joining the nonprofit, Schiller served 21 years as a prosecutor specializing in internet crimes against children, online exploitation, and human trafficking. As an Assistant U.S. Attorney in South Florida, he also acted as Human Trafficking and Project Safe Childhood Coordinator, taking more than 150 jury trials to verdict.

EXCELLENCE IN BUSINESSS

EDDIE SCHWARTZ

chief financial officer and cofounder of Aryeh Strategic Partners

With nearly three decades of experience in accounting, finance, and strategic growth, Eddie Schwartz has earned a reputation for transforming financial operations into engines of clarity, efficiency, and long-term success. As CFO and co-founder of Aryeh Strategic Partners, a South Florida–based financial strategy and advisory firm, he helps businesses of all sizes—from familyowned enterprises to multi-state organizations and nonprofits—navigate complex financial challenges with confidence.

Schwartz specializes in financial restructuring, tax strategy, and scalable business modeling, guiding clients through compliance issues, M&A preparation, and sustainable expansion. Under his leadership, Aryeh has grown exponentially, fueled almost entirely by client referrals—a reflection of his integrity and resultsdriven approach.

Congratulations to CITY’s CEO,

ANDREW KOENIG

2025 APOGEE AWARD HONOREE

We’re proud to honor the heart behind CITY’s family spirit.

Andrew’s passion for people and purpose continues to inspire our CITY family to dream bigger and give back.

2025 APOGEE AWARDS

HEALTHCARE INNOVATORS

FARAH GARMANY,

Pediatric and Fetal Cardiology

Nicklaus Children’s Heart

A member of the Nicklaus Children’s Heart Institute, a world leader in pediatric cardiology and cardiovascular surgery, Dr. Farah H. Garmany has dedicated her career to providing advanced cardiac care for fetuses, newborns, and children with congenital heart disease. With more than two decades of experience— including 20 years in private practice—she combines clinical precision with a compassionate, family-centered approach. Families facing complex diagnoses rely on her not only for expert medical care but also for guidance and advocacy throughout their

Committed to expanding access to care, she collaborates with community providers to improve early diagnosis, treatment, and long-term support for children with heart conditions.

HEALTHCARE INNOVATORS

VASSILIA BINENSZTOK

founder and owner Juno

Counseling and Wellness

Dr. Vassilia Binensztok, Ph.D., is a licensed and board-certified mental health counselor specializing in the treatment of adults with childhood trauma and anxiety disorders. She is the founder and owner of Juno Counseling and Wellness, a group psychotherapy practice that serves a wide range of clients, including teens, couples, and children ages two and up. Dr. Binensztok is a former adjunct professor of counseling, having taught graduate courses at Northwestern University. She has authored several counseling textbooks and peer-reviewed articles, frequently serves as a speaker and lecturer, and is often quoted and interviewed by major publications.

Dr. Binensztok is a graduate of Leadership Palm Beach County Engage and serves as board chair for Vita Nova. Juno Counseling and Wellness was voted best mental health treatment center in Palm Beach.

CEO WOMEN OWNED BUSINESS

JASMINE JOHNSON ceo of GŪD Essence

Jasmine Johnson is the trailblazing CEO of GŪD Essence, a Black woman–led cannabis company and one of the few in Florida positioned to operate as a licensed Medical Marijuana Treatment Center (MMTC). With more than 15 years of experience across cannabis, real estate, hospitality, and events, she is redefining leadership through purpose, equity, and innovation in highly regulated industries.

A proud Miami native, Johnson launched her first business at 18 and later co-founded Crescendo Jazz & Blues Lounge, a cultural landmark that hosted more than 300 major community events.

She has built GŪD Essence into a vertically integrated company focused on cultural impact, research partnerships, and economic inclusion. Under her leadership, the firm is expanding dispensaries statewide, developing a cutting-edge cultivation campus, and creating a workforce pipeline expected to generate over 5,000 jobs—cementing her role as one of the most visionary leaders in cannabis today.

OUR FIRM IS PROUD TO SUPPORT

SOUTH FLORIDA BUSINESS & WEALTH’S APOGEE AWARDS

Congratulations to Partner and Fort Lauderdale Office Managing Director Jamie A. Cole for being recognized as an honoree for the South Florida Business & Wealth’s 2025 Apogee Awards!

We thank all of the distinguished honorees for their commitment to excellence, leadership, and their communities.

Gunster proudly congratulates our Chairman of the Board, George S. LeMieux, on his recognition by South Florida Business & Wealth’s Apogee Awards 2025. George’s vision, integrity and commitment to our clients and communities exemplify the very best of leadership in South Florida.

We also salute all of this year’s Apogee honorees whose excellence elevates our region

Gunster. Florida’s Law Firm for Leaders.

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2025 APOGEE AWARDS

COO HEALTH CARE EXCELLENCE IN HEALTHCARE

KAL GAJRAJ

senior vice president and chief marketing officer CAN Community Health

Dr. Kal Gajraj is a dynamic marketing and communications leader with 20 years of experience spanning healthcare, education, entertainment, and retail. As senior vice president and chief marketing officer at CAN Community Health, he leads national marketing, communications, sponsorships, and public engagement efforts, driving the organization’s mission to expand access to care and health equity. Beyond his role at CAN Community Health, Dr. Gajraj serves as a senior advisor at the U.S. Institute of Diplomacy and Human Rights, an adjunct professor at Miami Dade College, and a contributor to Forbes, where he shares insights on marketing, leadership, and industry trends.

HEALTHCARE INNOVATOR

REYNETTE ROMAIN

founding partner and CEO

Reveye Mental Health and Wellness, LLC

Born and raised in Orlando to Haitian immigrant parents, Reynette Romain is guided by the values of perseverance, family, and community. A proud Barry University graduate with a master’s degree in social work, she has dedicated her career to helping individuals and families heal and thrive.

As founding partner and CEO of Reveye Mental Health & Wellness, Romain leads a women-founded counseling practice committed to accessible, compassionate, and culturally responsive care. Specializing in couples therapy, she helps partners improve communication, rebuild trust, and strengthen emotional connection— believing that healthy relationships are the foundation of strong families.

Through Reveye, she continues to inspire a future built on love, unity, and resilience—ensuring mental wellness remains at the heart of every home and community she serves.

DEREK RILEY

president and chief operating officer Zoo Health Club Corporate

With more than two decades of experience in health, wellness, and franchise operations, Derek Riley has built a legacy of innovation and leadership in the fitness industry. As president and COO of Zoo Health Club Corporate, one of the nation’s fastestgrowing multi-brand fitness franchise systems, he has fostered a culture defined by resilience, collaboration, and results.

Under his direction, Zoo Health Club has expanded nationwide, redefining the gym experience through customizable fitness models, integrated wellness programs, and forwardthinking franchise systems that empower owners to succeed. Guided by his three core pillars—people, process, and product— Riley has developed strong teams, scalable systems, and sustainable growth across the organization.

CEO WOMEN OWNED BUSINESS

SHERLINE LEXIME

CEO and founder of The HR Formula Group

A visionary leader in human resources and business strategy, Sherline Lexime helps organizations build people-first, performancedriven workplaces. With more than a decade of HR leadership experience, she guides business owners in aligning people, processes, and compliance for sustainable growth.

She founded The HR Formula Group during the pandemic to help small businesses navigate uncertainty. What began as a mission to provide clarity in crisis has evolved into a trusted consultancy known for its innovative and compassionate approach to workforce development.

Lexime holds a B.S. in Hospitality Management from Johnson & Wales University, a Juris Master in Employment Law and HR Risk Management from Florida State University College of Law, and both PHR and SHRM-CP certifications. Active in the community, she serves on the boards of Propelling Into Triumph and Morebility.

EXCELLENCE IN INSURANCE

executive vice president and employee benefits consultant with USI Insurance Services

Stephen “Steve” Roche is an executive vice president and employee benefits consultant with USI Insurance Services, specializing in cost containment and optimization strategies for fully insured and self-funded clients. His expertise spans pharmacy spend management, stop-loss benchmarking, underwriting, and population health strategy. Previously, Roche served as employee benefits practice leader for USI’s South Florida offices, overseeing client experience across four regional locations and guiding teams in delivering the firm’s comprehensive service model. With more than 15 years of leadership in employee benefits and HRIS consulting, he is widely recognized for his industry insight and commitment to client success.

CONGRATULATIONS STEPHEN ROCHE

2025 APOGEE AWARD HONOREE

Thank

Proud to serve South Florida

CONGRATULATIONS CODY KIESS

CEO SMALL COMPANY 10-25

CARMEN “COSSETTE” RAVELO

founder and CEO of Cossette Productions Inc.

Carmen “Cossette” Ravelo is the visionary founder and CEO of Cossette Productions Inc. and Cossette Wallpaper, companies redefining the luxury wallpaper industry through innovation, artistry, and authentic connection. Guided by her mission to “beautify America, one wall at a time,” she transforms spaces into personalized works of art that reflect elegance and individuality.

A designer, entrepreneur, and relationship-driven leader, Ravelo oversees every stage of the creative process—from concept to installation—ensuring flawless quality and a seamless client experience. Her Happiness Guarantee reimagines accountability in luxury design, where excellence and satisfaction go hand in hand.

Beyond her design work, she is a passionate advocate for animal welfare and women’s empowerment.

2025 APOGEE AWARDS

EXECUTIVE EXCELLENCE IN LAW

CHARLES CAULKINS

partner at fisher & phillips

With more than 40 years of experience representing employers locally and nationally in labor and employment matters, Charles Caulkins is known for delivering practical, results-driven counsel that helps organizations navigate complex workplace challenges. He advises companies on preventive labor relations strategies, management training, and dispute resolution to avoid costly litigation and foster healthier workplace cultures. His practice also includes representing employers before state and federal courts and administrative agencies in cases involving discrimination, wrongful discharge, breach of contract, and OSHA compliance.

Respected for his deep industry knowledge and pragmatic approach, Caulkins is a trusted advisor to business leaders seeking clarity amid today’s evolving employment landscape.

EXCELLENCE IN LAW

JAMIE COLE

managing director at weiss serota helfman cole & bierman, P.L.

A native South Floridian and proud graduate of Broward County Public Schools, Jamie Cole has built a distinguished legal career rooted in service, leadership, and community impact. The valedictorian of his Ivy League law school class, he began his career in commercial litigation at one of the world’s largest firms before being appointed city attorney for the City of Hollywood in 1994.

In 1999, Cole opened the Broward office of Weiss Serota, where he served as managing director for a decade and continues to lead today. Under his guidance, the firm has become one of Florida’s most respected law firms for government and business clients, known for its culture of collaboration and integrity.

Cole represents local governments and officials in matters that strengthen communities and protect home-rule authority. He serves as city attorney for Weston, general counsel to the Broward Solid Waste Authority, and special counsel for municipalities statewide.

EXCELLENCE IN LAW

GERALD GREENSPOON

Co-founder of greenspoon marder

Gerald (Gerry) Greenspoon co-founded Greenspoon Marder in 1981 with partner Michael Marder during a humble meeting at a kitchen table. What began as a small local practice has grown into a full-service national law firm with more than 225 attorneys across the United States.

Renowned for his legal and business acumen, Greenspoon has advised developers and investors on some of Florida’s largest and most complex real estate, resort, and finance projects. His expertise in real estate development, timeshare law, condominium conversions, and structured transactions has made him a trusted figure in the industry. His client-focused leadership and entrepreneurial spirit have driven the firm’s sustained growth and national prominence, including becoming one of the first national firms to offer dedicated legal services to the cannabis industry.

CEO LAW AND POLITICS

GEORGE S. LEMIEUX

chairman of the board at gunster

George S. LeMieux serves as chairman of the board at Gunster and is a seasoned attorney with more than 25 years of experience representing Fortune 500 companies, banks, developers, and prominent individuals in complex civil, regulatory, and appellate matters— including cases before the U.S. Supreme Court and Florida Supreme Court. His diverse practice spans business disputes, products liability, administrative law, defamation, and corporate investigations.

A former U.S. Senator and Florida’s 34th to hold the position, LeMieux advanced legislation on healthcare fraud, smallbusiness growth, export promotion, and ratingagency reform while serving on key Senate committees. His public service also includes roles as chief deputy attorney general and chief of staff to the governor, where he oversaw all state agencies and negotiated Florida’s landmark gaming compact with the Seminole Tribe.

DENNIS D. SMITH

SFBW Lifetime Achievement Award Honoree

Dennis D. Smith has dedicated his career to strengthening the business community of South Florida. As Chairman of Tripp Scott, he has guided companies through complex challenges with clarity, integrity, and strategic focus. His steady leadership and long-standing commitment are a point of pride for all who have worked alongside him. The Lifetime Achievement Award recognizes not only his accomplishments, but the standard he continues to set for our firm and our region.

EXECUTIVE EXCELLENCE IN LAW

MAX ADAMS

innovative founder and chief executive officer of The MediLaw Firm

Max Adams is the innovative founder and CEO of MediSolutions Group, LLC, a holding company dedicated to safeguarding the assets and futures of healthcare professionals and business owners. Through its four subsidiaries—The MediLaw Firm, Medi Billing Services, Medi Financial Services LLC, and Elite Tax Medical Solutions—the company provides comprehensive legal, financial, and operational services that help clients protect and grow their practices.

Passionate about mentorship, Adams regularly speaks at medical residency programs nationwide, educating young professionals on contract negotiation, business formation, and asset protection. His presentations empower the next generation of healthcare leaders to make informed financial and legal decisions.

2025 APOGEE AWARDS

CEO ENTREPRENEUR LUXURY HOSPITALITY

RYAN MALKIN

Attorney Malkin Law

Ryan Malkin is an attorney specializing in beverage and cannabis law, representing suppliers, wholesalers, retailers, and agencies navigating two of the most highly regulated industries in the country. With deep expertise in compliance, he helps clients develop business strategies that align with complex state and federal regulations while driving market growth.

Malkin served as counsel for a major global wine and spirits supplier, advising national sales and marketing teams on compliance across all 50 states. Before entering private practice, he worked as an assistant district attorney in Manhattan, investigating and prosecuting white-collar crime—experience that continues to inform his regulatory approach.

Malkin’s passion for the beverage industry began as a journalist covering spirits and hospitality for SmartMoney, The Wall Street Journal, and Esquire Today, he contributes to Artisan Spirit Magazine and SevenFifty Daily.

WALTER BANKS

owner and manager of lago mar resort hotel & club

A proud Fort Lauderdale native and Pine Crest School graduate, Walter Banks earned a degree in finance from the University of Miami and pursued graduate studies in hotel administration at Cornell University. For more than six decades, he has owned and managed the iconic Lago Mar Beach Resort & Club, a Four-Diamond oceanfront property spanning 10 acres of pristine Fort Lauderdale beachfront.

Beyond Lago Mar, Banks’ passion for real estate development has shaped several major projects, including Lago Mar Country Club. A lifelong community leader, he has chaired organizations such as the Broward Workshop, Pine Crest School, Holy Cross Hospital, Visit Florida, and the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association, and has served as a member of the Miami Federal Reserve.

Honored as Florida’s Hotelier of the Year and recipient of the Sun Sentinel Excalibur Award, Banks was also inducted into Nova Southeastern University’s Entrepreneur Hall of Fame.

INNOVATOR SPORTS MARKETING CEO MARINE INDUSTRY

KENNETH KENNERLY

executive vice president of Pro Links Sports

With more than 37 years in sports marketing and event management, Ken Kennerly is a recognized leader in professional athlete management, PGA TOUR event development, and strategic brand partnerships spanning sports, golf, and tourism. Known for his creative, results-driven approach, he has built a career defined by innovation and impact.

Kennerly currently serves as EVP of Pro Links Sports and executive director of the PGA TOUR Champions James Hardie Pro Football Hall of Fame Invitational in Boca Raton. He is also owner and operator of the U.S. Polo Assn. Palm Beaches Marathon, which he has transformed into a premier destination event attracting more than 6,000 participants annually. Committed to community leadership, he serves on the boards of Discover The Palm Beaches, the Palm Beach County Sports Commission, The First Tee of Florida’s Gold Coast, and the Forum Club of the Palm Beaches.

ANDREW DOOLE

president of Informa Markets (U.S. Boat Shows)

Originally from southeast England, Andrew Doole grew up in Leigh-on-Sea, where his love for sailing first took shape. After moving to Florida in 1981, he joined Show Management— the company formerly behind Florida’s major boat shows—and over a 37-year career rose to chief operating officer before its acquisition by Informa Markets in 2017.

As president of U.S. Boat Shows for Informa Markets, Doole oversees the production, partnerships, and strategic vision of the industry’s most prestigious events, including the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, Palm Beach International Boat Show, Discover Boating Miami International Boat Show, and others across Florida and the Northeast.

With more than four decades of experience, he is celebrated for his operational expertise, industry insight, and ability to foster collaboration and innovation within the marine community.

EXCELLENCE IN NON PROFIT

ANA SASMIRESAN

Treasurer HabCenter Boca Raton

Ana Sasmiresan is a Romanian American executive leader, speaker, and business coach dedicated to empowering individuals and organizations to reach their highest potential. As founder and chief leadership officer of Transformation Through Conversation, she leads a global people-development firm focused on elevating leadership, aligning strategic goals, and strengthening succession pipelines through a certified partnership model.

An executive program leader with Maxwell Leadership, Sasmiresan has been mentored by renowned leadership expert John C. Maxwell and is recognized for her strategic insight and commitment to intentional growth. Beyond her corporate work, she serves as a community partner for Project Magic School Bus with Broward County Public Schools, a director on the HabCenter of Boca Raton board, and an active member of the Circle of Wise Women with Junior Achievement.

2025 APOGEE AWARDS

EXCELLENCE IN NON PROFIT

MEGAN SPECK

Director of Experience at Museum of Discovery & Science

For the past five years, Megan Speck has served as director of guest experience at the Museum of Discovery and Science, where her passion for education, community engagement, and leadership shines daily. A proud member of Leadership Broward Class 44, she is dedicated to making science and discovery accessible to all.

One of Speck’s proudest achievements has been expanding educational programming to underserved ZIP codes in Broward County—bringing hands-on, curiosity-driven learning experiences to students who might not otherwise have access. She also finds fulfillment in mentoring her team, fostering growth, and helping others reach their full potential.

Outside of work, she enjoys life with her husband and their four beloved pets, along with spending quality time with her niece—sharing her love of great movies and music.

EXCELLENCE IN LEADERSHIP

ZACK SIMKINS

Managing Director of vaster

A seasoned real estate finance executive, Zack Simkins leads lending strategy, business development, and capital management for a portfolio exceeding $500 million in residential and commercial transactions. Based in Miami, he has helped establish Vaster as one of South Florida’s most trusted private lending platforms for both domestic and international clients.

With more than a decade of experience, Simkins is known for crafting creative financing solutions that adapt to shifting markets and meet the complex needs of developers, investors, and high-networth individuals. His forward-thinking approach has strengthened Miami’s position as a global hub for real estate investment and private credit. Passionate about mentorship and innovation, he actively supports the next generation of real estate and finance professionals.

CORPORATE CHAMPION CORPORATE CHAMPION

MIKI NAFTALI

chairman and CEO of Naftali Group

Miki Naftali brings global expertise and visionary leadership to South Florida, redefining the skylines of Miami and Fort Lauderdale. Under his direction, Naftali Group—a premier real estate development and investment firm—has earned an international reputation for landmark projects and restorations, with a portfolio exceeding $15 billion in value.

The firm’s transformative developments, including JEM Private Residences at Miami Worldcenter and Viceroy Residences Fort Lauderdale, embody architectural excellence, refined living, and worldclass design. Guided by a hospitality-driven philosophy that integrates design, service, and lifestyle, Naftali continues to shape South Florida’s luxury real estate market with projects that elevate urban living.

Recognized by Commercial Observer as one of real estate’s most influential figures, he has appeared on its Power 100 list for three consecutive years (2023–2025).

MARK ROTHENBERG

founder and chief executive officer of Ellemar Enterprises, LLC

A South Florida native, Mark Rothenberg has built a reputation as one of the region’s foremost ultra-luxury homebuilders. Since founding Ellemar Enterprises in 1992, he has stayed true to his vision of a boutique firm defined by craftsmanship, integrity, and a deeply personalized client experience.

Known for his handson approach, Rothenberg oversees every stage of each project—from planning and finance to final delivery. Under his leadership, Ellemar intentionally limits its workload to only a few homes at a time, ensuring every residence receives unmatched attention to detail.

His passion for building began in high school and grew while studying at the University of Florida, where encouragement from his brother, real estate attorney Larry Rothenberg, led him to renovate his first home. Among Ellemar’s standout achievements is the $26.9 million penthouse at Le Sanctuaire in Highland Beach, reimagined in 2025 by Mark and his son, Brandon.

CEO REAL ESTATE CEO RETAIL

MANNY ANGELO VARAS

CEO and founder of mv group

Manny Angelo Varas is the visionary builder and developer behind some of Miami’s most remarkable luxury residences. As CEO and founder of MV Group USA, he leads one of the nation’s premier design/ build firms, specializing in multimillion-dollar custom homes and condominiums for an elite global clientele that includes Jeff Bezos, Giorgio Armani, Jennifer Lopez, Rick Ross, and Lil

Since founding the company in 2006, Varas has redefined modern luxury through innovation, sustainability, and technology—integrating virtual and AI design tools to elevate the client experience. A state-licensed general contractor, roofing contractor, and real estate broker, he is also LEEDaccredited by the U.S. Green Building Council and earned an MBA from Harvard University’s Graduate School of Design.

Regularly featured in Architectural Digest, The Wall Street Journal, and Forbes, Varas continues to shape Miami’s architectural

ANDREW KOENIG CEO of city furniture

Andrew Koenig has built a reputation for leading with purpose and fostering a values-driven corporate culture. Armed with degrees in finance, accounting, and an MBA in entrepreneurship, he began his career at CITY Furniture as a receiving associate.

Early in his tenure, Koenig introduced Lean Thinking, transforming CITY’s operations and driving major improvements in safety, efficiency, associate engagement, and customer experience. Today, he continues to champion The CITY Furniture Operating System, rooted in Lean principles and a commitment to continuous improvement.

Under his leadership, CITY has strengthened its community and environmental impact through its 5% Giving Pledge—donating at least five percent of annual profits to local causes—and its 2040 Green Promise, a commitment to achieving carbon neutrality by 2040.

He also serves as chairs on CEOs Against Cancer and Junior Achievement of South Florida.

EXCELLENCE TAX AND FINANCE CEO WOMEN EMPOWERMENT

ADAM KORENFIELD

tax partner

CohnReznick

With more than 25 years of experience, Adam Korenfield, CPA, is a respected tax advisor whose leadership has shaped industries and strengthened South Florida’s business community. As tax partner at CohnReznick LLP, he provides strategic guidance across the cannabis, real estate, hospitality, and technology sectors— helping clients navigate complex tax issues, ASC 740 compliance, and IRS audits with precision. Beyond his technical expertise, Korenfield is known for innovation and mentorship. His presentation on the One Beautiful Bill (OBBA) tax reform offered critical insight during a period of sweeping regulatory change. As an adjunct professor at the University of Miami, he continues to educate and inspire future tax professionals.

A frequent NPR guest, speaker, and published thought leader, he makes complex tax policy accessible to diverse audiences. He also serves as treasurer of University of Miami Hillel.

ANGÉLICA FUENTES

Founder & CEO, NOWFUL Angélica Fuentes is a Mexican American businesswoman, impact investor, and global advocate for gender equality. At 29, she became CEO of Grupo Imperial, later serving as president of both the Mexican Natural Gas Association and the APEC Business Energy Network. From 2007 to 2015, she led Grupo Omnilife-AngelissimaChivas, transforming it into one of Mexico’s top 100 corporations.

Fuentes founded Muvop in 2019 to expand access to microfinance and financial education, followed by Mission Moms in 2023 to uplift working mothers across the Americas. In 2025, she launched NOWFUL, a wellness and self-care brand combining ritual-based products with a digital empowerment platform.

A former UN Women advisory council member and World Economic Forum leader, she earned the UN WEPs CEO Leadership Award for championing gender equality in business.

NOMINATIONS ARE NOW OPEN

South Florida Business & Wealth is proud to recognize South Florida’s best and brightest human resource teams and executives. The 2026 Honorees are professionals who are dedicated to driving business results, productivity, performance, diversity, inclusion and improving employees’ experiences—all for the purpose of boosting employee recruitment and retention. Honorees will be celebrated during the 11th Annual Excellence in Human Resources Program.

The 2026 HR Awards will take place on March 5, 2026.

NOMINATE NOW Scan QR Code

Fisher Phillips Congratulates

DENNIS SMITH

chairman of the board at tripp scott, p.a.

Dennis Smith is a respected attorney, civic leader, and proud Pompano Beach native whose lifelong commitment to South Florida spans law, business, and community service. A standout student-athlete, he graduated from Pompano Beach High School with First Team All-County honors in football before earning his degree from the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School, a JD from Villanova Law School, and an LLM in Taxation from the University of Miami.

In 1977, Smith joined Norma Tripp to help build what would become one of South Florida’s most prominent law firms. Two

Charles Caulkins

South Florida Business & Wealth’s 2025 Apogee Award Honoree

With over 750 attorneys across the United States, Mexico and Japan, Fisher Phillips is an international labor and employment firm providing practical business solutions for employers’ workplace legal problems. Through our technology-driven approach, we partner with companies to achieve their business objectives, anticipate potential disruption, and provide the legal guidance to navigate and resolve the workplace matters critical to their success. Charles

years later, Jim Scott joined the partnership, and the firm evolved into today’s Tripp Scott, where Smith now serves as chairman of the board.

Active in civic leadership, he serves on the Urban League board, the Lighthouse Point Planning and Zoning Board, and the Broward Workshop, co-chairing its Business Advocacy and Healthcare Committees. A past president of the Executive Association, he also chaired the Pine Crest School board.

Partner | Ft. Lauderdale

ccaulkins@fisherphillips.com

954.847.4700

THANK YOU TO ALL OF OUR SPONSORS & HONOREES, FROM THE SFBW FAMILY. It’s a Wild world. Are you protected?

2025 APOGEE AWARDS

2025 Apogee Awards

Celebrating C-suite leadership, connection, and regional impact across South Florida.

On November 19 , South Florida’s business leadership gathered in Wilton Manors for the 2025 Apogee Awards, South Florida Business & Wealth’s annual recognition of the region’s most accomplished C-suite executives. Held at The Venue, the event brought together leaders from across industries and counties for a celebration defined less by titles than by collective impact.

Plenty of awards programs recognize business excellence. What distinguishes Apogee is its intentional inclusivity. Rather than isolating leadership roles, the program brings the entire executive table into one room. CEOs, COOs, CFOs, CMOs, founders, innovators, and civic leaders are recognized side by side, reflecting the reality that modern leadership is collaborative and interconnected. That perspective was especially evident this year. The 2025

Apogee class reflected the breadth and momentum of South Florida’s economy: executives scaling companies, creating jobs, navigating regulatory and operational complexity, and investing deeply in their communities. The energy in the room was unmistakable. This is a business region not only growing rapidly, but evolving with confidence and purpose.

Connection remains central to Apogee’s mission. South Florida spans three counties, a wide geography, and an increasingly diverse range of industries. Opportunities for leaders to gather across sectors are rare. Apogee continues to serve as a meaningful convening point, where introductions turn into partnerships, mentorships, and long-term collaborations. Year after year, executives point to conversations that began at Apogee and continued well beyond the event.

The program also reflects months of editorial rigor. SFBW’s team worked closely with the business community to identify and

vet nominees, digging into the substance behind each executive’s impact. The result is recognition rooted not only in growth metrics or titles, but in leadership character, influence, and long-term contribution to the region.

The event was supported by a broad coalition of sponsors whose commitment made the celebration possible. Nicklaus Children’s Health System returned as Presenting Sponsor for the second consecutive year, underscoring its ongoing investment in leadership and community health. TD Bank served as Gold Sponsor, with additional

support from Fifth Third Bank, PeoPayGo and OCMI Workers Comp, Transworld Business Advisors, Print Basics, Hudson Capital Group, CAN Community Health, Tripp Sco , USI, CITY Furniture, Greenspoon Marder, Largo Mar Beach Resort & Club, CORE Construction, Gunster, Weiss Serota Helfman Cole Bierman, DPR Construction, NOWFUL, the Town of Pembroke Park, and Fisher Phillips. Community and media partners, including Sundial, The Media Lab, Jon Saxx, and Balloons Galore and More, rounded out the program.

As Apogee continues to grow, its role within South Florida’s business ecosystem becomes increasingly clear. It is not simply an awards event. It is a reflection of a region coming into its own, shaped by leaders who understand that influence carries responsibility and that success is strongest when shared. The executives recognized this year join a growing roster helping define what leadership looks like in one of the nation’s most dynamic markets, and se ing the tone for what

right: Shaun Blogg, Jon Merkel, Jack Chadam, Jake Tobin. Right: L to R: Peter Berg, Joseph Hamza, Fernando Mello, Thomas Milana, Sharon Alexander, Deborah Carman, Alan Kaye, Andy Cagnetta and Randy Bring. Below: The 2025 Apogee Awards at The Venue.

COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS

UNITED WAY BROWARD’S WOMEN UNITED 14th annual Magnolia Luncheon

The Women United Luncheon, held on December 2 at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, brought together South Florida leaders and philanthropists to celebrate women whose leadership, resilience, and generosity drove meaningful change. Honorees included Erika Axani, recipient of the Woman of Promise award, and Stella Tokar, honored as the Susie Levan Woman of Inspiration. Guests also heard from keynote speaker Kindra Hall, a bestselling author, who shared insights on the power of storytelling in leadership and business.

COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS

DAVID ORTIZ “WEEKEND WITH PAPI”

17th annual David Ortiz “Weekend with Papi” Celebrity Golf Classic

The 17th annual David Ortiz “Weekend with Papi” Celebrity Golf Classic returned to Palm Beach Gardens with its signature blend of star power, purpose, and polish, transforming PGA National Resort into a three-day hub for philanthropy and highprofile camaraderie. The event brought together an impressive roster of athletes, entertainers, and business leaders, all united in support of the David Ortiz Children’s Fund, which provides lifesaving cardiac care for children in the Dominican Republic and New England.

Golf rounds with celebrity captains, exclusive social events, live entertainment, and a competitive auction anchored the weekend’s fundraising efforts. This year’s event raised nearly $1.8 million, reinforcing its status as one of South Florida’s most impactful charity weekends. Since its inception, the Celebrity Golf Classic has generated close to $14 million, translating star-studded hospitality into measurable, life-changing outcomes for thousands of children and their families.

COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS

Share The Love. Shape A Future.

Show your love where it matters most. Your gift to ONE Future helps students gain the skills, confidence, and opportunities they need to succeed. Give from the heart—and invest in their future.

“Sometimes

all it takes is knowing someone believes in you. That’s the kind of love that changes a student’s future.”

SHARE THE LOVE TODAY!

INSPIRES

A Family Heals Together, Gives Back Together

Joe Lubeck’s connection to Cleveland Clinic began years ago when his father needed complex surgery, and the best place to get it was Cleveland Clinic. Joe’s father underwent a major cardiac procedure and went on to live another 23 healthy years. Years later, Joe himself began experiencing heart complications. After multiple stents and worsening symptoms, Joe once again turned to Cleveland Clinic.

Today, Joe is grateful—not just for his recovery, but for the opportunity to give back. His family established a first-of-its-kind program to deepen clinical exchange and expertise between Cleveland Clinic’s Ohio and Florida cardiac teams. “They saved my life,” he says. “This is my way of making sure others have access to that same level of care.”

Your gift makes an impact on patient care. Donate today at Cle.Clinic/FloridaGiving