2020 – The Spirit of Community Awards recognize meritorious women and men who have improved the lives of women of Florida and have served as positive role models for women and girls in their community. The awards are to honor community volunteers who are nonpaid, (or not paid on a consistent basis). Recipients will be honored during the fall of 2020.

Nominees may be recognized for outstanding achievement from a wide variety of areas including but not limited to:  arts, business, education, government, entrepreneurial leader, science (STEM), hometown hero, healthcare, sports, environment, and “one-to-watch” (up and coming youth leader—24 and under). The winners are chosen based on their servant leadership outside of their paid positions.

“The Florida Commission on the Status of Women celebrates the vision, strength, and servant leadership of women of all ages,” says Rita Barreto Craig, Commission Chair. “It is with great honor that we celebrate those who have so generously and unselfishly given of their time and talents to make a difference in their communities.” Nominations for the 2020 awards cycle will be accepted through June 30.

(Tallahassee, FL, November 30, 2019) – The Florida Commission on the Status of Women honored the following outstanding volunteers with the 2019 Spirit of Community Award for their work in improving the lives of women and families in their communities: 

• Sharon Berrian of Tallahassee
• Chase Hartman of Tampa
• Lauren DePaola of Gainesville
• Tina Kadolph of Sanford
• Sharon Kendrick-Johnson of Miami
• Barbara Melvin of Ave Maria
• Paloma Rambana of Tallahassee
• Sue Sifrit of Punta Gorda
• Susan Chenault 0f Vero Beach

The Spirit of Community Award recognizes meritorious women and men who have improved the lives of women of Florida and have served as positive role models for women and girls in their community. Recipients of the Spirit of Community Award will be honored during special ceremonies in their home communities.

Nominees are recognized for outstanding achievement from a wide variety of areas including but not limited to:  arts, business, education, government, entrepreneurial leader, science (STEM), hometown hero, healthcare, sports, environment, and “one-to-watch” (up and coming youth leader—24 and under).

“The Florida Commission on the Status of Women is proud to focus on celebrating the contributions and success of women,” said Lady Dhyana Ziegler, DCJ, Ph.D., Commission Chair. “We are delighted to honor these outstanding individuals for their tremendous achievements and dedicated service to their communities.”