Glasser/Schoenbaum is an integral part of our community. They not only provide critical commercial space for non-profits but also build networks within our community to meet the needs of our most vulnerable.
Vision and Purpose of the Emerging Leader Program
The Suncoast is known as an attractive region that has seen continued growth over many decades. Since 2020, a population boom has caused accelerated growth in the Sarasota/Manatee area, which comes with increased prosperity, as well as increased needs. Research shows that the wellbeing of a community largely depends on its social determinants of health (SDOH). To achieve “social and physical environments that promote good health for all”, the local health and human services sector must continue to develop compassionate and competent leaders.
Bill and Barbara Little have spent decades working in health and human services and in nursing education, respectively. They have watched ideas blossom into vibrant programs and networks that make our region unique. Together, they wish to ensure that the legacy of steady and innovative leadership continues, as our community enters a new period of change.
The Emerging Leader Program aims to develop the future leaders who will shape Sarasota’s human services community in the coming years. The Emerging Leader Award will recognize and empower emerging leaders in physical, behavioral, and environmental health; human services; and arts & culture.
“The quality of life in a community rests upon the quality of life of its people” – Dr. Kay Glasser
The Recipient’s Journey
Each recipient will receive an award of $1,000 to be used to improve their leadership skills to benefit their organization or the community. Each will receive a copy of the book, The Leadership Challenge, by Kouzes and Posner, which outlines The Five Practices of Exemplary Leadership® Model.
Recipients will meet three times during the award year to discuss their use of the award funds, discuss community leadership challenges they are facing, and to share thoughts about being a better leader. The meetings will be facilitated by Glasser/Schoenbaum, with invited guests who will provide guidance and mentorship.
At the end of their award year, recipients will take part in a brief video presentation for the next annual Collaboration Celebration.
Definition of Award and Awardees
There will be three Emerging Leader Awards presented in the following categories:
Candidates for the award can be nominated by their employers, supervisors, and/or peers. Nominees are not sector-specific, and can work in public service, community service, or nonprofits.
The ideal awardee:
"The Emerging Leader Award program was a great opportunity for me to learn from some amazing local leaders, assess my own leadership style through the lens of the "The Leadership Challenge", and through the project, determine how I wanted to specifically make a difference in my own organization. Whether you want to learn what it means to be a leader at your personal best or you want to fine tune your own leadership style, applying for this program is a chance to explore leadership practically with great mentors and an excellent roadmap."
- 2023 awardee, Kelly Duyn, Asst. Director of Education & Community Engagement
Nomination Process
Nominations will be due by November 30, 2023. A completed nomination includes
Please note:
A decision panel will determine the award recipients. Awardees will be announced December 18, and invited to receive their recognition at the Collaboration Celebration breakfast held on Thursday, February 29 by The Glasser/Schoenbaum Human Services Center.
Key Dates
Glasser/Schoenbaum is an integral part of our community. They not only provide critical commercial space for non-profits but also build networks within our community to meet the needs of our most vulnerable.
The staff at Glasser/Schoenbaum have done a great job of connecting the many organizations on campus and creating a space that sparks collaboration. This sense of community extends to staff and clients alike, helping to break down barriers and leading to innovative ways to serve the community as a whole.
Real estate is one of the greatest costs in a business budget. Our partnership with The Glasser/Schoenbaum Human Services Center allows more money to go towards our mission. And what better place to house our office than on a campus with nineteen other outreach agencies.
