Elliot West joins the Suncoast Credit Union Commercial Lending team as a Business Relationship Manager serving members in the Sarasota and Manatee markets. Elliot brings over two decades of experience in lending and finance, with a deep knowledge of commercial services including real estate loans and treasury services.

Climate First Bank welcomes Paul Pickhardt as SVP, Director of Government Guaranteed Lending. Paul has an extensive background in manufacturing and operations that has propelled his ability to develop innovative financing options. He will be responsible for building out the bank's SBA lending team to handle loan origination and portfolio management.

Jack Conely has been promoted to the role of Chief Operating Officer at WEDU PBS. With over 34 years of experience in award-winning program development, production, and executive management, Jack brings a wealth of expertise to his new position. Jack's extensive experience and trusted leadership make him the ideal candidate for steering WEDU toward the future.

Helios Education Foundation has hired Lauren Cortinas as Senior Vice President of Communications. Cortinas brings over two decades of experience in PR, marketing, education, and nonprofit work. In her new role, she oversees internal and external communications through strategic engagement and innovative communication strategies with stakeholders in Florida and Arizona.

Nationally recognized architect and University of Miami alumnus David Harper, FAIA, joins Zyscovich as Higher Education Practice Director, Executive Vice President. Leveraging 40+ years of experience, Harper will lead Zyscovich's growth in this market, fostering collaboration and designing innovative learning spaces for colleges and universities.

Eduardo J. De la Peña Bernal has joined Shutts & Bowen's Miami office as a partner in the International Litigation and Arbitration Practice Group. He has an Americas-wide practice focused on the representation of corporate transnational clients in an extensive variety of complex business disputes before a variety of arbitral tribunals and courts across the region.

Frank Gonzalez, CPA, CFF, has joined Kaufman Rossin's Miami office as a principal in assurance & advisory services. With 30+ years' experience, he specializes in audit engagements, regulatory compliance, and business advisory. Frank's industry expertise includes financial services, technology, and real estate. He's a licensed CPA in Florida, New York, and Puerto Rico.

The Fish & Wildlife Foundation of Florida is excited to announce that Nick Wiley has joined its Board of Directors. Wiley offers expertise in wildlife management and conservation as the Chief Operating Officer for Ducks Unlimited, Inc. and former Executive Director of FWC. He is grounded in decades of experience in Florida's ecological landscape.

The Foundation is proud that John Phelan has also joined its Board. Phelan’s unparalleled success in finance and investment as the Co-Founder of MSD Partners and Chairman of Rugger Management, LLC, combined with his local roots and love for Florida, provide a strategic perspective on management and fundraising.

The Foundation is thrilled that Kate MacGregor has joined its Board as well. MacGregor's experience in environmental policy as Vice President of Environmental Services NextEra Energy and former Deputy Secretary of the Department of the Interior and her proactive approach to conservation and sustainable development make her an asset in shaping conservation strategies.

Finally, the Foundation is honored to welcome back Kathy Barco to its Board. Barco, a leader in both the business and conservation sectors, combines her experience as the former Chair of FWC with her unparalleled personal commitment to wild Florida, providing a valuable perspective on sustainable management.

John R. Wood Christie’s International Real Estate has announced the promotion of Corey McCloskey to President of the organization. McCloskey’s tenure with the company spans 20 years, most recently serving as Executive Vice President of Operations. Recognized as NABOR’s 2023 REALTOR® of the Year, McCloskey served as the Florida Association of REALTORS® District Five Vice President in 2022.

The Broward County Chapter of the American Red Cross announced that Katy Ellis joined its Board of Directors. Ellis currently oversees rental properties in Pompano Beach and Marathon. A former top salesperson in the hospitality industry, she’s been a member of the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association for 20+ years, active in membership recruiting and community outreach.

Nason, Yeager, Gerson, Harris & Fumero, P.A. is pleased to announce that Christopher Jette has joined the Palm Beach Gardens office as a shareholder in the firm's Marital and Family Law Practice Area. With over 25 years of experience, Jette handles divorce, child custody, support, visitation, domestic injunctions, prenuptial agreements, and juvenile dependency matters.

Pam Stewart, the retired Commissioner of Education for Florida, is currently Executive Director of Florida International Baccalaureate Schools and serves on boards of Moffitt Cancer Center, Impact Florida, Florida College, Florida College Academy, Consortium of Florida Education Foundations and Vice President of Education Management Consulting Services. As a professional Educator of 45 years her experience includes Elementary teacher, Middle School math teacher, School Counselor, high school vice principal, district vice Superintendent of Schools and State Chancellor of Florida Education, culminating as Commissioner of Florida Department of Education for 6 years. In addition, she's a proud Grandmother of 4 amazing Grandchildren with husband Jack.