Jacki Dezelski Named 2025 Kent C. Schulz Award Recipient

Bradenton, FL – The Leadership Manatee Alumni Association is proud to announce that Jacki Dezelski, President and CEO of the Manatee Chamber of Commerce, has been selected as the 2025 recipient of the Kent C. Schulz Award. This prestigious award recognizes exceptional leadership, unwavering dedication, and outstanding service to the community—qualities that Jacki exemplifies in every way.

The Kent C. Schulz Award is given annually to a Leadership Manatee alumni who has demonstrated outstanding service in the community and professional achievement. The award was established in honor of Kent C. Schulz, a Leadership Alumnus who was deeply involved in Manatee County and always willing to lend a hand. After losing his battle with cancer, the Leadership Manatee Alumni Association created this award as a tribute to his commitment to service, leadership, and community engagement.

As President and CEO of the Manatee Chamber of Commerce, Jacki has been a driving force in economic growth, advocacy for local businesses, and fostering partnerships that strengthen Manatee County. Her leadership has not only shaped the region’s business landscape but has also inspired countless individuals to lead with integrity and purpose.

“We are thrilled to recognize Jacki for her incredible contributions to our community,” said Ann Colonna, President of the Leadership Manatee Alumni Association. “Her dedication to fostering a thriving business environment, championing leadership development, and serving with passion and integrity embodies the very essence of the Kent C. Schulz Award.”

A special luncheon will be held to honor Jacki, with event details to be announced soon. The Leadership Manatee Alumni Association invites the community to join in celebrating her well-deserved recognition and the impact she continues to make in Manatee County.

For more information, please contact Ann Colonna at 941-587-1900 or via email at [email protected]

About Leadership Manatee

Since 1982, the Leadership Manatee program has exposed current and future leaders to an in-depth look at Manatee County, its challenges, and its opportunities. With more than 1,400 graduates, it’s our area’s premier leadership program.

Class participants fill out an application and a critical factor in acceptance to the program is identifying those individuals who are active in the community and are most likely to use their leadership knowledge and skills for the long-term benefit of our community. It is common for individuals to apply more than once before being selected for a class. Class members are lead through several comprehensive days focusing on a different segment of Manatee County, including:

·         Agriculture

·         Business & Industry

·         Communications & Culture

·         Education

·         Healthcare

·         Land Use & Transportation

·         Law Enforcement

·         Leadership Development

·         Local Government

The program’s purpose is:

·         To identify community leaders of diverse backgrounds

·         To develop their potential and desire to accept civic responsibilities and leadership roles

·         To expose community leaders to the problems and opportunities that face Manatee County

·         To build a realistic understanding of leadership in today’s complex society

·         To open a dialogue among emerging and current community leaders

·         To acquaint leaders with the processes, programs, opportunities and challenges for individual involvement in Manatee County

Once you’ve graduated from Leadership Manatee, stay involved with local class members and with others who have graduated from the program by joining the Leadership Manatee Alumni Association! Annual membership is inexpensive and can help you create an even greater network of professional connections