THINK BOLD Festival & Conference Presented by VyStar Credit Union Returns with Inaugural Honors Ceremony

Celebrating Visionaries and Innovators

JACKSONVILLE, Fla., March 21, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The THINK BOLD Festival & Conference presented by VyStar Credit Union is back – this time with an exciting new addition. The inaugural THINK BOLD Honors Ceremony will kick off the celebration and recognize eleven visionary leaders and organizations making a lasting impact in innovation, entrepreneurship, and workforce development.

The THINK BOLD Festival and Conference will be held on Friday, April 11, and Saturday, April 12, at the Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront. THINK BOLD is a hub for big ideas, bold leadership and transformative action. As a trusted leader in community investment and financial empowerment, VyStar's partnership has been instrumental in shaping the festival's mission – ensuring it continues to serve as a platform for inspiring change and fostering meaningful connections.

"At VyStar, we believe in the power of bold ideas to transform communities," said VyStar Chief Marketing Officer Dana Karzan. "Our partnership with THINK BOLD reflects our commitment to fostering creativity and supporting the visionaries who drive positive change. We are proud to celebrate these extraordinary leaders and their contributions to our community."

Eleven extraordinary leaders will be recognized during the THINK BOLD Honors 2025. This inaugural event will be held on Thursday, April 3, at VyStar's headquarters in Downtown Jacksonville. The THINK BOLD Honors Ceremony will spotlight trailblazers, innovators, and community champions in philanthropy, business, advocacy, and the arts. With the festival's mission to inspire entrepreneurship, workforce development, and innovation, these honorees embody the bold spirit of transformation and community impact.

2025 Honorees and Categories

• Bold Leadership in Philanthropy Award
  • Honoree: Patti McElroy – VyStar Senior Vice President, VyStar Foundation President
  • Recognition: For transformative leadership in philanthropy, advancing community development, and fostering initiatives that create lasting impacts
• Community Impact Leadership Award
  • Honoree: Whitney Meyer - Senior Vice President and Chief Community Impact Officer, Jacksonville Jaguars
  • Recognition: For innovative leadership and dedication to empowering communities, fostering inclusivity, and driving impactful initiatives that uplift the region through sports and civic engagement
• Justice and Advocacy Trailblazer Award
  • Honorees: Belkis Plata & Shannon Schott Partners, Plata Schott Law
  • Recognition: For exceptional contributions to justice, advocacy, and legal representation that inspire trust and empower individuals in underserved communities
• Strategic Visionary Award
  • Honoree: Kerri Stewart - Chief Strategy Officer, Miller Electric Company
  • Recognition: For outstanding leadership in organizational strategy, innovation, and fostering growth in the energy and infrastructure sectors
• Cultural Preservation and Arts Champion Award
  • Honoree: Numa Saisselin - President, Florida Theatre Performing Arts Center, Inc.
  • Recognition: For dedication to preserving cultural heritage and enriching the community through performing arts and innovation
• Economic Empowerment Advocate Award
  • Honoree: Carrie Davis - CEO, Wealth Watchers Inc.
  • Recognition: For tireless efforts in empowering individuals and families through financial literacy, affordable housing, and economic stability programs
• Financial Leadership Excellence Award
  • Honoree: Alyce Denson - Chief Financial Officer, Wealth Watchers Inc.
  • Recognition: For financial stewardship and leadership, ensuring sustainable growth and community impact for nonprofit initiatives
• Regional Economic Development Leader Award
  • Honoree: Aundra C. Wallace - President, JAXUSA Partnership
  • Recognition: For visionary leadership in regional economic development, fostering innovation, attracting investment, and creating workforce opportunities
• Transportation and Innovation Leadership Award
  • Honoree: Nat Ford Sr. - CEO, Jacksonville Transportation Authority
  • Recognition: For advancing transportation infrastructure and innovation, enhancing mobility, and creating solutions that connect communities
• Faith and Community Leadership Award
  • Honoree: Bishop Vaughn McLaughlin - The Potter's House International Ministries
  • Recognition: For outstanding leadership in faith-based community initiatives, empowering individuals and fostering economic and social development through ministry and outreach
• Justice and Advocacy Trailblazer Award
  • Honorees: Belkis Plata & Shannon Schott – Partners, Plata Schott Law
  • Recognition: For exceptional contributions to justice, advocacy, and legal representation that inspire trust and empower individuals in underserved communities

"This year THINK BOLD Honors not only celebrates individual achievements but also highlights how bold leadership drives transformation in our communities," said Troy McNair Sr., Co-Founder of THINK BOLD. "Our partnership with VyStar is a testament to the power of collaboration in achieving bold, transformative goals. Together, we are shining a light on individuals and organizations that drive innovation and impact within our communities."

The THINK BOLD Honors Ceremony is an invitation-only event that sets the stage for the THINK BOLD Festival & Conference. For more information about THINK BOLD, including sponsorship opportunities or tickets for the festival, Click here or visit www.thinkboldfest.com .

About Think Bold Festival & Conference

The Think Bold Festival & Conference is a premier platform that unites forward-thinking individuals, industry leaders, and influencers to explore innovative ideas, foster collaborations, and drive positive change. Focused on entrepreneurship, workforce, innovation, and personal growth, this annual event offers attendees unparalleled insights and networking opportunities across diverse sectors, including technology, arts, health, and entertainment. By merging contemporary culture with actionable inspiration, Think Bold transforms Jacksonville into a hub for innovation and cultural enrichment. Learn more at www.thinkboldfest.com

SOURCE Think Bold