The Talent Strong Florida Summit is the premier event where education stakeholders, community leaders, and economic development champions from multiple sectors come together to connect, collaborate, and inspire one another. Hosted by the Florida College Access Network (FCAN), this annual gathering focuses on preparing today’s students with the skills and opportunities they need to thrive in tomorrow’s workforce.
“At FCAN, we believe education is the key to unlocking opportunity—for individuals, communities, and Florida’s economy as a whole,” said Braulio Colón, FCAN’s executive director. “This year’s summit will showcase powerful insights and real-world strategies that demonstrate how higher education leads to higher rewards.”
This year’s theme, “Higher Education, Higher Rewards,” underscores the transformative value of college and workforce-aligned credentials for individual prosperity and statewide economic growth. The summit’s keynote sessions will feature policy solutions, evidence-based approaches, and success stories that reveal the societal benefits of increasing degree and credential attainment—ensuring college access for all students.
In keeping to the tradition of our pervious summits, we’ve invited a range of artists to energize each day and give our attendees opportunities to connect, unwind, and find inspiration. From lively performances to thought-provoking spoken word, all will add energy and meaning to our time together.
Celebrate in Style
- Welcome Reception – Prepare to celebrate Cinco de Mayo with us! Enjoy hors d’oeuvres, drinks, and a lively performance by Mariachi Orlando Tequila to kick off the summit in style.
- Evening Reception – Experience an inspiring live performance by the talented Oak Ridge High School Concert Choir while networking over drinks and hors d’oeuvres.
- Breakfast Reception – Be moved by Shawn Welcome, Orlando’s Poet Laureate, as he delivers an inspiring spoken word performance to start the day.
SPECIAL KEYNOTE SESSIONS YOU DON’T WANT TO MISS!
MONDAY, MAY 5 – Higher Education, Higher Rewards: Florida’s Future Billions
There’s no question that higher education pays. To kick off the summit, we take an exclusive look at Helios Education Foundation’s latest report quantifying the value of postsecondary education. This session will feature an expert panel with key leaders offering insights into how education drives Florida’s economic future:
- Morgan Spicer, Director of Research at the Florida Council of 100 Foundation, leads economic and education policy initiatives, advocating for workforce development and talent pipelines.
- Adrienne Johnston, President & CEO of CareerSource Florida, specializes in workforce alignment and labor market research, ensuring students are prepared for in-demand careers.
- Troy Miller, Chief Data Officer for the Florida Board of Governors, oversees data-driven strategies for Florida’s 12 state universities, supporting student success and the state’s workforce goals.
- Christopher Mullin, Strategy Director of Data and Measurement at Lumina Foundation, is a national expert in higher education policy, focusing on postsecondary access and student success.
- Paul G. Perrault, SVP of Community Impact and Learning at Helios Education Foundation, leads research on improving college access and workforce readiness.
TUESDAY, MAY 6 – Pathways to Prosperity: Florida’s Innovative Career Development Initiatives
How do we prepare students for success in the workforce? Join us for an inspiring luncheon showcasing Florida’s most innovative career development initiatives. Leaders from Local College Access Network partners, including Anna Lebesch, senior vice president for Strategy, talent and marketing and Julie Hindall, senior director from Earn Up (powered by JAXUSA Partnership), and Noemi Y. Perez, president and CEO of The Immokalee Foundation, will share how their community-driven collaborations are revolutionizing career readiness and student success. This session will highlight comprehensive career pathways, strong support systems, and impactful cross-sector partnerships that are driving real results.
WEDNESDAY, MAY 7 – The Transformational Power of Higher Education: A Florida Success Story
Education changes lives, and Ashley Butler’s story is proof. A USF alumna, entrepreneur, and philanthropist, Ashley has built a thriving business and created job opportunities while giving back to her community. In this inspiring session, she will share how her educational journey fueled her success and empowered her to uplift others—illustrating the lasting impact of higher education on individuals and society.
Be Part of the Movement!
The Talent Strong Florida Summit is more than just a conference—it’s a call to action for everyone committed to student success. Whether you’re an educator, employer, policymaker, or community leader, this event is your opportunity to gain insights, forge connections, and contribute to a Talent Strong Florida.