New CEO for Leadership Jacksonville
Gracie Simendinger is succeeding Jill Langford Dame as the new Chief Executive Officer for Leadership Jacksonville. Dame announced her retirement in March of this year after serving as CEO since 2013.
In a press release issued in June, Simendinger stated, “I am deeply invested in the future success of our city. I believe fully in our ability to capitalize on the positive momentum by continuing to develop Leadership Jacksonville as a venue for strengthening our community leadership. Leadership Jacksonville is an incredible catalyst for developing the inclusive, vibrant Jacksonville that we can see on the horizon. I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to that vision.”
Prior to this appointment, Simendinger served as the Director of Development at the Beaches Emergency Assistance Ministry (BEAM). She currently holds other leadership positions, including Women’s Giving Alliance steering committee at-large member and president of the Jax Chamber Downtown Council.
“I’ve worked within nonprofits both large and small, and business-oriented and philanthropic leadership positions with well-known institutions. I take great pride in serving the Jacksonville community and have a track record of volunteer leadership experience, which has contributed to my strong network and positive reputation,” she added in the press release.
Established in 1976, Leadership Jacksonville was created “to stimulate the growth of leadership” in the Northeast Florida community. Twenty-nine members comprised its first graduating class the following year. Over the decades, the organization has evolved to include its four principal pro-grams: Next Generation; New Leadership Summit; Leadership Jacksonville; and Youth Leadership Jacksonville.
“We are excited to have Gracie join the LJ team,” stated Leadership Jacksonville Board President Kathy Miller in the press release. “Her local development experience and enthusiasm will be critical in helping us continue to execute our mission.”
Simendinger will step into her new role this month.
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