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Leadership Institute

Leadership Institute

Developing Leaders. Strengthening Community. Shaping the Future.

The Leadership Institute Program is the North Tampa Bay Chamber’s hub for high-impact leadership development designed to cultivate confident, connected, and forward-thinking professionals. Through immersive programs and meaningful experiences, the Institute equips individuals with the skills, insight, and relationships needed to lead effectively in today’s evolving business landscape.

At the core of the Institute is a commitment to continuous growth, offering transformational opportunities for leaders at every stage of their journey. With more programs on the horizon, the Institute is building a dynamic pipeline of talent that will shape the future of our community.

The Leadership Fellows Program is the Chamber’s flagship offering within the Leadership Institute - an exclusive, high-level experience designed for professionals ready to elevate their leadership impact. This 8-month program brings together a small, focused cohort of just 12 participants, creating a personalized and highly engaging environment. Fellows dive deep into the nationally recognized BetterCulture curriculum, combining strategic insight with real-world application to drive meaningful personal and professional growth.

Each session is led by a PhD-level facilitator, Dr. Jacqueline Nelms, ensuring a thought-provoking, results-driven experience that challenges perspectives and strengthens leadership capabilities.

Participants:

  • Refine and elevate their leadership style
  • Expand their influence within their organization and the community
  • Build meaningful relationships with like-minded professionals
  • Gain practical tools to lead with clarity, purpose, and impact

The Leadership Fellows Program is more than a learning experience, it’s a transformational journey for those ready to lead at the next level.

Meet the 2026 Leadership Fellow Cohort

The Leadership Institute Program is the North Tampa Bay Chamber’s hub for high-impact leadership development designed to cultivate confident, connected, and forward-thinking professionals. Through immersive programs and meaningful experiences, the Institute equips individuals with the skills, insight, and relationships needed to lead effectively in today’s evolving business landscape.

At the core of the Institute is a commitment to continuous growth, offering transformational opportunities for leaders at every stage of their journey. With more programs on the horizon, the Institute is building a dynamic pipeline of talent that will shape the future of our community.

Casey Sumner

Casey Sumner

Director of Development
Orlando Health 

Ryan Ward

Ryan Ward

Sr. Manager, Business Planning & Operations
Florida Blue

Cassandra Garvey

Natasha Faith Beckel

Executive Director
Career Focus Inc.

Natasha Faith Beckel

Natasha Faith Beckel

Imaging Manager
BayCare Hospital Wesley Chapel

Heather Huges

Heather Hughes

Owner
Optimum Health & Wellness

Natalie Oulton

Natalie Oulton

Firm Administrator
McFarland, Gould, Lyons, Sullivan & Hogan, P.A.

Mariana Alvarez

Mariana Alvarez

Founder and CEO
Controller Works

Don Copeland

Don Copeland

Regional Manager
The Copeland Team
Powered by Benchmark Mark Mortgage

Dustin Gothard

Dustin Gothard

Vice President Member Experience
FiCare Federal Credit Union

Dr Mae McKinney

Dr. Mae McKinney

Founder / Head of School
Tampa Early College Academy

Michael Berthelette

Michael Berthelette

CEO / Chief Community Officer
Platinum Salon

Tracy Burke

Tracy Burke

APRN / CEO
Inside Out Aesthetics & Wellness

Program Facilitator

Dr Jacqueline Nelms

Dr. Jacqueline Nelms

Founder & CEO
Mindful Elevation

Program Cooridinator

Sarah Rasheid

Sarah H. Rasheid

Chief Content Creator
North Tampa Bay Chamber

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