About Us
In 2006, a new event sought to spotlight community leaders whose beacons guide the way in diversity and inclusion. Founders included the Orlando Chapter of National Association of Women Business Owners, Walt Disney World Resort, the YaYa Network, and Orlando Business Journal’s Diversity Works initiative.
The annual event recognizes:
- Large business - 1,000-plus employees
- Medium business - 51 to 999 employees
- Small business - up to 50 employees
- Nonprofit - organization or chapter
- Government - local, state or federal agency (New category for 2008!)
- Individual Advocate - person who has made a difference
- Corporate Advocate - organization that champions inclusion
Where the money goes:
Proceeds go to the NAWBO Orlando Foundation, a 501c3 that supports economic development and diversity/inclusion in Central Florida through educational efforts for current and future entrepreneurs.
Today, the Beacon Awards Executive Committee consists of leaders who have united to continue this tradition to build an atmosphere of inclusion in Central Florida’s workforce:
- Diane Sears, NAWBO, 2008 Chair
- Therese Smyntek, NAWBO, 2007 Chair
- Betty Martinez Lowery, Walt Disney World
- Henry Maldonado, WKMG-TV Channel 6
- Pam Carman, The YaYa Network
- Sue Ross, Orlando Business Journal
- Al Sandoval, Host Committee Chair
- Rich Morrison, Florida Hospital, Host Committee Co-Chair
- Jim Hukill, Lift Disability Network
- Peter Rothfuss, The Advertising Agency
- Pastor Ted Freeman, Metropolitan Orlando Urban League
- Lynne Voltaggio, Orlando Tech
- Claudette Stroble, NAWBO
- Holly Luisi, NAWBO
- Rebecca Reynolds, NAWBO and Fifth Third Bank
