LAKELAND, Fla.– The Junior League of Greater Lakeland held its annual Spring Meeting at the Lakeland Country Club on Tuesday, May 7, 2024. Over 145 provisional, active and sustaining members attended the event celebrating the 91st year of the Junior League of Greater Lakeland’s commitment to improving our community and developing women leaders.

Highlights included:

President Barbara Cadiz presided over the meeting as she completed her term as president.

Past President Stephanie Madden announced Sheila Lotterhos as the Carol Jenkins Barnett Sustainer of the Year honoree and 2023 Sarah D McKay Award winner Lu Fitzwater recognized Alice O’Reilly with the organization’s top honor, the Sarah D McKay Award.

27 women moved from Provisional to Active status.

President Barb Cadiz announced that the League Building income has reached over $100,000 and the Black Diamond Ball raised over $170,000 making the total money collected for the League $358,270.

The following women were honored with our annual awards.

Provisional of the Year – Alexandra Taylor

Volunteer of the Year – Valerie McDonough

Spirit of the League – Lauren Nettles

After a year of leadership development and community service opportunities, 27 women graduated from Provisional to Active membership.

The 2024-2025 Board of Directors of the Junior League of Greater Lakeland was installed.

President – Katherine Fitzwater

President-Elect – Angel Davis

Sustaining Vice President – Kimberly Elmhorst

Communications Vice President – Chimere Butler

Finance Vice President – Nicole Minott

Treasurer – Jennifer Burnett

Funding Director – Carolyn Woodger

Community Vice President – Nichole Summers

Membership Vice President – Katie Surrency

Secretary – Tracy DiCesare

Corresponding Secretary – Stacy Walsh

Nominating Chair – Jessica Brown

Several members were recognized for their service and commitment to the organization during the 2023-2024 year:

SARAH D. MCKAY AWARD

Alice O’Reilly was honored as the recipient of the prestigious Sarah Dukes McKay Lifetime Achievement Award. Alice’s remarkable journey from Lakeland native to transformative leader exemplifies dedication and community spirit. Her pioneering efforts in both her professional career and volunteer work have left an indelible mark on Lakeland. From her role in the retail sector to her impactful leadership as Executive Director of VISTE, where she championed the elderly, Alice has consistently demonstrated resilience, compassion, and innovation. Her numerous accolades, including recognition from state and national figures, underscore her profound impact. Alice’s commitment to service extends beyond her professional endeavors; she remains an enthusiastic advocate for various community initiatives. With her infectious spirit and unwavering dedication, Alice truly embodies the essence of the Sarah Dukes McKay award.

CAROL JENKINS BARNETT SUSTAINER OF THE YEAR

Sheila Lotterhos received the Carol Jenkins Barnett Sustainer of the Year award for her many hours of dedication to supporting President Barb Cadiz this year. Sheila serves as the organization’s historian and spends countless hours helping celebrate League members past and present.

VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR

Valerie McDonough was honored with the organization’s Volunteer of the Year. She continually exhibits an unparalleled dedication, extending her voluntary efforts far beyond her committee placement. Valerie’s substantial contributions are not limited to her time but also include the selfless giving of her skills and expertise to the League. Her consistent willingness to go above and beyond for JLGL truly sets her apart.

SPIRIT OF THE LEAGUE

Lauren Nettles was recognized as the organization’s Spirit of the League. She’s known as a cheerleader of the organization, constantly displaying the Junior League spirit throughout Greater Lakeland.

PROVISIONAL OF THE YEAR

Alexandria Taylor was honored by her peers as the Provisional of the Year. Her achievements are a testament to her authenticity and dedication.

Angel Davis was recognized as the first black woman elected president in the organization’s history. Angel will serve in 2025-2026.

Incoming President Katherine Fitzwater announced the creation of a new fundraiser, The Art of Table Design, to take place in March 2025 at the League Building. Additionally, in 2024-2025 Actives will have a new credit system to track participation.

About The Junior League of Greater Lakeland

Women building better communities. That’s the Junior League.

The Junior League of Greater Lakeland, Inc. is committed to promoting overall wellness of body, mind, and spirit for women and children in our community, through our own community efforts and by partnering with other non-profit organizations in the Greater Lakeland area with a wellness vision.

JLGL members actively reach well over 10,000 families each year. Sustainers, members who have served the JLGL faithfully for decades, have left a proud legacy. Together, all members continue to meet the needs of the community in unique and powerful ways.

Mission

The Junior League of Greater Lakeland, Inc is an organization of women committed to promoting voluntarism, developing the potential of women and improving the community through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. The Junior League is exclusively educational and charitable.