provided to The Santiva Chronicle
The Charitable Foundation of the Islands (CFI) invites the community to join the Leadership Sanibel-Captiva Class of 2026 for a special evening celebrating the conclusion of this year’s leadership program.
The Leadership Sanibel-Captiva Closing Session Celebration will take place on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Sundial Beach Resort & Spa.
Leadership Sanibel-Captiva is designed to connect and inspire current and emerging volunteer leaders across the islands. Through an immersive, five-month experience, participants deepen their understanding of critical community issues, build relationships with key local leaders, and explore meaningful ways to give back.
Since its launch in 2022, 51 individuals have completed the program, with nearly 80 percent now serving on island boards and civic committees—demonstrating the program’s strong and lasting impact on local leadership and engagement.
Throughout the program, the Class of 2026 has participated in a series of dynamic sessions exploring the issues shaping Sanibel and Captiva, including:
Opening Session: State of the Islands
Community Resources & Nonprofit Impact
Economic Vitality: Tourism & Development in Lee County
Arts, Culture & Creative Community
Captiva Day: History, Leadership & Community Perspectives
Environment & Conservation: Protecting Our Islands
Resiliency & Recovery: Preparing for the Future
Recent sessions have provided especially meaningful, hands-on experiences. During Captiva Day, participants gathered at the Captiva Civic Association for discussions on community priorities, land use, and the island’s evolving future, followed by a historical exploration of Chapel by the Sea and the Captiva Cemetery. The day continued with opportunities to connect over lunch and experience the island firsthand, culminating in a narrated coastal tour that highlighted Captiva’s unique history and environmental landscape.
On Environment Day, held in celebration of Earth Day, the class explored the natural systems that sustain island life. Participants began at J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge with a guided tram tour and ranger-led experience, followed by a behind-the-scenes look at the Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife (CROW). The day concluded at the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF), where participants engaged with local experts on water quality, conservation initiatives, and coastal resilience through both presentations and hands-on learning.
Each session has provided participants with direct access to local experts and leaders, offering a deeper understanding of the interconnected systems that support island life—from environmental sustainability to economic vitality and disaster preparedness.
During the closing celebration, attendees will hear directly from members of the Class of 2026 as they reflect on their experiences throughout the program. Alumni will also share insights on how Leadership Sanibel-Captiva has influenced their continued involvement and leadership within the community.
The evening invites community members to reconnect with alumni, welcome the newest graduates, and learn more about how Leadership Sanibel-Captiva is shaping the next generation of island leadership. This event is also a great opportunity for new residents and community members to learn more about CFI and how to get involved. Guests will enjoy an evening of reflection, inspiration, and celebration in a beautiful coastal setting.
The cost to attend is $100 per person, and advance registration is required by May 5, 2026.
For more information or to register, please contact Savannah Kelly at skelly@sancapcfi.org or 239-322-3818, or click here.
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