The Early Learning Coalition of Sarasota County has named Alison Fraga as its new chief executive officer.

Gov. Ron DeSantis has appointed Karen Rose to the School Board of Sarasota County. Rose, who lost her seat to Liz Barker in November 2024, replaces Tim Enos, who stepped down earlier this month.

Gulf Coast Community Foundation has named Elizabeth Welch as director of professional advisor relationships. The foundation has also hired Alyssa Holcomb as brand engagement associate. 

Local public radio station WUSF recently won the Edward R. Murrow Award for Overall Excellence in Journalism. 

Real estate brokerage Douglas Elliman Inc. announced that The Schemmel Soda Group has joined the firm’s Sarasota office.

Gov. Ron DeSantis recently announced the appointment of Sarasota's James  Turner and the reappointment of Myakka's Paul “Jack” Bispham to the Southwest Florida Water Management District.

The Manatee Chamber has announced the winners of its 45th annual Small Business & Non-Profit of the Year Awards. They are Frosted Pink (Small Business Category I), Kona Ice of Manatee County (Small Business Category II), Kidspot (Small Business Category III), Sunshine Movers (Small Business Category IV), Family Promise of Sarasota-Manatee (Nonprofit Category I) and Meals on Wheels PLUS of Manatee (Nonprofit Category II).

Sarasota Memorial Health Care System has been named one of America’s Best Physical Rehabilitation Centers by Newsweek. The hospital was also recognized as one of the best employers in Florida, earning a spot on Forbes’ 2025 list of America’s Best-in-State Employers.