There are events you attend because you “should.”
And then there are events you attend because you genuinely do not want to miss being in the room.
The Climate Champions Awards is the second kind.
On Wednesday, March 11, 2026, Sarasota’s most respected leaders in business, science, government, and community advocacy will gather for the 4th Annual Climate Champions Awards at Michael’s On East Ballroom. It is a celebration that has become known for its energy, elegance, and impact.
Often called the Academy Awards of Climate Adaptation, this event is designed to do something rare. It brings people together in a way that feels meaningful, hopeful, and genuinely enjoyable.
Yes, there is important science behind the work.
Yes, the challenges we face are real.
But the Climate Champions Awards is not about doom.
It is about leadership.
It is about solutions.
It is about honoring the people who are already doing the work.
And it is about the Sarasota community coming together to celebrate what is possible when smart people choose action over worry.
Why this event matters
Florida is not just experiencing climate warming. Florida is experiencing it faster, louder, and more visibly than many parts of the country.
Stronger hurricanes.
More flooding.
Higher storm surge risk.
Hotter days.
Higher tides.
Greater infrastructure stress.
These are not theoretical concepts. They are shaping real decisions right now about homes, neighborhoods, coastlines, public safety, and long term economic stability.
The Climate Champions Awards exists to shine a spotlight on the leaders who are helping our region adapt, respond, and build resilience.
It is not enough to simply “care” about climate impacts. Sarasota needs leadership. Sarasota needs innovation. Sarasota needs people who understand both the science and the practical realities of protecting a community.
That is exactly what this event honors.
What you gain by attending
The Climate Champions Awards is one of those rare events where the benefits are immediate.
You do not attend and walk away thinking, “That was nice.”
You attend and walk away thinking, “I’m glad I was in that room.”
Here is what makes it different.
1. You network with Sarasota’s most influential leaders
This luncheon attracts a unique cross section of the Sarasota region.
- Business owners and executives.
- Philanthropic leaders.
- Scientists and researchers.
- City and county decision makers.
- Environmental leaders.
- Civic organizations and community advocates.
If you are the type of person who cares about Sarasota’s future, this is one of the best rooms you can be in all year.
2. You hear stories that restore hope
Climate conversations can often feel heavy. But the Climate Champions Awards is built around a different idea.
It focuses on what is working.
It highlights the people who are proving that climate adaptation is not only possible, but already happening in real and measurable ways.
When you hear what these leaders have accomplished, it changes your mindset.
You stop thinking, “This problem is too big.”
And you start thinking, “We can actually do this.”
3. You leave with real solutions, not just awareness
Many events raise awareness.
The Climate Champions Awards celebrates implementation.
This is where you hear about coastal protection projects, water resilience, infrastructure planning, science driven decision making, and the practical work that protects our Florida way of life.
It is a reminder that resilience is not an idea. It is a strategy.
4. You enjoy an elegant, entertaining luncheon
Let’s be honest. This matters.
The Climate Champions Awards is hosted at Michael’s On East Ballroom for a reason.
This is a polished event with exceptional food, a warm atmosphere, and an uplifting pace.
It is sophisticated without being stiff.
The room feels like Sarasota.
And it feels like something worth dressing up for.
Honoring local people doing extraordinary work
One of the most important reasons to attend the Climate Champions Awards is also the simplest.
It is a chance to honor outstanding people in our community.
The leaders recognized at this event are not celebrities. They are not chasing headlines.
They are the people working behind the scenes to strengthen Sarasota and the Suncoast for what lies ahead.
Their work protects homes, infrastructure, natural resources, and public safety.
- Their decisions shape our coastline.
- Their leadership shapes our resilience.
- Their integrity shapes our future.
And honoring them matters.
Because recognition fuels momentum.
- It inspires the next generation of leaders.
- It strengthens partnerships
- It elevates solutions.
- It builds community pride.
When Sarasota celebrates people who do hard, important work, it sends a message.
- This community values leadership.
- This community values innovation.
- This community values action.
Our 2026 Climate Champion Nominees
The Climate Adaptation Center is proud to recognize three outstanding 2026 Climate Champion Nominees whose work reflects the best of science driven leadership and community impact.
F. John LaCivita
President and CEO, Willis A. Smith Construction
John is recognized for advancing resilient infrastructure and construction practices designed to withstand stronger storms and long term climate risks. His leadership reflects the growing role of the private sector in building smarter, safer, and more sustainable communities.
Charlie Hunsicker
Director, Manatee County Natural Resources
Charlie has spent decades helping shape environmental protection and infrastructure resilience across the region. His work spans everything from land conservation to shoreline protection, water systems, and long range planning that directly impacts residents throughout Manatee County and beyond.
Sara Kane
Sustainability and Resilience Manager, Sarasota County
Sara is recognized for her leadership in strengthening Sarasota County’s climate resilience strategy, helping guide planning and action that supports public safety, infrastructure, and long term community stability.
Each of these nominees represents a different piece of the resilience puzzle.
- Construction.
- Natural resources.
- County level resilience planning.
Together, they tell a powerful story about how adaptation happens when leaders across sectors step forward.
The Beacon Crystal Lighthouse Statue
One of the most memorable parts of the Climate Champions Awards is the presentation of the Beacon Crystal Lighthouse Statue.
This stunning award is more than a symbol.
- It represents leadership.
- Vision.
- Strength.
- Hope.
A lighthouse is not built for calm weather.
It exists for storms.
And that is what these nominees represent. Leaders who help guide our community through uncertainty and toward a safer future.
Past honorees continue to serve as beacons
Over the past three years, the Climate Champions Awards has recognized an extraordinary group of leaders whose work continues to influence Sarasota and the broader region.
2025 Climate Champions
Dr. Karen Holbrook, David Kotok, A.G. Lafley, Tracie Troxler
2024 Climate Champions
Marshall Gobuty, Jessica Meszaros, Steve Newborn, Jennifer Rominiecki, David Tomasko
2023 Climate Champions
Ed Chiles, Charles C. Reith, Dr. David Shafer, Dr. Jennifer Shafer, Jon Thaxton, Bill Waddill
These past honorees remain an important part of the Climate Adaptation Center’s growing network of climate resilience leadership.
As CAC expands its Living Laboratory initiative, we look forward to deepening collaboration with this community of leaders to advance practical, community driven solutions.
Why you should reserve now
The Climate Champions Awards is the kind of event people talk about afterward.
- It is where connections are made.
- Where partnerships form.
- Where Sarasota’s leadership community gathers.
And because of that, seats do not stay open forever.
If you know you want to attend, the best move is simple.
Reserve now.
Tables are a great option for businesses, organizations, and community groups who want to attend together. Individual tickets are also available.
Event details
When: Wednesday, March 11, 2026 | 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM
Where: Michael’s On East Ballroom, 1212 S. East Ave, Sarasota, FL
Tickets and tables
Tickets and tables are now available.
To reserve your spot, visit:
https://theclimateadaptationcenter.networkforgood.com/events/92969-2026-climate-champions-award-ceremony
We hope you will join us for Sarasota’s most inspiring climate leadership luncheon of the year.
Because the people shaping our future deserve to be celebrated.
And because this is one event you will be glad you attended.