The Climate Champions Awards exists to tell an important story. One that often unfolds quietly, long before the next storm makes headlines.
It is the story of leaders who understand that climate adaptation is not theoretical. It is practical. It is local. And it requires persistence, partnership, and long-term commitment.
As we continue announcing the honorees for the 2026 Climate Champions Awards, we are proud to introduce our second Climate Champion Nominee. He is a leader whose work has protected coastlines, strengthened infrastructure, and safeguarded water resources across our region.
Announcing our second 2026 Climate Champion Nominee: Charlie Hunsicker
The Climate Adaptation Center is honored to announce Charlie Hunsicker, Director of Manatee County’s Natural Resources Department, as the second Climate Champion Nominee to be recognized at the 4th Annual Climate Champions Awards.
Charlie began his career with Manatee County in 1977, dedicating nearly five decades to environmental stewardship, public service, and forward-looking infrastructure planning. Today, he serves as the Commission’s liaison on environmental issues in coordination with County Administration while overseeing five divisions whose work touches the daily lives of residents throughout Manatee County, the Tampa Bay region, and across Florida.
His leadership reflects the kind of steady, science-driven approach that climate adaptation demands.
Leadership that delivers real-world protection
Bob Bunting, CEO of the Climate Adaptation Center, recalls working closely with Charlie on a 10 million dollar shoreline protection project completed in December 2023, just months before a historic trifecta of hurricanes brought record storm surge, wind, rain, and flooding to the region.
“I worked directly with Charlie to explain and secure funding for this very successful project,” Bunting said. “It expanded the beaches on North Longboat Key, protecting homes, infrastructure, and the local tax base. Without Charlie, it is doubtful this project and many others would have happened. It is one of many examples of how our Climate Champions use the best science and technology to reduce real risk in our area.”
A career defined by impact
Charlie Hunsicker’s leadership and civic contributions span nearly every aspect of environmental resilience and public infrastructure, including:
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Recipient of the 2025 Herman W. Goldner Award, the highest regional leadership honor presented by the Tampa Bay Regional Planning Council
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Advancement of Manatee County’s water, wastewater, and stormwater systems that support public health, environmental protection, and long-term growth
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Securing more than 70 million dollars in federal grants and appropriations to modernize wastewater treatment, expand reclaimed water reuse, and convert septic systems to centralized infrastructure
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Coordination of funding and partnerships to construct the region’s first Aquifer Storage and Recovery system for potable water supply
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Federal advocacy securing 21 million dollars for flood control, shoreline restoration, and environmental land redevelopment projects
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Leadership in acquiring and protecting more than 30,000 acres of preserves and environmentally sensitive lands across 18 locations
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Oversight of six state and federally funded beach renourishment projects, returning more than 6 million cubic yards of sand to nine miles of shoreline, with additional projects planned
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Direction of ecological restoration, marine resource management, navigational safety, artificial reefs, and public boating access
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Oversight of air and water quality monitoring, including phosphate mining activities
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Leadership in public outreach and education, delivering more than 30 environmental education programs each month
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Implementation of the 2021 voter approved Environmental Lands Referendum, authorizing 50 million dollars for land acquisition or protection
Together, these efforts form a blueprint for what climate adaptation looks like when leadership, science, and community priorities align.
Continuing the 2026 Climate Champions journey
Earlier this month, the Climate Adaptation Center announced F. John LaCivita, President and CEO of Willis A. Smith Construction, as the first Climate Champion Nominee for 2026, recognizing his leadership in resilient and sustainable construction across Southwest Florida.
The final Climate Champion Nominee will be announced on Tuesday, February 3, 2026.
This year’s celebration will once again bring together business leaders, scientists, policymakers, and community advocates for an Academy Awards style luncheon, culminating in the presentation of the Beacon Crystal Lighthouse Statue. The statue serves as a symbol of leadership, vision, and action in climate adaptation.
A growing legacy of leadership
Over the past three years, the Climate Champions Awards has recognized outstanding leaders across our community.
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 honorees continue to serve as beacons for climate adaptation in Sarasota and beyond. As the Climate Adaptation Center expands its Living Laboratory initiative, this growing network of leaders plays a critical role in advancing practical, community-driven solutions.
Join us for the 2026 Climate Champions Awards
We look forward to honoring Charlie Hunsicker and celebrating the leadership shaping our region’s future.
🗓 Wednesday, March 11, 2026
🕚 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM
📍 Michael’s On East Ballroom, Sarasota
👉 Tickets and tables are now available. Buy tickets here.
For questions about table purchases, please contact Melanie Ringle, or purchase your table directly using this link.
We hope you will join us for this inspiring celebration of leadership, resilience, and hope for Florida’s future.