This month marks the official launch of the Florida Attractions Association Leadership Academy, an exciting new professional development initiative designed to cultivate the next generation of leaders within Florida’s attractions industry.

Following a competitive application process, 35 rising leaders from FAA member attractions were selected to participate as inaugural cohort members. These individuals represent a diverse cross-section of disciplines and attraction types, united by a shared commitment to leadership growth, collaboration, and industry advancement.

The Academy is led by Dan Donovan (Universal Destinations & Experiences), Past Chairman of the FAA, who will serve as Dean of the program. Dan brings decades of industry experience and a passion for mentoring emerging leaders.

Participants will engage in a robust curriculum taught by an accomplished faculty of FAA past chairmen and industry leaders, including:

• Matt Johnson (IMAG History & Science Center) – Change Management & Resilience
• Kurt Allen (Mississippi Aquarium) – Problem Solving & Decision Making
• Bill Lupfer (Florida Attractions Association) – Advocacy & Government Relations
• Scott Rose (Zoo Tampa) – Strategic Planning
• Cindy Stavely (St. Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum) – Relationship Building & Networking
• Jennifer Berthiaume (Industry Statesman) – Leading & Influencing

The FAA Leadership Academy reflects the Association’s ongoing commitment to investing in talent, strengthening leadership pipelines, and ensuring the long-term resilience of Florida’s attractions industry.