One year ago, the Florida Attractions Association Board of Directors set out to create something that would invest in our industry's future. Today, I'm proud to say we've successfully graduated the inaugural class of the FAA Leadership Academy.

This first cohort embraced every opportunity to learn, challenge themselves, and build relationships with fellow professionals from across Florida's attractions industry. Through six months of discussions on leadership, strategic planning, advocacy, financial stewardship, innovation, networking, and change management, these emerging leaders demonstrated a genuine commitment to both their own growth and the future of our industry.

Launching a new program is never without its challenges, and as with any inaugural effort, we've learned valuable lessons that will help us strengthen the Leadership Academy for future classes. That's exactly what this first group helped us accomplish—they didn't simply participate in a program; they helped shape it.

On behalf of the FAA Board of Directors, congratulations to each member of our inaugural Leadership Academy class. Thank you for your willingness to invest in yourselves, your organizations, and Florida's attractions industry. We look forward to watching your careers continue to grow and to seeing the impact you'll have as the next generation of industry leaders.

Dan Donovan, Universal Orlando Resort
Immediate Past Chairman, FAA
Dean, FAA Leadership Academy