Shumaker's Benjamin R. Hanan Joins Leadership Florida's Cornerstone Class 43

Sarasota, Florida, USA - In the ever-evolving landscape of leadership in Florida, one name stands out this week: Benjamin R. Hanan. A partner at Shumaker and the Corporate, Tax & Transactions National Service Line Leader, he has been selected for Leadership Florida’s Cornerstone Class 43. This program, known for cultivating strong leaders across the state, aims to bring together a diverse group of individuals who will work to tackle the pressing challenges facing Florida communities. As Hanan joins the ranks of influential figures like former mayors and numerous esteemed colleagues from his firm, the potential impact on statewide development looks bright.

Leadership Florida, as highlighted in Leadership Florida, has chosen 55 leaders for its 2023-2024 Cornerstone Class, all aged 40 and above. This year’s cohort includes corporate CEOs, educators, business owners, and non-profit executives. They will engage in a nine-month series of sessions designed to sharpen leadership skills while addressing critical statewide challenges. Wendy Spencer, the president and CEO of Leadership Florida, affirms the program’s mission to recharge leadership abilities and expand networks. With such a rich diversity of backgrounds, the discussions are bound to be enlightening.

A Commitment to Community

Hanan’s dedication extends beyond the office; he is deeply involved in community service. His active roles on boards such as the Charles & Margery Barancik Foundation and All Faiths Food Bank reflect a commitment to improving the lives of Floridians. Jennifer Compton, Shumaker’s Managing Partner, commends Hanan’s unwavering professional excellence and his drive to contribute positively to Florida’s development.

His work centers on business and estate planning, bringing years of experience to the table. Being a certified public accountant, he expertly advises high-net-worth individuals on estate planning strategies. Throughout his career, Hanan has successfully navigated areas such as mergers and acquisitions, capital structuring, and entity formation. His previous positions, including Managing Partner of the Sarasota Office and Co-Chair of the firm’s Management Committee, underscore his strong leadership capabilities.

Leadership Development in Florida

Leadership Florida isn’t the only institution focusing on developing leadership skills in the state. The Florida Department of Education (FLDOE) has initiated several programs aimed at enhancing the leadership skills of educators. The Clinical Education Program Developer Academy (CEPDA) supports school personnel in developing effective clinical education training programs. Moreover, the Chancellor’s Leadership Academy (CLA) is designed for educational leaders, including principals and assistant principals, aiming to foster a shared vision of instructional leadership.

Such initiatives work hand in hand with programs like Leadership Florida’s Cornerstone Class, making waves in the community and the educational sector alike. The Florida Legislature’s William Cecil Golden School Leadership Development Program adds another layer, ensuring that emerging leaders are well-equipped to guide Florida’s schools effectively. With these resources, Florida is actively investing in the future of its leadership, ensuring that leaders like Hanan are prepared to lead with vision and integrity.

The engagement of leaders across sectors speaks volumes about the commitment to tackling state issues head-on. As Benjamin R. Hanan steps into this new chapter with Leadership Florida, there’s no doubt he and his peers will make significant strides in enhancing the quality of life throughout Florida.