Youngest-Ever President Takes Helm of Florida League of Women Voters!

Orlando, Florida, USA - In a bold move that marks a new chapter for the League of Women Voters of Florida (LWVFL), Jessica Lowe-Minor has been elected as the youngest president in the organization’s history. At just 41 years old, she takes the helm of this 104-year-old nonprofit, which is committed to empowering voters and protecting democracy through nonpartisan advocacy. This monumental decision was made during the league’s 40th Biennial State Convention held in Orlando over the past weekend, where Lowe-Minor shared her vision for the future with her family cheering her on from the audience, including her husband, Leon County Commissioner Rick Minor, and their two young daughters.

Lowe-Minor brings with her a wealth of experience, having served as the Executive Director of LWVFL from 2010 to 2014, where she significantly boosted both revenue by 167% and membership by 31%. Additionally, she has held three terms on the national League of Women Voters board, including a tenure as Vice President from 2020 to 2022. Lowe-Minor’s dedication to education runs deep—she has taught at both Florida State University and Tallahassee State College, and holds a master’s degree in women and gender studies from Florida State University.

A Focus on Voter Education and Empowerment

As she steps into her new role, Lowe-Minor emphasizes the critical need to protect Floridians‘ freedoms in the face of rising authoritarian threats. Her agenda spotlights the importance of voter education, particularly in combating misinformation that can cloud the democratic process. The League aims to create fair and accessible election systems, ensuring all communities are represented and have their voices heard, a sentiment Lowe-Minor firmly supports. “The League is inclusive and serves all communities in Florida,” she remarks.

This year, the League also saw an impressive lineup of new board leaders alongside Lowe-Minor: Barbara Lanning from Orlando as First Vice President, Cynthia Cave from Riverview as Second Vice President, and Monica Elliott from Southwest Ranches as Treasurer. Other notable board members include Shayna Rich from Gainesville as Secretary and Cathy Swerdlow from Longwood as Director, among others. This diverse leadership team will support Lowe-Minor through her term, which runs through June 2027.

The Significance of Nonpartisan Advocacy

The League of Women Voters has a storied reputation for nonpartisanship, which not only bolsters public trust but also allows the organization to host candidate debates and forums across all levels of government, from city councils to state-wide elections. In its longstanding mission, the League plays a vital role in the democratic ecosystem, helping voters assess candidates and participate meaningfully in elections. As noted in the League’s history, it has been recognized for outstanding achievements, winning an Emmy award in 1976 for its efforts in broadcast journalism. These forums are essential for ensuring that voters have the information they need to make informed choices.

The road ahead is promising for both Lowe-Minor and the League. With her strong background and commitment to inclusive democracy, Florida’s voters can expect a vigorous defense of their rights and access to the tools necessary for effective participation in the electoral process. As this young leader embarks on her journey, one thing is clear: there’s a bright future for the League of Women Voters in Florida.

For more insights into the League’s initiatives, visit lwv.org or read more about Lowe-Minor’s election at tallahassee.com and floridapolitics.com.