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The Northeast Florida Regional Council (NEFRC) is proud to announce the 2025 Regional Awards for Excellence winners, recognizing the extraordinary people, projects, and partnerships shaping a stronger, more vibrant Northeast Florida. The winners will be formally celebrated at the Regional Awards for Excellence & Elected Officials Luncheon on Thursday, January 8, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. at WJCT studios, and you are invited to join us.

Every year, the Council brings together regional leaders, innovators, and community organizations, to showcase the extraordinary work happening across our seven-county region: Baker, Clay, Duval, Flagler, Nassau, Putnam, and St. Johns. The Awards Luncheon is a celebration of collaboration, innovation, and commitment to regionalism, from conservation to emergency preparedness, public safety, resiliency, and historic preservation. The honorees represent what’s possible when communities come together with purpose, vision, and passion.

The following organizations or individuals are being recognized for Regional Excellence in:

  ~ Special Recognition: Jessica Beach & Anne Coglianese, Co-chairs, Resilient First Coast Collaborative

  ~ Cultural & Historic Preservation: Community Planning Collaborative for the Durkeeville Revitalization Study

  ~ Economic Development: Putnam County Chamber of Commerce

  ~ Environmental Stewardship: Flagler County Acquisition and Management of Environmentally Sensitive Lands

  ~ Healthcare Emergency Preparedness: Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville Flood Mitigation Project

  ~ Planning & Growth Management: Nassau County Vision 2050

  ~ Public Safety: St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office Tactical Training Facility

  ~ Quality of Life: Baker County Community Organizations Active in Disaster (COAD)

  ~ Resiliency: City of Fernandina Beach Adaptation Plan

  ~ Tourism: Clay County Tourism Wheel the World

  ~ Regional Leadership: Rev. Allison DeFoor, North Florida Land Trust

Alongside the recognition of our 2025 award recipients, the ceremony will include special remembrances honoring individuals whose extraordinary service and leadership have left a lasting impact on our region. 

Every year, the Regional Awards underscore the value of regional collaboration. They highlight the work being done, often quietly and behind the scenes, that strengthens our economy, protects natural resources, enhances public services, and improves daily life for residents in the Region.

This event is an opportunity to:

  ~  Celebrate those who hold elected office and serve our community

  ~  Learn about inspiring projects improving our region

  ~  Connect with local colleagues, partner organizations, and community leaders

  ~  Build momentum for the work that continues in 2026 and beyond

Join us for the Celebration

Regional Awards for Excellence & Elected Officials Luncheon

Date: Thursday, January 8, 2026

Time: 12:00 PM

Location WJCT Studios, Jacksonville, FL

Registration is required. Please RSVP Here!

Help us celebrate the individuals and organizations who are shaping Northeast Florida’s future. Bring colleagues, community partners, and friends as we honor their work and continue Bringing Communities Together.