Leading into the Future: Our Board

With grit, authenticity, and a profound commitment to community, our board of directors steers Gulf Coast Community Foundation (Gulf Coast) toward bold, lasting impact. Today, I take a moment to express my deep gratitude to a dedicated leader who has guided our Board of Directors with generosity and vision, and to welcome new members whose expertise and passion will shape our path forward.

Dave Sessions has graciously completed two terms as Chair of our Board of Directors. His leadership has helped Gulf Coast grow stronger, act boldly, and serve our region with steadfast purpose. David’s calm presence, thoughtful perspective, and unwavering commitment to community have inspired us all. Under his leadership, Gulf Coast helped trailblaze transformative regional initiatives—from establishing the Rapid Response Fund following the 2024 hurricane season (and awarding its first grant hours before Hurricane Milton’s landfall), to celebrating the opening of Heroes’ Village, Sarasota’s first permanently affordable housing for veterans. These milestones, along with continued investments in affordable housing, mental health, education, workforce development, and arts and culture, reflect the powerful collaboration and forward-thinking leadership that defined his tenure. Dave has led with humility and heart, and we are profoundly grateful for his service.

As we look to the future, we are thrilled to welcome three exceptional leaders to our Board of Directors: Deb Kabinoff, Elizabeth Moore, and Dr. Gail Morrison Morganroth. Each brings a unique lens and strong dedication to this community. With a deep-rooted passion for expanding access to affordable housing, Deb Kabinoff is a thoughtful changemaker whose philanthropic work also uplifts education, creativity, and community growth—values at the heart of Gulf Coast’s mission. Elizabeth Moore, an environmental champion and civic leader, brings a commitment to sustainability that will enrich our strategic vision. Dr. Gail Morrison Morganroth, a longtime physician and advocate for health equity, offers valuable insights as we continue to invest in wellness across our region. Together, these dynamic women broaden the range of skills and lived experience guiding our foundation.

Anand Pallegar is stepping into the role of Board Chair after nearly a decade of service to Gulf Coast. Throughout his tenure, Anand has been a powerful catalyst, championing big-picture thinking, bold ideas, and innovative solutions. As a board member, he has helped guide Gulf Coast through some of its most transformative work. During this time, the foundation has made nearly $600 million in total philanthropic impact. Anand worked alongside fellow board members, elected officials, and the broader community to help bring The Bay Park from vision to reality. This once-in-a-generation project is transforming nearly 53 acres of bayfront property into a resilient and welcoming blue-and-green oasis for all to enjoy. He is joined in leadership by Vice Chair Rose-Anne Frano, whose strategic mindset, grit, and deep community ties have strengthened our board and amplified our reach. Together, Anand and Rose-Anne exemplify the thoughtful, forward-focused leadership that propels Gulf Coast to dream bigger and do more.

As Gulf Coast embarks on a new fiscal year, we are energized by what lies ahead. This moment of transition is not simply about change, it’s about momentum. With this dynamic board and talented staff, we are ready to deepen our work, listen more closely to our community, and pursue the kind of innovative, long-term solutions that create lasting impact.

The challenges facing our region are complex, but so is the potential. Guided by thoughtful leadership and a shared commitment to collaboration, authenticity, and curiosity we are prepared to meet this moment and shape a future where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.