Welcome to the Orlando Regional Perspective, where I share stories that bring the Orlando 2045 Vision to life and highlight the progress shaping our region’s future.

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1) Florida’s shifting growth dynamics – A recent Wall Street Journal analysis of Florida’s changing migration patterns reinforces a trend we are monitoring closely. The article notes that Orlando joined Miami, Naples, and Panama City in experiencing a net loss of domestic migrants in 2024, concentrated among residents age 44 and under, with overall population growth sustained only by international migration. Our 2025 Orlando Talent Report: Closing the Gap was cited directly, highlighting a demographic shift in which younger, working-age residents are increasingly replaced by older arrivals less connected to the labor force. The reporting underscores that affordability pressures now extend well beyond housing, as rising rents, insurance, and cost-of-living increases have outpaced wage growth, leaving 45% of regional households financially insecure. Coupled with data showing a growing share of Floridians living paycheck to paycheck and considering leaving the state, this serves as a clear signal that Florida’s traditional growth model is under strain and strengthens the case for continued focus on higher-wage industry diversification, housing attainability, and more intentional regional placemaking. Read the full story. 

2) Grateful for Fred Kittinger’s enduring impact on our region – Fred Kittinger’s retirement from UCF marks the close of an extraordinary chapter for both the university and the Orlando region. Throughout his career, Fred has been a steadfast champion for economic growth, consistently serving as a trusted partner for the business and civic community. His leadership helped align UCF’s academic and research strengths with the needs of employers and emerging industries, strengthening the region’s talent pipeline and innovation capacity. Through collaboration, strategic vision, and a deep commitment to regional prosperity, Fred, who served as a Leadership Orlando Chair, played a meaningful role in advancing Central Florida’s economic competitiveness, leaving a legacy that will be felt well beyond his tenure. Thank you Fred, for all you’ve done and congratulations on your retirement. Read more. 

3) Calling all Leadership Orlando alumni – We invite you to stay connected to the Leadership Orlando community by joining the Leadership Orlando Alumni Association. As an alum, you are part of a powerful network of leaders committed to strengthening our region, and the Alumni Association offers meaningful opportunities to reconnect, grow, and give back. Through exclusive events, professional development, community impact initiatives, and peer engagement, the Association helps you continue the Leadership Orlando experience long after your class year. Join us and help shape the future of leadership in Central Florida, together. Learn more.

4) NEW EPISODE: “The City Playbook” featuring Bret Perkins – In this episode of “The City Playbook”, I sit down with Bret Perkins, Senior Vice President, Community Growth & Economic Development at Comcast, to explore how civic leadership shapes the future of cities like Orlando and communities across the United States. Drawing from decades of experience working across more than 6,000 cities and towns, Bret shares powerful insights on civic responsibility, community engagement, and the importance of building strong civic infrastructure. My favorite part is when we talk about “civic infrastructure” and how systems within a city work together and why local engagement matters more than ever in a global economy. If you’re a business leader, policymaker, entrepreneur, or someone who cares about the future of your city, this episode will challenge you to rethink your role, and step into it. Like, subscribe and share now.  

5) Strengthening our civic leadership pipeline – Last week, we kicked off the 2026 Public Leadership Institute (PLI), civic track, marking another important step in building Central Florida’s civic leadership pipeline. This class brings together 26 professionals from business, nonprofit, and community sectors who are committed to understanding the policymaking process and engaging effectively in public leadership and advocacy. The new class was welcomed by Tony Massey, president and CEO of Massey Services. Massey Services serves as the presenting sponsor of PLI. Since the launch of PLI, more than 30 graduates have gone on to serve in elected office, underscoring the long-term value of investing in informed, business-minded leaders who help shape our region’s future. Read more and see the photos here.

Programs & Events

2026 Washington, D.C. Advocacy Trip presented by BakerHostetler & supported by TECO // May 19-21 // REGISTER TODAY (Open to OEP Investors at the Ambassador, Director, and Governors Council levels ONLY)

ICYMI

County to take next step in training facility upgrade at Osceola Heritage Park – Click Orlando 
  
Miami developer secures bridge loan for Disney-area apartment project – Orlando Sentinel