Welcome to the Regional Perspective, where I share stories that bring the Orlando 2045 Vision to life and highlight the progress shaping our region’s future.
1) Regional Leadership Conference – We’re just two weeks away from the 2026 Regional Leadership Conference, and registration is filling up quickly. If you haven’t secured your spot, now is the time. This year’s speaker lineup includes an impressive mix of national and regional leaders including:
Karen Irwin, Universal Studios Orlando
Bret Perkins, Comcast
John E. Tyler, FDOT District 5 and SunRail
James Lima, JLP+D (James Lima Planning + Development)
Sheena Fowler, Orlando Economic Partnership
Carolina Cruz-Neira, University of Central Florida
Karl Melo, KPMG
Expect insights that explore innovation, economic mobility, and the future of our region. Register your table today.
2) Kay Rawlins retiring after 15 years of impact – Kay Rawlins, a beloved leader and co-founder of Orlando City SC and the Orlando Pride, is officially retiring today after 15 years of transformative service. Her influence on our sports community, youth initiatives, and charitable programs has left an extraordinary legacy that will continue to shape our region for years to come. I am so thankful to have gotten to know Kay, as have many of you. I can’t think of a better ambassador for Orlando!
3) Announcing Brooke Hill as Orlando Film Commissioner – We’re excited to promote our very own Brooke Hill to the role of Orlando Film Commissioner. Brooke has been leading our strategy for regional film, television, and digital media productions and overseeing our permitting operations. Her appointment strengthens our commitment to growing the creative economy and attracting major productions to the Orlando region. Link to press release.
4) OEP staff promotions – I’m also excited to announce the promotion of two team members whose work has contributed to the advancement of our Orlando 2045 vision and our economic development efforts. First, Sara Reynolds is now our Director of Research and Strategy. Sara was instrumental in launching our Top 30 MSA Comparison Tool, powered by Duke Energy and our talent gap report. Pedro de Melo Rodrigues, is now our Associate Director of Economic Development where he plays a key role in our economic development lead generation efforts, including our company proposals and foreign direct investment. Congratulations to both. Our OEP team is critical in delivering top-notch services and results for our investors and community.
5) Sheena Fowler named OBJ Women Who Mean Business honoree – A huge congratulations to Sheena Fowler, OEP VP of Innovation, who has been recognized by the Orlando Business Journal (OBJ) as one of the 2024 Women Who Mean Business. Her leadership in innovation and the creative ecosystem continues to elevate our region’s profile and economic opportunities. Other OEP investors honored include: Ekta Desai, SchenkelShultz, Monica Wonus, CBRE, Shannon Clark, Florida Citrus Sports, Jennifer De Salvo Haddad, UCF (UCF Global), and Lisa Messina, Visit Orlando. Read the full list here.
6) Share your thoughts on transportation in Central Florida – MetroPlan Orlando and UCF are conducting a regional transportation survey to understand the transportation needs of those traveling in Orange, Osceola, and Seminole counties. The survey is open until April 10th and can be accessed here.
Programs & Events
Regional Leadership Conference presented by Universal Orlando Resort // Mar. 27 // REGISTER TODAY
2026 Washington, D.C. Advocacy Trip presented by BakerHostetler & supported by TECO // May 19-21 // SAVE THE DATE (Open to OEP Investors at the Ambassador, Director, and Governors Council levels ONLY)
ICYMI
Orlando Featured on Major National & International Broadcasts: Visit Orlando recently secured two high-impact broadcast features on “The Kelly Clarkson Show” and Canadian Global News’ “The Morning Show.” These placements showcased the breadth of Orlando’s experiences from multigenerational travel, outdoor adventure, major attractions, to hidden gems, boosting visibility during the spring travel season and inspiring future visitation throughout 2026.
Orange County Commission Oks $35 million in bids for Olympics, NBA – Orlando Sentinel
Disneyland Resort president named Disney Experiences Chairman, to oversee Walt Disney World – Orlando Business Journal
AdventHealth plans downtown pedestrian bridge, 14-story hospital tower – Orlando Business Journal
Are we entering a new phase in how places promote themselves? – LinkedIn
Onward,
Tim Giuliani
ORLANDO ECONOMIC PARTNERSHIP