Scheduled for November 16\u201317, 2026, TIDES will bring together public- and private-sector leaders to build international partnerships, expand economic opportunity, and showcase Tampa\u2019s growing global influence. On the Host Committee, Ron will work alongside civic and business leaders to provide strategic guidance and engage organizations that reflect the region\u2019s international reach.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe Tampa International Diplomacy and Exchange Summit is designed to showcase Tampa\u2019s growing international role while creating opportunities for meaningful collaboration across business, education, diplomacy, culture, and innovation,\u201d said Tampa Mayor Jane Castor. \u201cRon\u2019s leadership will be a meaningful addition to the TIDES Host Committee as we work together to elevate Tampa\u2019s position as a globally connected city.\u201d<\/p>\n
A longtime champion of economic development and community leadership, Ron has helped advance many of Tampa Bay\u2019s transformative initiatives, partnering with business leaders, public officials, and nonprofit organizations to attract investment, support entrepreneurship, and raise the region\u2019s national profile. His work includes playing a central role in efforts to retain Major League Baseball and the Tampa Bay Rays in the region and strengthening Tampa Bay\u2019s global connections through international relations, including sister city relationships in Ireland and Italy.<\/p>\n
Deeply invested in Florida\u2019s civic, cultural, and economic development, Ron currently serves as Chair of the Tampa Bay Economic Development Council and the Tampa Museum of Art, Vice Chair of New College of Florida, and Chair of Moffitt Cancer Center\u2019s Hope Innovation District. He previously chaired Leadership Florida and the Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce and was instrumental in establishing the African American Arts and Cultural Center. His community leadership also includes roles with The Spring of Tampa Bay, AMI Kids, the Business Committee for the Arts, and the City of Tampa\u2019s Cultural Assets Commission.<\/p>\n
Viewed as a leader nationally and across Florida, Ron has earned honors that include being named to the Tampa Bay Business Journal\u2019s Power 100 for six consecutive years, one of the Nation\u2019s 100 Most Influential Attorneys by The Business Journals, a Florida Trend 2025 Florida 500 recipient, a 2025 Tampa Bay Titan 100 honoree, as well as repeated inclusion in Best Lawyers in America and prior recognition by Florida Trend among Florida\u2019s Top 100 Lawyers.<\/p>\n
The TIDES Host Committee will provide strategic leadership, visibility, and community engagement while helping ensure the summit represents the full breadth of Tampa\u2019s business, educational, cultural, and diplomatic communities.<\/p>\n
\u201cThroughout my career, I have seen how strong relationships and international collaboration drive economic growth and create lasting opportunities for our community,\u201d said Ron. \u201cTampa has emerged as one of the country\u2019s most dynamic business markets, and TIDES offers an important opportunity to showcase our region\u2019s innovation, talent, and global connectivity. I am honored to support an initiative that will strengthen Tampa\u2019s international presence for years to come.\u201d<\/p>\n
The inaugural summit is expected to attract leaders in international trade, diplomacy, higher education, sustainability, innovation, and cultural exchange, further positioning Tampa as a globally connected city and gateway for international partnerships.<\/p>\n
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