Country Club Living - Palm Beach North - June 2026

4 C O U N T R Y C L U B L I V I N G - PA L M B E A C H N O R T H | J U N E 2 0 2 6 Community Recognizing the Leaders Driving PalmBeach North Forward - By Noel Martinez, Chair, Florida Association of Chamber Professionals; President & CEO, Palm Beach North Chamber of Commerce - - Photos provided by Palm Beach North Chamber of Commerce - I n a region growing as quickly as Palm Beach North, it’s easy to focus on the metrics: new businesses, new residents, economic growth. But behind all of that are people. People who are building companies, leading organizations, mentoring others, and quietly shaping the future of our community every single day. That’s what our Leadership Awards Dinner is all about. Each year, the Palm Beach North Chamber of Commerce takes a moment to recognize the individuals and organizations that are not only achieving success but doing it in a way that lifts others up along the way. These are leaders who understand that real impact extends far beyond their own business or role; it reaches into the community. This year’s honorees reflect that in every sense. Philippe Jeck was honored with the Gaeta Chairman’s Award of Excellence, the highest honor of the evening, recognizing his exceptional leadership, community impact, and longstanding contributions to Palm Beach North. Business of the Year was awarded to Lesser, Landy, Smith & Siegel Florida Injury Lawyers, an organization that continues to set the standard not only in their field but in how they show up for the community. Pam Rauch was named Ed Tanner Community Leader of the Year, recognized for her unwavering commitment to service and her ability to bring people together around meaningful initiatives. The Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties was honored as Nonprofit of the Year, a testament to their impact in strengthening the region through philanthropy and partnership. Sarah’s Slow Jam was named Small Business of the Year, a reminder that passion, creativity, and connection are often at the heart of the businesses that shape our local identity. Cotleur & Hearing received Sustainable Business of the Year, reflecting their leadership in balancing growth with long-term environmental responsibility. And Katie Thompson was recognized as Young Professional of the Year, representing the next generation of leadership that is already making a meaningful impact across Palm Beach North. What stands out is how each of these leaders shows up. They collaborate. They lean in. They take ownership. They do not wait for someone else to solve problems. Whether it is supporting workforce initiatives, investing in education, or helping shape the future of our region, they are actively engaged. That is the kind of leadership our community needs right now. Because as Palm Beach North continues to grow, the challenges become more complex, from workforce and housing to mobility and overall quality of life. These are not issues one organization can solve alone. It takes leaders who are willing to think regionally and work together. That is a big part of what we are working toward through our strategic plan. We have brought together 11 municipalities and a wide range of partners around a shared vision for the future of this region, and while plans are important, progress ultimately comes down to people. The kind of people we recognize through these awards. The Leadership Awards are more than a celebration. They are a reminder of what’s possible when the right people are at the table, aligned around a common goal. They also give us a chance to tell our story. Palm Beach North is home to incredible talent and leadership. We don’t always talk about it enough. Events like this help shine a light on the individuals who are driving meaningful progress and help reinforce why this region continues to stand out. At the end of the day, strong communities are built by strong leaders, and we’re fortunate to have many of them right here in Palm Beach North. To learn more or to be part of this work, visit pbnedfoundation.org.