Thrive
Leadership St. Pete celebrates 55 years
Since 1970, the Leadership St. Pete program has brought together more than 1,600 business professionals and taught them the skills necessary to not only further their careers, but to bring about positive change in the community. One of the oldest such leadership programs in the nation, LSP is operated by the St. Petersburg Area Chamber of Commerce.
The program will celebrate its 55th anniversary April 17 with a celebration for alumni, at Coastal Creative.
Each year, a new class of 35 to 40 is recruited to experience six months of seminars, workshops and other leadership development programs, in order to educate and stimulate creative thinking, preparing them to participate fully in both business and civic matters.
Jenna Stock Wunsch
Jenna Stock Wunsch, Director of Communications at Raymond James, is Chair of the LSP class of 2025. She graduated with the class of 2021, and in each intervening year served on the planning committee.
“My biggest takeaway from the program is the incredible relationship-building. The network and lifelong friendships you foster and continue to cultivate over the years are invaluable,” Wunsch said. “Every class brings together business leaders from diverse backgrounds, professions, industries and career levels, truly representing the vibrancy of our community.”
Wunsch’s own success in the financial world, she believes, is proof that Leadership St. Pete, with its myriad training programs, works.
“I’ve experienced tremendous growth as a leader through my involvement with LSP and within my organization. The leadership training I received during the program was pivotal in developing my team and expanding my role on our corporate communications team.”
She was pleased to be nominated to chair the 2025 class. “Chairing the 2025 class is an honor. It’s a significant responsibility, but I am fortunate to have an incredible 27-person planning committee, all graduates from various years. Together, we’re dedicated to making this the best possible experience for the class.”
Along with the eight to nine seminars, training exercises, work retreats and social events, every class participates in a community project, helping to renovate and revitalize some aspect of a local nonprofit.
The class of 2025 elected to help the Infinite Potential Learning Academy, in South St. Pete. On May 17, the group will enhance upgrade the school’s grounds, including a basketball court, a multi-purpose field, a workout and meditation area and a new playground set.
“What sets our program apart is the hands-on experience of the community project – the class’ legacy in the community. For five to six months, the class is deeply focused on fundraising, planning events, marketing and designing the scope of the capital improvement project,” said Wunsch.
“The nonprofit outlines its wishes, but the class is responsible for bringing their vision to life, creating a space that will benefit the community for years to come.”
In February, the philanthropic organization 100 Women Who Care donated $19,400 towards Leadership St. Pete’s Infinite Potential Learning Academy project.
Ideally, with regard to LSP graduates, what happens in St. Pete, stays in St. Pete. “While there’s no commitment to stay in St. Pete,” Wunsch laughed, “we hope our graduates do.”
“Many choose to remain because they want to give back and contribute to the evolution of our community. Throughout the program, they learn about ways to get involved after graduation, ensuring their contributions to our city continue long after the program ends.”
For information on Leadership St. Pete, including the 55th anniversary celebration, visit the website.
