Through the Public Leadership Institute, the Orlando Economic Partnership is training the next generation of leaders for Central Florida’s future
Orlando, Fla. — The Public Leadership Institute (PLI), an initiative of the Orlando Economic Partnership (OEP), has officially welcomed its 2025 Political Leadership Class — a new cohort of business-minded leaders preparing to take the next step in public service.
Formerly known as the Political Leadership Institute, PLI has expanded its mission and curriculum to now include two distinct, nonpartisan tracks designed to develop Central Florida’s next generation of civic and political leaders:
- Political Leadership Track – Designed for aspiring elected leaders who are exploring candidacy for public office within the next five years.
- Civic Leadership Track – A new pathway for leaders who want to influence public policy as advocates, board members, or community connectors without pursuing office.
Each track features three full-day sessions with access to prominent local, state, and national speakers, covering topics such as campaign readiness, public policy, media and communications, leadership ethics, and civic engagement. The program culminates in a joint policy briefing and graduation reception in early 2026.
The Political Leadership Track, an evolution of CFPLI program, prepares aspiring elected leaders who are serious about exploring candidacy for political office within the next five years. No commitment is required to run for office; rather, the non-partisan program is designed for individuals who are actively exploring opportunities.
“Preparing business and community leaders to step confidently into public life is essential to Orlando’s future,” said Bob O’Malley, OEP’s SVP of Government Affairs.
The Public Leadership Institute equips participants with the tools, networks, and understanding needed to lead effectively and collaboratively — ensuring decisions that shape our region reflect a broad range of voices and perspectives.
Bob O’Malley, OEP’s SVP of Government Affairs
Participants are selected through a competitive application and interview process, based on their leadership experience, community involvement, and commitment to public service.
The 2025 Political Leadership Class joins a growing network of PLI alumni who have gone on to serve on local boards, commissions, and in elected office, strengthening civic leadership across the Orlando region.
PLI Political Leadership Track Participants:
| Bob Moser | Business Development Consultant |
| Chad Jones | Managing Principal, PBK |
| Charlie Plaza | Vice President, Vystar Credit Union |
| Darrell DeLoatch | CEO/Founder, Darrell Andre DeLoatch Enterprises |
| Declan McGinty | Attorney, Fisher Rushmer, P.A. |
| Elizabeth Garcia | Head of People Operations, North America & Latin America – Ascendion Inc |
| Eric Grimmer | Attorney Advisor, Social Security Administration |
| Heather Isaacs | Senior Principle, Dix.Hite + Partners |
| Jacob Ballard | Planner II, City of Orlando |
| James Krawczyk | Director of Operations, Water Sports Industry Association |
| Joshua Pickett | Manager of Business Development, Space Florida |
| Juana De La Cruz | Self Employed, Premier Notary |
| Kathleen John | Legislative Aide to the Honorable Senator Brodeur, Florida Senate |
| Marquise McMiller | Senior Director of Government Relations, Orange County Public Schools |
| Mindi Hertzog | Senior Cluster Manager, The Florida High Tech Corridor |
| Tim Casey | Advisor, Consultant, Fractional CEO – Self Employed |
| Trina Gregory | Owner/Founder, Se7en Bites |