Celebrating Trailblazers: The 2025 Emerald Awards Honor Women Leaders in Southeast Florida

A Night of Inspiration and Recognition

Imagine a room filled with over 200 people, all gathered to celebrate the achievements of women who have not only excelled in their professional lives but have also made significant contributions to their communities. This was the scene at the Girl Scouts of Southeast Florida's Emerald Awards in Broward County. The event not only honored these incredible women but also raised more than $110,000 to support programs that inspire girls to become changemakers in their communities and beyond.

Lifetime Achievement in Philanthropy: Rita Case

Rita Case stood out among the honorees, celebrated for her generous spirit and impactful philanthropic work. As the president and CEO of the nation's largest retail automotive group owned and operated by a woman, she has not only led with business acumen but also with a heart for giving back. Her initiatives have generated over $100 million for local organizations, supporting children and families in need.

Trailblazers in Their Fields

1. Alisa Bert, a leader in healthcare finance, has broken gender barriers and spearheaded initiatives that have significantly improved the financial health of Broward Health.

2. Rebecca Bratter has driven growth and strategy at Greenspoon Marder while founding Kids Can, a nonprofit that encourages children to embrace volunteerism.

3. Cindy Mason is a champion for healthcare and community service in Broward County, using her leadership roles to impact positively on youth empowerment and equity.

4. Julie Price, through nearly four decades at Arc Broward, has dedicated her career to advancing inclusion and equity for individuals with disabilities, proving the power of persistence and passion.

More Than Just an Award Ceremony

The event transcended the usual award ceremony format, providing an engaging platform for the honorees to share their journeys and insights. A lively panel discussion, led by emcee Katie Phang, allowed guests to delve into the experiences and motivations that drive these women to lead with vision and heart. The silent auction and honoree recognition further underscored the importance of supporting and celebrating female leadership and philanthropy.

Empowering the Next Generation

What stood out about the Emerald Awards was not just the celebration of achievements but the reaffirmation of the Girl Scouts' mission to empower young girls. Lisa Johnson, CEO of the Girl Scouts of Southeast Florida, encapsulated the evening's spirit by highlighting the role of these honorees as role models for young women. They exemplify what it means to dream big, find one's voice, and create meaningful change.

Supporting a Brighter Future

The success of the Emerald Awards, underscored by the generous support from community sponsors and the funds raised, reflects a community committed to investing in the future of young girls. Organizations like Girl Scouts of Southeast Florida are essential in providing safe, supportive environments where girls can learn, lead, and thrive.

As we celebrate these women's achievements, we're reminded of the impact that leadership, philanthropy, and a commitment to community can have. It's through events like the Emerald Awards and the efforts of organizations like the Girl Scouts that we can inspire the next generation of confident, capable, and compassionate leaders.