Our History
The Speakers Assembly Met A Community Need
In 1994 the Bonita Springs Area Chamber of Commerce brought together a group of community leaders and retired executives to discuss how retired talents and interest might benefit the community and provide additional opportunities for all residents. A group entitled the Leadership Council developed out of that session and the educational and cultural committee established an independent organization named the Bonita Springs Speakers Assembly.
Established in 1996 as a non-profit, non-partisan organization, the Bonita Springs Speakers Assembly was based on the concept of the ancient Greek forums. Thus its purpose was to assist in the development of an informed participatory citizenry. Community leaders and retired executives who were willing to use their professional connections to recruit distinguished speakers were asked to serve on a voluntary board of directors. Believing in the power of education, six local students were invited to participate in a private forum with each distinguished speaker. This student guest program was sponsored through local businesses. The charter membership goal of 200 was reached before the opening luncheon. Dave Thomas, founder & CEO of Wendy’s International, Inc drew an overflow crowd and set the benchmark for an ongoing series of distinguished speakers.
Thus, for the future, The Speakers Assembly of Southwest Florida is positioned to continue to be a pinnacle resource for cultural and educational enrichment within Southwest Florida.
In 1994 the Bonita Springs Area Chamber of Commerce brought together a group of community leaders and retired executives to discuss how retired talents and interest might benefit the community and provide additional opportunities for all residents. A group entitled the Leadership Council developed out of that session and the educational and cultural committee established an independent organization named the Bonita Springs Speakers Assembly.
Established in 1996 as a non-profit, non-partisan organization, the Bonita Springs Speakers Assembly was based on the concept of the ancient Greek forums. Thus its purpose was to assist in the development of an informed participatory citizenry. Community leaders and retired executives who were willing to use their professional connections to recruit distinguished speakers were asked to serve on a voluntary board of directors. Believing in the power of education, six local students were invited to participate in a private forum with each distinguished speaker. This student guest program was sponsored through local businesses. The charter membership goal of 200 was reached before the opening luncheon. Dave Thomas, founder & CEO of Wendy’s International, Inc drew an overflow crowd and set the benchmark for an ongoing series of distinguished speakers.
Thus, for the future, The Speakers Assembly of Southwest Florida is positioned to continue to be a pinnacle resource for cultural and educational enrichment within Southwest Florida.