2026 | Florida’s Growth and Development
Committee Members
- Chair: Raina Fan
- Co-Chair: Tanvi Shah
- Research Committee: Erin Nadel (Director), Velan Thanasekar, Maria Igarza, Rahil Zaveri
- Marketing and Communications Committee: Anjali Fedewa (Director), Allison Fowler, Anyelis Montano
- Logistics Committee: Kayla Bello (Director), Aamina Al-Yahia
Executive Summary
by Chair, Raina Fan
The 2026 Future of Florida Summit took place at the University of Florida, January 30 – February 1, 2026, at the Hilton University of Florida Conference Center and Pugh Hall. 80 students selected from across the state of Florida attended the 2026 FOF Summit on the Florida’s growth and development representing 17 colleges and universities. The 2026 FOF Summit included an online public policy workshop and development session on Sunday, January 25, 2026.
Florida’s Growth and Development Panel Topics
- Environment
- Public Health
- Economic Development
- Culture
Environment
With increased population growth, Florida’s land is in high demand. This expansion can bring opportunities, but it also puts pressure on natural systems through habitat loss, pollution, and impacts on water quality and quantity. Balancing the needs of people with the protection of ecosystems is one of the state’s most pressing challenges. This panel will explore strategies and policies to manage growth in ways that safeguard Florida’s environment while meeting the demands of its growing population.
Panelists: Elise Bennett || Thomas Hawkins || Paul Owens
Public Health
Rapid growth brings both opportunities and challenges for public health. Expanding populations can support new hospitals, services, and healthier economies, but they also put pressure on food and healthcare systems. Socioeconomic status, geographical distribution, and cultural identity often affect differential access to opportunities and resources. Rapid development can contribute to environmental pressures such as extreme heat or polluted waterways, creating new challenges for public health systems. This panel will explore how leaders can manage growth and development in ways that strengthen health systems, reduce disparities, and build more resilient communities across the state.
Panelists: Dr. Laura Guyer || Dr. Ross Jones|| Jerne J. Shapiro
Economic Development
Growth in Florida fuels economic vitality and attracts new businesses and talent, yet it also raises important questions about affordability, infrastructure, and quality of life. This panel will invite us to weigh the benefits and challenges of economic development and explore how policy can guide growth that serves all Floridians.
Panelists: Stephanie Toothaker || Jim Shimberg || Dan Hurtado
Culture
Florida has many different cultural groups, each with its own traditions and languages. These influences have spread across the state, shaping the character of its regions. As Florida’s population grows, planners and developers face the challenge of balancing cultural preservation with ongoing development. Historic landmarks and long-standing communities are at risk of gentrification, displacement, and changes to their cultural identity. At the same time, thoughtful planning can create opportunities to protect traditions and strengthen neighborhoods. This panel will explore how development and preservation interact to shape cultural identity and heritage in Florida.
Panelists: Dr. Kelly Kinahan || Earl Bosworth || Ashlee Thomas
Public Policy Workshop
Dr. Teresa Cornacchione, Lecturer and Civic Engagement Coordinator, Bob Graham Center for Public Service
Dr. Eryn Jones, Analyst at Florida House of Representatives
Friday Dinner Douglas A. Wright Keynote
Galina Tachieva, Managing Partner and Author / DPZ CoDESIGN, LLC
Saturday Lunch Douglas A. Wright Keynote
Paul Owens, President / 1000 Friends of Florida