NEWS RELEASE
For Immediate Release
Contact:
Tara Crary
Connect Advertising Agency, Inc. for Downtown Orlando Partnership
407-770-7724
taracrary@hotmail.com
Downtown Orlando Partnership Announces 2025 Board of Directors and Board of Trustees
ORLANDO, Fla. (January 15, 2025) – The Downtown Orlando Partnership (DOP) is proud to announce the election of its new Board of Directors and the designation of its Board of Trustees for 2025. This group of esteemed professionals will lead the organization as it continues its mission to strengthen and support the downtown Orlando business community. The DOP is committed to maintaining a diverse representation of industries and thought leadership, reflecting the multidisciplinary nature of businesses in downtown Orlando. The newest members are as follows and round out DOP’s 29 person Board of Directors and 9 person Board of Trustees:
2025 Board Members:
2025 Board of Trustees:
2025 Executive Committee:
- more -
- Continued -
This announcement reflects DOP’s ongoing commitment to fostering leadership and collaboration among a diverse group of professionals dedicated to the continued growth and development of downtown Orlando. The board members bring a wealth of experience and expertise that will guide the DOP in its initiatives for 2025 and beyond.
The Board of Trustees was established in 2024 as part of the Downtown Orlando Partnership’s continued growth and expansion. The DOP Board of Directors appointed the Board of Trustees to provide strategic guidance and support for the organization, ensuring that the DOP remains connected to its rich history while advancing its vision for the future. The Board of Trustees comprises former DOP board members and other community leaders with a wealth of experience, further strengthening the organization’s ability to drive forward its mission.
“We are excited to welcome our new board members and trustees, whose unique backgrounds will bring fresh perspectives and valuable insight to our work. Their expertise in marketing, development, corporate affairs, and non-profit leadership will be instrumental in advancing DOP’s mission,” said Jill Vaughan, President and CEO of the Downtown Orlando Partnership.
The Downtown Orlando Partnership serves as a leading voice for businesses in downtown Orlando, advocating for growth, innovation, and the development of vibrant, connected communities. Through its initiatives and collaborative efforts, DOP continues to promote a thriving downtown Orlando that supports both local businesses and the broader Central Florida region.
“We’re especially proud to expand our leadership team and to work with such committed professionals who share our vision for the continued success of downtown Orlando. Our new directors and trustees will help position the DOP to remain at the forefront of Orlando’s dynamic business and community landscape,” said Paul Drayton, DOP 2025 Board Chair.
A full list of the DOP’s Board of Directors can be found at: https://www.doporlando.com/board-of-directors/
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About The Downtown Orlando Partnership
The Downtown Orlando Partnership (DOP) was founded in 1961 and is the only organization that focuses specifically on Downtown Orlando’s business community. The DOP offers more than 220 corporate members a single point of access to connect, collaborate, and contribute to the growth of this vital hub of business. Members represent the diversity of size and scope that makes Downtown Orlando a vibrant beacon of development in Central Florida. The mission of the Downtown Orlando Partnership is to enhance business and community relationships through collaborative events and initiatives. To learn more about how your organization can get involved, visit: doporlando.com.
DOP's New 2025 Board of Directors
Marcela DeFaria
Vice President of Development, CareerSource Central Florida
Marcela DeFaria is Vice President of Development at CareerSource Central Florida, where she leads business development and cultivates strategic community partnerships to advance workforce development initiatives. Prior to this role, she served as Director of Advancement at UCF, overseeing fundraising and alumni engagement. With a strong background in higher education fundraising and a proven track record in building impactful partnerships, Marcela brings valuable experience to CareerSource Central Florida, where she is dedicated to strengthening the region's workforce.
David Duncan
Vice President of Marketing, Communications, and Public Relations, Orlando Credit Union
David Duncan leads Marketing, Public Relations, and Internal Communications for Orlando Credit Union. He is responsible for developing and executing integrated marketing strategies, defining key performance indicators, and creating compelling brand experiences. With a successful track record of launching and nurturing brands at leading organizations such as Oracle, SAP, and TD Bank, David leverages data-driven insights and innovative approaches to drive customer acquisition, enhance member engagement, and achieve business goals. He thrives in fast-paced environments and is passionate about delivering impactful marketing solutions that enable financial betterment for Orlando Credit Union members.
Nick Lamberti
VP of Sales, Commercial and Hospitality, Hotwire Communications
Nick Lamberti is a proven leader with a track record of driving growth at Hotwire Communications as Vice President of Sales. He leverages a visionary approach to expand Hotwire's brand presence and secure high-profile projects across the commercial and hospitality sectors. Nick ensures exceptional service delivery and customer satisfaction by overseeing national sales and collaborating with cross-functional teams. A dedicated industry advocate, he shares his expertise on telecom innovation at networking events. Nick's leadership has been instrumental in solidifying Hotwire's position as a premier telecom provider.
Dan Pollock
Regional Director, Corporate External Affairs, AT&T
Dan Pollock is the Regional Director for External & Legislative Affairs for AT&T in Central Florida. With over 25 years of experience in Florida politics, he has served as a legislative aide, campaign manager, and a successful contract lobbyist representing a diverse range of clients. He joined AT&T in 2016, bringing his extensive political and legislative expertise to the company. Active in the Central Florida community, Pollock serves on several boards, including the Orlando Economic Partnership and the Seminole Regional Chamber of Commerce. He is also passionate about mentoring youth through programs like Big Brothers Big Sisters and Valencia’s Promise.
DOP's New 2025 Board of Trustees
Leo Alvarez
CFO, CareerSource Central Florida
Leo Alvarez serves as Vice President, Chief Financial Officer at CareerSource Central Florida, where he oversees all financial operations, including budgeting, planning, and risk management. With a strong background in accounting and finance, Leo brings extensive experience from both public and private sectors. Prior to joining CSCF, he served as Accounting Manager for Lutheran Services of Florida. He is a respected leader recognized for his fiscal expertise and commitment to community service, having been named one of Orlando's top C-Suite Executives.
Beth Hobart
Realtor, Mainframe Real Estate
Beth is a top-ranking Realtor in Central Florida with a proven track record of success, consistently achieving over $30 million in annual sales volume. Known for her exceptional service, she prioritizes building long-term relationships with clients and goes above and beyond to ensure their satisfaction. A respected community leader, Beth serves on various boards and is passionate about giving back. She has been recognized as the #1 selling agent at Mainframe Real Estate for multiple years and voted Best Realtor in Orlando by Orlando Weekly.
Jennifer Lastik
Executive Vice President, Greater Orlando Sports Commission
Jennifer Lastik, a native of Pittsburgh, PA, joined the Greater Orlando Sports Commission in 2007 and currently serves as Chief Operations Officer. In this role, she oversees event logistics across a four-county region, managing business operations, the state grant program, budgets, and contracts. Lastik was named to Sports Business Journal’s Game Changers Class of 2024, which honors women who are shaping the future of the sports industry. Her recognitions also include being named an Orlando Business Journal COO Honoree and a Women in Sports Leadership Award Honoree in 2023, as well as an Orlando Business Journal Women Who Mean Business honoree in 2021. She holds a B.S. in Sport Management from Slippery Rock University and an M.S. in Sport Management from West Virginia University.