On Nov. 12, SCCF CEO James Evans was celebrated at the Gulfshore Life Men & Women of the Year Awards in Naples for his success in spreading the “coastal conservation message far across our region and beyond.”
In presenting the award, veteran WINK News Anchor Lois Thome lauded him for his down-to-earth, diplomatic, and scientific outlook. Watch introduction.
“James has a distinct ability to connect with people from all backgrounds and believes in finding common ground to create long lasting change,” she said. “James hopes his legacy will be a science-to-solutions approach that ensures Southwest Florida remains a healthy, thriving place for future generations.”
Evans was one of 10 honorees who were feted and received awards at a celebratory outdoor dinner at Sugden Plaza. Their full stories were published in Gulfshore Life magazine’s November issue. (see page 106)
The annual award celebration honors “exceptional individuals who have transformed Southwest Florida through their talent, vision, and enterprising spirit. These local luminaries have impacted countless lives, proving that true success lies in the positive change one creates for others.”
Evans attended the event with his wife, Amber, and was joined by SCCF Board of Trustees Vice President Doug Ryckman and wife, Kris, as well as SCCF Trustee Mary Ellen Pfeifer, City of Sanibel Planning Commissioner Eric Pfeifer, SanCap Chamber President John Lai and his wife, Amy.
“It was fabulous to see James recognized for the years of hard work that benefit everyone in Southwest Florida,” said Mary Ellen Pfeifer. “Conservation efforts are often overlooked so it was great to see him honored among so many outstanding philanthropic individuals.”
In offering his congratulations, Naples-based Conservancy of Southwest Florida President and CEO Rob Moher noted that his organization is “proud to serve as one of SCCF’s partners in the pursuit of protecting our quality of life here in Southwest Florida.”
“James is an extraordinary leader who has demonstrated tenacity and vision often under difficult circumstances as he leads SCCF in its critical mission work,” said Moher. “He is a tireless and smart advocate for our region’s natural resources and is committed to the communities he serves in his role.”
For Evans, the award was both humbling and gratifying recognition for all supporters of SCCF.
“It is such an honor to be able to work in a community that truly understands the connection between our natural resources and our quality of life, and local economy. I want to recognize all of our amazingly talented staff at SCCF who work day in and day out to protect and care for Southwest Florida’s coastal systems. Each of them is worthy of this award,” said Evans.
He also offered his congratulations to his nine fellow honorees. (see full list below)
“I am truly humbled to be recognized alongside such true luminaries. We are fortunate to have so many solution-focused and forward-thinking leaders in our region,” he said.
For the island communities as well as all of Southwest Florida, having the support of businesses is also a key to SCCF’s success.
“James’ collaborative spirit bridges the gap between the conservation and business communities, fostering a sustainable future for Southwest Florida and securing a lasting legacy for generations to come,” said SanCap Chamber President John Lai.
“Under his guidance, SCCF has become one of the largest conservation landowners in the region, making significant strides in preserving our paradise that is so vital to our quality of life and our economy,” he added. “Evans’ expertise in water quality has established him as a trusted resource for legislators at all levels, ensuring that vital environmental policies are informed and effective.”
SCCF sends congratulations to all honorees!
Gulfshore Life Men & Women of the Year 2024
John Cooney – An architect and philanthropist designing transformative spaces for nonprofits, with a focus on empowering adults with disabilities.
Kristen Coury – A dynamic leader in the arts, inspiring creativity and catalyzing community engagement through theater.
James Evans – An environmental scientist and advocate preserving Southwest Florida’s natural resources through education and policy.
Anne Fleming – A marketing maven who leverages retail and luxury experiences to amplify nonprofit missions and catalyze community change.
Dr. Kiran Gill – A surgeon whose professional expertise and philanthropic contributions transform lives both in and out of the operating room.
Matthew Kragh – An architect whose influential style defines the new-classic aesthetic of Southwest Florida’s evolving landscape.
Joe North – A lawyer and community pillar committed to uplifting his Fort Myers neighborhood through generous philanthropy and mentorship.
Elizabeth Star – A visionary philanthropist and arbiter of style who champions equal access to education, healthcare, and holistic community needs.
Ralph Stayer – An influential leader and philanthropist who applies his business savvy to supercharge local nonprofit efforts.
Brian Stock – An enterprising developer whose master-planned communities elevate Gulf Coast living through thoughtful design and luxurious amenities.
