Dare to Raise the Bar 

Dare to Raise the Bar brought together bold leaders and community partners to invest in women and girls’ leadership, opportunity, and advocacy across Florida.
Event photography by Gail V. Haines. Thank you for capturing the spirit of the night.

Our Heartfelt Appreciation to our 2026 Daring Leaders

Daring Leader Awards
We were proud to celebrate our Daring Leader Award recipients.
  • The Fearless Fundraiser Award was presented to Mayor Michael Napoleone for raising the most funds.
  • The Butterfly Effect Award, recognizing the leader who inspired the most individual voters, went to Victoria Mesa Estrada.
  • The Daredevil Award for the most creative and bold dare was awarded to Alexander Lewy.

Event Committee and Co-Chairs
Who Made Dare to Raise the Bar Possible

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Event Co-Chairs Amanda Jesteadt and Denise Fraile
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Event Committee (L to R): Takeata King Pang, Hilary Moore Hebert, Abby Spears, Amanda Jesteadt, Denise Fraile, Felonice Merriman, Telsula Morgan, Whitney Cunningham Walker. Not pictured: Destinie Baker Sutton, Heather Stohlman

​​Special thanks to Pam Comiter for serving as our Mistress of Ceremonies and guiding the evening with wit, warmth, and ease. Check out her podcast, Shut Up! Tell Me More, for thoughtful conversations that invite curiosity and connection.
Gratitude to the sponsors who help raise the bar for women and girls.
Presenting Girls Leadership STEAM Academy Sponsor 
Women on the Run Sponsor
Professional Development Sponsors​
Daring Leader Champion Sponsors
Mission Support Sponsors 

The Partners Who Helped Bring the Night to Life

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