A Moment to Say Hello and Share Some News

by Lila A. Jaber

I write in the hope that you’ve safely weathered the storm. To those amongst us who are part of the power restoration process, thank you for all that you do on our behalf!

Following another engaging Forum this past summer, I wanted to share just some of the latest successes in our #FLWomenInEnergy community. I’d like to congratulate the following individuals who, through their tremendous achievements, exemplify the strength that is sure to propel the energy industry forward for years to come.

• Pamela Rauch, Vice President of External Affairs and Economic Development for Florida Power & Light Company, has received the “Leading Change” award from the GCI Worldwide Corporation. This award recognizes Ms. Rauch as an extraordinary woman leader who is “the premiere example of the impact that one woman leading change can make in the community.”

• Xia Liu, the Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer of Gulf Power, has been promoted to a new role as Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer, and Treasurer of Georgia Power. Ms. Liu has served in leadership positions of increasing responsibility throughout her career in energy, earning well-deserved placements on the Business to Business magazine’s 2012 “Women of Excellence in Atlanta” list and the Georgia Diversity Council’s 2013 “Most Powerful and Influential Women” list.

• Amy Zubaly was named Executive Director of the Florida Municipal Electric Association (FMEA). In a statement on the FMEA website, Clay Lindstrom, FMEA President and Fort Pierce Utilities Authority General Manager, remarked, “As we celebrate our 75th anniversary and rich history, it’s fitting that Amy – the first woman to serve as the association’s executive director – lead us into the future.” He went on to commend Ms. Zubaly’s long record of service as well as in-depth understanding of issues important to FMEA members.

• Cari Coats and Karen Dee, Co-Founders and Managing Partners of the Accendo Leadership Advisory Group, have launched the LEADForward Roundtables initiative to help accelerate the leadership development of promising women. LEADForward Roundtables are peer support groups comprised of up to 15 high potential female leaders, all at a similar professional stage. Ms. Coats and Ms. Dee, both accomplished C-suite leaders and certified executive coaches, lead each roundtable as well as provide individual coaching in a great service to our community. Please click to learn more about the initiative and access the application.

Please continue to share your accomplishments and updates with FWELF as we move forward to inspire, educate, and motivate. As we look to the upcoming year, Gunster Law Firm, in partnership with our title sponsor, Gulf Power, and all of our sponsors, has begun preparations for the 2018 Florida’s Women in Energy Leadership Forum.

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