2017 MAKERS nomination just the latest recognition of Leoma's contributions to SWFL's arts, culture and economy

Hi, this is arts writer and advocate Tom Hall of Art Southwest Florida. Leoma’s been good enough to allow me to add a few words about the significance of her nomination as a WGCU MAKER. You see, not only do I cover the arts from Marco to Matlacha Island, I’ve also co-authored a book on the women who pioneered Fort Myers and helped build it into the modern-day arts, cultural and tourism center we enjoy today.

A Maker is a woman who is leaving a special, lasting impact on the people, environment, economy and/or culture of Southwest Florida. In this regard, I want you to know that Leoma has already been recognized for her contributions to our community by the Lee County Visitor & Convention Bureau (VCB) and the Greater Fort Myers Chamber of Commerce Inc. honored Leoma with their prestigious Junonia Award during the Chrysalis Awards on April 16, 2015. That is a business and tourism awards luncheon and trade show which is held annually at the Harborside Event Center in downtown Fort Myers.

Created in 2006, the Junonia Award recognizes individuals who have positively impacted the local tourism community by demonstrating unique capabilities, leadership, commitment, and dedication.

The Junonia is a highly treasured shell and was selected as a symbol of the VCB’s annual award because of its rarity and exceptional quality. Leoma is known worldwide for her bold depictions of local flora and fauna. She was chosen for her tireless promotion of the destination.

In presenting the award to Lovegrove, Tamara Pigott, executive director of the VCB, described Leoma’s contagious love of Florida that has been instrumental in encouraging tourism from around the world. “The VCB has enjoyed a long-standing partnership with Leoma in promoting our destination. I have personally had the pleasure of working alongside her on many of our national and international marketing programs,” said Pigott.

The Fort Myers News-Press has also recognized Leoma’s contributions to our community when they nominated her in 2011 as Person of the Year. For 30 years, the News-Press has honored people who have provided leadership and inspiration to this community. Past honorees have passionately led institutions or causes, served the less fortunate among us, delighted us with their artistic or athletic abilities, and served as role models to the community as a whole. The News-Press has called them “People of the Year,” “People to Watch,” “People of Praise” and “Unsung Heroes,” and in 2011, they nominated Leoma as 2011 Person of the Year in recognition of the numerous contributions she made to community projects and fundraisers.

Many others have recognized Leoma’s many contributions to the arts, culture and economy of Matlacha Island, Lee County and all of Southwest Florida and so I am hoping that the selection committee chooses her as one of WGCU’s 2017 Makers.