NAPLES – On October 13, Guadalupe Center’s Tutor Corps high school juniors and seniors spent the day immersed in inspiration and learning during the organization’s annual Leadership Day — a milestone experience that helps prepare the next generation for college, careers, and life beyond Immokalee.

The event brought together business professionals, educators, and community leaders who shared their stories, insights, and practical advice for success. Through interactive workshops and group discussions, students discovered what it means to lead with integrity, purpose, and confidence.

This year’s event featured a keynote address by Mark Wilson, President and CEO of London Bay, who shared insights on leadership, perseverance, and building a fulfilling career. Students also heard from an inspiring panel of professionals moderated by Cynthia Lammert, Vice President and Banker at J.P. Morgan. Panelists included Dr. Saman Freedman, practicing dentist and owner of Aesthetic Dentistry at Bayfront; Michael Karnes, Director of Foot & Ankle and Trauma at Arthrex; Whitney Schadler, administrator at Wilson & Johnson; and Karen Vilorio, Senior Vice President of Private Wealth Management at Capital Wealth Advisors.

Students also participated in a series of interactive workshops designed to strengthen their leadership and life skills:

• Networking with Tracy Duhaney, CEO of The Amboseli Group

• Public Speaking with Alicia Farman, Owner of Lux Networking, Inc.

• Finance with Terry Simmons and Shirley Guzman of J.P. Morgan

Additionally, students took part in an engaging Etiquette Presentation led by Suzanne Willis, Founder & President of Willis Consulting & Communications and Chief Etiquette Officer of Mimi’s Manners for Young Ladies & Gentlemen.

“Leadership Day provides our students with the opportunity to learn directly from professionals who embody strong leadership and perseverance,” said Dawn Montecalvo, President and CEO of Guadalupe Center. “It’s one of those days where you can almost see the light bulbs go off — when students begin to envision what’s possible for their futures.”

Part of Guadalupe Center’s transformative Tutor Corps program, Leadership Day serves more than 130 high school students annually. The program pairs each student with a mentor and offers academic guidance, college preparation, financial assistance, and career exploration opportunities. For many participants, often the first in their families to attend college, Leadership Day is both eye-opening and empowering, showing them the many paths they can pursue and the leaders they can become.

“Leadership Day is about empowerment,” Montecalvo added. “It helps our students see themselves as leaders — not someday, but right now. It reminds them that with hard work, courage, and the right support, there’s no limit to what they can achieve.”

For more information about Guadalupe Center, please visit guadalupecenter.org.