Guadalupe Center President Dawn Montecalvo was honored as an Exceptional Leader at the News Service of Florida’s 3rd Annual Above and Beyond Awards. [Photo courtesy Erich Martin]

Erich Martin

The statewide awards highlight women leaders who are making a difference across business, public service, media, nonprofit, and labor. Montecalvo was selected for her transformative leadership and dedication to creating life-changing opportunities for children and families in Immokalee.

Under her guidance, Guadalupe Center serves more than 2,000 students each year across five campuses through its proven continuum of programs from nationally accredited early childhood education to after-school tutoring, college preparation, and career success. Montecalvo has also fostered a strong workplace culture, with an eighty-five percent teacher retention rate, well above the state average.

“Dawn’s recognition with this honor reflects not only her commitment to students and families in Immokalee, but also her ability to empower others,” said Bill Dempsey, Board Chair. “Her leadership strengthens those around her - her team, our organization, and the community we serve - making Guadalupe Center a true model for how education transforms lives.”

Montecalvo’s career spans decades in education and philanthropy. She previously led the Naples Children’s Foundation - formally the Naples Children and Education Foundation - through a period of major growth and launched a consulting firm that strengthened dozens of nonprofit organizations. Most recently, she was appointed to the Board of Directors for the Florida Association for the Education of Young Children, where she advocates for educator support, fair compensation, and expanded access to early learning.

Through her vision and dedication, Montecalvo has expanded access to life-changing educational opportunities in a rural community of hardworking families striving for a brighter future. Her leadership continues to ensure that thousands of students have the resources, confidence, and support to pursue college degrees and achieve long-term economic independence.

Group photo of award recipients at the News Service of Florida’s 3rd Annual Above and Beyond Awards, a recognition of women whose vision and dedication go beyond expectations to create lasting impact. [Photo courtesy Erich Martin]

Erich Martin