Name: Mark Segel
LT Class Year: 2005
Company Name: Tampa JCCs and Federation
Interviewed by: Laura Frost
Mark and I met at La Segunda Bakery & Cafe for a coffee visit. What fun it was to reconnect and talk about everything from Instant Bustello - to happy memories of our jobs at Busch Gardens and Disney in the 70’s - to the astounding growth of theTampa Bay region ever since. We reflected upon wearing many unexpected hats in the workplace since COVID and the events of October 7th….and,shared the enjoyment of tiptoeing back into LTA activities after a brief hiatus. We even ran into Chip Fletcher, another LT Class of 05!
1. Tell us, why LTA?
Relationships!
Some of my longest, closest friendships have been with fellow LTA members. LTA brings us together consistently and allows those relationships to grow over time. There’s rarely a problem I can’t solve by reaching out to my LT and LTA friends.
2. For you, what separates LTA from other business leadership programs?
We are one the premier alumni leadership organizations in the country, and it shows. It’s amazing how many people have stayed involved for decades and that hasn’t been by chance. LTA is well run, professional, and has the full backing of the Tampa Bay Chamber and business leaders across the region. Because of this, we have quality, valuable programming month after month and year after year.
3. Describe a time when the LTA experience impacted your life or career?
Serving as Chair of LTA in 2012 was a tremendous honor for me. To be chosen as a leader of leaders at a pivotal time in my career was very impactful and played an important role in my decision to transition from financial services to not-for-profit work and specifically serving the Jewish community. My LTA experience contributed to my self confidence and reminded me of my potential to help make Tampa Bay the best community it can be.
4. What is an LTA benefit you wish everyone knew about?
At $145 per year for membership, it’s likely one of the best investments you’ll make in your professional advancement. To have access to the kind of people that graduate from Leadership Tampa and to join them at fun, interesting, and informative events is really a no-brainer. And, our dues support so much more to include investments in Community Outreach, Emerging Leaders, LT Scholarships, and Park Wright III Award Recipient Honorarium!
5. Describe how the leadership journey will continue to shape you.
I have been a proponent of the communities of Tampa Bay working more closely together and becoming one Tampa Bay community for many years. LTA gives me the opportunity to explore new ways to do this and to have conversations around this on a regular basis. Tampa must lead the way to becoming a stronger Tampa Bay and I will continue to play a role in the effort.
Beyond that, and in light of the exponentially growing hate against Jews we’re experiencing locally, nationally, and throughout the world, my title was recently changed to Executive Director of Combating Antisemitism. It is disconcerting that anyone should have to carry this title.
The last few years, and especially the last few months since the brutal terrorist attack on Israel by Hamas, have shaped me greatly and I hope I can depend on my LTA friends to do the right thing. If you have any questions about the conflict or antisemitism in general, I hope members will reach out to me.
Fun Facts About You/Local Knowledge:
- Latest movie, book, podcast or all three!?
o Movie: Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom (big mistake – just a terrible movie!)
o Book(s): In the Garden of the Beasts by Erik Larson and No Time Like the Future by Michael J. Fox
o Podcast: TBTL – Too Beautiful to Live (over 4,000 episodes!)
- Favorite spot to meet friends/colleagues for coffee, lunch or happy hour?
Those who know me know that Corona Cigar Company is my go-to drinking hole. I’m a third-generation enjoyer of cigars.
- For staycation in Tampa Bay, you like to……
I love to stroll the Tampa Riverwalk – especially at night – and any chance to visit the Pinellas beaches is a real treat.
- When out of town guests are visiting, you plan….
Dinner at Bern’s Steak House for those who haven’t had the experience, the River Walk, and there’s always a sporting event or concert to see. Tampa Bay is a great place to visit, but we know that!
- Any hidden treasures/recent discoveries you’d like to share?!
I love Gasparilla! My best advice is to join a krewe because being in the parades is so much more fun than watching the parades. If you’re interested, let me know!