Name: Ernest Hooper
LT Class Year: LT Class of 2023
Company: United Way Suncoast
Interviewed by: Laura Frost
Laura Frost had the pleasure of connecting with Ernest, a proud member of LTA. “What time does “let’s meet for coffee” mean to you? When I suggested 1pm, Ernest said, as a seasoned communicator, he had the morning in mind! We both revisited a lesson in communication: be clear; don’t assume. Enjoy time reading insights from Ernest; it was such fun to catch up at Blind Tiger over a Rise Roast Latte to celebrate the 101st birthday of United Way!”
Company Name: Chief Communications Officer, United Way Suncoast
- Tell us, why LTA?
It was a simple request: Sing. Yet in a ballroom full of accomplished business leaders, the seemingly easy task immediately grew complicated. How could I perform in front of 59 professionals I just met? How could I croon about my new Leadership Tampa classmate I knew only from a printed biography? But this is Leadership Tampa, where immersive experiences and unique activities combine with deep knowledge dives to enlighten your perspective. You learn. You grow. You love. You lead. And while the sight of me singing Elton John’s Your Song elicited snickering, and the sound of it produced guffaws, I’ll never forget how the LT ’03 members stepped out of their respective comfort zones, grabbed the karaoke mic, gave into vulnerability and created a bond that would prove unbreakable. Why LTA? Because I long to sustain that connection and create more in a community I love. Ask me about LTA, and I sing its praises. There’s no hesitation.
- For you, what separates LTA from other business leadership programs?
I have only participated in one leadership program, but from what I’ve gathered, Leadership Tampa represents the gold standard. The unprecedented access to the Tampa’s true movers and shakers, the exposure and insight rarely shared in public discussions, and the continuous learning opportunities elevate even the most seasoned professionals.
- Describe a time when the LTA experience impacted your life or career?
During my days as a Tampa Bay Times columnist, I gained a reputation for being well-connected, thanks in part to LTA. Knowing this, a nonprofit executive director reached out one day eager to help a client who had run into an issue with GTE Financial Credit Union. It had been a few years since I had spoken to my LT-’03 classmate Brad Baker at GTE, and the request came after 5 p.m. But I took a shot, hastily crafted an email and hoped to hear from Brad in the next few days. In less than an hour, he responded and in less than 24 hours he worked with the nonprofit director to resolve the issue. The story reflects LTA’s power of connectivity, and it’s one I’ve worked to reciprocate and pay forward.
- What is a LTA benefit you wish everyone knew about?
The respect it commands in the community. It’s not a resume builder, it’s resume rocket fuel. It garners attention, it opens doors, it earns engagements.
Thinking back to 2024, I remember when Deanne Roberts asked me to meet with two USF students who had stepped up to play a leading role in helping her form Emerge at the chamber! Deanne touched so many lives and her influence continues to ripple through the community and LTA. Those two USF students were Mike Griffin and Jessica Muuroff!
- Describe how the leadership journey will continue to shape you?
I’ve transitioned from longtime Times columnist/bureau chief into the role of Chief Communications Officer at United Way Suncoast. My years of experience serve me well, but I continue to sponge – soaking up knowledge from an array of opportunities including LTA sessions. I don’t have all the answers, but I know networking will allow me to find them. LTA supports my fact-finding efforts.
Fun Facts About You/Local Knowledge:
Latest movie, book, streaming series or a combination?
- Luther: Never Too Much (documentary)
- Elsbeth - (crime drama series on CBS/Paramount+) Reminds me of my all-time favorite Perry Mason
Favorite spot to meet friends/colleagues for coffee, lunch or happy hour
This would be a long list but here are two:
Tibbys New Orleans Kitchen, a Cajun cuisine restaurant in Brandon. Pontchartrain Chicken is a top entrée, I love the Debris Spring Rolls and you can’t resist the Beignets!
Sweet Sage Cafe and Boutique in North Reddington Beach, a local favorite, just reopened in January after the storms.
For staycation in Tampa Bay, you like to …
Spend the weekend with sun, sand and grouper sandwiches on Clearwater Beach.
When out-of-town guests are visiting, you plan….
A trip to Oaklawn Cemetery. One of the best ways to learn a city’s history is by visiting its oldest cemetery. It sounds a bit creepy, but Oaklawn contains a treasure trove of stories about 19th century Tampa.
Any hidden treasures/recent discoveries you’d like to share?!
Lakeland is much more than a few I-4 exits between Tampa and Orlando. Lakeland has a quaint ambience and some dining options well worth the drive. Consider Born & Bread Bakehouse. Folks have lined up around the block to enjoy this artisan bakery’s delights. Once open only on Wednesdays and Saturdays, B&B recently expanded operations to Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Try the Benton’s Bacon Breakfast Sandwich.
Any upcoming initiatives/passion projects we need to know about?
- The entire United Way Suncoast team is gearing up for our annual RISE Luncheon on April 1 at the Shanna and Bryan Glazer Jewish Community Center. It’ll feature a fireside chat with former Publix CEO Howard Jenkins, a robust update on our mission work from CEO Jessica Muroff and maybe a few surprises.
- I'm certainly proud of VITA - Suncoast’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program. With the help of the Bucs' Vita Vea and Mad Bear Productions, we produced a great PSA.