Dr. Judy Genshaft Named 2025 H.L. Culbreath Jr. Award Winner at Tampa Bay Chamber 140th Annual Meeting, Presented by TECO
TAMPA, Fla. (Dec. 5, 2025) - The Tampa Bay Chamber has named University of South Florida President Emerita Dr. Judy Genshaft as the recipient of the 2025 H.L. Culbreath Jr. Profile in Leadership Award. Genshaft received the award during the Chamber’s historic 140th Annual Meeting, presented by TECO.
Genshaft served as president of the University of South Florida System from 2000 to 2019, leading USF to state, national and international prominence. Under her leadership, the university achieved major milestones, including earning the prestigious designation of “Preeminent State Research University,” entering Phi Beta Kappa, and the renaming of its Honors College in her honor following a historic gift.
I knew when coming to the University of South Florida, a research university, that we would help grow Tampa Bay, and as the university would grow so would Tampa Bay. It’s a symbiotic relationship and very important that both work together,” Genshaft said. “I am humbled and thrilled beyond belief. I love this community so much and it gives me great pride and honor to be selected to receive the H.L. Culbreath Jr. Profile in Leadership Award.”
Established in 1997, the H.L. Culbreath Jr. Profile in Leadership Award honors the legacy of Hugh Lee Culbreath Jr., former Chairman of TECO Energy and one of Tampa Bay’s most influential business leaders. The award recognizes individuals who embody his tradition of driving impact, fostering collaboration and elevating the region through service and innovation.
The Chamber’s 140th Annual Meeting celebrated nearly a century and a half of regional leadership while highlighting the vision, collaboration and innovation shaping Tampa Bay’s future. Genshaft’s award-winning recognition underscored the impact of leaders whose work continues to elevate the Tampa Bay area.