Presented by Tampa General Hospital, the 20th Annual Women of Influence Luncheon hit record-breaking attendance with more than 700 attendees! Held during National Women’s History Month, the March 27th event welcomed women of influence across the Tampa Bay area to recognize the legacy and ongoing impact of women’s leadership. The event served as both a reflection on the women who have shaped our region and a celebration of those continuing to drive progress today. The program underscored the importance of honoring women’s contributions across multiple sectors of the community.
Thank you to Stacy Miller, event emcee and 2026 Women of Influence Committee Chair.
Highlighted during the event was the presentation of the 2026 Dottie Berger MacKinnon Woman of Influence Award, which was presented to Sandra L. “Sandy” Murman. Recognized for her decades of leadership and dedication to nonprofit, civic, and cultural causes, Murman has made a lasting impact on the Tampa Bay community. As the first Republican woman to serve as Speaker Pro-Tempore of the Florida House, she demonstrated both moral courage and professionalism, earning respect for her ability to bridge divides while remaining firmly grounded in her values.
Dotti Groover-Skipper, 2025 awardee, presented the award.
Of Murman, Groover-Skipper said, “I’ve had the pleasure of knowing this champion for quite sometime and have worked with her on issues very close to my heart... She is a dedicated mentor who actively invests in the growth and advancement of women across professions and is widely sought out for guidance.”
Of being named this year’s awardee, Murman said, “I just feel like I represent all of the woman in the audience so we're all going to celebrate together… Dottie Berger MacKinnon and I started the journey to take care of foster kids many, many years ago - 30, 35, 40 years ago. She went on her track. I went on the political track, because the legislature really makes a difference. And honestly, to get this award with her name on it. It means so much to me and it’s so heartfelt."
Judy Smith, Founder and CEO of Smith & Company, engaged the audience with a moderated discussion led by award-winning WFLA journalist Deanne King.
Smith’s distinguished career has spanned more than 25 years at the center of global decision-making. She has counseled presidents and world leaders, advised Fortune 50 CEOs, and guided high-profile individuals through complex challenges.
Smith shared insights from her career and reflected on the real-life experiences that inspired the hit TV series Scandal. Her perspective offered attendees a compelling look into leadership under pressure and the power of strategic communication.
Thank you to our sponsors, 2026 Women of Influence Committee Members, and members who made this year’s event remarkable!