FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Sandra L. “Sandy” Murman named 2026 Dottie Berger MacKinnon Awardee
TAMPA, Fla. — (March 30, 2026) — The Tampa Bay Chamber proudly presented the 2026 Dottie Berger MacKinnon Woman of Influence Award to Sandra L. “Sandy” Murman, during the 20th Annual Woman of Influence event, presented by Tampa General Hospital.
Each year, the Dottie Berger MacKinnon Women of Influence Award pays tribute to a local woman who exemplifies outstanding professional values, demonstrates the ability to go above and beyond the normal expectations of a leader, and who serves as an inspiration to the community.
Murman was recognized for her commitment to public service and advocacy on behalf of Hillsborough County residents. She has received many awards for her leadership and commitment to serving numerous nonprofit, civic, and cultural causes dedicated to improving the lives of citizens throughout Tampa Bay. Murman was the first Republican woman to s as Speaker Pro-Tempore of the Florida House, demonstrating moral courage and professionalism. She was noted among colleagues and constituents for her ability to bridge divides while remaining firmly anchored to her values.
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…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 means so much to me and it’s so heartfelt.”
Dotti Skipper-Groover, Founder and CEO of HeartDance Foundation and the 2025 Dottie Berger MacKinnon Woman of Influence awardee, presented this year’s award.
The event, with record-breaking attendance, at the J.W. Marriott Tampa Water Street, featured keynote speaker Judy Smith. Smith has a long-standing career as a high-profile communications advisor; has served as a long-time counselor to some of the most globally influential companies; and served as the inspiration behind and co-executive producer of the hit TV series, Scandal.
To learn more about the Chamber’s Women of Influence and Women’s Programming initiatives, visit www.TampaBayChamber.com.
About the Tampa Bay Chamber
The Tampa Bay Chamber has been serving the region since 1885. A not-for-profit membership organization, it currently serves approximately 1,400 member companies of all sizes and industries. Among the top 2% of chambers in the nation with a five-star rating by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the Tampa Bay Chamber is recognized by business, government, education and community leaders as the leading advocate for the business community in the Tampa Bay area.
For more information on the Tampa Bay Chamber visit www.TampaBayChamber.com. For any media inquires, please contact Brandy Gottlieb, Senior Director of Marketing & Communications.
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