North Central Florida Estate Planning Council honored with the 2024 Council of Excellence Award
(Standing) Paul Caspersen, Estate Planning Council Leadership Team Member
Press release from Community Foundation of North Central Florida
GAINESVILLE, Fla. – The North Central Florida Estate Planning Council, the professional group of estate and wealth planners in the Greater Gainesville area, has been awarded the highest honor available to an estate planning council affiliated with the National Association of Estate Planners & Councils, the Leonard H. Neiman and Walter Lee Davis, Jr. Council of Excellence Award. This award recognizes councils who provide a strong multi-disciplinary environment for estate planning professionals within their community. Councils that also truly work to grow their programs and services, and provide an exceptional member experience.
Estate Planning Council Leadership Team Member Bryan Reyes expressed his pride in the council’s achievements, stating, “This award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our members. Our commitment to fostering a collaborative environment has truly made a difference, and we are honored to receive this recognition.”
The Council of Excellence Award is named for two individuals who sought to strengthen the bond between NAEPC and its affiliated councils during their terms on the board. Walter Lee Davis, Jr. served as president of the association in 2008 and was instrumental in forming the Council Relations Committee, a group of volunteer members who are charged with being a liaison between affiliates and the national association. Leonard H. Neiman served the association as a board member for over 15 years and worked tirelessly to gather information about estate planning councils from around the country.
Barzella Papa, President and CEO of the Community Foundation of North Central Florida, shared her enthusiasm for the future, saying, “Taking over the management of the Estate Planning Council in 2023 has been a significant milestone for the Community Foundation. We look forward to building on this prestigious award and continuing to provide exceptional value and support to our members and the broader community.”
The Council remains committed to its mission of providing top-tier programs, resources, and networking opportunities to estate planning professionals in the North Central Florida area.