A Year of Service, Strategy & Strengthened Community: Reflections from the LSPAA President

As the 2024–2025 board year for the Leadership St. Petersburg Alumni Association (LSPAA) comes to a close, I’m filled with pride reflecting on what we’ve accomplished together. From July 1, 2024, through June 30, 2025, our board remained focused on one theme: Keeping the Momentum.

Together, we energized our alumni base, expanded our community footprint, and elevated the operations behind the scenes.

As of May 31, our membership grew significantly, with a 36% increase in paid alumni members compared to the previous year. This growth was fueled by a successful renewal campaign and strategic incentives that resonated with both new and longtime graduates of Leadership St. Pete (LSP).

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On the financial side, our board was a strong steward of alumni funds:

• We offset the cost of several events by securing $6,000 in sponsorships.
• We donated $5,000 to LSP to support their class year’s scholarships.
• We spent $1,000 on community service, hosting a teacher-appreciation breakfast for Melrose Elementary School teachers and staff.
• We raised more than $20,000 for future LSP scholarships at the 55^th LSP Class Reunion.
• Thanks to our LSP alum and in partnership with LSP Planning Committee, we raised more than $4,000 in hurricane aid recovery for our LSP alum affected by the two hurricanes.

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From civic service to professional development, here are just a few highlights from the 2024–2025 LSPAA calendar:

• Civic Service: Supported Melrose Elementary with multiple initiatives (Reading Day, Teacher Appreciation, school supply drive), volunteered during MLK Day of Service, and organized hurricane relief counseling and donation efforts.
• Connection & Fun: We packed the calendar with well-attended events like our Sizzlin’ Summer Social, Holiday Party, and Class Reunion. The Joint LSP & LSPAA Social in March reminded us that when we come together, momentum multiplies.
• Leadership & Learning: Events like the Black History Walking Tour, Feel the Heat Fire Department experience, and Workforce Development session provided members with deeper insight into community dynamics and leadership best practices.

About Me

I’m Reneé A. Van Sickle, and I’ve spent the last decade serving in local government across Florida and Georgia. I hold a Master of Public Administration from the University of Central Florida and a Bachelor of Science in Public Policy & Administration from St. Petersburg College. My work in community development has centered on empowering neighborhoods, building civic infrastructure, and supporting equity-driven initiatives.

Leadership St. Pete changed my life. It gave me a deeper understanding of our city, new friendships, and a passion for service. As President of LSPAA, I sought to give back in a way that honored what this program has given me.

Thank You

To our board, committee members, volunteers, and alumni: thank you for making this a remarkable year. Your time, talent, and ideas ensured that LSPAA continues to be a vibrant extension of the Leadership St. Pete experience.

Here’s to a year well spent—and the legacy we continue to build.

With gratitude,
Reneé Van Sickle
President, LSPAA 2024–2025

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