On Thursday, Jan. 8, the Northeast Florida Regional Council (NEFRC) hosted the 22nd Annual Regional Awards for Excellence and Elected Officials Luncheon, bringing together community leaders, innovators and visionaries from across the seven-county region to celebrate outstanding achievements that are shaping Northeast Florida’s future.
The luncheon honored Northeast Florida’s elected officials for the work that they do for the region and recognized the winners of the 2025 Northeast Florida Awards for Excellence for the bold projects and remarkable individuals whose dedication and innovation have strengthened communities, improved quality of life and advanced regional collaboration.
The ceremony’s highlight was the presentation of the Regional Leadership Award to the Rev. Allison DeFoor, a transformational leader in conservation whose work has had a lasting impact across Northeast Florida. DeFoor has served in a wide range of roles, including prosecutor, public defender, private attorney, judge, sheriff, law professor and Episcopal priest. Each role reflects a deep commitment to public service and the stewardship of community and place.
The below named organizations or individuals were recognized for regional excellence in:
