#United States #Jacksonville #Think Bold #VyStar Credit Union

The Think Bold Festival and Conference is set to shine a light on exemplary leaders during the 2026 Think Bold Honors Awards, presented by VyStar Credit Union. Scheduled for April 2, 2026, at the vibrant VyStar Headquarters in Downtown Jacksonville, this prestigious event will honor individuals who have significantly contributed to shaping a more equitable and inclusive community.

The Think Bold Honors Awards recognize exceptional leadership that promotes innovation and social equity within Jacksonville. Each honoree will be awarded a custom-crafted Think Bold Montblanc Writing Instrument, symbolizing the excellence, precision, and visionary leadership that characterize their contributions.

The annual Think Bold Festival and Conference, running from April 8-12, 2026, at the Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront and surrounding venues, is a gathering aimed at fostering bold ideas and promoting transformative action. VyStar Credit Union, a leader in community investment and financial empowerment, plays a pivotal role in driving the festival’s mission forward. Kemal Gasper, the VP of Community Engagement at VyStar, expressed deep honor in presenting the awards. He emphasized that the honorees exemplify the vision of expanding economic mobility, access to capital, and enhancing community voices across Jacksonville.

A total of twelve extraordinary leaders will be celebrated at the 2026 Think Bold Honors, recognizing trailblazers in various categories, including

• - Civic Engagement & Community Voice Award to Wanda Willis
• - Corporate Civic Leadership Award to Darnell Smith
• - Economic Justice & Capital Access Award to Caleena Shirley
• - Environmental Equity & Placemaking Award to Kay Ehas
• - Faith & Cultural Unity Leadership Award to Bishop Rudolph W. McKissick, Jr.
• - Health & Youth Development Leadership Award to Eric Mann
• - Hispanic Impact & Inclusion Award to Monica Hernandez
• - Neighborhood Transformation & Anti-Poverty Award to Travis Williams
• - Small Business Equity & Government Impact Award to Gregory Grant
• - United Impact & Social Innovation Award to Melanie Patz
• - Venture Capital & Entrepreneurial Ecosystem Award to Jim Stallings
• - Women's Empowerment & Social Leadership Award to Donna Orender
• - Bold Leadership in Real Estate Award to Tinesha Tutt

The Think Bold Honors Ceremony is an exclusive, invitation-only event, creating a vibrant prelude to the wider festival. It aims to elevate the voices of leaders dedicated to not only excelling in their fields but also redefining the essence of effective leadership in Jacksonville.

For those interested in attending or supporting the Think Bold Festival, additional information regarding tickets and sponsorship opportunities can be found by visiting www.thinkboldfest.com.

About Think Bold Festival & Conference

The Think Bold Festival & Conference is a premier platform in Jacksonville focused on entrepreneurship, workforce development, innovation, and cultural exchanges. This annual event draws together business leaders, creatives, students, and various community stakeholders, all aspiring to catalyze innovative ideas and shape a future-ready Jacksonville.

About VyStar Credit Union

VyStar Credit Union stands as Florida's second-largest credit union, with 78 branches operating across Florida and Georgia, serving over one million members with assets exceeding $14 billion. As a dominant player in the region, VyStar is noted for being the foremost mortgage lender in Northeast Florida, employing over 2,300 individuals and welcoming a diverse membership encompassing residents from various counties in Florida and Georgia, including military personnel and their families.