December Strategic Forum meeting at FIU
Lessons from Resilience, Grit, and Community
The Ripple Effect of Resilience
Alan T. Brown (Director of new partner engagement, Christopher and Dana Reeve foundation) is a passionate advocate for individuals with disabilities. His story began with a life-altering wave that slammed him into the ocean floor, leaving him paralyzed at age 20. As he described the moment he heard his neck snap and thought, “I guess it’s time to say goodbye,” the room was silent.
Pulled from the water by three people, he faced spinal shock and quadriplegia. Yet he refused to let the wave define him. Instead, he used humor, grit, and a deep sense of purpose to rebuild his life and give back to others.
His philosophy was simple but profound: “I never ask, ‘Why did this happen to me?’ I ask, ‘What can I do to make it better?’”
His journey, including being a successful sports agent, then setting up community foundations for South Florida sports teams, to his current role underscores that resilience is not just about surviving but thriving and creating ripples of change in the lives of others.
From Hustle to Leadership
Peter Bruce of Flanigan’s shared his rise from a humble beginning to success in the hospitality industry first in New York running different restaurants. Then a decision to move to Florida meant starting over, as an asst manager at Flanigan’s. His journey began with a bold move: telling his potential new boss that he wanted his job.
Through grinding, learning, and seizing every opportunity, he climbed the ranks:
? Assistant manager → General manager of three locations → Director of Operations → COO.
? Along the way, he built teams and cultivated a culture that valued employees and customers equally.
His advice? “Don’t mess up the recipe.” And “Don’t be afraid to start over” and work your way back up. Whether it’s delivering the perfect Rockin’ Rib Rolls or maintaining the integrity of the business, success is built on consistency, hard work, and relationships.
Innovation as the Glue
Will Gilbert CEO and cofounder at Bodhi Hospitality, an entrepreneur in the tech space, taught us the power of solving problems through innovation. Fascinated with computers and technology from the age of 5, he pursued his love throughout middle school and high school. Now with a background in computer engineering, he founded a startup that revolutionized the hospitality industry by developing web applications and databases that streamline operations.
From controlling TVs and food service to managing shades in hotel rooms, his work showcased how technology can enhance the customer experience. He described his role as “the glue that makes everything work.”
Key Takeaways
1. Resilience shapes your future
2. Relationships are the foundation
3. Innovation drives impact
4. Give back
Shari Cedar Sue Romanos, CPC, CTS, CSP J David Scheiner Ben G Schachter Randy Klein Michelle Pearlman, M.D. Mitchell Modell
