Co-founder Joanne Wyss received the 2012 Parke Wright III Distinguished Leadership Award at the Greater Naples Leadership annual meeting and celebration luncheon on Thursday, April 5, 2012, at the Naples Yacht Club.

On receiving the award, Joanne stated, “GNL has been enormously important to my life in Naples. I am so proud to be one of the founders and a past president of this great organization, which has done so much to strengthen our community. I continue to be amazed by the people of GNL–their exceptional talents, their unflagging dedication, and their authentic values. I have made wonderful, lasting friendships. Because GNL means so much to me personally, I am honored beyond words to receive the Parke Wright Award.”

Joanne has an extensive community involvement and is best recognized for her leadership as the co-founder of First Book-Collier County, founded in 2005. First Book’s single, powerful mission is to provide new books to Collier County children, addressing one of the most important factors affecting literacy–access to books.

To date, the organization has distributed over 350,000 books. Mrs. Wyss is the board chair and has held this position for six years; she is supported by a dedicated board and advisory council.

Pictured: Joanne shares a “First Book” with pre-K children at Fun Time Early Childhood Academy. Photo courtesy of Joanne Wyss

GNL Connection (Greater Naples Leadership) – May 2012