Movers and Shakers: Tom Waters Chosen as CEO at Easter Seals Southwest Florida

SARASOTA – Easter Seals Southwest Florida is pleased to announce that longtime local philanthropy leader, Tom Waters, has accepted the position of President and CEO effective October 13, 2014.

“The Easter Seals Board of Directors conducted an extensive nationwide search, finding the perfect candidate right here in Sarasota,” says Board Chair Rose-Anne Frano.

Waters brings significant experience in nonprofit management, fundraising, and community partnerships to his new role at Easter Seals. He is currently the Chief Advancement Officer at Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium. Tom has held leadership positions at nonprofits including Mile High United Way in Denver, Colorado and Community Foundation of Sarasota County. 

"We are very excited that Tom is bringing his expertise and passion to Easter Seals,” says Frano, “particularly as the need for available resources to provide life enriching services to children, teens, and adults with developmental delays and disabilities continues to increase.”

As President and CEO of Easter Seals, Waters is looking forward to leading one of Southwest Florida's oldest and most successful nonprofits serving children, teens, and adults with developmental disabilities.

"My passion to help others’ abilities shine started years ago when I participated in one of the first Muscular Dystrophy Dance Marathons. Together we did more than raise money ... we provided hope and the ability for people to help themselves." 

Mote President and CEO, Dr. Michael Crosby, said "As an integral part of the leadership team, we thank Tom for his many contributions. We know that Easter Seals Southwest Florida is an organization dear to Tom’s heart and we wish him well in his service to children, teens, and adults with disabilities.”

“It has been an honor and a privilege working with Mote,” Waters says. Thanking his “Mote family,” he adds that he is looking forward to "supporting and partnering with Mote and other community nonprofits” in his role at Easter Seals. 

Easter Seals Southwest Florida is a 100% local nonprofit providing programs and services that enhance the quality of life for individuals with developmental delays and disabilities such as autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, and spina bifida. For more information, visit www.easterseals-swfl.org.