David Yates, Former Clearwater Marine Aquarium CEO, Co-producer & Executive Producer, Dolphin Tale & Dolphin Tale 2, named 2023 Person of Vision
Gala Reception & Dinner to be held March 2, 2023 at Clearwater Marine Aquarium
Preserve Vision Florida, a Pinellas County-based statewide non-profit, will honor David Yates as its 2023 Person of Vision for his role in helping to transform Tampa Bay into one of the most vibrant tourism destinations in the US. The 44th Annual Person of Vision Award Gala will be held Thursday, March 2nd in the Clearwater Marina Aquarium’s Jacobson Ballroom. The dinner will be preceded by a reception on the Dolphin Terrace.
In addition to this most fitting honor for Yates, the event is an opportunity to celebrate the Clearwater Marine Aquarium and support the vitally important work of Preserve Vision Florida, which has screened hundreds of thousands of children and adults, directly assisting them with glasses and medical exams.
When Yates took over as CEO in 2006, the Clearwater Marine Aquarium was virtually unknown and in danger of closing its doors due to financial troubles. But Yates told a story that inspired millions of people around the world: A dolphin who lost her tail, refused to give up and lived years beyond expectations, sharing hope with many facing their own life challenges. That story, followed by the release of Dolphin Tale and Dolphin Tale 2 which Yates Co-produced and Executive Produced, put CMA on the map and has inspired millions more of all ages.
CMA’s positive impact on travel and tourism in Pinellas County has been well-documented. A 2016 study covering the previous four years determined an economic impact of more than $2 billion, with 44,444 jobs supported and 2.2 million room nights booked. And in late 2020, CMA unveiled the results of an ambitious, $80 million renovation and expansion project that includes the beautiful terrace and ballroom spaces serving as venues for the Person of Vision celebration.
The Person of Vision Award has honored Florida visionaries whose impact has been felt in the community, region, state, and world, including Jeff and Penny Vinik through the Tampa Bay Lightning and downtown redevelopment, H. Lee Moffitt founding one of the world’s leading cancer institutions, Joe Lopano’s leadership in expanding Tampa International as a gateway to world travel, and most recently, Tampa Mayor Jane Castor who has collaborated across the region to heighten business growth while preserving Florida’s heritage.
For sponsorship information, please contact Preserve Vision Florida CEO, Joanne Lighter at (727) 542-5351 or jlighter@pvfla.org. Tickets and tables may be purchased through Eventbrite at this link:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/511113122107