As the official economic development organization of Palm Beach County, the Business Development Board recognizes the exceptional quality of the county's academic institutions, consistently ranked among the nation's best. In its ongoing efforts to attract companies and support local growth, the Business Development Board is committed to preserving top talent. Through the initiatives outlined below, it aims to provide new business leaders with the essential educational resources required for both their children and workforce talent.
Academic Leaders Council
The Academic Leaders Council, comprised of the presidents of Palm Beach County’s colleges and universities and the Palm Beach County School District Superintendent, works to ensure industry and education curriculum alignment.
Leaders include:
- Michael J. Burke, Superintendent, Palm Beach County School District
- Dr. Debra A. Schwinn, President, Palm Beach Atlantic University
- Dr. Harry Moon, President & CEO, Nova Southeastern University
- Adam Hasner, President, Florida Atlantic University
- Dr. Gary Vonk, Flagship Campus President, Keiser University
- Ava Parker, J.D., President, Palm Beach State College
- Dr. Kevin Ross, President, Lynn University
- Julia Dattolo, President and CEO, CareerSource Palm Beach County
Public/Private School Task Force
The Business Development Board assembles the leaders of public and private PreK - 12 schools in Palm Beach County. This gathering takes place biannually to deliberate on growth strategies and organize joint outreach endeavors in diverse markets, collectively representing Palm Beach County.
Explore the Palm Beaches: Career Showcase
Each year, the School District of Palm Beach County and the Business Development Board partner up to host an annual career showcase, which brings thousands of high school students to meet nearly a hundred local companies.
BDB Summer Intern Series
Students from colleges and universities across the nation who are interning in the Palm Beaches during summer are recruited to the BDB's multi-part program, which includes a diverse mix of events. The goal is to encourage them to pursue a full-time career in Palm Beach County after graduation.
BDB Emerging Leaders Task Force
This group of young professionals between ages 25 - 35 generate fresh, innovative ideas to enhance the BDB's economic development strategies and play an active role in positioning our community as a vibrant, forward-looking destination.
One Palm Beach
Public and private school headmasters spend a full day meeting with companies considering a relocation to the Palm Beaches, or have recently moved but need education connections for their children and workforce. Every hour, a new firm is welcomed into the boardroom to provide a direct connection to all schools.
Complimentary Services to Growing Companies
The Business Development Board is the official economic development organization for Palm Beach County and provides complimentary services to companies that are relocating to or expanding in Palm Beach County. Companies are encouraged to contact [email protected] if they are interested in assistance with connections to local education institutes.