Girl Scouts of Southeast Florida honor five extraordinary women for leadership and community impact in Broward County

Fort Lauderdale, Florida – Leadership, philanthropy, and community impact were front and center as the Girl Scouts of Southeast Florida hosted the Emerald Awards in Broward County on September 26, 2025. The event celebrated five outstanding women who have made a lasting difference in their professions, communities, and in the lives of young girls across South Florida. More than 200 attendees gathered for the evening of recognition and inspiration, during which the organization raised over $110,000 to support programs that encourage girls to build courage, confidence, and character.

The Lifetime Achievement Award for Philanthropy was presented to Rita Case, president and CEO of Rick Case Automotive Group, whose decades-long dedication to leadership, service, and community philanthropy has transformed South Florida. Known for her trailblazing work in the automotive industry, Case leads the nation’s largest retail automotive group owned and operated by a woman, overseeing 12 award-winning dealerships across Florida and Georgia. She was honored wearing her Girl Scouts vest, adorned with badges she earned during her youth, a personal reminder of the influence of community and mentorship in her own life.

“Rita Case’s contributions span entrepreneurship, philanthropy, and community service, and her impact on children and families is immeasurable,” said a spokesperson for the Girl Scouts. Her accolades include the 2022 Horatio Alger Award, the 2024 TIME Dealer of the Year, and the 2024 National Association of Minority Automobile Dealers’ Lifetime Achievement Award. Beyond her professional success, Case and her husband Rick have spearheaded initiatives such as Rick Case Bikes for Kids, Rita Case WOMEN Build with Habitat for Humanity, and 4EveryKid with Soles4Souls, raising more than $100 million for local organizations. Her philanthropic efforts extend to institutions including Broward Health, Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital, American Heart Association, Boys & Girls Clubs, and United Way, highlighting her unwavering commitment to social good.

Read also: Pompano Beach unveils plans for the New Downtown designed to create a safe walkable and vibrant community for residents and visitors

Four additional women were recognized for their professional accomplishments and dedication to community service, serving as role models for young women in Broward County. Alisa Bert, Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer for Broward Health, oversees a $1.9 billion budget and has implemented transformative initiatives that have resulted in multiple credit rating upgrades. With over 30 years of experience in healthcare and finance, Bert has broken gender barriers in leadership while creating mentorship and career pathways for emerging professionals. She also serves as Treasurer of the Broward College Foundation, the Florida Atlantic University/Broward Health Academic Practice Plan, and the Children’s Diagnostic & Treatment Center’s Board of Directors, as well as a board member of the South Florida Hospital & Healthcare Association.

Rebecca Bratter, Deputy Managing Partner for Greenspoon Marder, was honored for her exceptional leadership in the legal field, while Cindy Mason, Market Leader – Broward County for Florida Blue, was recognized for her work advancing healthcare access and community programs. Julie Price, President and CEO of Arc Broward, was celebrated for her advocacy and commitment to serving individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Each woman shared personal stories of perseverance, innovation, and dedication, inspiring attendees with their journeys of success and service.

The 2025 Emerald Awards showcased not only professional excellence but also the spirit of giving back. “These women exemplify what it means to lead with purpose, inspire change, and create opportunities for others,” said the event coordinator. The evening highlighted the importance of mentorship, philanthropy, and civic engagement, emphasizing that leadership extends beyond career achievements to making a tangible difference in the lives of others.

For many in attendance, the event was more than a ceremony—it was a celebration of community, inspiration, and empowerment. By raising significant funds for the Girl Scouts’ programs, the Emerald Awards ensure that future generations of girls have access to experiences that cultivate confidence, leadership, and social responsibility. Attendees were reminded that each contribution supports the next wave of changemakers, building a stronger, more engaged community.

Read also: Families prepare for a night of Halloween fun as Boo Bash returns to Pompano Beach with rides music and costumes

From the inspiring presence of Rita Case to the trailblazing careers of Bert, Bratter, Mason, and Price, the Emerald Awards provided a platform to honor women who exemplify courage, resilience, and dedication. Their stories serve as a beacon for young girls, proving that with determination, mentorship, and a commitment to giving back, they too can leave a lasting impact on their communities.

The Girl Scouts of Southeast Florida continue to leverage events like the Emerald Awards to elevate female leadership and celebrate those who pave the way for future generations. Through recognition, storytelling, and community support, the organization reaffirms its mission to cultivate confidence, character, and courage in girls while celebrating the women who inspire them.

The evening concluded with a shared commitment to fostering opportunities for young women, reinforcing the enduring legacy of leadership, service, and community impact that the Emerald Awards represent.