For nearly a century, the Banker’s Cup Award has celebrated individuals who leave an indelible mark on our community. This year’s recipient exemplifies what it means to dedicate oneself to the betterment of Winter Haven. His work over the decades has not only shaped our city but has touched the lives of countless residents, leaving an enduring legacy for future generations. 

This year’s honoree is a tireless advocate for education. His leadership has been instrumental in the establishment and success of several education initiatives across Winter Haven. As a founding force behind the Winter Haven Public Education Partnership, also known as PEP, he has played a pivotal role in creating opportunities for youth. Through his advocacy, fundraising efforts, and vision, he has helped ensure that our next generation of leaders have access to the best possible education, support, and opportunities. His work continues to this day, personally and professionally, to guide and uplift the schools and programs that make a different in our children’s lives.

His passion for education doesn’t stop there. He prioritizes providing his staff with educational and growth opportunities through developing unique internal programs and supporting the staff to pursue a wide variety of professional development opportunities. Living out his mantra of “you’re either green and growing or you’re dying on the vine”, he is currently pursuing his own, second, master’s degree as he never ceases to continue to learn and expand his expertise. 

But his contributions to Winter Haven extend beyond leadership and education - he also brings music into the lives of many, using his talents as yet another way to give back. Over the years, he has performed countless times solo or with his band, Coastal Acoustic Barefoot Music, not just for the love of performing, but to support the community he cares so deeply about. Every tip he earns, every dollar from merchandise sales, goes directly to local nonprofits. In fact, through his musical efforts alone, he has raised over $80,000 for organizations in Winter Haven. His music is more than a hobby; it’s a vehicle for change, an expression of his unwavering commitment to making a positive impact wherever he can. 

His journey of service began long before his professional career, rooted in his early years right here in Winter Haven. As a teenager, he took his first steps into community service as a lifeguard at the Winter Haven Recreational and Cultural Center. This early experience ignited his passion for giving back and set him on a path of lifelong dedication to making a difference. After pursuing his education, he could have taken his talents anywhere, but his heart ultimately brought him back home. For the past two and a half decades, his has dedicated himself to this community, pouring his energy, skills, leadership, and vision into the place that he calls home. 

His professional journey with the City of Winter Haven began in the Leisure Services Department, now known as Parks, Recreation and Culture, where he dedicated himself to creating spaces and opportunities that enrich the lives of residents. From programming to community events, he left a lasting impact, building connections and fostering a sense of belonging in Winter Haven. Over the years, his leadership and commitment saw him rise through the ranks first as Leisure Services Director, Director of Community Services, Assistant City Manager, and then Deputy City Manager. Each role he stepped into was marked by his unwavering focus on improving the quality of life for all.

In 2022 his dedication was recognized in a profound way when he was appointed City Manager, following a unanimous vote by the City Commission. The overwhelming community support at his Oath of Office ceremony speaks to the respect and admiration he has earned over the years. As City Manager, he continues to guide Winter haven with the same passion and care that have been the hallmarks of his career. 

Throughout his remarkable career, his leadership and dedication have not gone unnoticed. He has been recognized with numerous prestigious awards that reflect his tireless service and the impact he has made on Winter haven. Among his many accolades, he was awarded the Florida Recreation and Parks Association’s Lifetime Award in 2022, honoring his years of commitment to enhancing the city’s recreational spaces and cultural offerings. He has also been recognized by the Florida City and County Manager’s Association with the Excellence in Leadership Award, underscoring his ability to guide with both vision and heart. 

In 2020, he was named the Distinguished Alumni of the Year by the Polk State College Alumni Association, a reflection of his personal and professional contributions to the community he serves. Additionally, he earned the prestigious Credentialed Manager designation from the International City/County Management Association, a rare honor that speaks to his expertise in public administration. These awards are just a few of the many that showcase the breadth and depth of his contributions, each one a testament to his enduring dedication to making Winter Haven the best it can be. 

Even today, his commitment to Winter Haven is evident in the everyday actions that speak volumes about his character. As an elder and active member of his church, he leads with both faith and humility, offering his time and service wherever it’s needed. Everything month, he personally delivers Meals on Wheels to those in need, never losing sight of the importance of one-on-one connections with the community he serves. 

Beyond his formal roles, he remains deeply involved in the city’s daily life. Whether it’s picking up trash in public spaces, helping to maintain landscaping, or simply offering a hand wherever it’s needed, he exemplifies the idea that leadership is about more than vision - it’s about action. His leadership is as visible in the small, quiet acts of care as it is int he strategic decisions that shape Winter Haven’s bright future. He is as invested in his home today as he was decades ago, continually working to make Winter Haven a better place for all, both through long-term planning and personal, everyday service. 

What sets this year’s honoree apart is not just his ability to see the challenges and opportunities within our community - it’s his unwavering commitment to act on them. A close friend once said, “He doesn’t just see everything; he cares enough to do something about it.” That sentiment defines his approach to leadership and service. Whether he’s leading a major City initiative or quietly lending a hand behind the scenes, he is always driven by a genuine desire to improve the lives of others. His heart, his vision, and his actions are all aligned with a single purpose: to make Winter haven the best it can be for everyone who calls it home. 

It is with immense pride and admiration that we honor this extraordinary individual for his lifetime of service and commitment to Winter Haven. Please join me in welcoming your 2024 Banker’s Cup Man of the Year, T. Michael Stavres.