2025 Scholarship Recipients

Gabriella Duprey

Event Specialist at City of West Palm Beach

With a degree in Recreation, Tourism, and Events, Gabbi has already made a powerful impact in community engagement. From organizing University events to now creating experiences that bring her City together, Gabbi’s passion runs deep. “Events are my way of bringing people joy and connection—creating something meaningful from behind the scenes.”

What drives her? A mission to make communities stronger through inclusive, memorable, and well-executed events. “I believe in the transformative power of events to educate, entertain, and inspire.” She hopes to grow her leadership in municipal event planning and give back by mentoring the next generation of professionals.

Gabbi is eager to expand her network and gain new tools at this year’s conference. “I’m excited to learn from the best in the industry and continue growing as both a creative and strategic leader.”

Markus Lockhart

Community Events Specialist for the Village of Wellington

Currently pursuing a degree in Public Administration with a minor in Event Management, Markus has already made his mark producing inclusive, community-building experiences. With prior roles in recreation and his current work developing large-scale events, he’s passionate about crafting spaces where “everyone feels like they belong.”

“I saw firsthand how events could transform communities—how they could be joyful, healing, and powerful. That’s what inspired me to join this industry,” Markus shared.

His long-term goal? To become a Director of Community Events, shaping impactful programs across Florida and beyond. With a focus on inclusive programming, public-private partnerships, and innovation, we know he’s just getting started.

“I’m excited to connect with others who share my passion and gain tools to keep elevating the work I do.”

Hear from Markus here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bd9B760LnP8

Susana Magdaleno

City of West Palm Beach

Susana currently supports the award-winning West Palm Beach GreenMarket, handling everything from vendor and guest check-in to workshop setup and on-the-ground logistics. With over a decade in the hospitality industry and a new role in public events, she brings heart, hustle, and a natural talent for creating meaningful experiences.

“I’ve always loved bringing people together and creating moments that people remember. The events industry blends my creative nature and social personality—it just fits.”

Though still early in her events career, Susana’s impact is already being felt. She's committed to building inclusive, locally-rooted programs that uplift and connect the community she proudly calls home.

“As a lifelong South Florida resident, I want to contribute to the vibrancy of West Palm Beach by organizing gatherings that truly reflect and serve our people.”

Jena Phillips

Dedicated University of Florida Student

Currently studying Event Management, Jena is focused on building a career in the festival and events industry. Although she’s just getting started, her passion is clear: “My future career goal is to become a skilled event planner who creates memorable and impactful events for all kinds of audiences.”

This scholarship will give Jena the opportunity to attend the FFEA Annual Conference and connect with professionals across Florida who are shaping the future of the industry she aspires to join. She’s eager to absorb new ideas, build relationships, and begin her journey with a strong foundation of knowledge and support.

“As a student, being able to learn from experienced planners and gain real-world insight is an invaluable opportunity.”

Clare Sanshie

Special Events Coordinator for the City of North Port

Clare brings both passion and professionalism to her role, building inclusive community events that uplift and inspire. A graduate of Central Michigan University with a background in recreation and event management, Clare combines creativity, logistics, and heart in everything she does.

“Events are how I connect with the community—bringing people together, sparking joy, and creating memories that last.”

Before joining her city team, Clare planned over 25 campus events at CMU and interned for the City of Sterling Heights, where her love for municipal events truly took off. Now, she’s eager to grow into a leadership role where she can develop large-scale, city-wide celebrations and elevate the field of public service through events.

“This conference is my opportunity to grow as a leader, learn best practices, and meet mentors who’ve been where I want to go.”