FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact:
Sunita Theiss
media@womenspublicleadership.net

Orlando, FL—Women’s Public Leadership Network (WPLN), a non-partisan non-profit that equips and encourages women to seek public office, honored Sandra Mortham and Paul Mitchell of Tallahassee, Florida at its 4th Annual National Summit, held June 5–7, 2025, in Orlando, Florida.

“We are incredibly honored to celebrate everything Sandra and Paul have done to support women leaders,” said Larissa Martinez, President and Founder of WPLN. “They are committed to increasing women’s leadership at every level of government throughout their careers, and we are grateful for the leadership they have shown to elevate women’s voices.”

WPLN presented Sandra Mortham, Founder and Chair of Maggie's List, with the 2025 Architect of Society Award. Inspired by Harriett Beecher Stowe’s words that “Women are the real architects of society,” this award is given to a woman who exemplifies the qualities of a public leader: effective, principled, and a true public servant.

“It’s an incredible honor to receive the Architect of Society Award from WPLN,” said Mortham. “To every woman thinking about running for office: do it. Just do it. The truth is, women are still underrepresented at every level of government, and we can do better. That’s why the work WPLN does—teaching the fundamentals, building confidence, and creating a support system—is so critical. You have to be willing to fundraise, to prepare, and to surround yourself with good people. If we want more women in leadership, especially center-right women, we need to step up, support each other early, especially in primaries, and make our voices heard.”

As Florida’s 22nd Secretary of State, Mortham was the first Republican woman to be elected to the Florida Cabinet, and only the second woman so elected. She currently lobbies for various prestigious groups before the Florida Legislature and the Governor’s agencies.

WPLN also presented the 2025 Daniel Anthony Award to Paul Mitchell, Partner at The Southern Group. Named for Susan B. Anthony’s father and early supporter of her work, this award recognizes a man who has provided critical support to a female public leader or leaders.

“I’m deeply honored to receive the Daniel Anthony Award from WPLN,” said Mitchell. "Supporting women in public leadership isn’t just the right thing to do. It's essential to building a better future. Good for every one of you who’s chosen to step up, serve, and make a difference. Our country is better because you care enough to lead.” As he accepted his award, Mitchell first thanked his mother, emphasizing that she taught him the importance of strong women and stronger values.

Paul began his career in Florida government in 1988 as an aide to then-Insurance Commissioner Tom Gallagher, later serving as chief cabinet aide to Secretary Mortham. He joined The Southern Group’s Tallahassee office in 2005, where he continues to play a key role in Florida public affairs.

Sandra Mortham and Paul Mitchell were honored during WPLN’s Leadership Awards Dinner on Friday, June 6, as part of WPLN's 2025 National Summit.

To learn more about WPLN’s mission and programs, visit womenspublicleadership.net.

About Women’s Public Leadership Network

Women’s Public Leadership Network (WPLN) is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization that educates, organizes, and inspires women to enter public office across the United States. We aim to mitigate barriers women face by partnering with a network of state-based organizations who identify, engage, and train women to run for elected office, obtain political appointments, and become more involved in the political process.  WPLN also offers tools and opportunities designed to equip women with the knowledge and resources they need as they step up, get involved in the political process, and lead.