Elisha González

Elisha González

Executive Leader | Public Affairs | Senior Vice President Public Engagement Strategist, Innovator, Partnership Developer, Results Driver Leader Government Affairs, Public Relations, Philanthropy & Economic Development

Greater Orlando
4K followers 500+ connections

About

Strategic and trusted executive, collaborator, connector and relationship builder, forging lucrative partnerships and valuable alliances to move the mission forward.

Activity

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Experience

  • FAIRWINDS Credit Union

    FAIRWINDS Credit Union

    6 years 4 months

    • Senior Vice President Public Engagement

      FAIRWINDS Credit Union

      - Present 3 months

      Leading national community relations, government affairs, public relations, and foundation strategies to build awareness of the FAIRWINDS brand, strengthening its presence, and cultivating lasting connections across United States communities.

    • FAIRWINDS Credit Union Graphic

      Executive Director - FAIRWINDS Foundation

      FAIRWINDS Credit Union

      - Present 6 years 4 months

    • FAIRWINDS Credit Union Graphic

      Vice President Community Relations & Government Affairs - FAIRWINDS Credit Union

      FAIRWINDS Credit Union

      - 6 years 2 months

      Public Affairs, Marketing & Philanthropy

  • President & CEO

    Elisha Gonzalez Inc.

    - 1 year 7 months

    Florida

    ▪️Business Strategy▪️Government Affairs ▪️Employee Training & Development
    ▪️Nonprofit Strategy
    ▪️Community Engagement
    ▪️Human Resources

  • Duke Energy Corporation Graphic

    Government and Community Relations Manager

    Duke Energy Corporation

    - 2 years 5 months

    Florida

  • Valencia College Graphic

    Director of Community Affairs-Executive Director Valencia Promise & Take Stock in Children

    Valencia College

    - 10 years

    Orlando, FL

  • Regional Director

    U.S. Senate

    - less than a year

    Florida Area

  • Orange County Public Schools Graphic

    Principal

    Orange County Public Schools

    - 12 years

Education

Volunteer Experience

  • Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Metro Orlando (HCCMO) Graphic

    Executive Board Of Directors - Immediate Past Board Chair

    Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Metro Orlando (HCCMO)

    - Present 4 years 7 months

    Economic Empowerment

    To drive economic growth by strengthening Hispanic business in Central Florida.

  • Orlando Economic Partnership Graphic

    Leadership Orlando - Class 105 Chair

    Orlando Economic Partnership

    - 8 months

    Supporting Business and Community Leaders. With over 7,000 graduates, Leadership Orlando is Central Florida’s only community leadership program that spans our entire seven-county region and is the largest program in America.

  • Florida Citrus Sports Graphic

    Member Board of Directors

    Florida Citrus Sports

    - Present 2 years 7 months

    Florida Citrus Sports is a not-for-profit event management organization dedicated to positively impacting the Orlando region while enhancing the quality of life in Central Florida through world-class events.

  • Prospera USA Graphic

    Member Board Of Directors

    Prospera USA

    - Present 4 years

    Economic Empowerment

    Helping start, sustain, and grow Hispanic-owned businesses to achieve community prosperity. Prospera's vision is to emphasize the power of economic opportunity and act as a catalyst for positive community change by contributing to the growth and success of Hispanic-owned businesses.

  • Florida Chamber of Commerce Graphic

    Florida Chamber of Commerce Foundation, Member - Board of Directors

    Florida Chamber of Commerce

    - Present 4 years

    Economic Empowerment

    The Florida Chamber Foundation leads Florida in future-focused research and continues to be a catalyst for positive change.

    By 2030, Florida will add five million more residents. Are our roads and bridges ready? Do we have enough clean water, enough energy capacity and enough infrastructure to guarantee vibrant and sustainable communities throughout the state? The Florida Chamber Foundation is leading the charge to write the next chapter of Florida’s story. If you are ready to put the…

    The Florida Chamber Foundation leads Florida in future-focused research and continues to be a catalyst for positive change.

    By 2030, Florida will add five million more residents. Are our roads and bridges ready? Do we have enough clean water, enough energy capacity and enough infrastructure to guarantee vibrant and sustainable communities throughout the state? The Florida Chamber Foundation is leading the charge to write the next chapter of Florida’s story. If you are ready to put the long-term ahead of the short-term, then we are ready for you. Join us in securing Florida’s future.

  • United Arts of Central Florida Graphic

    Member Board Of Directors

    United Arts of Central Florida

    - Present 5 years

    Arts and Culture

    United Arts has invested more than $155 million in local organizations and education since its founding in 1989. It serves as the one-stop-shop for support and funding of the arts community. United Arts invests more than $4.9 million annually into more than 60 arts, science and history cultural providers throughout Lake, Orange, Osceola and Seminole counties through grants, collaborative fundraising and contact service opportunities.

  • Junior Achievement of Central Florida Graphic

    Executive Board Of Directors - Vice Chair

    Junior Achievement of Central Florida

    - Present 5 years

    Economic Empowerment

    Junior Achievement volunteer-delivered, kindergarten-12th grade programs foster work-readiness, entrepreneurship and financial literacy skills, and use experiential learning to inspire students in our community to dream big and reach their potential.

  • The Cathedral Church of St. James Graphic

    Chair - Parish Finance Council

    The Cathedral Church of St. James

    - Present 7 years 3 months

  • Heart of Florida United Way Graphic

    Member Board of Directors, 2021 - 2022 Women United Chair, 2018-2019 Campaign Chair, 2017-2018 Chef’s Gala Co-Chair

    Heart of Florida United Way

    - 8 years

    Social Services

    Heart of Florida United Way fights for the education, health and financial stability of every person in Central Florida.

    Heart of Florida United Way is Central Florida’s largest supporter of local health and human service agencies. In 2016-2017, it managed more than $46 million dollars in total resources, including over $17.7 million raised during the annual campaign that helps fund nearly 60 local health and human service programs.

    It also operates the United Way 2-1-1…

    Heart of Florida United Way fights for the education, health and financial stability of every person in Central Florida.

    Heart of Florida United Way is Central Florida’s largest supporter of local health and human service agencies. In 2016-2017, it managed more than $46 million dollars in total resources, including over $17.7 million raised during the annual campaign that helps fund nearly 60 local health and human service programs.

    It also operates the United Way 2-1-1 Information and Assistance helpline, the EITC tax credit initiative, Mission United, Destination Graduation, the Volunteer Resource Center, the Gifts-in-Kind Center, the Ryan White Part B/General Revenue Program and Emergency & Homelessness Services.

    United Way is focused on prevention and finding long-term solutions for pressing problems. Known as Investing in Results, this philosophy is guiding our work to move the needle in four critical impact areas:
    Education, Health,Financial Stability,Basic Needs

  • Hispanic Heritage Scholarship of Metro Orlando Graphic

    Past Board Chair

    Hispanic Heritage Scholarship of Metro Orlando

    - 6 years

    Education

    Hispanic Heritage Scholarship Fund of Metro Orlando
    Since its inception in 2000, the scholarship fund and its partners have been able to provide $1.65 million in scholarships to help more than 330 students pursue a college education.
    Our mission is to enhance the post-secondary educational success of Hispanic students in Central Florida. Our vision is to ensure post-secondary completion rates of Hispanic students who can contribute to the Central Florida economy.
    The scholarship…

    Hispanic Heritage Scholarship Fund of Metro Orlando
    Since its inception in 2000, the scholarship fund and its partners have been able to provide $1.65 million in scholarships to help more than 330 students pursue a college education.
    Our mission is to enhance the post-secondary educational success of Hispanic students in Central Florida. Our vision is to ensure post-secondary completion rates of Hispanic students who can contribute to the Central Florida economy.
    The scholarship fund’s board, sponsors and partners recognize and uniquely understand the continuing need for quality education, the financial challenges of our community, and the difference that scholarship support can have on a student’s academic success. We believe that an investment in the education of our youth is an investment in the future well-being of Central Florida.

  • CareerSource Florida Graphic

    Board Of Directors and Finance Committee Vice Chair

    CareerSource Florida

    - 6 years

    We Connect Businesses with Skilled Talent and Training Solutions
    CareerSource Florida is the statewide workforce policy and investment board. Our partners include the Department of Economic Opportunity, 24 local workforce development boards and 100 career centers throughout Florida. Together, we help connect businesses with the talented workforce and training needed to succeed and grow.

  • Orlando Economic Partnership Graphic

    Advocacy & Policy/Investor Relations Committees

    Orlando Economic Partnership

    - 7 years

    Economic Empowerment

    It’s time for a reality check. Time to toss aside what you think Orlando has to offer and recognize that our region is more than just a great place to vacation. It’s also an amazing place to live and do business.

    Orlando is home to thinkers, dreamers and leaders. We're young and educated, hardworking and diverse, talented and high-tech. And we're eager to share with you the whole story of this thriving community.

  • Holocaust Memorial Resource & Education Center of Florida Graphic

    Board Of Directors

    Holocaust Memorial Resource & Education Center of Florida

    - 4 years

    Human Rights

    Never Again Campaign: A campaign to build a new museum. A mission to build a world without hate.
    With your support, this campaign will allow the Holocaust Memorial Resource & Education Center of Florida to make critical investments to expand our impact and build on what Tess and Abe Wise started over three decades ago to use the history and lessons of the Holocaust to build a more inclusive community where all people feel safe and respected—one free of antisemitism and all forms of…

    Never Again Campaign: A campaign to build a new museum. A mission to build a world without hate.
    With your support, this campaign will allow the Holocaust Memorial Resource & Education Center of Florida to make critical investments to expand our impact and build on what Tess and Abe Wise started over three decades ago to use the history and lessons of the Holocaust to build a more inclusive community where all people feel safe and respected—one free of antisemitism and all forms of prejudice and bigotry. Earlier this year, the City of Orlando approved an agreement to lease the Holocaust Center the former Chamber of Commerce building and adjacent Senator Beth Johnson Park for $1 per year to build our new Holocaust Museum for Hope & Humanity. Our museum will stand as a beacon of light and reflection of the city’s values and culture of inclusiveness, respect for people of all backgrounds, faiths, and cultures; and a community that celebrates differences of all kinds.

  • Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra Graphic

    Board Of Directors

    Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra

    - 10 years

    Arts and Culture

    The mission of the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra is to enrich and inspire the diverse communities of Central Florida through the transformative power of live music.

    We are, at our core, artists and advocates who are gifted with a passion for music, and have both the tremendous privilege and unshakable responsibility to share it. Music speaks for the heart, and profoundly impacts the growth, enrichment, inspiration, healing, maturity, and expression of the human experience.

    The…

    The mission of the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra is to enrich and inspire the diverse communities of Central Florida through the transformative power of live music.

    We are, at our core, artists and advocates who are gifted with a passion for music, and have both the tremendous privilege and unshakable responsibility to share it. Music speaks for the heart, and profoundly impacts the growth, enrichment, inspiration, healing, maturity, and expression of the human experience.

    The Orlando Philharmonic seeks to be the wellspring of music in Central Florida–nourishing the soul of the community with music that speaks to, and sometimes for, each person.

  • School Advisory Board - Past Board Chair, Board Member

    St. James Cathedral School

    - 6 years

    Education

  • Leadership Seminole Graphic

    Board Member

    Leadership Seminole

    - 1 year

    Education

    Leadership Seminole creates a program that brings present and future community leaders together for the sharing of knowledge that will inspire them to step forward and make a difference in our community. Strengthen the professional community by offering a curriculum that challenges the minds of its participants toward a shared goal of community trusteeship. Develop the basic element of strong leadership in participants as they become the force of change within our community by empowering others.

  • Board Of Directors

    Seminole State College of Florida Foundation

    - 3 years

    Education

    The Foundation's mission is to enhance the College's programs and services through the development and management of private contributions and community partnerships. The Foundation provides resources that support academic excellence, increased access and vital community outreach, which assists in the advancement of the institution, students, faculty and staff.

    The Foundation's goal is to increase its role as steward of relationships and funds; serve as the facilitator of opportunities;…

    The Foundation's mission is to enhance the College's programs and services through the development and management of private contributions and community partnerships. The Foundation provides resources that support academic excellence, increased access and vital community outreach, which assists in the advancement of the institution, students, faculty and staff.

    The Foundation's goal is to increase its role as steward of relationships and funds; serve as the facilitator of opportunities; and be the messenger and model of the College's values and merit.

  • Seminole County Regional Chamber of Commerce Graphic

    Board of Directors - Executive Committee

    Seminole County Regional Chamber of Commerce

    - 2 years

    Economic Empowerment

  • Team Volusia Economic Development Corporation Graphic

    Investor Relations Committee Member

    Team Volusia Economic Development Corporation

    - Present 9 years

    Economic Empowerment

    Orlando, Melbourne and Jacksonville are neighbors of the Deltona-Daytona Beach-Ormond Beach metro area, putting Volusia County at the epicenter of one of the hottest business environments in Central Florida. It is home to some amazing organizations, like International Speedway Corporation, NASCAR, DuvaSawko, Teledyne Oil & Gas, Consolidated-Tomoka Land Company, TopBuild, Brown & Brown and many others. They find the business climate exceptional, as is the quality of life. So, for the whole…

    Orlando, Melbourne and Jacksonville are neighbors of the Deltona-Daytona Beach-Ormond Beach metro area, putting Volusia County at the epicenter of one of the hottest business environments in Central Florida. It is home to some amazing organizations, like International Speedway Corporation, NASCAR, DuvaSawko, Teledyne Oil & Gas, Consolidated-Tomoka Land Company, TopBuild, Brown & Brown and many others. They find the business climate exceptional, as is the quality of life. So, for the whole story, explore our website.

  • Board Member

    Seminole County Homelessness Action Board

    - 2 years

    Poverty Alleviation

  • Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Metro Orlando (HCCMO) Graphic

    Vision Magazine Board Member and contributor.

    Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Metro Orlando (HCCMO)

    - 1 year

    Economic Empowerment

  • Art & History Museums - Maitland Graphic

    Board President & Executive Committee

    Art & History Museums - Maitland

    - 5 years

    Arts and Culture

    Our mission is to foster an appreciation for art and history through immersive experiences that celebrate Maitland’s diverse cultural heritage and preserves the community’s legacy embodied in Jules Andre Smith’s Research Studio, our National Historic Landmark.

  • Winter Park Chamber of Commerce Graphic

    Board Of Directors

    Winter Park Chamber of Commerce

    - 2 years

    Economic Empowerment

  • Orange County Government Graphic

    Minority/Women Business Enterprise Advisory Committee Board Member

    Orange County Government

    - 2 years

    Economic Empowerment

  • Orange County Government Graphic

    Orange County Children and Families Board Member

    Orange County Government

    - 2 years

    Children

  • Florida Chamber of Commerce Graphic

    Foundation’s Six Pillars Caucus System - Talent Supply & Education Caucus

    Florida Chamber of Commerce

    - 4 years

    Economic Empowerment

  • Orange County Government Graphic

    Arts & Cultural Affairs Board Director

    Orange County Government

    - 4 years

    Arts and Culture

Publications

Honors & Awards

  • Women We Admire In Finance

    Women We Admire

    Women We Admire is pleased to announce The Top 50 Women Leaders in Finance for 2025. Success in finance requires precision, adaptability, and strategic vision—qualities this year’s honorees exemplify. With their sharp analytical skills and ability to navigate complex financial landscapes, they drive innovation and decision-making in an ever-evolving industry. As problem solvers and influential voices, they are shaping the future of finance.

  • Community Impact Luminaries Class of 2024

    Credit Union Times

    Credit Union Times Luminaries
    This pioneering recognition celebrates top advisors, executives, firms, teams and programs by telling the stories of how they are driving the industry forward.

  • 50 Most Powerful People 2024: Ones to Watch

    Orlando Magazine

    These leaders each make their indelible mark on the Central Florida community in a unique way. They come from numerous passions and pursuits, and Orlando is all the better because of it.

  • Florida Trend 500 - 2024 Most Influential Business Executives

    Florida Trend

    Florida 500, a special publication that highlights the 500 most influential executives in different economic sectors throughout the state. This immense, year-long research initiative by the editors of Florida Trend has resulted in a personal, engaging look at the state’s most influential business leaders.

  • 2024 Orlando Business Journal Most Influential

    Orlando Business Journal

    Leaders contributing to their business's success, community involvement and industry leadership.

    These Central Florida executives use their cachet to help better the region and the business community for all.

  • Florida Trend 500 - 2023 Most Influential Business Executives

    Florida Trend

    Florida 500, a special publication that highlights the 500 most influential executives in different economic sectors throughout the state. This immense, year-long research initiative by the editors of Florida Trend has resulted in a personal, engaging look at the state’s most influential business leaders.

  • Above & Beyond Florida - Women in Government & Public Service

    City & State Florida and the News Service of Florida

    This list, presented by City & State Florida and the News Service of Florida, features trailblazers who have distinguished themselves in government, business, nonprofits, media, health care and other high-profile fields. These women, who were recognized at a Sept. 19, 2023 event in Tallahassee, are shaping key policies, driving transformative changes and going above and beyond in serving the people of Florida.

  • Women We Admire - Women in Finance Honoree

    Women We Admire

    Women We Admire is a membership organization comprised of the most accomplished women executives and leaders across the U.S. and Canada. It is one of the fastest growing professional women's network. Women We Admire also provides news and information on today's women leaders in business, entertainment, sports, motherhood, medicine, law, and many other fields. Women We Admire covers a broad range of topics and areas of interest aimed at recognizing the achievements of exceptional women while…

    Women We Admire is a membership organization comprised of the most accomplished women executives and leaders across the U.S. and Canada. It is one of the fastest growing professional women's network. Women We Admire also provides news and information on today's women leaders in business, entertainment, sports, motherhood, medicine, law, and many other fields. Women We Admire covers a broad range of topics and areas of interest aimed at recognizing the achievements of exceptional women while inspiring others to aim high and continue their journey towards reaching their full potential.

    https://xmrrwallet.com/cmx.pthewomenweadmire.com/ [thewomenweadmire-dot-yamm-track.appspot.com]

  • OBJ Business Executive of the Year Honoree

    Orlando Business Journal - Women Who Mean Business

    The 2023 Women Who Mean Business are trailblazers, change makers and disruptors — and each one of them has a unique story to tell as they make history in their own ways. This year’s award winners include founders, CEOs, partners, managers and other leaders in companies that represent several industries, such as tourism, technology and professional services.

  • Women Who Move the City

    Orlando Magazine

    https://xmrrwallet.com/cmx.pwww.orlandomagazine.com/elisha-gonzalez-of-fairwinds-foundation-women-who-move-the-city/amp/?fbclid=IwAR0vOSd1AQoyV05e8bJM7Y5AW2Vi5hREbT1gUdPUZ7qRr6Z7U6ZTEN89FyE&fs=e&s=cl

  • Women Who Move the City

    Orlando Magazine

    https://xmrrwallet.com/cmx.pwww.orlandomagazine.com/5-powerful-orlando-women-2020-women-who-move-the-city/

  • Women of the Year Honoree

    Orange Appeal

    Orange Appeal Women of The Year Honoree for their work in the Central Florida community.

  • Women of Distinction

    Orange Appeal

    https://xmrrwallet.com/cmx.pwww.orangeappeal.com/2019/01/03/happy-new-year-and-cheers-to-our-2019-women-of-the-year/

  • Women of the Year Honoree

    Orlando Magazine

    Orlando Magazine Women of the Year honored women for their work in the Central Florida community.

  • OBJ Business Executive of the Year Honoree

    Orlando Business Journal 2018 Women Who Mean Business

    2018 OBJ Women Who Mean Business

  • OBJ Mentoring Monday - Mentor (2015, 2016, 2017, 2018,2020 2021 and 2024)

    Orlando Business Journal

    Orlando Business Journal Mentoring Monday - the first event of its kind and the beginning of an annual tradition that brings women together in a casual, fast-paced coaching atmosphere.

  • Red De Talentos Mexicanos - Mexican Government Women of Distinction Award

    Consulado de Mexico en Orlando

    The award recognizes the work and dedication of Mexican women in this country.

  • Don Quijote Award - Professional of the Year Award Honoree

    Hispanic Chamber or Commerce of Metro Orlando and the Hispanic Business Initiative Fund of Florida Inc.

    The Don Quijote Awards were created by these organizations to recognize and celebrate the entrepreneurial spirit of individuals who have shown character of great strength, courage, conviction and determination, just as the beloved character of Spanish literature. The Don Quijote Awards are bestowed upon businessmen and women whose efforts have translated into success, at a ceremony that has become the premier event of Central Florida´s Hispanic community.

  • Embraced by Grace Champions for Children Honoree

    Association of Fundraising Professionals Central Florida Chapter - National Philanthropy Day

    National Philanthropy Day is an event that publicly recognizes the outstanding individuals, corporations and fundraising professionals in Central Florida who have positively impacted our community through service and philanthropy. Each year, the Central Florida Chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) honors donors, volunteers, professionals and organizations whose gifts of time, expertise and resources contribute significantly to the quality of life in our communities.

  • Gandhi Diversity Award - Educational Achievement Award Honoree

    Indian American Chamber of Commerce - Orlando, FL

    Mahatma Gandhi Diversity Awards celebrates Gandhi’s birthday and remembering his impressive life, we learned how amazing it is to live among this colorful and diverse Community, filled with great professionals and people that devote their lives to a better community .

  • La Prensa, Mujeres Destacadas, Women of Distinction. Award in Education.

    La Prensa

  • Community Support Award

    Hispanic American Professional & Business Women's Association, HAPBWA

    Hispanic American Professional & Business Women's Association.

  • Forty Under 40 Honoree

    Orlando Business Journal

    Orlando Business Journal’s Forty Under 40 competition, which began in 1996, spotlights 40 of the region’s top young business and civic leaders.

    Those selected showed consistent, outstanding professional achievement and a commitment to community service.

  • Leadership Florida Cornerstone Class 30, Member

    Leadership Florida

    Leadership Florida is the only organization that takes a statewide view of the conditions and challenges that face our great state. Leadership Florida offers a leadership continum that expands the impact of community leaders across the state. Created in 1982 by the Florida Chamber of Commerce, Leadership Florida builds a sense of statewide community by identifying and training individuals with the passion and commitment to help make great things happen.

    The individual contributions of…

    Leadership Florida is the only organization that takes a statewide view of the conditions and challenges that face our great state. Leadership Florida offers a leadership continum that expands the impact of community leaders across the state. Created in 1982 by the Florida Chamber of Commerce, Leadership Florida builds a sense of statewide community by identifying and training individuals with the passion and commitment to help make great things happen.

    The individual contributions of over 800 Florida leaders is multiplied by their collective strength and enhanced by the distinct and diverse nature of the regions of Florida in which they reside. The members of Leadership Florida are dedicated not only to their local communities, but to their statewide community. From its active regional alumni groups, to its broad committee structure that encourages long-term involvement by all of its members, Leadership Florida is a unique and dynamic program designed to promote statewide leadership. While, Leadership programs exist in many other states, none rivals Leadership Florida's ambitious offerings for multiple levels of leadership identification and training. Florida is comprised of diverse cultures and ideas that wash in with the tide of new "Floridians" each year.

    Transplantation and transience from all across the nation and the world have defined Florida from the beginning. While this diversity creates a tumultuous environment full of challenges and opportunities, it is also the source of this state's leadership and its strength.

    Knowledge is a key element of leadership, and each program is designed to enhance understanding about issues critical to Florida. Leadership Florida is about making friends that can be counted on to put the interests of Florida first.

  • The Top 50 Women Leaders in Finance for 2025

    Women We Admire

    Women We Admire is a membership organization comprised of some of the most accomplished women executives and leaders across the U.S. and Canada. As one of the fastest-growing professional women's networks, our goal is to provide members with powerful leadership insights and an unrivaled close-knit community of extraordinary women who enrich each other's career journey.

  • Vision Magazine Most Influential Hispanic

    Visión Magazine

  • Young Educator of Year Nominee

    Phi Delta Kappa

Languages

  • English

    Native or bilingual proficiency

  • Spanish

    Native or bilingual proficiency

Organizations

  • Florida Executive Women (FEW)

    Member

    - Present
  • Leadership Florida

    Member

    - Present

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