Mark Pritchett and Felice Schulaner Join The Bay Park Board

January 3, 2024 – Sarasota

The Bay Park Conservancy (BPC), the non-profit organization responsible for designing, developing, managing and operating a signature public park on 53 acres of City-owned land along Sarasota Bay, has elected two new Board members.

“The Bay team continues to be laser focused on providing delightful experiences day in and day out for the thousands of park guests who visit the park every day, week and month,” says Board Chair Jennifer Compton. “We also continue to make good progress designing Phase 2, the next 14-acres, to provide the community with even more park for all. Proven leaders like Felice and Mark add experience and expertise to the Board necessary to govern and balance ongoing operations of existing park with the implementation of new park.”

Felice Schulaner is an accomplished retired Human Resources executive. She worked in a variety of industries – retail, financial services, technology – adding value to multi-billion-dollar companies including Macy’s, American Express and Coach Inc. Ms. Schulaner also served as the Executive Director of the Coach Foundation. Ms. Schulaner devotes her time to giving back and serving on several non-profit boards in various capacities, including as Vice Chair of the Board of Ruth’s List.

“I am excited to join the Board of The Bay Park Conservancy because I am inspired by its mission to provide equal access to a wonderful park and inspiring activities for all members of the community,” says Schulaner. “Creating beautiful and inclusive spaces and experiences for everyone is something truly worth supporting.“

Dr. Mark S. Pritchett recently retired from Gulf Coast Community Foundation as President and CEO where he led the team to record philanthropic giving and granting, while successfully executing initiatives that will transform the greater Sarasota region for generations. Mark is known throughout Florida as a respected leader in business, philanthropy, and public policy. For over thirty years, Mark has worked with governors, CEOs and philanthropists to advance Florida into a future that provides opportunities for everyone. 

“As an early proponent of The Bay, I am excited to serve on the board and continue my support of this park for all,” says Pritchett. “Open, beautiful parks are sanctuaries from the chaos of our daily lives. The Bay is an oasis hiding in a bustling urban environment where we can quietly appreciate the natural beauty of the seashore or enjoy the creativity of our vibrant region.”

For more information about The Bay and The Bay Park Conservancy, visit www.thebaysarasota.org or contact Julia Groom at julia@dreamlarge.org or 941-786-8732.