The Pasco Economic Development Council’s policy council chooses to single out an individual every year for exhibiting exceptional leadership that has had a positive impact on Pasco’s economy and community.
The honor this year is being bestowed to Pasco County Schools Deputy Superintendent Ray Gadd.
Gadd is set to receive the award — which will be accompanied by a video tribute — during the Pasco EDC’s 35th Annual Awards ceremony.
The event is set for Sept. 7 from 5 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., at Pasco-Hernando State College’s Instructional Performing Arts Center (IPAC), at 8657 Old Pasco Road, in Wesley Chapel. (For event ticket information, go to PascoEDC.com.)
Perhaps it is fitting that the ceremony will take place at IPAC, since Gadd was instrumental in the project becoming a reality.
When a grand opening was held for the building, Pasco County School Board member Cynthia Armstrong praised Gadd’s persistence, and his willingness to think out of the box — which she said played a big role in making the project happen.
For his part, Gadd credited former Florida Speaker of the House Will Weatherford’s desire to bring a performing arts center to the area.
Gadd said Weatherford called to ask for his help in the quest.
The deputy superintendent then set about collecting floor plans from various performing arts venues and getting cost estimates.
In the end, the state came up with some funding and Pasco County Schools and Pasco-Hernando State College created a partnership to bring the building to life.
Now, the performing arts center offers students the chance to pursue careers in the performing and digital arts, and provides a venue for performances in Wesley Chapel.
That center is one example of the many collaborations involving Gadd, who has a vast network of connections that can help make things happen.
One of Gadd’s most notable accomplishments is the role that he played in helping to get the initial Penny for Pasco surtax approved by voters in 2004, and again in subsequent extensions.
Revenues from the voter-approved tax provide money to pay for new construction and renovations in district schools, as well as other projects.
Penny funds also cover costs for such things as infrastructure, environmental land and economic development in Pasco County, and various projects across the county’s municipalities.
Gadd also has played a key role in expanding options for students.
He advocated for the creation of Kirkland Academy of Innovation, in Wesley Chapel, where students can enroll in rigorous academic courses and prepare for technical careers.
He’s also been on the leading edge of planning for Angeline Academy of Innovation, which opened this year in the emerging community of Angeline, where Moffitt Cancer Center is developing its Pasco campus.
School district and Moffitt leaders began talking long before the new magnet school opened about ways they can work together to create unique opportunities for students.
Gadd also had a hand in a cooperative agreement between the school district and Pepin Academies regarding a new charter school that will be built on Kirkland Ranch Academy’s campus.
The agreement represents the first of its type in the state.
Gadd is a fan of the arts.
Beyond helping to bring IPAC to the county, Gadd helped make a black box theater a reality at Cypress Creek Middle School.
Plus, he helped pull together a multitude of forces — from local government, private business, the community and state leaders — to construct the long-desired stage at Land O’ Lakes Heritage Park.
Gadd also has worked closely with Chris Williams, the school system’s director of planning, to help the district secure land to serve future needs.
Bill Cronin, Pasco EDC’s president and CEO, praised Gadd’s contributions.
“I have had the privilege of working with Ray since I began working in Pasco County through his position with Pasco County Schools and work in passing the Penny for Pasco, which has been vital in improving the economic development landscape of our community,” Cronin said, in a news release.
“Ray’s eye to improving the community and dedication to the wellness of children are only a few of the reasons why he is being honored with this award,” the Pasco EDC executive said.
Superintendent Kurt Browning praised Gadd’s effectiveness.
“His ability to get things done is a testament to his work ethic and his commitment to the children and families of Pasco County,” Browning said, in the release.
“Ray is an incredible leader that has always had the best interests of Pasco County at heart.”
Published August 23, 2023
