Board of Directors
Emile has an extensive history working with and for non-profit organizations both as a volunteer board member and as professional staff. He has been instrumental in the formation of UPLIFT Florida Network and provides strong leadership to the board as the organization grows. His three decades of experience in the healthcare industry include both serving clients ranging from small start-up non-profit organizations to serving as the CEO of a $50 million non-profit medical organization. After becoming an ordained minister, he also assumed responsibilities as a senior minister for a large church for eight years. This range of experiences informs UPLIFT Florida Network’s vision to promote optimal well-being and health at the individual and community levels. Emile holds a master’s degree from the UCLA School of Public Health and Management and a master’s degree from the University of Transformation and Spiritual Leadership in Los Angeles, CA.
Favorite quote: “It would be wonderful, indeed, if a group of people came to earth who were for something and against nothing.” Ernest Holmes
Cynthia is a management consultant with over 25 years of professional experience helping a variety of public and private sector organizations achieve their goals. A founding member of the UPLIFT Florida Network board, she brings a wealth of knowledge to her leadership role in developing an innovative business model that supports a financially sustainable and inclusive organization. Cynthia is a principal in K3 Strategies, LLC, a consulting firm helping nonprofits achieve impact through improved performance. She holds a BA in Finance from Florida State University and two master’s degrees – an MBA from Indiana University in Finance and Organizational Design and a Master in Public Health from Columbia University. Cynthia and her husband live, work, and play in Sarasota and enjoy traveling, especially to visit their adult sons in the DC metro area.
Favorite quote: “Keep your eyes on the stars, but your feet on the ground.” Theodore Roosevelt
Bill Little
Following a 44-year career in public service with the Florida Department of Health and Sarasota County, Bill Little retired in 2013. Additionally, Bill had spent 28 years in the U.S. Army in active duty and reserve capacities. Bill worked with Sarasota County Government in leading their health and human services and as a deputy county administrator and with the Sarasota County Health Department, under the Florida Department of Health, as its administrator. Following retirement, Bill has continued to work in the community assisting nonprofit agencies, local and state government, and local foundations with a focus on leadership, strategic planning, community engagement, and project management, helping foster a healthy and prosperous community. His formal education includes an MBA and a Master of Public Health. Bill and his wife travel frequently, love the beaches of Florida and mountains of North Carolina, and are grateful for the opportunity to explore new places with family and friends.
Favorite quote: “You can’t always get what you want, but if you try, try, try, you may get what you need.” Mick Jagger
Pamela Baron Mahoney
Pamela Baron Mahoney brings a 50-year career in aging services to the UPLIFT board. In 2004 she was appointed the first full-time Director of Senior Services at Jewish Family and Children’s Services (JFCS), a position held until August 2021. Her first assignment at JFCS was the implementation of a federal grant to develop naturally occurring retirement communities (NORCs) in Sarasota. Over the years, Pam has provided leadership to introduce many age-related innovations into our community, including iTN (transportation for seniors) and initiatives that expanded community programs for caregivers and persons living with dementia. For her many commitments to older adults, Pam has been honored by the Senior Connection Center with a Claude Pepper award and a Bob Carter senior advocacy award from Senior Friendship Centers (SFC). Pam and husband Art are active in a number of local senior initiatives and volunteer activities. She currently serves on the SFC Board of Governors.
Favorite quote: “Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can.” Arthur Ashe
Rachel is a retired attorney who worked in the corporate insurance industry. Her contributions and guidance in the formation and launch of UPLIFT Florida Network have been invaluable. Prior to becoming an attorney, she was a speech and language pathologist before serving as the Director of Audiology at Beth Israel Hospital in Boston. Her diverse volunteer efforts include serving as the founding Branch Leader of the Charcot-Marie-Tooth Association in Sarasota and working to improve child literacy as a volunteer with the Literacy Council of Sarasota and as a board member of T.R.E.K. Foundation, Inc. Rachel is also a certified instructor for Community Emergency Response Team and a certified First Responder.
Favorite quote: “One person can make a significant difference in the lives of many even if she doesn't realize it.”