South Florida is home to nearly 6 million people and some of the world’s most influential business leaders. When these leaders engage with Florida Atlantic University, something special happens. New opportunities arise, knowledge is shared, innovation takes place and problems are solved.  

FAU’s College of Business celebrates these visionaries through the annual Business Leader of the Year event. Now in its 22^nd year, the Business Leader of the Year program has a history of recognizing South Florida leaders who demonstrate leadership through vision, innovation, knowledge, transparency and social responsibility.  

This year’s honoree is Jordan Zimmerman, founder and chairman of Zimmerman Advertising. Mr. Zimmerman founded his agency in 1984 in a 400-square-foot office located in a Fort Lauderdale strip mall. Over the course of three decades, he has built it into the 14^th largest advertising firm in the world. A generous philanthropist, Mr. Zimmerman gives his support to numerous organizations, including FAU’s College of Business, Pine Crest School, Boca Raton Regional Hospital, United Way of Palm Beach County and many others.

In addition to honoring South Florida visionaries, the Business Leader of the Year program generates much-needed scholarship support for students in our College of Business. High-achieving students who also demonstrate leadership through service are eligible to apply for these scholarships on an annual basis. 

It is a pleasure for FAU to honor those who have made our community a better place and who are helping to pass the torch to tomorrow’s leaders. Congratulations to Jordan Zimmerman! He richly deserves our thanks and admiration!