Tom Waters, a longtime leader in local philanthropy, serves as the president and CEO of Easterseals Southwest Florida.
With extensive experience in nonprofit management, fundraising, and cultivating community partnerships, Waters leads one of Southwest Florida’s oldest and most successful nonprofits, serving children, teens, and adults with disabilities.
As chief advancement officer at Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium, Waters led the organization’s 2020 vision and strategic plan. He enabled Mote to surpass its initial fundraising goals and contributed to the successful launch of a $50 million comprehensive fundraising effort.
Throughout his noteworthy career, Tom has held leadership positions at several nonprofits, including Mile High United Way in Colorado and the Community Foundation of Sarasota County. During his twelve years as vice president of philanthropy at the Foundation, he led a team whose efforts helped grow assets to more than $200 million, with another $200 million-plus in future commitments.
On a personal note, Tom is a third-generation Sarasota “snowbird” and has been a permanent resident of Florida for the past twenty-five years. He carries on a family legacy of community engagement and commitment to serving others.
