I always look forward to the end of summer. It might seem slightly premature to start thinking about pumpkin spice lattes when the temperature is still this high, but as Artis Henderson points out on p. 100, the season officially changes Sept. 22. And this timeframe is more a mental shift than meteorological, a sort of pregame to fall and all its mirth and merriment. One notable inclusion to that list is our annual 40 Under 40 celebration, Sept. 27 at Hyatt Regency Coconut Point, when Gulfshore Business will congratulate and celebrate the class of 2024.

Even more than usual, the selection process for this year’s honors proved difficult if not downright grueling, given the sheer volume of nominations received, coupled with the aptitude of so many deserving candidates. From attorneys to entrepreneurs, a surgical oncologist to a mental health therapist to a senior policy adviser for the Defense Intelligence Agency, this year’s honorees are Southwest Florida residents who excel in their chosen fields while giving the benefit of their skills and energy back to the community—and they’re only entering their primes. Brief summaries of the backstories, accomplishments and unconquerable attitudes of this group begin on p. 34, and just know that the information here represents the tip of some very impressive icebergs.

Since the award is age-based, it tends to concentrate on Floridians at a particular stage of their careers. So this year, we decided to widen the focus and check in with a group of 40 Under 40 honorees from previous classes for an update. They’ve each earned experience and wisdom along their journeys toward success, whether that has meant steady professional development and career ascension or significant personal reinvention. Their conversations with Melanie Pagan (“After the Award,” p. 60) make clear that life will throw unexpected curveballs, but it’s important to focus on what’s truly meaningful, including a sense of mindfulness in the present.

We hope you’ll join us in honoring this year’s class of 40 Under 40. For more information about or to purchase tickets to the celebration Sept. 27, please visit gulfshorebusiness.com.