CLEVE CLEVELAND, III (CLASS XXII) TO RECEIVE THE 2026 DISTINGUISHED LEADERSHIP AWARD

We are pleased to announce that Carleton “Cleve” Cleveland, Class XXII, has been selected to receive the GNL Distinguished Leadership Award for 2026, in recognition of his extraordinary dedication to improving the lives of others. His efforts have had a transformative impact on the Immokalee community. Cleve’s leadership, tireless commitment, and determination in addressing one of the most pressing social issues—affordable housing—have been remarkable.

When Hurricane Irma devastated Immokalee in September 2017, Cleve immediately sprang into action as a key member of the First Presbyterian Church’s Disaster Relief Committee. However, it did not take long for him to recognize that the hurricane’s aftermath was just one aspect of the larger, long-standing issue facing the community. The majority of the housing available in Immokalee consisted of 70-year-old mold-infested trailers and shacks, with holes in the floor and non-working appliances. Often families were forced to share these hovels, and rent was often 60% or more of household income. Children frequently missed school due to respiratory issues. The situation was dire, and Cleve understood that immediate disaster relief was not enough. Lasting solutions would be needed.

Cleve joined the board of the newly formed Immokalee Fair Housing Alliance (IFHA) and was asked by Board Chair Dr. Arol Buntzman to lead the Development Committee. IFHA’s vision was to construct a community of eight apartment buildings of 16 affordable units each, housing 128 families. The lack of affordable, safe housing in Immokalee was a topic of discussion for years, but no plan had moved beyond the discussion phase. Many in the community doubted the feasibility of IFHA’s vision, particularly concerning the nature of the tenants and the challenges of overcoming ingrained prejudices. Despite facing significant pushback, Cleve remained undeterred. He recruited several GNL alumni to serve on the IFHA board and committees. Under his leadership, the Development Committee flourished, and his commitment to IFHA quickly made him a powerful force in the organization’s success. His ability to connect with people and tell the story of Immokalee’s housing crisis has been key in generating support. He tirelessly visited churches and service groups from Sarasota to Marco Island, giving tours of Immokalee and reaching audiences with his clear and passionate message, telling the story of despair and of hope. His efforts resonated deeply with donors and partners alike. IFHA volunteer Cheryl Comes (Class XXVI) said, “Cleve is a gifted communicator, and that combined with his passion for helping those less fortunate in our community, is a powerful tool for engaging others.”

And success! Thanks to his extraordinary leadership, the first three buildings are complete, and many Immokalee families are now enjoying new, furnished rental units with brand new appliances, and paying no more than 30% of household income. Construction of the community center is ahead of schedule, with completion expected in the spring, and building four is fully funded and under construction.

Cleve’s impact cannot be overstated. Barbara Hurt-Simmons (Class XXII), IFHA Development Committee member, notes that Cleve’s unwavering belief in IFHA’s mission is amazing. When she asked how he fights through the difficult times, he commented, “We have a purpose and when you see an opportunity to help, you have an obligation to help.” Hal Hills (Class XXII) and IFHA Board member, remembers that on the bus ride home after Masters Class Immokalee Day in 2017, Cleve and others mused that something should be done about the living conditions in Immokalee. “But Cleve actually followed up on the thought, recruited classmates and others, and look what he has accomplished!”

Cleve is not one to shy away from demanding work. Whether it’s collecting donations, driving U-Haul trucks, or personally overseeing the furnishing of apartments for incoming families, Cleve does whatever it takes to see the project through. Lisa Casey (Class XXVII), the current Vice Chair of IFHA, recalls with admiration how they spent an entire day driving across town to rent a truck and move donations to storage units, all with a sense of humor and a tireless work ethic. Not surprisingly, Cleve was recently recognized as a Distinguished Volunteer Honoree at National Philanthropy Day, presented by the Association of Fundraising Professionals, Collier-Lee Chapter.

In addition to his work with IFHA, Cleve has volunteered at the Guadalupe Center, where he has mentored a youngster for seven years, starting in middle school, helping him to explore opportunities beyond Immokalee. The young man is now at FGCU. Guadalupe Center President Dawn Montecalvo (Class XXVI) says “Cleve has shown exceptional dedication as a donor and mentor, generously sharing his time and talent to ensure the success of our students and strengthen the future of our community.”

Cleve has also held various leadership positions at First Presbyterian Church of Naples, serving as an elder. He is a former mission chairperson of First Presbyterian and he served on the Committee on Ministry of the Peace River Presbytery. Cleve is proud of the fact that he served as President/Chairperson of the St. Andrews Society of New York. The Society, founded in 1756, provides charitable relief and academic opportunities, as well as fostering fellowship around a common Scottish heritage. He is also a past president of the Robert Burns Society, New York. In addition, he served as President of the Rotary Clubs of Westport and Darien, Connecticut. Cleve is an active alumnus of Camp Dudley, whose motto is “the other Fellow First.” He also served four years in the U.S. Air Force.

Cleve gives much credit to his wife, Linda, for her constant support. His leadership, perseverance, and relentless drive to make a difference have transformed the lives of countless individuals and families in Immokalee. He saw a problem and found a way to lead changes to build sustainable community value. We have no doubt that Cleve will continue to make an invaluable impact in any future endeavors.