The annual Fierce Awards, presented by Scorpio, showcases women in our community who are influencers, leaders and game-changers dedicated to improving Greater Gainesville. In partnership with Emmer Development Corp. (EDC), Fierce will introduce the Lori Emmer Cain Legacy Award. This award will recognize one fierce woman who exemplifies Lori’s qualities of trailblazing and committing to continuous improvement of the local community.
Lori began her career in 1985 at EDC following the leadership of her father, Phil Emmer,. Lori worked her way up from entry-level to president in 2002. She led The Emmer Group for 20 years with a passion to provide homes in the community she loved. Lori was committed to her family, business and community.
Lori’s service to the community includes 26 years on the Builders Association of North Central Florida’s Board of Directors, including being the second female president in its history; on the boards of the Gainesville Area Chamber of Commerce and the Education Foundation of Alachua County; and as a mentor for Take Stock in Children. Lori was recognized as Builder of the Year in 2006 and received the Girl Scouts of Gateway Council Women Who Make a Difference award in 2016.
Lori’s greatest treasure was her family. Her three sons, Ryan, Nicholas and Kyle continue her legacy and are focused on improving the lives of others. With the support of the quality team that Lori built within The Emmer Group, Ryan is now the 3rdgeneration president of EDC. Under this role he continues the 60-plus year legacy in the building industry of both his mother and grandfather.
“My brothers and I always knew our mother was amazing, of course we were biased but for good reason. Her support and involvement in our schools, sports and community were obvious to us because they were aspects of our daily lives. During the six years of working alongside my mother I gained a higher knowledge of her professional influence in this community and the tremendous impact her intellect and generosity had professionally as well. Because of the remarkable attributes our mother lived her life by, we knew it a given to partner with Fierce and accept the honor establishing the Lori Emmer Cain Legacy Award.” Ryan McGriff says.
The Fierce Awards will be presented on Thursday, March 23, 2023 at 1908 Grand in downtown Gainesville. The event will feature world-renowned speaker Victoria Arlen, who will speak about her incredible story of triumph over life-changing challenges. She will highlight how she overcame paralysis and went on to win gold at the Paralympic games and compete on “Dancing with the Stars.”
Along with the first recipient of the Lori Emmer Cain Legacy Award, this year’s winners will be recognized for their achievements and hard work toward improving life in Greater Gainesville.