Stefanie Ink Edwards
Alum Exemplifies Community Leadership
Giving back is woven into Stefanie Ink Edwards’ DNA.
Edwards is chief executive officer of Community Cooperative in Fort Myers, an organization committed to eliminating hunger and homelessness in Southwest Florida. The nonprofit’s impact is powerful. In Lee County, one in six residents needs food assistance. In 2024, Community Cooperative assisted more than 46,000 residents, providing more than 2 million pounds of food to neighbors in need.
Edwards’ position requires compassion, commitment, focus and, importantly, a willingness to work hard in service of others.
It’s no wonder she was chosen to receive Florida Gulf Coast University’s 2023 Alumni of Distinction Award. The award honors a graduate who has upheld a tradition of excellence through personal accomplishment, professional achievement and/or humanitarian service. This 2008 marketing grad feels privileged to be included in this celebrated group of recipients.
“It’s a very humbling experience,” Edwards said. “There are so many incredible people who come through FGCU, graduate, go out in the world and do amazing things. FGCU has a culture of giving.”