In today’s governing environment, the Broward League of Cities took a meaningful step forward by hosting the Dignity Index Leadership Summit — an initiative grounded in the belief that how we lead is just as important as what we accomplish. Designed for municipal elected officials and administrators, the Summit introduced the Dignity Index as a practical framework for improving communication, elevating public discourse, and strengthening relationships within our communities.

The League recognized that local leaders are on the front lines of today’s most pressing challenges, and that fostering respect, understanding, and thoughtful dialogue is essential to effective governance. This effort reflects the League’s ongoing commitment to the One Broward philosophy, bringing its 31 municipalities together with a shared purpose and a higher standard of leadership.

“We sponsored the Dignity Index workshop because how we govern matters as much as what we govern, and we have a responsibility to equip our leaders with tools to lead with integrity and dignity. The strong engagement and thoughtful dialogue made clear there is a shared commitment to elevating leadership across Broward County,” said Broward League of Cities President and City of Plantation Council President Denise Horland. “This work must continue, and the League remains committed to carrying this conversation forward and embedding these principles into everyday decision-making.”

The response to the Summit was overwhelmingly positive, affirming both the need for and the value of this kind of leadership development. Participants left not only with new tools but with a renewed sense of responsibility to set the tone in their cities and lead by example.

At a time when public trust and civic engagement are more important than ever, the message was clear: we must all do better. As leaders, we are called to model civility and make decisions that reflect both strength and compassion. The Broward League of Cities remains steadfast in its belief that when we lead with integrity and govern with dignity, we create stronger communities, better outcomes, and a more unified Broward County.