For Black History Month

Floor Speech

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Mr. SOTO. Mr. Speaker, at 31 years of age, LaVell D. Monger prides himself on impacting his community. LaVell holds a Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology from the University of Missouri--St. Louis, where he was born and raised. He later received his Master of Education with an emphasis on higher education leadership from Florida Atlantic University. LaVell serves on boards of many notable nonprofit organizations in the region and is a life member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.

Moving to Osceola County to serve as co-owner of RTW Photography in 2018, LaVell oversees business development and community outreach. Since moving to Central Florida, he has been committed to making a difference in his community. Immediately, LaVell became part of many conversations to advance regional commerce, equality in education, and urban development.

In 2023, the St. Cloud Chamber of Commerce will inaugurate LaVell D. Monger as the first African American board chair. He was vital in implementing a young professionals program and revitalizing the Government Affairs Committee. He also serves on the Osceola Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. Through his leadership, the Black Business Coalition of Osceola County is one of the chambers' most successful initiatives.

In 2021, knowing the impact being a member of the Boys and Girls Club had on him growing up in St. Louis and how it shaped him into the young professional he is today, LaVell partnered with other community leaders to start a task force to open St. Cloud's first Boys and Girls Club branch. During the pandemic, this effort meant raising $600,000 from community leaders so children in St. Cloud could have the support they need to succeed.

Innovative in business and selfless to the community, LaVell built his network knowing the importance of relationships and integrity while continuing to prioritize his community.

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