Pace Volusia-Flagler recognizes Florida Rep. Tom Leek as a 'Believing in Girls Champion'

Leek has supported the Pace Center at the state and local level through initiatives like Pace Day at the Capitol.

By Jarleene Almenas
| 12:00 p.m. January 5, 2023

The Pace Center for Girls Volusia-Flagler recognized Florida Rep. Tom Leek on Dec. 20, naming him as its "Believing in Girls champion." Courtesy photo

Ormond Beach Observer
Your Town

The Pace Center for Girls Volusia-Flagler recognized Florida Rep. Tom Leek on Dec. 20, for his support of the school's mission, naming him as its "Believing in Girls Champion."

According to a press release, Leek has supported Pace at the state and local level through initiatives like Pace Day at the Capitol.

“Representative Leek has made a tremendous impact at Pace, supporting and advocating for thousands of girls and young women throughout Volusia and Flagler counties and beyond,” said Sheila Jordan, executive director of Pace Volusia-Flager, in the press release. “We are grateful for his shared commitment to empower our next generation of young women.”

Pace's model combines academics, strength-based counseling, case management and therapy services for girls, with an average success rate of seven out of 10 girls graduating from high school before pursuing higher education or securing employment.

“For so many girls in Volusia and Flagler counties, Pace has been a driving force behind helping change the trajectory of girls’ lives,” Leek said. “Throughout my time in the Florida legislature, it’s been a privilege hearing Pace girls’ stories and helping elevate their voices.”