A lifelong Dunedin resident, Janette Donoghue says her parents taught her to be community-minded and take pride in her town.
As the new president and CEO of the Dunedin Chamber of Commerce, Donoghue, 53, says she is energized by setting the organization’s direction and creating a shared sense of purpose that drives impact.
Her career has spanned several sectors — a physical education teacher at San Jose Elementary, assistant general manager of Florida Operations for the Toronto/Dunedin Blue Jays, and executive director of the nonprofit Random Acts of Flowers. Yet across each role, leadership has been the common thread.
“Throughout each chapter, my passion has remained rooted in leadership, relationships and vision,” she said. “Whether mentoring students, contributing to a Major League organization or advancing a mission-driven nonprofit, I’ve developed a strong ability to see the bigger picture while bringing people together to move it forward.”
As the former event director for the chamber for nearly two years, as well as interim president and CEO since September, Donoghue officially took over the role in March. The Beacon caught up with Donoghue to discuss her new role and vision for the chamber. Questions and responses have been edited for length.
What makes Dunedin and its business community special?
Dunedin’s business community is incredibly connected, supportive, and community driven. It has a small-town feel, but with a strong sense of pride and collaboration among business owners who genuinely want to see each other succeed. What makes Dunedin special is that you have a vibrant, growing business environment, but it never loses its authenticity or charm. There’s a real emphasis on relationships, local support, and creating experiences for both residents and visitors, which makes it a truly unique place to live, work and do business.
Where do you see the biggest opportunities for local business growth right now?
I see the biggest opportunities for growth in Dunedin in diversifying beyond tourism and helping small, local businesses and new businesses as well. While tourism remains important, there’s real potential to expand year-round industries like professional services and remote-based businesses that bring long-term stability.
What are your top priorities in your first year as director?
My top priorities in my first year as CEO are bringing our community together in meaningful ways and creating momentum for the future, starting with launching our “Dunedin Through the Decades” mural to celebrate 100 years of history and identity. I’m also focused on delivering high-quality events like Wines the Blues and Mardi Gras that create memorable experiences for both residents and visitors. At the same time, a key priority is helping our members thrive by offering strong programs, resources and opportunities that support their growth and success within our community.
What drew you to this role in Dunedin specifically?
I grew up in Dunedin, and my family has always been deeply involved in the community. My grandparents were part of the group that helped bring the Toronto Blue Jays to Dunedin for spring training, and my parents have long been active supporters of the chamber. My grandmother, Beatrice Donoghue, also left a lasting legacy through the “Beatrice Donoghue Delightful Dunedin Award,” which honors individuals who go above and beyond in service to our community. With that history and connection, stepping into this role has felt like a natural fit and a continuation of a lifelong commitment to Dunedin.
What does this year look like as far as events or initiatives to help bring residents and businesses together?
This year is really about deepening connection between residents and businesses through both tradition and new initiatives. We’re focused on bringing our “Dunedin Through the Decades” mural to life as a way to celebrate our 100-year history and shared community identity. At the same time, we’re building out an exciting new podcast studio that our members will be able to use to share their stories, promote their businesses, and amplify their voices in a modern way. We’re also continuing to expand strong member programs that provide real value with helping businesses connect, grow, and engage more deeply within the community. Overall, it’s about creating more meaningful touchpoints that bring people together and strengthen the fabric of Dunedin.
What are some of the biggest challenges facing Dunedin businesses right now?
Some of the biggest challenges facing Dunedin businesses right now are staffing shortages, rising operating costs, and the ongoing pressures that come with growth and development in a rapidly changing environment. Many small businesses are also navigating how to stay competitive while maintaining the unique character that makes Dunedin special.
As a chamber, our role is to help members navigate those challenges by being both a connector and an advocate. We’re focused on providing resources, education and programming that support workforce development and business resilience, while also creating opportunities for collaboration so businesses can share solutions and support one another.
How can the community best support the chamber’s efforts?
The best way the community can support the chamber’s efforts is by staying engaged and choosing to support local. When residents shop, dine and do business with our local members, it directly strengthens the businesses that give Dunedin its character. Just as important is participation and showing up at events, getting involved in programs, and sharing ideas so we can continue building a chamber that reflects the needs of the community. At the end of the day, the chamber is most effective when it’s truly connected to the people and businesses it serves, so engagement and collaboration make the biggest impact
If you could describe Dunedin’s future in one sentence, what would it be?
Dunedin’s future is strong, local and community driven.