The Final Word.

• Author: Galvano, Bill
• Position: Florida Senate president attorney Bill Galvano - Interview

Attorney Bill Galvano was first elected to the Florida House in 2002 and served there until his term ended in 2010. Two years later he was elected to the Senate, serving as majority leader from 2014 to 2016 and becoming president in 2018. Galvano graduated from Manatee Community College, the University of Florida and the University of Miami School of Law. He is a law firm partner, husband and father to three children.

What inspired you to run for office?

I attribute that to my mother. She is very patriotic. She instilled a true sense of patriotism in all of us children. As a child, I developed a real interest in politics and service and it's what ultimately led me to law school. In 1984, I chaired Youth for Reagan at Manatee Community College. I later served as an officer in Young Republicans at the University of Florida and as president of the YRs as a young lawyer. I also spent a lot of time in various community and charity organizations, and eventually felt I should take the next step and run for public office.

Are leaders born or made?

I think it's a combination. We learn our entire lives, and leadership is no different. I've learned many lessons in my service in the legislature that I believe have enhanced my ability to lead. I've learned those both by experience and from others. But you have to have an innate will to want to take on the responsibility of a leadership position.

What is your approach to maintaining a strong institutional culture in the Senate?

Relationships matter. Any institution is only as good as the sum of its parts, which are people. Building relationships with my colleagues in the Senate, the House speaker and representatives, and certainly the governor and those who come to Tallahassee to advocate--to me is the most important step to maintaining the value of the institution.

What have you learned from other legislative leaders through NCSL?

True success in leadership comes from recognizing the talents in others and empowering others. It is a recognition that you don't have all the answers, but if you provide the opportunity for others to develop their ideas, you can be successful

You were tapped to lead the Senate as a freshman. How did knowing that in advance affect your approach to the...