LAKELAND, Fla., April 14, 2026 — Publix recognized six associates with the Mr. George Community Service Award for outstanding commitment to their communities during the company’s annual stockholders’ meeting.
Publix founder George Jenkins believed that Publix and its associates should make a difference in their communities. The Mr. George Community Service Award annually recognizes associates who have continued his legacy of giving back. Since 1995, 165 associates have received this prestigious honor.
“George Jenkins once said, ‘We are not only in the grocery business, we’re in the people business,’” said Publix CEO Kevin Murphy. “That means taking care of our customers, communities and each other. Our 2026 recipients take these words to heart and are fulfilling our mission to be involved as responsible citizens in the communities we serve.”
About the award
Each year, one associate from each retail division and one support associate are recognized with the award. The associates are actively involved in their communities and represent the generous spirit of Publix’s founder.
2026 recipients
- Atlanta Division: Customer Service Staff Bill Rourke, #1096, Acworth, Ga.
- Charlotte Division: Assistant Store Manager Tabitha Davis, #1858, Winston-Salem, N.C.
- Jacksonville Division: Store Manager Muriel Lawson, #1572, Pace, Fla.
- Lakeland Division: Store Manager Lisa McLoughlin, #1628, St. Petersburg, Fla.
- Miami Division: Store Manager Perry Menschel, #421, Boca Raton, Fla.
- Support: Publix Super Markets Charities Executive Director John Doran, Lakeland, Fla.