April 15, 2025 — Publix Super Markets honored Business Development Director of Dry Grocery and Non-Food Consumables Cindy Roberts with a 2025 Mr. George Community Service Award at the company’s annual stockholders’ meeting.
Roberts is dedicated to helping others in central Florida, and her work benefits several groups.
“Volunteering has always been important to me,” said Roberts. “Whether it was being involved in organizations like the Camp Fire Sunshine Central Florida or Operation Christmas Child, I’ve always felt compelled to give back to others.”
She currently serves on the boards of Boys & Girls Clubs of Polk County and Lakeland Chamber of Commerce. She’s also a long-time volunteer and donor to the United Way.
“Giving to the United Way has opened up so many doors for me to be able to discover new organizations and help them in any way that I can,” Roberts said.
Through volunteering with the United Way’s Community Investment Teams, Roberts was introduced to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Polk County and became a board member.
“The Boys & Girls Clubs is such an invaluable resource for our community,” said Roberts. “It helps provide a safe space for children to get involved after school in physical activity and tutoring, while also providing meals.”
Roberts is humbled to receive the award.
“My heart is full of gratitude for receiving an award that carries our founder’s name,” said Roberts. “It’s an honor to demonstrate our mission to be responsible citizens in the communities we serve.”
In the future, Roberts wants to continue volunteering and make a positive impact on others.
About Cindy
Roberts began her Publix career in 1990 as an expense accounting clerk in Lakeland, Florida. She transferred to corporate purchasing in 2000 and has held several positions, including category analyst, buyer and category manager in corporate purchasing. In 2019, she was promoted to business development director.
About the award
Each year, one associate from each retail division and one support associate are recognized with the Mr. George Community Service Award. The associates are actively involved in their communities and represent the generous spirit of Publix founder George Jenkins.
Other award recipients
Roberts joined the rest of this year’s Mr. George Community Service Award recipients, who were
- Atlanta Division Store Manager Henry Louis Bradley III
- Charlotte Division Store Manager Jason Wilkes
- Jacksonville Division Store Manager Meredith Pearson
- Lakeland Division Assistant Store Manager Liz Plemons and
- Miami Division Customer Service Team Leader Steven Ferreiro.