Last night, when Debra Vasilopoulos headed out to the annual Alexis de Tocqueville Society dinner ― the Town of Palm Beach United Way’s annual tribute to its big donors ― she knew what to expect.
As a member of the Tocqueville Society, she’s been there many times before.
It’s an intimate gathering of philanthropy-minded individuals. There’s a nice dinner. And always, an emotional thank-you speech from the surprised recipient of the Distinguished Citizen Award.
But this year, Vasilopoulos was the surprised one.
The market president at First Horizon Bank was the recipient of the 2025 Town of Palm Beach United Way Distinguished Citizen Award, given to to an individual or individuals who embody the spirit of philanthropy.
It is the highest accolade bestowed by organization. Previous winners include Alan Curtis, James Borynack, Irene and Jim Karp, Norma and Bill Tiefel, Jana and John Scarpa, Tom Quick, Danielle Moore, Howard and Michele Kessler and Sidney and Dorothy Kohl.
“Debra has always been a champion of our local United Way and a passionate advocate for giving back to the community and to people in need,” said Board Chairman Richard Rothschild. “Through her professional connections, fundraising efforts, leadership roles and volunteer hours, she has made a profound impact on our organization and countless lives in Palm Beach County. She is deserving of this award in every way.”
Vasilopoulos is active in many community service organizations, including those that encourage wildlife conservation, children’s art education and financial literacy to underserved communities.
She is the current board secretary of the Town of Palm Beach United Way. She also has served the United Way as a volunteer on its Allocation Committee, and as a past chair of the Alexis de Tocqueville Society.
As First Horizon’s executive vice president and market president, a post she has held for 14 years, Vasilopoulos is responsible for directing the private client, commercial banking and business banking segments within the South Florida region.
She is co-executive sponsor for the South Florida Women’s Associate Resource Group and leads the Women and Wealth Initiative for the south region. She was selected among 25 women in her organization to attend the Women’s Unlimited Leadership Program, and has been selected as a Diamond Circle participant for the past four years for her contributions to First Horizon.
Along with her colleagues at First Horizon, Vasilopoulos participates in annual drives for school supplies, holiday toys and food. She has also assisted the United Way and other nonprofits in Palm Beach County in securing grants for COVID-19, natural disasters and other emergencies.
“She’s an extraordinary woman,” said Beth Walton, CEO of the Town of Palm Beach United Way. “She has a long history of giving talent and treasure, and is passionate about supporting organizations that bring meaningful change. We are extremely fortunate to have her as a member of the United Way team.”
Originally from Massachusetts, Vasilopoulos attended Lowell University. She lives in Tequesta with her husband of 40 years, Peter, and her beloved dog, Bond.
More than 230 people attended the dinner, held at a private club and chaired by Kimberly and Scott Goodwin and Josephine and Jason Kalisman, who also are chairs of the Alexis de Tocqueville campaign.
As of March 31, the campaign has raised more than $5.72 million on a goal of $5.4 million. The Tocqueville campaign closes June 30.
The Goodwins and Kalismans started Next-Gen United Way to encourage younger generations, families, and young professionals to invest time, energy, and money in the community through the Town of Palm Beach United Way.
