Philanthropist Scott Lutgert Reflects on Five Decades in Southwest Florida

The 2026 Naples Daily News Outstanding Citizen of the Year discusses his decades-long impact on the region.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 10:21am

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Scott Lutgert, a longtime resident and developer in Southwest Florida, was recently named the 2026 Naples Daily News Outstanding Citizen of the Year. In a Q&A, Lutgert reflects on his over 50 years of living and working in the region, discussing his philanthropic efforts, real estate projects, and the importance of doing meaningful work.

Why it matters

Lutgert's story highlights the lasting impact that dedicated community members can have on a region over multiple decades. As a prominent developer and philanthropist, his work has shaped the growth and character of Southwest Florida in significant ways, making him a fitting choice for the region's top civic honor.

The details

Lutgert first moved to Southwest Florida in 1970 and has since become a fixture in the local community. He has developed numerous real estate projects in the region and has also been heavily involved in philanthropic efforts, supporting causes like education, the arts, and healthcare. Lutgert was recently named the 2026 Naples Daily News Outstanding Citizen of the Year in recognition of his longstanding commitment to improving the quality of life in Southwest Florida.

  • Lutgert first moved to Southwest Florida in 1970.
  • Lutgert was named the 2026 Naples Daily News Outstanding Citizen of the Year.

The players

Scott Lutgert

A longtime resident and developer in Southwest Florida who was recently named the 2026 Naples Daily News Outstanding Citizen of the Year.

Naples Daily News

A local newspaper that awarded Lutgert the Outstanding Citizen of the Year honor in recognition of his decades of philanthropic and community work in the region.

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What they’re saying

“The main thing in life is to do well something that is worth doing. Care not for show — life is too short and sacred.”

— Scott Lutgert

The takeaway

Lutgert's story demonstrates the profound impact that can be achieved through long-term, values-driven commitment to a local community. His decades of philanthropic work and thoughtful real estate development have left an indelible mark on Southwest Florida, inspiring others to follow in his footsteps of civic engagement and service.