One of the most significant contributors to Polk County in the 20th century was George W. Jenkins. Jenkins was best known for his chain, Publix Super Markets, probably the most important business to ever come out of Polk County. Jenkins was not only the founder of one of the still-fastest growing employee-owned companies in the U.S., but also a significant donor to many worthwhile charities and causes. His charitable foundation, established as the George W. Jenkins Foundation, now known as Publix Super Markets Charities, Inc. and run by his daughter, Carol Barnett, contributes to more than 2400 nonprofit organizations. A strong supporter of education, he also developed the George W. Jenkins Scholarship. The scholarship is given annually at Florida Southern College, University of South Florida and University of Miami to outstanding students with financial needs who would otherwise not be able to attend college. He was also the 19th American to donate more than $1 million to the United Way.

George Jenkins came to Florida in 1925, with just nine dollars in his pocket. He worked for the local Piggly Wiggly chain and was eventually promoted to manage their biggest store in Winter Haven. In 1930, due to a change in ownership and a missed opportunity by the new owner to meet this enterprising young store manager, George quit Piggly Wiggly and opened his first Publix store right next door. In 1945, he began his grocery store chain by purchasing 19 small All American stores and moving his headquarters to Lakeland, where the company had a warehouse. Now with over 854 stores across five southern states, George’s son, Howard, continues the family legacy as Chairman of the board, and Jenkins’ nephew, Charlie, guides Publix as CEO.

Jenkins’ most significant contribution to Polk County sports was his assistance to Florida Southern College Athletics. Jenkins’ relationship with FSC began in 1956 when he served as honorary chancellor. He greatly assisted FSC athletics by providing generous donations of time and resources, including his Lone Palm Golf Course as a site for many competitions and fundraisers. In 1966, FSC dedicated their new field house in Jenkins’ honor. He is also an honorary member of the Florida Southern College Sports Hall of Fame.

George Jenkins received many prestigious awards in his lifetime, including the Boy Scouts of America’s McKenzie Statue Award, membership in the Horatio Alger Association of Distinguished Americans, as well as numerous honorary doctoral degrees. The Lakeland Area Chamber of Commerce gives out the annual George Jenkins Award to a deserving business leader for his or her contributions to Lakeland. Additionally, the United Way of Central Florida annually awards the George W. Jenkins United Way Volunteer of the Year Award for community involvement.