Samantha Padgett

Samantha Padgett has extensive work experience in the legal field, specifically in government relations and general counsel roles. Samantha is currently serving as the VP of Government Relations and General Counsel at the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association (FRLA) since January 2022. Prior to this, they held the position of General Counsel at FRLA from January 2018. Before joining FRLA, Samantha served as the Vice President & General Counsel at the Florida Retail Federation from January 2016 to January 2018. Samantha also worked as the General Counsel and Deputy General Counsel at the same organization from 2007 to 2015. Earlier in their career, Samantha worked as a Honors Attorney at the Florida Office of the Attorney General from 2005 to 2007, where they gained experience in various legal areas. Additionally, they were a Gubernatorial Fellow at the Florida Governor's Office in 2004, where they drafted participant education materials.

Samantha Padgett obtained a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree in Political Science and Journalism from Emory University, where they studied from 1997 to 2001. Following their undergraduate studies, they attended the University of Florida - Fredric G. Levin College of Law from 2002 to 2005, earning a Doctor of Law (J.D.) degree. During their time at law school, Samantha received a Certificate in Family Law. In October 2005, they obtained a license as an attorney from The Florida Bar.