Elizabeth Forrest Named One of Orlando Magazine's 2026 Women Who Move The City
Some leaders create change through their careers. Others create change through their life experiences. Elizabeth Forrest has done both.
Recognized by Orlando Magazine as one of its 2026 Women Who Move The City, Forrest has dedicated her professional and personal life to making a meaningful difference in the Central Florida community. Through her leadership of a nationally recognized nonprofit and her role as a senior executive at one of the country's largest law firms, she continues to impact thousands of lives each year.
Turning a Personal Challenge Into a Lifelong Mission
At age 10, Elizabeth Forrest was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. Rather than allowing the diagnosis to define her, she transformed her experience into a mission to help others facing the same challenges.
As Founder and President of Touched by Type 1, Forrest has spent more than two decades building an organization dedicated to providing support, education, and advocacy for individuals and families affected by type 1 diabetes.
What began as a grassroots effort has grown into a nationally recognized nonprofit serving thousands of people across Central Florida and beyond. The organization is built around a simple but powerful belief: no one should have to navigate a type 1 diabetes diagnosis alone.
Creating Programs That Make a Difference
Under Forrest's leadership, Touched by Type 1 has developed innovative programs designed to meet people where they are in their journey.
The organization's D-Box program delivers care packages to individuals who have recently received a type 1 diabetes diagnosis, offering practical resources and encouragement during an often overwhelming time.
Through the Type 1 at School initiative, educators are equipped with the tools and knowledge needed to better support students living with diabetes, helping create safer and more understanding learning environments.
Touched by Type 1 also hosts an Annual Conference that provides valuable education, resources, and community connections for children, teens, adults, and families affected by the disease.
Perhaps most importantly, these programs are offered at no cost to participants, removing barriers and ensuring support is available to those who need it most.
Leading at the Highest Level
In addition to her nonprofit work, Forrest serves as Chief Operating Officer of Dan Newlin Injury Attorneys, the second-largest personal injury law firm in the United States.
In her role, she oversees operations for nearly 500 employees, helping drive strategic initiatives, operational excellence, and a culture focused on delivering exceptional client service.
Balancing executive leadership with nonprofit advocacy is no small feat, yet Forrest has consistently demonstrated the ability to lead with both purpose and performance.
Her success reflects a leadership style rooted in empathy, accountability, and a commitment to helping others succeed.
A Lasting Impact on Central Florida
The Women Who Move The City recognition honors individuals who are making meaningful contributions to the Orlando community through leadership, service, innovation, and impact.
Elizabeth Forrest embodies each of those qualities.
Whether she is supporting families navigating a type 1 diabetes diagnosis, leading a growing nonprofit, mentoring future leaders, or helping guide a major organization, her work continues to strengthen the Central Florida community.
Her story serves as a reminder that meaningful change often begins with a personal experience and grows through a commitment to serving others.
As Orlando Magazine celebrates its 2026 Women Who Move The City honorees, Elizabeth Forrest stands out as a leader whose influence extends far beyond the titles she holds. Through her vision, compassion, and dedication, she continues to move the city forward—one life at a time.
Congratulations to Elizabeth Forrest on this well-deserved recognition.