News & Updates
Mourning the Loss of Steve Cernak
It is with a heavy heart that Port Everglades shares the sad news that their Chief Executive and Port Director Steve Cernak has passed away following a long, valiant battle with cancer.
The Port achieved many important, historical milestones under Steve’s leadership. Most notably, he developed progressive solutions to advance the Jacksonville District, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers harbor improvement project after two decades. This achievement was celebrated throughout the community and Steve received accolades from leadership at all levels of government and throughout the maritime industry. He also grew the operating revenue at Port Everglades by 17.5 percent and oversaw the construction of new cruise facilities and the start of the Southport Turning Notch Extension, the largest capital improvement project in the Port’s history.
Just last month, the American Association of Port Authorities recognized Steve as the recipient of its 2019 Cruise Award. He was also named as one of the South Florida Business Journal’s 250 Power Leaders. Steve was the immediate past Chairman of the AAPA and immediate past Chairman of the Florida Ports Council.
Steve often said how much he valued the friendships and personal relationships that he developed throughout his lifetime. Above all, Steve made it clear how much he loved his wife, Cindy, his children and his grandchildren. He will be greatly missed.
Steve’s family will be celebrating his life and his legacy privately but they welcome hearing your memories of their beloved husband, father, and grandfather. You can write to porteverglades@broward.org. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the following organizations: