Honoree Spotlight: Rev. Joe Nathan Halman Jr.

Faith & Community Leadership Award | Voices 2026

The Faith & Community Leadership Award honors a leader whose faith inspires service and whose leadership strengthens the community. Rev. Joe Nathan Halman Jr. embodies both.

A proud graduate of Winter Haven Senior High School, Rev. Halman has built a life defined by integrity, perseverance, and purpose. His career in public safety broke barriers and created new pathways for others to follow. During his tenure with the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, he became the first African American to be sworn in as Chief of Police in Polk County, an achievement that reflects not only personal excellence, but historic progress for the community.

Today, he continues that legacy of service as Deputy County Manager for Public Safety for Polk County. In this vital leadership role, Rev. Halman oversees a $90 million budget supporting fire rescue, emergency management, county probation, and code enforcement, systems that safeguard thousands of families across the region. His steady leadership ensures that public safety is managed with wisdom, accountability, and compassion.

Yet his commitment to service does not end with government leadership.

Rev. Halman earned his master’s degree in Ministerial Leadership from Southeastern University and serves as Founder and Senior Pastor of Greater Works Ministries of Winter Haven. Through ministry, mentorship, and spiritual guidance, he strengthens individuals and families-building not only safer neighborhoods, but stronger hearts.

He also actively serves with civic and advocacy organizations, including the Bartow Breakfast Rotary, Polk County Law Enforcement Association, and the Florida African American Education Alliance Board, demonstrating that leadership is not a position, but a responsibility.

For Filling The Lane, Rev. Halman has been a trusted advisor and faithful supporter, offering wisdom, encouragement, and generosity whenever called upon. His life reflects faith in action and leadership rooted in love for community.

For his unwavering dedication to service, ministry, and mentorship, Rev. Joe Nathan Halman Jr. is a truly deserving recipient of the 2026 Filling The Lane Faith & Community Leadership Award.