During this week's City Commission meeting, the Key West Ambassadors Academy graduated its 38th class. They join more than 600 citizens who now have a better insight into the workings of the City government. Each Key West Ambassadors Academy class has been a special blend of dedicated, involved citizens.
During the City Commission meeting, Retiring City Manager Patti McLauchlin congratulated Class 38, noting the dedication it takes to volunteer their time for 13 weeks of delving into the inner workings of city government.
“Great job,” she said. “I want to thank you for your time, interest, and dedication. I sincerely appreciate it, and you're going to come back and share some of the things we can do to improve the City of Key West."
She was joined at the podium by the City’s new City Manager, Albert Childress, to award certificates to each of the participants.
Three current city leaders -- Commissioners Clayton Lopez, Sam Kauffman, and Lissette Cuervo Carey – were elected after finishing this program. Other alumni have served as commissioners as well as sitting on a variety of other City boards.
The Key West Ambassadors Academy was established in 2003 by then-City Manager Julio Avael. Class 39 is slated to begin in mid-July. Applications will be available on the City's website the first week in June.
In the photo from L to R: Ambassador Academy Facilitator Alyson Crean, Fritzie Estimond, Jim Infante, Bob Irvine, Leila Alieva, City Manager Albert Childress, Misha McRAE, Sean Krikorian, Lora Wandras, Kevin Bowes, Retiring City Manager Patti McLauchlin, Bobi Lore, Jody Alwood, Amber Nolan, Megan McDowell, Donna Peak, Rachel Tufts, Mary Kay Rich, Christopher Massicotte, Joe Moore, and Mim Bedrick. Not pictured: Jana Deen.