Ambassadors Academy Class 36 Graduates

In the photo: front row: Tunie Hamlen, Christine Cordone Smith, Brice Cook, Tyler Sheff, Kawana Staffney, Hannah Edwards, Trisha Delaney, Kevin Theriault. Back row: Mike deBettencourt, Jim Marquardt, Brandon Jones, Lou Delaney, and Phil Cook. Not shown: Ken Bruner, Colleen Mahoney, and Mike Tierney.

The Key West Ambassadors Academy graduated its 36th class during last week’s City Commission meeting. Seventeen enthusiastic citizens participated in the class. They join more than 600 citizens who now have a better insight to the workings of City government. Each class of the Key West Ambassadors Academy has been a special blend of dedicated, involved citizens.
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During the City Commission meeting, City Manager Patti McLauchlin congratulated Class 36, noting the dedication it takes to volunteer their time for 12 weeks of delving into the inner workings of city government.

“The Ambassadors play an important role in helping us better understand and serve the community,” she told them. “I look forward to seeing you as you stay involved in your City government. Thank you, again, for your dedication.”

Two current city leaders -- Commissioners Clayton Lopez and Sam Kauffman – were elected after finishing this program. Other alumni have served as commissioners as well as sitting on a variety of other City boards.
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The Key West Ambassadors Academy was established in 2003 by then City Manager Julio Avael. Class 37 is slated to begin in mid-July. Applications will be available the first week in June.

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