Media Release
Contact: Brenda Kanno
news@fbincaaa.org

MERITORIOUS SERVICE MEDALS AWARDED

(St. Petersburg, Florida; March 23, 2026) – FBI National Citizens Academy Alumni Association (FBI National CAAA) announced its 2026 Meritorious Service Medals earlier this month to two FBI Citizens Academy program alumni for outstanding accomplishments. The medal is the highest honor awarded by the President of the FBI National Citizens Academy Alumni Association (FBINCAAA) to individuals who have distinguished themselves by outstanding service and accomplishments over a sustained period of time.

 Jessica Hendon, Vice President of Chapter Services, has been honored with the Meritorious Service Award for her exceptional contributions to the organization. Her efforts in rejuvenating chapters and increasing engagement have been instrumental in driving positive change and strengthening our chapters. With a balanced leadership style and insightful critical thinking, Jessica adeptly addresses complex challenges, guiding chapters with vision and clarity. Her unwavering dedication to mentorship and chapter assistance has fostered a vibrant and unified environment, ensuring that our initiatives align seamlessly with broader organizational goals and set the stage for future success.

 Guillermo Torres, Vice President of Operations, has been a pivotal influence in the FBI National Citizens Academy Alumni Association. In his previous role as Director of Chapter Engagement, he revitalized Chapter connections through innovative strategies. In his current role as Vice President of Operations, he implemented practices that significantly enhanced organizational efficiency. His pioneering work in compliance monitoring reshaped standards, establishing a flexible and evolving framework that benefits all chapters. Guillermo's visionary contributions continue to inspire excellence and set a high benchmark for future leaders.

 “Recipients of the Meritorious Service Medal embody the highest standards and principles of the FBINCAAA,” said Kelly Lopez, Acting President of the Association. “The volunteer contributions of these two individuals have been exceptional, helping to build the infrastructure, services, and expertise that empower our Affiliate Chapters in their mission to support the FBI.”

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FBI National Citizens Academy Alumni Association (FBINCAAA) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, all-volunteer organization that works in partnership with the FBI to promote public safety and security through community engagement, education, and outreach initiatives. Founded in 2005, the National organization provides training, resources, and governance oversight for 55 local FBI National Citizens Academy Alumni Association Chapters representing more than 53,000 business, civic, religious, and community leaders across the U.S., Guam, and Puerto Rico.

Media Release
Contact: Brenda Kanno
news@fbincaaa.org

PRESIDENTIAL GOLD SERVICE MEDALS AWARDED

(St. Petersburg, Florida, March 23, 2026) – FBI National Citizens Academy Alumni Association (FBINCAAA) awarded Presidential Gold Service Medals to two FBI Citizens Academy alumni for outstanding accomplishments in supporting the outreach mission and goals of the FBI and FBI National CAAA. The medals were awarded earlier this month.

Felix Montes (Miami) has been an invaluable member of the Chapter Engagement Team, playing a crucial role in revitalizing chapter operations through his exceptional mentorship abilities. His bilingual skills have been a significant asset, enabling effective communication and fostering inclusivity. Felix's leadership has been instrumental in guiding others toward success, with his keen awareness and strategic vision consistently ensuring that initiatives are led in the right direction. From start to finish, his dedication has helped chapters come back stronger operationally, creating a lasting positive impact.

 Hafeez Rangwala (Houston), Chapter Services Team Member, has been recognized with the Presidential Gold Medal for his exceptional contributions through his visionary work in sharing technology, which has led to the development of impactful educational resources for chapter board leaders, setting a new benchmark of excellence. By sharing his expertise in software training, Hafeez has empowered many and significantly enriched our chapter community. His creativity and unwavering dedication have made a lasting impact on our National organization, and his transformative role in Chapter Services continues to inspire and drive positive change.

“The volunteer contributions of these two individuals were essential to delivering highly successful educational programs and to providing meaningful support to our chapter leaders and partners,” said Kelly Lopez, Acting President. “Recipients of the Presidential Gold Service Medal embody FBINCAAA’s highest standards and core principles.”

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FBI National Citizens Academy Alumni Association (FBINCAAA) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, all-volunteer organization that works in partnership with the FBI to promote public safety and security through community engagement, education, and outreach initiatives. Founded in 2005, the National organization provides training, resources, and governance oversight for 55 local FBI National Citizens Academy Alumni Association Chapters representing more than 53,000 business, civic, religious, and community leaders across the U.S., Guam, and Puerto Rico.

Media Release
Contact: Brenda Kanno
news@fbincaaa.org

FBI NATIONAL CITIZENS ACADEMY ALUMNI ASSOCIATION PRESENTS 2026 NATIONAL LEADERSHIP ACHIEVEMENT AWARD TO DONALD BUSH

(St. Petersburg, Florida, March 20, 2026) – FBI National Citizens Academy Alumni Association (FBINCAAA) is proud to announce that Donald Bush has been selected as the recipient of this year’s National Leadership Achievement Award. The award was presented to him earlier this month.

This prestigious recognition is granted to an FBI Citizens Academy Alumni Association member who demonstrates exceptional qualities in leadership, mentorship, community engagement, and commitment to the mission, priorities, and goals of the FBI and FBINCAAA partnership.

FBI National Citizens Academy Alumni Association (FBINCAAA) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, all-volunteer organization that works in partnership with the FBI to promote public safety and security through community engagement, education, and outreach initiatives. Founded in 2005, the National organization provides training, resources, and governance oversight for 56 local FBI National Citizens Academy Alumni Association Chapters representing more than 53,000 business, civic, religious, and community leaders across the U.S., Guam, and Puerto Rico.

Media Release
Contact: Brenda Kanno
news@fbincaaa.org

FBI TAMPA CITIZENS ACADEMY ALUMNI ASSOCIATION RECEIVES JERRY FOGEL ADVOCACY AWARD

(St. Petersburg, Florida; March 20, 2026) – FBI National Citizens Academy Alumni Association (FBINCAAA) is delighted to announce that FBI Tampa Citizens Academy Alumni Association (FBI Tampa CAAA) received the coveted Jerry Fogel Advocacy Award for 2026.

The award, which is named in honor of the distinguished founder and inaugural President of FBI National Citizens Academy Alumni Association, acknowledges an FBI National CAAA Affiliate Chapter that demonstrates continuous leadership and excellence in supporting the mission and priorities of the FBI though community outreach, alumni engagement, and chapter operations.

In partnership with the FBI Tampa Field Office, the chapter actively participated in community events such as:

• Gasparilla Children’s Parade, with over 100 alumni and FBI personnel engaging families and children to promote positive perceptions of law enforcement. ​
• Supported elder fraud prevention efforts by educating seniors and collaborating with local agencies; this was done despite federal operational constraints, demonstrating resilience and leadership. ​
• Facilitated the Leadership Tampa Bay Mini Citizens Academy Day, educating civic leaders about FBI priorities, strengthening transparency, and fostering long-term relationships. ​
• Played a key role in FBI Tampa Family Day, organizing interactive demonstrations and activities for over 400 attendees, enhancing morale and strengthening community connections. ​

These initiatives exemplify strategic, mission-aligned collaborations that promote education, prevention, and trust-building and foster ongoing community relationships and elevate the FBI’s visibility and approachability.​

“Tampa has transformed the FBINCAAA mission into action through its community‑driven programming and  alumni engagement, while strengthening its partnership with the FBI Tampa Field Office” said Kelly Lopez, Acting President, FBINCAAA. “Their accomplishments are deserving of this sought-after award.”

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FBI National Citizens Academy Alumni Association (FBINCAAA) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, all-volunteer organization that works in partnership with the FBI to promote public safety and security through community engagement, education, and outreach initiatives. Founded in 2005, the National organization provides training, resources, and governance oversight for 56 local FBI National Citizens Academy Alumni Association Chapters representing more than 53,000 business, civic, religious, and community leaders across the U.S., Guam, and Puerto Rico.

Media Release
Contact: Brenda Kanno
news@fbincaaa.org

SHAYA FAMILY YOUTH ENGAGEMENT AWARD PRESENTED TO FBI CINCINNATI CAAA AND FBI NEWARK CAAA

(St. Petersburg, Florida, March 20, 2026) – FBI Cincinnati Citizens Academy Alumni Association (FBI Cincinnati CAAA) and FBI Newark Citizens Academy Alumni Association (FBI Newark CAAA) are this year’s recipients of the 2026 Shaya Family Youth Engagement Award.

Named in honor of philanthropic leaders Mary Shaya and her son Dr. Stephen Shaya, the award is presented to chapters that deliver impactful youth outreach programs to connect, engage, and support young people in academic, civic, and personal growth activities. Building bridges and relationships with the FBI and other law enforcement and civic organizations are key goals of the program.

FBI Cincinnati CAAA: Through a continuum of age-appropriate academies spanning elementary, high school, and collegiate participants, provided meaningful, hands-on engagement with the FBI’s mission, values, and people. Collectively, the initiatives advanced the Bureau’s outreach priorities by fostering informed understanding, encouraging public service, and establishing enduring relationships with youth, families, educators, and community partners, hallmarks of impactful youth engagement aligned with the purpose of the Shaya Family Youth Engagement Award.

FBI Newark CAAA: Activities included:

• Youth Engagement Day at the American Dream Mall brought together 60 young participants who learned about the FBI’s mission and important safety issues, including drugs, sexting, human trafficking, and gang violence, with support from 20 participating agents.
• Shop with a NJ Cop connected 63 youth from financially challenged families with law enforcement officers for holiday support and relationship‑building.
• A partnership between FBI Newark and Newark Beth Israel Medical Center/Children’s Hospital provided gifts and educational resources to young patients in the Pediatric Behavioral Health Unit, a group that often receives limited attention and philanthropic support.

“These partnerships are great examples of how we can make an impactful difference in the lives of young citizens,” commented Kelly Lopez, Acting President of FBINCAAA. ”Youth engagement strengthens communities, fuels innovation, and prepares the next generation to lead effectively.”

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FBI National Citizens Academy Alumni Association (FBINCAAA) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, all-volunteer organization that works in partnership with the FBI to promote public safety and security through community engagement, education, and outreach initiatives. Founded in 2005, the National organization provides training, resources, and governance oversight for 55 local FBI National Citizens Academy Alumni Association Chapters representing more than 53,000 business, civic, religious, and community leaders across the U.S., Guam, and Puerto Rico.

  Media Release
Contact: Brenda Kanno, VP of Communications
news@fbincaaa.org

FBI NATIONAL CITIZENS ACADEMY ALUMNI ASSOCIATION ANNOUNCES 2026 AWARDS OF EXCELLENCE

(St. Petersburg, Florida; March 20, 2026) – FBI National Citizens Academy Alumni Association (FBI National CAAA) is pleased to recognize ten affiliate Chapters with Awards of Excellence for 2026. The awards honor FBI National Citizens Academy Alumni Association Chapters for outstanding performance in support of the FBI’s mission and community outreach goals.

Awards of Excellence were presented in five categories:

• Excellence in Alumni Engagement. This award is presented to Chapters that demonstrate remarkable effectiveness in engaging and mobilizing alumni in purposeful initiatives to support the FBI’s goals. This year’s recipients were FBI Charlotte Citizens Academy Alumni Association (CAAA) and FBI Knoxville CAAA.
• Excellence in Community Outreach. The award recognizes exemplary community education and outreach programs developed and led by Chapters in alignment with FBI priorities. The 2026 honorees were FBI Pittsburgh CAAA and FBI San Diego CAAA.
• Excellence in Community Partnerships. The award honors Chapters that exemplify outstanding commitment and innovation in forging collaborations with local, state, and national organizations in support of their community outreach goals. FBI New York CAAA, FBI Newark CAAA, and FBI San Diego CAAA were the 2026 recipients.
• Excellence in Innovation. The Excellence in Innovation Award is bestowed upon Chapters that distinguish themselves through visionary and inventive strategies in community outreach achieved through collaboration with the FBI. The 2026 recipient is FBI Newark CAAA.
• Excellence in Philanthropy This award honors Chapters who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to philanthropy and community service. The 2026 recipients were FBI Boston CAAA and FBI Knoxville CAAA.

“Awards of Excellence acknowledge the achievements of FBI National CAAA Chapters and individuals that produce exceptional results in outreach programming,” said Kelly Lopez, Acting President of FBI National CAAA. “The awardees personify the highest standards and principles of the FBI and the FBI National Citizens Academy Alumni Association partnership.”

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FBI National Citizens Academy Alumni Association (FBINCAAA) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, all-volunteer organization that works in partnership with the FBI to promote public safety and security through community engagement, education, and outreach initiatives. Founded in 2005, the National organization provides training, resources, and governance oversight for 56 local FBI National Citizens Academy Alumni Association Chapters representing more than 53,000 business, civic, religious, and community leaders across the U.S., Guam, and Puerto Rico.

Media Release
Contact: Brenda Kanno, VP of Communications
news@fbincaaa.org

National Board Changes

(St. Petersburg, Florida, March 10, 2026) – FBI National Citizens Academy Alumni Association (FBINCAAA) announced several changes to its Board of Directors. The invaluable contributions of the board members transitioning from their roles, whose leadership has laid a strong foundation for the organization's future successes, is deeply appreciated.

We are also pleased to also share updates to our Board leadership that reflect our continued commitment to strong governance and organizational continuity. These changes draw on the expertise and dedication of current Board members who have agreed to serve in these capacities.

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FBI National Citizens Academy Alumni Association (FBINCAAA) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, all-volunteer organization that works in partnership with the FBI to promote public safety and security through community engagement, education, and outreach initiatives. Founded in 2005, the National organization provides training, resources, and governance oversight for 55 local FBI National Citizens Academy Alumni Association Chapters representing more than 53,000 business, civic, religious, and community leaders across the U.S., Guam, and Puerto Rico.

Media Release
Contact: Brenda Kanno, Director of Communications
news@fbincaaa.org

Changes to FBINCAAA Board 

(St. Petersburg, Florida, December 15, 2025) – FBI National Citizens Academy Alumni Association (FBINCAAA) announced several changes to its Board of Directors. These changes reflect our continued commitment to thoughtful governance as we navigate term limits and other transitions, ensuring we remain positioned for growth, innovation, and meaningful community impact.

National President

Valerie Minner (Kansas City) concludes her term as National President on December 31, 2025. During Valerie’s time as National President, she helped advance several key initiatives, including a successful 2025 National Leadership Conference, oversaw the expansion of training opportunities, the strengthening of resources for Chapter operations, the implementation of improvements to our website, and the celebration of FBINCAAA's 20th anniversary. We extend our sincerest thanks and appreciation for her leadership and dedication as well as for her continued service as she transitions into the role of Treasurer and Immediate Past President.

Acting National President

Kelly Lopez (Miami) will serve as Acting National President effective January 1, 2026, for an interim period. We are grateful for her willingness to assume this role as the National Board continues its efforts to identify Valerie’s successor. While unforeseen circumstances delayed the completion of the presidential search process before the end of the year, the Board remains committed to ensuring a thorough and thoughtful selection in accordance with its Bylaws and program requirements. Kelly will continue fulfilling her responsibilities as Vice President of Chapter Services while serving in this acting capacity. 

Immediate Past President

Karen Corrigan (Norfolk) concludes her term on December 31, 2025, as Immediate Past President. We thank Karen for her long years of dedicated service. Serving on the National Board since 2018, her historical knowledge has been invaluable in strengthening our ability to carry out our mission. Our best wishes to Karen.

Director of Development

Traci Jadlos has decided to step down as Director of Development at the end of her current term on December 31, 2025. We appreciate her contributions in laying the groundwork for National’s fundraising strategies and helping to identify donor relationships. Our best wishes to Traci.

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FBI National Citizens Academy Alumni Association (FBINCAAA) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, all-volunteer organization that works in partnership with the FBI to promote public safety and security through community engagement, education, and outreach initiatives. Founded in 2005, the National organization provides training, resources, and governance oversight for 55 local FBI National Citizens Academy Alumni Association Chapters representing more than 53,000 business, civic, religious, and community leaders across the U.S., Guam, and Puerto Rico.

Media Release
Contact: Brenda Kanno, Director of Communications
news@fbincaaa.org

Jessica Hendon Elected Director of Chapter Assistance

 

(St. Petersburg, Florida, August 26, 2025) – FBI National Citizens Academy Alumni Association (FBINCAAA) is pleased to announce that Jessica Hendon of Rockford, Illinois has been elected to serve as Director of Chapter Assistance for the National Board. She previously served as Director of Chapter Engagement overseeing the Regional Chapter Coordinators and other services to assist affiliate chapter leaders.

The newly-established Chapter Assistance position provides vital resources and expertise to chapters navigating challenges, with a focus on supporting chapters in transition, rebuilding board leadership, revitalizing member engagement, and fostering opportunities for success.

After graduating from the 2012 Rockford class of the FBI Chicago Citizens Academy program, Ms. Hendon joined FBI Chicago Citizens Academy Alumni Association where she later served on its Board of Directors. She was elected to the National Board in October 2024, having previously served as a Regional Chapter Coordinator on the National Chapter Engagement Team.

“We are pleased to offer this expanded program for chapters requiring additional support,” said Valerie Minner, FBINCAAA President. “Jessica and her team will provide the leadership and guidance needed to strengthen our chapters and ensure their long-term success in advancing our mission.”

Ms. Hendon has worked in the banking industry for over 20 years, primarily in areas of operational risk including fraud, physical security, information security, business continuity, and vendor management. She holds an MBA from Northern Illinois University as well as industry specific certifications.

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FBI National Citizens Academy Alumni Association (FBINCAAA) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, all-volunteer organization that works in partnership with the FBI to promote public safety and security through community engagement, education, and outreach initiatives. Founded in 2005, the National organization provides training, resources, and governance oversight for 55 local FBI National Citizens Academy Alumni Association Chapters representing more than 53,000 business, civic, religious, and community leaders across the U.S., Guam, and Puerto Rico.

Gary Sharp Joins National Board as Director of Chapter Engagement

(St. Petersburg, Florida, August 26, 2025) – FBI National Citizens Academy Alumni Association (FBINCAAA) is pleased to announce that Gary Sharp of Bay Village, Ohio has been elected to the National Board as Director of Chapter Engagement. In this role, he will oversee the Regional Chapter Coordinators and other services to assist affiliate chapter leaders with resources, best practices, and leadership development.

Mr. Sharp graduated from the FBI Cleveland Citizens Academy program in 2022 and immediately joined FBI Cleveland Citizens Academy Alumni Association where he provided support for the chapter’s communications program. Shortly thereafter, he was elected to the Chapter Board as a Director and later as Vice President. Prior to joining the National Board, Mr. Sharp volunteered with the National Chapter Engagement Team as a Regional Chapter Coordinator.

“We are excited to welcome Gary to the National Board,” said Valerie Minner, FBINCAAA President, “and look forward to his leadership in supporting our affiliate chapters.”

Mr. Sharp holds a B.A. in Human Resources from Cleveland State University. Over the course of his career, he has worked in technology sales with a focus on cybersecurity. In addition to his service to the FBI National and Cleveland CAAA programs, he provides volunteer support for other community service organizations and has been an auxiliary officer for the Bay Village Police Department since 2019.

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FBI National Citizens Academy Alumni Association (FBINCAAA) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, all-volunteer organization that works in partnership with the FBI to promote public safety and security through community engagement, education, and outreach initiatives. Founded in 2005, the National organization provides training, resources, and governance oversight for 55 local FBI National Citizens Academy Alumni Association Chapters representing more than 53,000 business, civic, religious, and community leaders across the U.S., Guam, and Puerto Rico.