Twenty-Four Residents Graduate from the 58th Palm Coast Citizens Academy

Twenty-four residents of Palm Coast celebrated their graduation from the 58th session of the Palm Coast Citizens Academy during the City Council meeting on Tuesday, November 4, 2025.

The academy session, which began on September 15, 2025, and concluded on November 3, 2025, gave participants a behind-the-scenes look at how city government operates. Over the course of several weeks, participants engaged directly with City staff and leadership to gain a better understanding of the services, departments, and day-to-day operations that keep Palm Coast running.

Graduates of this session include Antonio Amaral, Dennis Bowman, Jenny Bowman, Esleiden Confeiteiro, Belkis Esquivel, Diane Hardos, John Hardos, Christy Heimbrock, Kathleen Hofer, Bill Iseldyke, Annie Kim, Nico Lauw, Kelsie Lombard, Ronald Long, Angeline Manze, John Manze, Linda McCann, Robert McCann, Shannon McCurdy, Marijo St. Laurent Dean, Catherine Saris, Jude Steele, Darlene Suchecki, and Jadzia Waloch.

The Palm Coast Citizens Academy is a free, comprehensive program designed to provide insights into various city departments such as Utilities, Stormwater & Engineering, Financial Services, Parks & Recreation, Community Development, Public Works, and the Fire Department. Organized by the City’s Communications & Marketing Department, the academy offers interactive sessions with city officials, including council members, the city manager, and department directors. The program is held twice a year, with an evening session in the spring and an afternoon session in the fall, accommodating up to 30 participants per session.

“Congratulations to our 58th Citizens Academy graduates!” said Acting City Manager Lauren Johnston. “We love seeing residents take the time to learn how their city operates and connect with the people who help make it all happen. This program opens the door to what goes on behind the scenes here in Palm Coast, and we’re incredibly proud of this group for stepping up, getting engaged, and being part of our community’s future.”

Registration is now open for the next sessions of the Palm Coast Citizens Academy. Sign up by clicking this link. If you have any questions or need assistance, please email the Communications and Marketing Department at communications@palmcoastgov.com. 

For residents who are unable to attend the in-person Citizen’s Academy, the City also offers a Virtual Citizen’s Academy at palmcoastgov.com/palm-coasters/citizens-academy/virtual, providing an accessible way to explore city government through on-demand modules.

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