“Leon County is proud to recognize the dedicated residents and neighborhoods that strengthen our community through service, leadership, and collaboration,” said Leon County Commission Chairman Christian Caban. “From beautification projects to volunteerism and civic engagement, these efforts create lasting benefits for residents throughout our county.”

The 2026 winners include:

• Small Neighborhood of the Year (200 homes or fewer) – Avondale Neighborhood Association. Avondale demonstrated a strong commitment to resident engagement by using community feedback to guide meaningful neighborhood improvements while continuing to foster a connected, vibrant community through popular annual events and traditions.
• Large Neighborhood of the Year (more than 200 homes) – Griffin Heights Neighborhood Association. Griffin Heights exemplified community leadership by fostering resident engagement and implementing initiatives that enhanced neighborhood pride, improved quality of life, and supported sustainable revitalization and economic opportunity.
• Unincorporated Neighborhood of the Year (outside the city limits) – Highgrove Homeowners Association. Highgrove demonstrated exceptional community stewardship by investing in infrastructure improvements, advancing sustainable practices, and fostering a welcoming, connected community through resident engagement, longstanding traditions, and service initiatives.
• Neighbor of the Year- Michelle Olson. Michelle exemplifies the true spirit of community through selfless service, compassionate leadership, and unwavering commitment to her neighbors. Since joining the neighborhood one year ago, she has made a lasting impact by volunteering her time, strengthening neighborhood initiatives, and enhancing the quality of life in her community. Whether improving shared spaces, helping neighbors in need, or fostering connections, Michelle consistently goes above and beyond to make her neighborhood a better place to live.

“For 45 years, Leon County has recognized the extraordinary contributions of our neighborhoods, whose dedication continues to enrich communities and create lasting impact across our county,” said County Administrator Vincent S. Long. “Through this program, we celebrate their accomplishments and the partnerships that inspire continued progress for generations to come.”

The Neighborhood of the Year Award winners received a sign to display at their neighborhood entrances. The Neighbor of the Year Award winner received a personalized plaque highlighting their leadership and service to the community.

“Leon County neighborhoods are strongest when residents come together with a shared commitment to improving the places they call home,” said Leroy Peck of CONA. “CONA is proud to partner with Leon County in celebrating the neighborhood organizations whose dedication strengthens neighborhoods and builds a stronger community.”

Learn more about the County’s neighborhood resources at LeonCountyFL.gov/NeighborhoodServices.

For more than a decade First Commerce has awarded the MyWay Scholarship annually, helping students across North Florida and South Georgia pursue their educational goals and build brighter futures.

The press release noted that the “MyWay program reflects First Commerce’s commitment to investing in communities and individuals across generations.” Through the scholarship, people ages 29 and younger receive support to advance their education and pursue their personal and professional goals.

First Commerce awards four $1,000 MyWay scholarships each year, two to students in North Florida and two in South Georgia. Recipients are students who demonstrate excellence in academics, leadership, community involvement and work experience.

Meet the 2026 MyWay Scholarship winners from Tallahassee:

Cooper Harrell of Tallahassee is pursuing a master’s degree in athletic administration after earning his bachelor’s degree in sports management in 2025. As he works toward a career in high school athletic administration, Harrell has gained hands-on experience serving as a substitute teacher and athletic department intern at Maclay School. He said the MyWay Scholarship provides meaningful financial relief as he continues investing in his education and career goals.

Delaney Ding of Tallahassee is enrolled in the University of Florida College of Medicine’s dual-degree MD-PhD program, combining medical training with doctoral research focused on epidemiology. Ding hopes to build a career that integrates direct patient care with research that can improve health outcomes on a broader scale. He said receiving the scholarship is an honor and supports his ability to continue investing in his studies and future.

“Cooper and Delaney exemplify the determination, leadership and commitment to excellence that the MyWay Scholarship was created to celebrate,” said First Commerce CEO Cecilia Homison. “We can’t wait to see the positive change they create in their professions and communities.”

For more information about the MyWay Scholarship program, including eligibility requirements and future application opportunities, visit First Commerce Credit Union’s MyWay Scholarship webpage.

This month, the Beyond Your Block program features local businesses and attractions, including restaurants, breweries, shops, museums, parks and events, while highlighting six historic America250FL Road Trip stops located within Leon County. 

Through an interactive challenge featured on the Visit Tallahassee mobile app, the campaign encourages residents and visitors alike to explore new areas of town, support local businesses during the summer season and experience Leon County as a destination beyond their usual routines. Participants can earn points by visiting featured locations and checking in through the app, with each stop contributing toward rewards and prize opportunities. 

To further encourage heritage tourism and exploration, check-ins at any of Leon County’s six official America250FL Road Trip sites will earn 50 points, the highest point value within the challenge. The first 50 participants to reach 250 points, will receive a limited-edition Tallahassee, FL, commemorative America 250 T-shirt celebrating the campaign. 

In addition, every location visited throughout the campaign will count as an entry into the grand prize sweepstakes. At the conclusion of the initiative, one grand prize winner will receive a two-night Tallahassee staycation package featuring hotel accommodation and tickets to local attractions. 

Throughout the program, the Leon County Division of Tourism will host on-site activations at six partner locations across the community. These pop-up promotions will feature “Summer Essentials” prize packs designed to encourage participation, drive engagement and inspire residents to explore new areas of Tallahassee-Leon County throughout the campaign. 

Pop-up promotion locations and activation times will be announced exclusively through Visit Tallahassee’s social media channels on Instagram and Facebook. 

To participate, download the free Visit Tallahassee mobile app and click the “Challenges” tab to begin exploring participating locations, earning rewards, and experiencing the unique character of your Leon County-Tallahassee all summer long. 

Florida A&M University (FAMU) recently announced the appointment of alumnus Robert E. Nobles, II, DrPH, MPH, as the new Senior Vice President for Health Sciences Enterprise and Research Innovation. He will report to Executive Vice President for Health Sciences Enterprise and Research Innovation Donald Palm, III, Ph.D.

“I am both deeply honored and genuinely excited to extend a warm welcome to Dr. Robert E. Nobles II as our new Senior Vice President for Health Science Enterprise and Research Innovation at Florida A&M University,” said Palm. “He joins us as a nationally respected research leader with an exceptional record in driving significant research growth, building world-class infrastructure, and nurturing a culture of excellence. His impressive background will be invaluable as we accelerate our pursuit of R1 distinction.”

Nobles will spearhead FAMU’s strategy to become a Carnegie R1 classified institution, which is the designation for research universities with the highest level of research activity, doctoral programs, and scholarly publications. He is especially skilled at mobilizing institutions to reach ambitious goals, while maximizing exceptional talent and collaborations to strengthen and architect new and existing programs and opportunities. 

“I’m excited to be called back to the Hill as we begin this transformation process of becoming a Carnegie Classified R1 institution, with the highest level of research activity, doctoral programs, and scholarly publications,” said Nobles. “Following the visionary leadership of President Marva Johnson and Executive VP Dr. Donald Palm, and partnering closely with the exceptionally talented Provost, Dr. Allyson Watson, FAMU will be a destination for future scholars ready to make a positive impact on the world around them.”

Most recently, Nobles served as the vice president for Research Administration at Emory University where he oversaw a $1.1B research enterprise supported by more than 500 professionals. To accomplish more than 50% growth in less than 5 years, he leveraged partnerships across the university and provided strategic and operational direction for all major research administrative functions—from compliance and grant management to technology transfer. He is also the deputy director for the SECURE Center, which is a $50M NSF funded national research security initiative. Previously, Nobles held research leadership roles at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Texas A&M, University of Texas Health Science Center – Houston, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Nobles currently serves on the executive committee of the Federal Demonstration Partnership. He is the chair of the finance and audit committee for the Oak Ridge Associated Universities Board of Directors, and he serves on the Advisory Council of Public Responsibility in Medicine & Research.

Nobles received his Bachelor of Science in molecular biology and a Master of Public Health in epidemiology from Florida A&M University. He obtained his Doctor of Public Health in health policy & management, health economics, and epidemiology from the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston.

“Throughout his career, Dr. Nobles has played a pivotal role in leading and scaling billion-dollar research enterprises while championing innovation, ensuring compliance, and promoting faculty success. We look forward to working together to boldly enhance our status as a premier institution of innovation, discovery, and impact,” said Palm.  

Beginning this fall, students will be able to pursue a Bachelor of Applied Science in Auditing and Compliance Management or a Bachelor of Applied Science in Management Analytics, two programs developed in response to increasing employer demand for professionals with expertise in compliance, risk management, business analytics, and strategic decision-making. Applications are now being accepted for both programs.

The Bachelor of Applied Science in Auditing and Compliance Management prepares students for careers in auditing, regulatory compliance, and risk management, with a strong focus on the needs of government and public-sector organizations in Florida’s capital city. Students will develop skills in auditing practices, internal controls, fraud examination, governmental accounting, and risk management while preparing for careers that support accountability, transparency, and regulatory oversight across public and private sectors.

The Bachelor of Applied Science in Management Analytics prepares students to help organizations make smarter, data-driven decisions through business analytics, strategic analysis, and operational improvement. The program equips students with skills in data analysis, visualization, business processes, and strategic management, preparing graduates for careers across industries, including government, healthcare, finance, and technology, where analytical and decision-making skills are increasingly in demand.

“As industries become more data-driven and compliance-focused, the need for highly skilled professionals continues to grow,” said Dr. Calandra Stringer, Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs. “Organizations today need professionals who can interpret complex information, identify risks, improve processes, and help leaders make informed decisions. These programs were designed with those workforce realities in mind.”

The new bachelor’s programs continue TSC’s commitment to expanding accessible, workforce-focused educational opportunities that align with regional and statewide economic needs.

Florida State University’s Institute for Governance and Civics (IGC) will host the 2026 Florida Statewide Finals of the National Civics Bee® at 4 p.m. Tuesday, June 30, at the Augustus B. Turnbull III Florida State Conference Center. The event will bring together middle school students from across Florida who advanced through regional competitions to compete in a live, quiz-style civics championship.

Presented in partnership with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation and chambers of commerce across Florida, with Kinder Morgan serving as the presenting sponsor, the nonpartisan competition encourages students in grades 6-8 to deepen their understanding of American government, civic responsibility and community engagement.

The Florida winner will earn a trip to Washington, D.C., to compete in the National Civics Bee® championship this fall, where students will compete for national honors and a first-place 529 education award of $100,000.

This year’s statewide finals will feature an interactive audience experience, remarks on the importance of civic education, and a distinguished lineup of event leaders and judges.

The emcee is Mark Harrison, the 2026 Florida Teacher of the Year and economics and government teacher at Union County High School / Lake Butler

The Keynote Speaker is Ryan Owens, Director of the IGC, who will talk on the vital role of civic education in shaping future leaders.

The judges include: Allen Fore, VP for Public Affairs at Kinder Morgan, Inc., The Honorable Nina Ashenafi-Richardson, Leon County Judge, 2nd Judicial Court, Barney Bishop, President & CEO of Barney Bishop Consulting, LLC, Sherry Lawrance, Deerlake Middle School Civics Teacher and FSU Alumna, and DeVoe Moore, Entrepreneur.

“The National Civics Bee gives students a meaningful opportunity to strengthen their understanding of government, think clearly about their communities and see themselves as active participants in civic life,” said Ryan Owens, director of the IGC. “We’re proud to welcome these outstanding students to Tallahassee and celebrate the curiosity, leadership and civic responsibility they represent.”

The event is free and open to the public, and community members are invited to attend as spectators, participate in the live audience experience and cheer on students as they demonstrate their knowledge of civics and their commitment to public life.

The statewide finals reflect the IGC’s broader mission to strengthen civic knowledge and prepare the next generation of engaged citizens and responsible leaders. At a time when civic understanding matters as much as ever, the National Civics Bee® offers students a meaningful opportunity to learn, lead and contribute to their communities.

 For more information about the Florida Statewide Civics Bee, visit igc.fsu.edu.

“We appreciate Governor DeSantis’s continued confidence in Tallahassee State College and in the leadership of these trustees,” said Dr. Jim Murdaugh, president of TSC. “Each brings a strong commitment to education and a deep understanding of our community. Together, they will help shape the College’s future as we continue to grow and innovate.”

Sara Bayliss is a college admissions advisor at St. John Paul II Catholic High School in Tallahassee and a counselor at Game Plan College Admissions Counseling. Her experience guiding students and families through the college planning process provides valuable insight into the needs and priorities of today’s students.

Eugene Lamb Jr. is a longtime educator and public servant with decades of experience in the classroom and community leadership. He was originally appointed in 2007 by Governor Charlie Crist and has been reappointed by Governors Rick Scott and Ron DeSantis. His experience provides steady guidance in advancing the College’s mission and priorities. He currently serves as Chair.

Karen B. Moore is the Chief Executive Officer and Founder of The Moore Agency, bringing extensive leadership experience in business and advocacy. Her work at the state and regional levels strengthens connections between the College, industry, and economic development partners.

These appointments are subject to confirmation by the Florida Senate.

As the nonprofit arm of First Commerce, the FCCU Foundation focuses on fostering financial literacy for all age groups across North Florida and South Georgia. At Leon High, the Foundation led an interactive, game-style Financial Fitness Fair designed to help students build strong financial fundamentals as young adults.

During the Financial Fitness Fair, students received fictional identities that came with simulated real-world expenses, including transportation, housing, groceries, entertainment and childcare. Students rotated through a series of stations representing different expense categories, working one-on-one with First Commerce financial professionals to navigate budgeting decisions tied to each.

First Commerce CEO Cecilia Homison staffed one of the stations, talking with students and advising them on hypothetical budget choices. She said the experience encouraged students to think critically about financial decisions in a safe, supportive environment.

“It’s really exciting because you can start to see them thinking, ‘Hey, I get to make these choices,’ and wanting to be in control,” Homison said after the event. “At the same time, the reality starts to sink in as they see how quickly costs add up and how their job and family situation influence the choices they can make.”

As part of the visit, First Commerce also presented Leon High School with a $1,000 check to support campus beautification efforts by planting new trees. The trees serve as a lasting symbol of the growth and opportunity fostered through financial education initiatives like the Financial Fitness Fair.

Leon High School Assistant Principal Linda John said the Financial Fitness Fair delivers practical lessons students can carry with them long after graduation.

“We truly appreciate you being here today and not only investing in Leon High School, but also investing in financial literacy in our community,” John said following the event.

Members of First Commerce’s volunteer Board of Directors also participated alongside credit union team members, reinforcing the board’s commitment to financial education and community impact.

Alan Neubauer, chairman of the First Commerce Board of Directors, said the event helps prepare students for the financial realities they will face after graduation.

“The goal is to have fun while empowering generations of families to achieve their financial aspirations,” Neubauer said. “These students will soon be navigating the real world, and this gives them valuable perspective on what everyday costs look like and how quickly they add up.”

Board member Shonda Knight, a Leon High School graduate, said the Financial Fitness Fair showcases the credit union’s mission in action.

“As we celebrate the FCCU Foundation’s 10th anniversary alongside First Commerce’s 85th anniversary, we’re incredibly proud that our team members have contributed more than 25,000 volunteer hours empowering generations to achieve their financial aspirations,” Knight said.

The April 2 event reflects First Commerce’s growing commitment to financial education. In 2025, more than 4,000 people of all ages participated in FCCU Foundation financial fitness fairs and customized learning experiences offered throughout the region.

First Commerce and the FCCU Foundation are providing the communities they serve with financial literacy content, lessons, resources and tools throughout Financial Literacy Month in April, all of which are accessible at FirstCommerceCU.org/FLM2026.

“Dr. Tony Lee’s breadth of experience across Florida’s higher education landscape brings instant momentum and strategic insight to his new role as Florida A&M University’s interim chief of staff. His leadership is a welcome addition to the executive team as we advance our mission and continue to prioritize student success, research innovation and academic excellence,” said President Johnson.

Carmen Cummings-Martin, who most recently served as acting chief of staff, will return to the Division of University Advancement as the assistant vice president for Community Affairs.

“Carmen Cummings-Martin exemplifies the standard of excellence with caring that defines FAMU. Her leadership during this critical period of transition has been invaluable, and I am grateful for the foundation she has helped establish. I look forward to building on that work as we deepen our partnerships across the Tallahassee community and beyond,” said Johnson.

Lee’s strategic leadership has driven key initiatives that have advanced the mission and impact of the SUS. Notable achievements include securing increased funding for the System, launching the strategic plan “SUS 30,” organizing the inaugural SUS Fly-In in Washington, D.C., and conducting engagement visits across all 12 universities. His advocacy has been instrumental in shaping higher education policy through collaboration with legislative stakeholders.

“It is a privilege to serve at the number one public HBCU during this transformational time in FAMU history. Together with President Johnson, the Board of Trustees, and our administrative colleagues, I look forward to identifying best practices, advancing our shared strategic goals, and contributing to the continued excellence of this great institution,” said Lee.

Previously, Lee served as the director of University Relations at Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU). Over his nine-year tenure, he was dedicated to strengthening the university’s community partnerships, enhancing alumni engagement, and advancing institutional outreach. In addition to his administrative role, Lee contributed to academic life as an adjunct professor in the College of Arts and Sciences.

Lee holds a Bachelor of Arts in political science from Florida State University, a Master of Science in global and strategic communications from Florida International University, and a Doctorate in education from the University of Miami.

“Today is about turning a world-class event into real, lasting impact for our students,” said County Commission Chairman Christian Caban. “By reinvesting a portion of the World Athletics Fun Run proceeds into our schools, we are strengthening athletic programs and creating more opportunities for young people across Leon County to thrive.”

The 2026 World Athletics Cross Country Championships drew more than 15,000 people, including nearly 11,000 visitors from outside the county and around the world, and generated more than $6 million in total economic impact for the local economy — exceeding early projections by more than 50 percent when accounting for the full ripple effect of visitor spending.

The funds will go towards supporting the school district’s cross-country and track and field teams, enabling more opportunities for the students to excel in these sports. This investment fulfills Leon County’s pledge to dedicate a portion of proceeds from the international championship event to benefit local athletics, ensuring a lasting community impact beyond race day.

“Leon County’s Apalachee Regional Park was built on a long-term vision of transforming a former landfill into a world-class venue that put our County on the global stage for cross country,” said Leon County Administrator Vincent S. Long. “Directing these proceeds to student-athletes is how we make sure the benefits of that investment reach every corner of our community, not just on race day but for years to come.”

This effort is part of a broader strategic initiative in partnership with World Athletics to introduce, grow, and sustain the sport of cross country to the next generation of athletes. Leon County Schools will determine how the funding is distributed among its cross-country and track and field programs districtwide.

“We are grateful for this investment in our student-athletes and athletic programs,” said LCS Superintendent Rocky Hanna. “Support like this helps us provide valuable opportunities for students to build discipline, teamwork, and confidence through sports.”

The check presentation took place in the Montford Middle School gymnasium, where Leon County and Leon County Schools officials were joined by the Montford Middle School boys’ and girls’ cross country teams, both reigning district champions.

“For our students, this support shows them that their community believes in them,” said Montford Middle School Boys and Girls Cross Country Coach Brad Busboom. “This investment will have a direct impact on our ability to grow the sport and support young runners at every level.”

Khari James serves as Senior Counsel for the National Center on Sexual Exploitation. In this role, she litigates civil cases involving sexual exploitation throughout the United States. She also works as an adjunct professor at the Florida State University College of Law.

Prior to her current role, Khari was a prosecutor. She served as an Assistant United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida and as a state prosecutor. Khari prosecuted a wide range of federal and state offenses involving homicide, illegal reentry, human trafficking, domestic and sexual violence, narcotics, money laundering, and firearms. Khari has also worked at the Department of Homeland Security: Federal Law Enforcement Training Center and clerked for the federal judiciary in Chicago.

She attended Florida State University College of Law for law school and the University of Central Florida for undergraduate, where she majored in criminal justice and victim advocacy.

For more information, please visit: bigbendmentoring.org

The release noted that “Danielle is a seasoned healthcare communications and marketing leader with deep roots in the Tallahassee community. She brings extensive experience helping healthcare organizations grow, transform, and connect meaningfully with patients and stakeholders.”

Most recently, Danielle served as Senior Marketing Director for Diagnostic Services at Quest Diagnostics. Many in our community will also remember her impactful nearly decade-long tenure at TMH, where she led marketing, communications, and media relations.

Danielle holds a degree in economics from the University of Vermont and a healthcare marketing certificate from the Society for Health Care Strategy & Market Development. She has proudly called Tallahassee home for more than 20 years with her husband and their two sons.