The Alachua County Commission proudly congratulates the latest cohort of public service professionals who have successfully completed the rigorous Certified Public Manager® (CPM) program and earned their national designation.
Graduates in this year’s class include Mehdi Benkhatar, Elisha Cash, Amy Childs, Johnathan Criswell, Brian Kauffman, Gary Kendall, Gina Peebles, Nadia Penelton-Scott, Elizabeth Reyes, TJ White and Misty Woods.
The CPM program is a nationally recognized leadership development initiative for public managers and supervisors, currently offered in 42 states and by the federal government. Designed to elevate the standards and effectiveness of public sector management, the program consists of 31 days of intensive classroom instruction, supplemented by real-world homework assignments and exams.
Participants advance through eight levels of instruction. Levels 1 through 4 focus on core leadership skills, team development, and strategies for improving organizational effectiveness. Levels 5 through 8 build on that foundation by examining complex organizational systems, strategic policy formation, and high-level decision-making. Outside the classroom, participants are challenged to apply concepts directly to their roles and agencies, reinforcing the practical value of the training.
“This designation represents more than a certificate, it symbolizes each graduate’s commitment to excellence in public service and to continued professional growth,” said County Commission Chair Charles “Chuck” Chestnut IV. “On behalf of the entire County Commission, we are proud of their accomplishment and confident they will continue to lead with integrity, innovation and impact.”
For more information, contact Assistant County Manager and Chief of Staff Gina Peebles at 352-337-6279 or gpeebles@alachuacounty.us.
