City celebrates impactful internships shaping future leaders

During a recent government meeting in Pinellas Park, officials celebrated the contributions of local interns who have made significant impacts across various city departments. The event highlighted the hard work and dedication of these young individuals, with heartfelt acknowledgments from city leaders.

Marianna Leslie, the apprenticeship and work-based learning specialist for Pinellas County Schools, was recognized for her efforts in facilitating the internship program. The meeting featured presentations from several interns, each sharing their experiences and the skills they gained during their time with the city.

Among the interns, Carolyn Davis from the University of Florida was commended for her work at the Patty Johnson Farm, where she introduced new enrichment activities for animals and contributed to garden maintenance. Olivia Perham, a high school student, impressed attendees with her efficiency in the city clerk's office, completing a project in just two days that was initially expected to take weeks.

Other notable interns included Danica Hirsch and Mia Colon, both working at the Patty Johnson Farm, and Shaila Wynne, who contributed to the communications and marketing department by designing a new webpage and assisting with city events. Hope St. Clair from the human resources department led audits and recruitment efforts, while Jessica and Olivia Wynne provided customer service at the Broderick Recreation Center.

The meeting also featured a video showcasing the interns' experiences, emphasizing the mutual benefits of the program for both the interns and the city. City officials expressed gratitude for the interns' enthusiasm and contributions, highlighting the positive impact they have had on the community.

In addition to the intern presentations, community member Tracy Scofield thanked city officials for their support during the recent Freedom Festival, noting the excellent participation from the police and fire departments.

The meeting underscored the importance of youth engagement in local government and the valuable skills that interns acquire through hands-on experience in public service.