FBI Tampa Citizens Academy Alumni Association

11/23/2025

FBI Tampa Citizens Academy Alumni Association Donates “Hope Bags” to Support Children Recovered During Multi-Agency Rescue Operation

TAMPA, FL — November 19, 2025 The FBI Tampa Citizens Academy Alumni Association (FBITCAAA) proudly supported a recent multi-agency child-recovery operation by donating specially-prepared “Hope Bags” to the U.S. Marshals Service (USMS) and the Florida Department of Children & Families (DCF). These bags were provided directly to children rescued during the extensive coordinated effort.

The operation—led by the U.S. Marshals Service in partnership with federal, state, and local law enforcement—resulted in the recovery of more than 100 missing or endangered children across several states. Many of these young victims were in urgent need of clothing, comfort items, and essential personal care products when they were found.

To help meet those immediate needs, the FBITCAAA assembled Hope Bags containing new outfits, undergarments, toiletries, hairbrushes, lotion, stuffed animals, and other age-appropriate comfort items. Each bag was designed to offer warmth, dignity, and reassurance during what is often a frightening and uncertain moment for a child transitioning into protective care.

“Our alumni were honored to support this lifesaving operation,” said Jacques Hakim, President of the FBITCAAA. “When a child is rescued, they deserve to feel safe and cared for right away. These Hope Bags provide a small but meaningful sense of comfort during a critical moment in their recovery.”

Board Member Cara Riley, who helped lead the coordination effort, added:
“We wanted every child to receive not just essentials, but something soft to hold, something warm to wear, and something that reminds them they matter. Partnering with the U.S. Marshals Service and DCF allowed us to get these items into the hands of children who needed them most.”

The donation exemplifies the FBITCAAA’s longstanding commitment to supporting public-safety initiatives, strengthening community partnerships, and assisting agencies dedicated to protecting vulnerable populations across the Tampa Bay region.

“We are grateful for the extraordinary work of the U.S. Marshals Service, DCF, and all the law enforcement professionals involved,” Hakim said. “Their dedication inspires us to continue serving wherever we can make a difference.”

The FBITCAAA remains committed to supporting victim services, community outreach, and law enforcement initiatives throughout Tampa Bay and beyond.

11/15/2025

11/15/2025

FBI Tampa Citizen's Academy Alumni Association (FBITCAAA) Helps “Light Up Mary Lee’s House” With a Night of Hope, Community, and Holiday Magic
Last night, the holiday season officially kicked off in the most meaningful way as Mary Lee’s House celebrated its very first Light Up Mary Lee’s House celebration — and it was a night overflowing with heart.
As families, community leaders, and supporters gathered in front of the main entrance, Mary Lee’s House transformed into a glowing beacon of hope. The beautiful holiday light display, installed by the Bright Brothers East Tampa team, wasn’t just festive décor — it was a symbol of the warmth, security, and joy the organization provides to children in Hillsborough County who have experienced abuse or neglect.
A Celebration With Impact
FBITCAAA secured 400 presents for the kids, 2-hour Santa appearance, the holiday light installation from Bright Brothers East Tampa including a generous $2,500 big check presented to Mary Lee’s House during the event. These gifts directly support the collaborative work of the child-advocacy partners housed within the center.
Throughout the evening, representatives from several partner organizations were on-site to celebrate the impact of this united effort, including:
Mary Lee’s House
Children’s Advocacy Center
USF Child Protection Team
Healthy Start Coalition of Hillsborough County
PEDI Clinic
Crisis Center of Tampa Bay
FBITCAAA
Community members, families, law enforcement, and child-advocacy leaders filled the space with warmth and connection as the holiday lights sparkled across the property.
A Message From Leadership
FBI Tampa Citizens Academy Alumni Association Board President Jacques Hakim, who led the event, shared his deep appreciation for the community spirit on display:
“Tonight was more than a lighting ceremony — it was a reminder of how powerful we are when we come together for the safety and well-being of our children. Mary Lee’s House represents the very best of collaboration, compassion, and commitment, and it was inspiring to see our community show up so brightly.”
Media Spotlight on a Night That Matters
The event also caught the attention of Bay News 9, who was onsite to capture the celebration and help share the story with the broader Tampa Bay community. Their coverage helped amplify the importance of the work being done at Mary Lee’s House.
A Partnership Rooted in Community
FBITCAAA was honored to bring holiday magic to an organization that brings comfort and healing to so many. Lighting up Mary Lee’s House is more than a festive moment — it’s a reminder that when a community shows up for its children, everyone shines a little brighter.

11/09/2025

FBITCAAA Honors Gold Star Families at Pasco County Breakfast

On Friday, the FBI Tampa Citizens Academy Alumni Association (FBITCAAA) proudly joined Chapter President Jacques Hakim at the annual Gold Star Breakfast in Pasco County — a moving tribute dedicated to honoring the families of our nation’s fallen military heroes.

The event brought together Gold Star parents, families, and loved ones, alongside representatives from law enforcement, members of Congress, and community leaders from across the region. Together, attendees paid solemn tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of freedom and to the families who continue to embody courage, resilience, and patriotism.

“The strength of Gold Star families reminds us that courage extends far beyond the battlefield,” said Jacques Hakim, President of the FBI Tampa Citizens Academy Alumni Association. “It lives in the everyday moments, in the quiet remembrance, and in the unwavering love for those who served.”

The FBITCAAA remains committed to supporting initiatives that honor military families and strengthen community partnerships throughout the Tampa Bay area. Under Jacques Hakim’s leadership, the community is committed to champion the Gold Star Monuments Initiative in Pasco County — ensuring that the legacy of our fallen heroes endures for generations to come.

Together, we honor the fallen, embrace the families, and stand united in gratitude. 🇺🇸

10/11/2025

Tampa, FL — October 10, 2025 — The FBI Tampa Citizens Academy Alumni Association (FBITCAAA) Board of Directors joined forces with the Tampa Housing Authority to host a day of education, outreach, and service at the JL Young Apartments, home to many of Tampa’s senior residents. The event combined hands-on community service—FBITCAAA board members personally cooked and served meals to residents—with a powerful presentation on Elder Fraud Awareness and Prevention.
The initiative underscored the FBITCAAA’s ongoing commitment to supporting the FBI’s mission through community engagement, education, and partnership.
“Social support is key to a happy and healthy life,” said Ivana Jardim, Community Manager for the Tampa Housing Authority. “Today, because of your support, we saw firsthand how the FBI Citizens Academy can make a difference in the THA community. The elderly fraud education provided by the FBITCAAA truly helps our JL Young residents, many of whom have been directly impacted by scams and fraud. I hope this type of event becomes a regular occurrence, because this threat is not going away.”
FBITCAAA President Jacques Hakim emphasized the importance of combining education with action:
“When we educate, we empower,” said Hakim. “Elder fraud not only targets our seniors’ finances—it attacks their dignity and sense of security. By working hand in hand with community partners like the Tampa Housing Authority, we can reduce and ultimately eliminate elder abuse through awareness, prevention, and compassion. Together, we can make sure our seniors are protected, informed, and valued.”

The event was one of several community engagement initiatives led by the FBITCAAA, whose members volunteer year-round to support law enforcement appreciation, youth education, and public safety programs throughout the Tampa Bay area.

10/04/2025

👉🏼HUGE THANKS to the AH-Mazing Krewe, Familia de Gladiatores Krewe Social Page - Non-profit Organization for donating 42 sweat outfits as apart of this event! ⚔️ 🪽

💟 Outfit Hope, One Set at a Time 💟

Help provide cozy, confidence-boosting sweat outfits, sports bras, slip-on shoes, and other essentials to survivors of human trafficking as they begin their journey toward healing and independence.

🚔 A local law enforcement agency is collecting these items to support 100 women and children rescued from lives of exploitation, uncertainty, and danger ⚠️ right here in our community!!

⸻

🧵 Why Sweat Outfits & Essentials?

For many survivors, the first steps out of exploitation are marked by fear, uncertainty, and vulnerability.
A simple sweat outfit—paired with sports bras and slip-on shoes—offers comfort, dignity, and practicality.
These essentials provide warmth, support, and ease, reminding survivors that they are seen, valued, and not alone.

⸻

💜 How You Can Help

✔️ Shop the Wishlist: https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/3IUZYPJ7SP0K8/ref=hz_ls_biz_ex

Every item purchased will go directly into a Survivor Support Bag filled with sweat outfits, sports bras, slip-on shoes, toiletries, and other basic necessities.

✨ Please join FBI Tampa Citizens Academy Alumni Association as we wrap survivors in warmth and hope as they take their first steps toward freedom and independence!

10/01/2025

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
FBI Tampa Citizens Academy Alumni Association Recognizes Local Students for National Conference Challenge Coin Design
TAMPA, FL – September 23, 2025 – The FBI Tampa Citizens Academy Alumni Association (FBITCAAA), represented by President Jacques Hakim, Board Member Tanya Cielo, and FBI Community Outreach Specialist Betsy Conley, joined students, teachers, and school administrators at a special awards ceremony honoring two talented Blake High School students for their winning design of the FBI National Conference 2025 Challenge Coin.
Under the leadership of Principal Toby Johnson and with the guidance of their teachers, students Anisah Sherrod and Jacqueline Lott created an artistic design that was showcased on the commemorative coin for the FBI National Citizens Academy Alumni Association Conference, hosted in Tampa in June 2025.
President Jacques Hakim emphasized the importance of engaging youth in meaningful community projects:
“We engaged our community and our youth to be an integral part of our mission to support the FBI. By encouraging projects like this, we are showing students that there are positive, creative outlets beyond their phones. We want to inspire them to use their talent and imagination to contribute to something bigger than themselves.”
Jacqueline Lott, one of the student honorees, described the inspiration behind her part of the design:
“My piece featured a pirate ship on the water sailing to an island with a palm tree. The pirate ship represents Tampa’s famous Gasparilla festival, while the palm tree represents Florida. Its lasting presence reflects the strength and resilience of Tampa’s people.”
Betsy Conley, FBI Community Outreach Specialist, highlighted the Bureau’s appreciation for community collaboration:
“The FBI is proud to partner with organizations and schools to strengthen connections with our communities. This project is a perfect example of how creativity and civic engagement can come together to leave a lasting impact.”
Tanya Cielo, Board Member of the FBITCAAA, shared her excitement:
“These students inspire us. Their creativity tells Tampa’s story in a way that connects history, culture, and community. This coin will not just be a symbol of the conference, but also of the bright future our young people represent.”
In attendance Toby Johnson, principal, Tehia Robinson, assistant principal ,Ronald Thompson, assistant principal, Duane Thomas, resource teacher, Kandace Johnson, magnet lead teacher Caitlin Clay, Blake Ceramics and Sculpture teacher Linda Galgani, Blake Photography teacher Molly Dressel, Blake Drawing and Painting teacher Laura Hobby, District Art and Theater Supervisor Karen Wycka, district resource teacher. The ceremony also recognized the contributions of Caitlin Clay, ceramics and sculpture teacher at Blake High School, whose mentorship guided the students’ creativity. Clay often reminds her students to “Seek Discomfort”—a phrase that encourages them to step out of their comfort zones to explore their full potential.
The FBI Tampa Citizens Academy Alumni Association was proud to showcase the student-designed coin at the FBI National Conference 2025, celebrating both Tampa’s cultural identity and the ingenuity of its youth.

09/17/2025

Tampa, FL – Members of the FBITCAAA had the privilege of joining the Suncoast Chapter of the Society of Former Special Agents of the FBI for a luncheon held in Tampa. Representing the Alumni Association were Jacques Hakim, President of the Tampa Bay Chapter; Dan Sallade, Vice President; and Betsy Conley, Community Outreach Specialist for the Tampa FBI Field Office.

The program featured the Bay News 9 Chief Meteorologist, who delivered an engaging presentation on the past year’s active hurricane season and shared projections for the upcoming 2025 storm season. His expertise underscored the challenges Floridians face and the importance of preparedness as storm patterns grow increasingly intense.

The FBITCAAA extends its appreciation to Tom Gates, Chairman; Lisa Kerr, Vice-Chair; Ruta Hance, Treasurer; and Doug DeWolfe, Secretary of the Suncoast Chapter for their warm welcome and hospitality. Their leadership reflects the strong sense of camaraderie and commitment that continues to unite former agents and community partners alike.

Events like this luncheon highlight the shared mission of strengthening public safety, fostering collaboration, and building bridges between the Citizens Academy Alumni Association and the Society of Former Special Agents of the FBI. Together, these partnerships ensure the continuation of service, knowledge sharing, and community engagement rooted in the FBI’s legacy.

09/12/2025

Yesterday, the FBI Tampa Field Office honored the lives lost on September 11th with a 9/11 Memorial Run. Nearly 100 participants—including FBI employees, members of the FBI Tampa Citizens Academy Alumni Association, and local law enforcement supporters—came together to run in remembrance and unity. This event served as a powerful tribute to the victims, first responders, and families impacted by that day, while reaffirming the community’s commitment to

09/11/2025

🇺🇸🇺🇸Today, on , we remember the tragic events of September 11, 2001— a day etched in history. Hijacked flights American Airlines 11 and United Airlines 175 struck the World Trade Center, while American Airlines 77 hit the Pentagon. United Airlines 93 crashed in Stonycreek Township, Pennsylvania. The attacks claimed 2,977 lives and left over 25,000 injured. We will never forget.🇺🇸🇺🇸