SR965: SR965 Clemons, Chief Latosha; honor

26 LC 129 1292 Senate Resolution 965 By: Senators Halpern of the 39th, Wicks of the 34th, Orrock of the 36th and Davenport of the 17th A RESOLUTION Honoring Chief Latosha Clemons for her historic leadership, tra ilblazing service, and1 distinguished contributions to fire service and public administration; and for other purposes.2 W H E R E A S , C h i e f L a t o s h a C l e m o n s s e r v e s a s t h e C i t y o f F o r e s t P a rk's first African3 American woman Fire Chief, exemplifying professionalism, leader ship, and a steadfast4 commitment to excellence in public service; and5 WHEREAS, with more than 25 years of fire service experience, Chief Clemons began her6 career in 1996 with the Boynton Beach Fire Rescue Department as t h e f i r s t A f r i c a n7 American woman in the department's history, marking the beginni ng of a pioneering and8 impactful career; and9 WHEREAS, Chief Clemons has demonstrated a lifelong dedication t o education and10 leadership development, earning associate degrees in Emergency Medical Services and Fire11 Science, a bachelor's degree in Organizational Leadership, and a master's degree in Executive12 Management; and13 WHEREAS, Chief Clemons further strengthened her leadership capacity through advanced14 training, including the Carl Holmes Executive Development Insti tute, the National Fire15 S. R. 965 - 1 - 26 LC 129 1292 Academy's four-year Executive Fire Officers Program in Emmitsbu rg, Maryland, and the16 Fire Service Development Program; and17 WHEREAS, Chief Clemons' professional service extends beyond ope rational leadership18 through active involvement in organizations such as the International Association of Black19 Professional Fire Fighters, Women in Fire, the International Association of Fire Chiefs, and20 the National Coalition of 100 Black Women, where she serves as President of the South Palm21 Beach County Chapter; and22 WHEREAS, on August 18, 2025, Chief Clemons was appointed Interim City Manager by23 the Forest Park City Council, further reflecting the confidence placed in her leadership,24 experience, and vision; and25 WHEREAS, Chief Clemons' career reflects perseverance, resilience, and a commitment to26 uplifting communities, having navigated personal and financial challenges while continuing27 to pursue excellence in service and leadership; and28 WHEREAS, Chief Latosha Clemons' legacy stands as a testament to trailblazing leadership,29 determination, and service-driven impact, inspiring future generations of public servants.30 NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE that the members of this body31 honor and commend Chief Latosha Clemons for her historic leader ship, trailblazing32 achievements, and distinguished service in the fire service and public administration.33 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Secretary of the Senate is authorized and directed34 to make an appropriate copy of this resolution available for di stribution to Chief Latosha35 Clemons.36 S. R. 965 - 2 -