05/27/2026
What happens when young women are surrounded by strong mentors, leadership opportunities, and people who believe in their potential? The world is better for it.
Last week, we celebrated the graduation of a group of young women from the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office Female Blazer Academy.
The program is in its fifth year, and with this year’s graduation, approximately 125 young women have completed it.
The evening was filled with inspiration and reflection as the graduates gathered at Global Grill to celebrate the journey they’ve shared over the past several weeks.
Through mentorship, leadership training, team-building activities, and hands-on experiences with female leaders in law enforcement, Sheriff Chip Simmons, and female community leaders, these young women gained confidence, resilience, and valuable life skills that will stay with them far beyond the academy.
Each graduate received a special engraved necklace generously provided by Bere' Jewelers, serving as a lasting reminder that she is a “STAR” and should always carry the academy’s core values with her: Strong, Trustworthy, Accountable, Resilient, and Successful.
The graduates also received Carhartt tool bags filled with tools provided by Hanto & Clarke General Contractors, a meaningful gift symbolizing that each young woman now has the tools to build a strong future and overcome challenges ahead.
Over the course of the academy, these young women demonstrated leadership, courage, growth, and determination, and we can’t wait to see the impact they will make in their schools, careers, and communities.
Special thanks to the outstanding sponsors and community partners who made this experience possible: Bere’ Jewelers, Hanto & Clarke General Contractors, Florida Blue, Loyalty Credit Union, and the Escambia County Sheriff Foundation .