Sault Ste. Marie city council congratulated Gracee Zagordo tonight for being this year's recipient of the Ontario Municipal Administrators Association (OMAA) Maureen McCauley Bursary.
A graduate of St. Mary's College currently enroled in the combined Political Science and LLB program at Wilfrid Laurier University and the University of Sussex, Zagordo worked as a summer student in the office of Malcolm White, the city's chief administrative officer.
The OMAA Maureen McCauley Bursary is awarded each year to a student demonstrating exceptional potential in the field of municipal administration.
The selection process is open to students from across the province.
While working in the CAO's office, Zagordo was involved in leading the city's green team, coordinating community-focused fundraising campaigns including the 'Every Breakfast Counts' program, and helped with meetings with various community stakeholders and city staff.
"We are very proud of Gracee's dedication and hard work during her time as a summer student in the CAO's office,” said CAO White.
"This bursary is a testament to her passion for municipal administration and her commitment to making a positive impact in our community. Gracee is a shining example of the talent and potential that exists within our local youth," White said in a written statement.
“I am grateful to the City of Sault Ste. Marie for the opportunity to lead several important community initiatives," Zagordo said.
"As a summer student in the office of the CAO, I had the privilege of acquiring valuable insights into the intricate workings of local government and the diverse responsibilities associated with city administration. I look forward to continuing to work with staff and contributing to my community in meaningful ways.”
Zagordo is a granddaughter of Udo Rauk, a Ward 2 city councillor from 1987 to 1996.