March 9, 2023

FBI Miami Announces Recipient of the Director’s Community Leadership Award

MIAMI—Acting Special Agent in Charge Maged Behnam presented 5000 Role Models of Excellence Project (5000 Role Models) acting executive director, Ms. Patrenia Washington, with the FBI Director’s Community Leadership Award (DCLA) nomination during a ceremony held at FBI Miami’s main office on Friday, March 10, 2023. The award recognizes 5000 Role Models’ mission providing minority male students with an opportunity to be mentored by caring adult male professionals. Founded by Congresswoman Frederica S. Wilson, the organization’s goal is to intervene in the lives of these students and to provide them with alternatives that will lead them away from a life of crime and violence.

FBI Director Christopher Wray will host a ceremony in Washington, D.C., on May 5, 2023, to recognize 5000 Role Models and all other DCLA recipients from around the country.

5000 Role Models has awarded full college scholarships to young men who successfully participate in their interactive activities. In 2022, the organization awarded thirty-seven high school students with full college scholarships.

“The 5000 Role Models of Excellence Project demonstrates commitment, dedication, and compassion to the community through their ambitious and important mission providing positive role models for young male students,” said Maged Behnam, acting Special Agent in Charge for FBI Miami. “FBI Miami is honored to recognize this exemplary project.”

Each year, the Director’s Community Leadership Awards recognizes leaders from around the country who have demonstrated outstanding contributions to their local communities through service. The FBI is grateful for the work of each of these individuals and organizations.

Learn more about the DCLA: DCLA 2021 Winners — FBI.

Ms. Patrenia Washington, DCLA Recipient

Ms. Patrenia Washington accepts the FBI Director’s Community Leadership Award from acting Special Agent in Charge Maged Behnam on behalf of the 5000 Role Models of Excellence Project during a small ceremony in Miramar, Florida, on March 10. 2023.