Commissioner Vana Earns Designation as Certified County Commissioner

For immediate release: July 13, 2011
For more information: Danna Ackerman-White 355-2203

The Florida Association of Counties (FAC) recently presented Palm Beach County Commissioner Shelley Vana with the Certified County Commissioner (CCC) designation following her completion of a comprehensive study program developed by the association. Commissioner Vana received the designation during an awards ceremony held at the FAC Annual Conference in Orange County.

“As an educator and lifelong learner, I believe that FAC is a great resource.  I take my job very seriously and plan on advancing my certification so that I will have all the tools available to better serve the constituents of Palm Beach County” said Shelley Vana.

CCC certification is not a requirement to serve as a county commissioner in Florida. However, county commissioners may voluntarily enroll in the program and complete a series of courses totaling 42 hours. The coursework is designed to provide information and enhance skills relevant to a commissioner’s duties and responsibilities as an elected official.

“This certification allows our citizen electorate to become experts in county government improving their communities,” said FAC Executive Director Chris Holley. “The more than 230 graduates is a testament to the importance of this program to Florida and our counties.”

The CCC program coursework covers a variety of topics, such as county government roles and responsibilities, county government structure and authority, financial management, ethics and sunshine law, negotiation skills, economic development and effective communication. Completion of all coursework averages 18 to 24 months.

For more information about the CCC program and courses, visit the FAC website at www.fl-counties.com.

For 80 years, FAC has represented the diverse interests of Florida’s counties, emphasizing the importance of protecting home rule – the concept that government closest to the people governs best. The Florida Association of Counties helps counties effectively serve and represent Floridians by strengthening and preserving county home rule through advocacy, education and collaboration.