MISSION

The FBI Cleveland Citizens Academy Alumni Association (FBICLECAAA) is a non-profit 501 (c) (3) organization that supports local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies. The goal of the FBICLECAAA is to promote public safety and security through its two pillars of Community Engagement/Awareness and Education/Training which promote a greater understanding of the FBI mission by organizing various community programs.

VISION

The FBI Cleveland Citizens Academy Alumni Association is a member of the FBI National Citizens Academy Alumni Association. The FBI National Citizens Academy Alumni Association is a community-based and supported organization, distinct and separate from the FBI, designed to promote a safer community through community service projects and a process of educating business, labor, media, medical, minority, religious, government, senior citizens, and other community leaders about law enforcement, with particular emphasis on the mission, resources, and limitations of the FBI.

The Gold Star Chapter designation is more than an honor—it is recognition of the Cleveland Chapter’s hard work, impactful service, and leadership in advancing the FBI National Citizens Academy Alumni Association (FBINCAAA) mission. This designation from the national organization affirms that our local efforts shine as a beacon of what is possible when we work together to make a difference in our communities.

This outstanding achievement is a true testament to our Chapter’s excellence in operations, unwavering commitment to community outreach, and strong partnership with Cleveland's FBI Field Office — all thanks to your continued support! Our alumni's passion, perseverance, and dedication have helped set us apart. We truly thank you for your commitment and dedication to supporting our organization and helping keep our communities safe.

FBI Cleveland and FBICLECAAA

 FBI Citizens Academy 2.0

Much like the Citizens Academy class you completed, FBI CA 2.0 provided a deep dive look into some of the threats that have evolved across Northern Ohio since your Citizens Academy graduation. Topics such as homegrown violent extremists, cryptocurrency and investment scams, drug, gun, and human trafficking, and the persistent online threats that threaten businesses, people, and our infrastructure. 

Thank you to all that registered to continue their education on what our local FBI is doing for our community

ANNUAL GALA - 2025

Our annual Gala was a night of celebration, connections with old classmates and meet new friends, along with a riveting presentation from Michael “Rod” Rodríguez, President/CEO, Global War on Terrorism Memorial Foundation.

Rod Rodríguez is the President and CEO of the Global War on Terrorism Memorial Foundation, where he leads efforts to build a memorial on the National Mall honoring those who served in America’s longest war. A U.S. Army veteran, Rod became a Green Beret in 1997 and served in ten combat deployments before medically retiring in 2013. His final role was as a Sniper Instructor at the JFK Special Warfare Center. 

Rod’s involvement with the GWOT Memorial Foundation began in 2016, when he joined the organization as a board member in support of the Foundation’s sole mission to construct a Memorial on the National Mall that appropriately honors the profound service and sacrifices of all who served in America’s longest war. 

  FBICLECAAA Board Member Kenya Gray honored at the Cleveland Veterans Day Parade and Celebration

                     “This new committee has accepted the challenge of taking this event to the next level, says 2025 parade committee chair Kenya Gray. “We’d love to see more participants, more people lining the streets, more partners spreading the word and contributing to make this a premier event in Cleveland because all of our veterans deserve this recognition.”

                       Kenya Gray - Parade Committe Chair

Board members Frank Ondus, Kenya Gray and Ray Marvar

     Board Member John Kikol Oustanding Service Award

FBICLECAAA Veterans Day Parade and Celebration Sponshorship

   Seventh Annual “FLAGS FOR HONOR 2025”     

     Edgewater Park - September 11, 2025

More than 700 American flags are on display every year during the Flags for Honor event. The annual event honors hundreds of servicemembers, first responders, medical professionals, teachers, and other “loved ones, family, mentors, and friends.”

This will be the Seventh year for the Flags for Honor, which are dedicated to honoring both Active and Fallen FBI Agents, military, law enforcement officers, firefighters, medical professionals, teachers, coaches, employees, friends, and family. Anyone can dedicate a Flag with a Medallion honoring their personal HERO or loved one.

Citizen Academy Board members at right.

Ray Marvar - President, Kim Hammond - Secretary

FBINCAAA

The FBI Cleveland Citizens Academy Alumni Association is a member of the FBI National Citizens Academy Alumni Association.  The FBI National Citizens Academy Alumni Association is a community-based and supported organization, distinct and separate from the FBI, designed to promote a safer community through community service projects and a process of educating business, labor, media, medical, minority, religious, government, senior citizens, and other community leaders about law enforcement, with particular emphasis on the mission, resources, and limitations of the FBI.

For more information, click here.