The University of South Florida ICMA Student Chapter’s Day at Temple Terrace City Hall
By: USF ICMA Student Chapter
The University of South Florida ICMA Student Chapter gathered at the City of Temple Terrace’s City Hall for an incredible Government Day program.
Students filled the roles of Mayor, Council Member, City Manager, City Attorney, and Department Director for a day. Students partnered with their respective City of Temple Terrace counterparts to solve a real-world city issue. One of the highlights involved student presentations of their proposed solutions during a Mock City Council meeting. The networking opportunities, real-world experience, and educational benefits are essential to young professional development.
Student Testimonies
“City Manager Baía provided tremendous insight into the responsibilities of a City Manager,” said Josh Starr (MPA – Student Chapter President), who assumed the role of City Manager. “My favorite part about Government Day was seeing the students and staff collaborate, and how many of the students confronted their fear of public speaking.”
Temple Terrace City Manager Carlos Baía mentoring USF ICMA Student Chapter President Josh Starr
Tony Stillo (MPA – Student Chapter Vice President) assumed the responsibility of Mayor, working closely with Temple Terrace Mayor Andy Ross. “It was my first time chairing a meeting. The most memorable advice was Mayor Ross’s feedback that the mayor must stand up for the city manager and staff because we all rely on each other,” Tony said.
Nicholas Odame (MPA – Student Chapter Secretary) assumed responsibility as a Council Member, working closely with Temple Terrace Council Member James Chambers. “Council Member Chambers taught me from his personal experience in the public sector. This event was a great success, and I hope it is the beginning of future collaboration,” Nicholas said.
Fenil Barot (Bachelor’s in Finance) oversaw responsibilities as Finance Director; his mentor was Assistant Finance Director Jennifer Newman. Fenil said, “I learned a lot about local government, particularly, city finances, budgeting, and operations. Everyone was incredibly helpful when I had questions.”
Charity Mosley (MPA) oversaw the responsibilities of the Code Compliance Director; her mentor was Temple Terrace Code Compliance Director Tom Borroni. Charity said, “The Mock City Council meeting was the most memorable moment. Director Borroni serves as a remarkable reminder that being a director is not just a title; it is a commitment to serve and uplift the community.”
Staff Testimonies
“The Mock City Council Meeting lasted approximately 90 minutes and consisted of a well-structured and engaging simulation, with strong student participation and thoughtful debate on the issues. The professionalism of the students and the depth of their knowledge on the issues was evident to all those in attendance. I am quite confident to speak on behalf of all the City participants by saying that it was a thoroughly enjoyable experience for all of us.” – Jeannie Barlow, Temple Terrace’s Senior Executive Assistant to the City Manager.
Conclusion
“We are incredibly grateful to the City of Temple Terrace for their hard-work and dedication in creating an outstanding Government Day program. It was an amazing educational opportunity, and they provided us with breakfast and lunch,” Student Chapter President Starr said.
Also in attendance to support were USF ICMA Student Chapter Mentor/Auburndale City Manager Jeff Tillman, and Auburndale City Clerk Brandon Henry; both are past presidents of the USF ICMA Student Chapter.
If you are a student, professional, or both, and are interested in contacting the USF ICMA Student Chapter, please email starrj@usf.edu
