Washington, D.C. – The National League of Cities’ CEO and Executive Director Clarence E. Anthony and Chief of Staff Vincent Micone have been named Local Gov Champions by the National Academy of Public Administration (NAPA) and Local Gov 250.
As part of a celebration of America’s 250th anniversary, NAPA and Local Gov 250 are recognizing ‘democracy at the doorstep’ by naming 250 individuals who have made significant contributions to local government. Anthony, a former mayor elected at 24 to represent his home city of West Palm Beach, has championed the power of local government and leadership as a key instrument to the country’s founding and progress.
Anthony joins a diverse group of public servants from across the country who will be recognized as Local Gov Champions. The 250 Champions represent local government at its best. Each person listed has earned recognition by going above and beyond, showing excellence in public service, and inspiring those around them. They have each been nominated by a peer or fellow in public administration.
“When I decided to step into public service years ago, I was motivated by the goal of lifting up my community – and that motivation still drives me today. Now, I see my community as the 19,000 cities, towns and villages across America. I am deeply honored by this recognition and the celebration of those who work tirelessly for our local governments,” said NLC CEO and Executive Director Clarence E. Anthony.
“250 Champions is an outstanding opportunity to recognize the important role of local government in implementing democracy every day,” said Wally Bobkiewicz, city administrator of Issaquah, Wash., selection committee member of Local Gov 250 and chair of Local Gov 250. “A key element of the initiative has been to recognize all the professions that make local government work, from librarians to police officers, engineers to recreation leaders. Local Gov 250 has brought together all these professions to celebrate the impacts of our collective work.”
The Local Gov 250 Coalition and the National Academy of Public Administration reviewed hundreds of submissions from all 50 states as well as Washington D.C. and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands. This honor highlights government workers across the country, from mayor’s offices to public works departments, parks and recreation, public health, libraries and so much more. The 250 Champions were selected and notified of their awards in early March.
The 250 Champions will be honored at an event preceding the ICMA National Conference in Philadelphia on May 12, 2026.
###
The National League of Cities (NLC) the voice of America’s cities, towns and villages, representing more than 200 million people. NLC works to strengthen local leadership, influence federal policy and drive innovative solutions. Stay connected with NLC on Facebook, X, LinkedIn and Instagram.
