The Florida Certified Public Manager (CPM) program is honoring 353 new graduates this summer, bringing the total number of CPM graduates in Florida to approximately 6,260 — more than any other state.

The CPM program is a nationally recognized leadership development program currently delivered in 38 states. The purpose is to develop more effective public managers and improve services to all Florida taxpayers.

Three separate CPM graduation ceremonies are taking place this summer, each the culmination of a three-day leadership conference.

Today, 181 students received their certification during a ceremony at Ruby Diamond Concert Hall in Tallahassee.

The program will honor 108 new graduates Aug. 30 at the Bartow Civic Center in Bartow and 64 new graduates Sept. 14 at the North Collier Regional Park in Naples.

Florida has one of the most successful CPM programs in the country. It is administered by the Florida Center for Public Management at Florida State University, which is part of the Askew School of Public Administration and Policy.

Graduates have completed a rigorous two-year program, including 32 days of training, plus required projects and exams. More than 100 government agencies, including cities, counties, state and constitutional offices, have participated in the Florida CPM program.

For more information on the CPM program, visit www.fcpm.fsu.edu.