Bellevue residents will gather on March 27, 2024, to celebrate the graduation of the latest cohort from the Bellevue Essentials program. The ceremony, hosted by the City of Bellevue, will take place at Bellevue City Hall from 19:00 to 21:00 and is expected to highlight the importance of community engagement and leadership.
Keynote speaker Kevin P. Henry, a former leader of Bellevue’s diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, will address the 36 graduates with a speech titled “The True Leader in All of Us.” Henry, who dedicated two decades to public service in Bellevue, is renowned for his efforts to amplify diverse voices through initiatives like “Voices of Diversity.” His work has significantly contributed to enhancing public engagement and fostering an inclusive environment in the city.
Acknowledging Contributions and Experiences
The graduation ceremony will also feature remarks from Cosmos Darwin, a Microsoft product manager and Bellevue resident. Darwin will share insights from his experience with the Bellevue Essentials program, which has educated over 400 participants since its inception. This program aims to empower community members by providing them with valuable knowledge about local governance and civic engagement.
After departing from the City in 2015, Henry continued his advocacy for equity and community engagement across various organizations nationwide. His ongoing commitment to these principles serves as an inspiration for graduates and attendees alike.
The event will conclude with a dessert reception, allowing residents to connect and celebrate the achievements of the graduates. Residents interested in attending the ceremony can register online through the City of Bellevue’s official website.
Looking Ahead
The next session of the Bellevue Essentials program is scheduled to commence in September 2026, with further details to be announced in the spring. This program continues to play a crucial role in the City’s efforts to promote civic involvement and empower its residents.
The Bellevue Essentials graduation ceremony not only acknowledges the hard work of its graduates but also reinforces the community’s commitment to diversity and inclusion as fundamental values. The presence of distinguished speakers like Kevin P. Henry and Cosmos Darwin exemplifies this dedication.
