The ACES Ambassadors Leadership Program (AALP) kicked off year 8 with guest speaker, Will Jawando, Vice President, Montgomery County Council at their first team meeting. His authentic discussion addressed the AALP’s theme, “Leadership Matters,” focusing on his role as a public servant and activist. Councilmember Jawando highlighted the importance of knowing his constituency and setting policies that support what they need from local government. The conversation with ACES Ambassadors was empowering as he touched on his path of service and experience with mentors, including those he interned with – then-House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi, then-U.S. Senator Barack Obama, and U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown. He reinforced the importance of mentors and “giving back” to those who need support as they go through their educational, career, and life journey.