Approval of the Fort Pierce Youth Council's recommendations for the recipients of the City of Fort Pierce Youth Awards: Aurora Morales, Role Model Award; Dana Gomez Rodriguez, Humanitarian Award; Emily Tourjee, Humanitarian Award; and Robert Funches - Student Athlete Award; if approved, students will be recognized at a future City Commission meeting.

In January 2026, the City issued a call for nominations for the Youth Award Recognition Program, supported by a news release distributed to local media outlets. The announcement was shared across the City’s social media platforms and prominently featured on the City’s website homepage until the nomination period closed on March 31, 2025. The release was also circulated to youth development organizations, social service agencies, non‑profits, churches, and local businesses to ensure broad community outreach.

The Youth Award Recognition Program honors exceptional middle and high school students residing within the City of Fort Pierce. Eligible nominees must maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.8 or higher and demonstrate strong character through achievements in academics, community service, humanitarian leadership, innovation, or athletics.

A total of five nominations were received; however, one nominee did not meet the residency requirement. The remaining candidates have met all eligibility criteria and are recommended for recognition.

• Aurora Morales is an outstanding student and dedicated member of the Fort Pierce Police Explorers and the department’s Courageous Kids / RICH House program. She is known for her maturity, strong work ethic, and genuine commitment to serving others. In 2025, she was selected as a Junior Instructor with Treasure Coast Youth Sailing, where she guided younger participants with patience and compassion. Aurora also volunteers in her school’s culinary department and maintains an excellent GPA while balancing multiple responsibilities. She is respected for her integrity, humility, and leadership, and she exemplifies the qualities celebrated by the Youth Award Recognition Program.
• Dana Gomez Rodriguez is an exceptional student leader who excels academically and through her service to the community. As FPC Key Club Webmaster, she has earned 188 volunteer hours and plays a key role in projects such as beach cleanups, church pumpkin patch events, the Sights and Sounds Holiday Parade, and the Festival of Lights. She is also founder and president of the Red Cross Club, Vice President of the Psychology Club, and an active member of NHS, Youth United, Arts as Medicine, and the Varsity Soccer Team. With a 3.96 GPA in AICE and Dual Enrollment courses, Dana exemplifies compassion, integrity, and leadership—qualities that make her an outstanding candidate for the Humanitarian Award.
• Emily Tourjee is an exceptional leader and athlete who consistently serves as a positive role model. She demonstrates discipline, integrity, and a strong commitment to excellence in every setting. Her involvement spans the FPC Marching Band as a Feature Twirler, the M&M Sweeties Baton National and Competition Teams, and multiple service‑oriented clubs including Red Cross, National Honor Society, Key Club, and Phi Theta Kappa. Emily has earned numerous state and national baton titles, academic honors, and leadership certifications, all while maintaining a 3.9 GPA. She is respected for her honesty, accountability, and dedication—qualities that embody the spirit of this award.
• Robert Funches is a dedicated student‑athlete who leads with discipline, positivity, and strong character. He excels across multiple sports—including football, basketball, track, and competitive swimming—and is known for his work ethic, sportsmanship, and ability to motivate his teammates. Beyond athletics, Robert shows exceptional maturity and compassion, especially in the loving care he provides for his special‑needs sister. His integrity, resilience, and commitment to excellence make him a standout candidate for this award.

Approve Youth Council recommendations

Staff will proceed as directed by the City Commission

Audria Moore, Special Projects Coordinator

Fort Pierce Youth Council