North Miami Mayor Alix Desulme Receives Prestigious President’s Lifetime Achievement Award From President Joe Biden

The award was presented during the Presidential and International Leadership Awards Dinner on Tuesday, January 21st, at the Capitol Hilton Hotel, in Washington, DC 20036. Hosted by the Caribbean and African Faith-Based Leadership Conference (CAFBLC), this event highlighted Desulme’s exceptional dedication to service. The CAFBLC is also the Certifying Organization (CO) for the President’s Volunteer Service Award.

Mayor Desulme was among several distinguished honorees recognized during the ceremony, which celebrated individuals for their outstanding contributions to community and public service.

“I am truly humbled and honored to receive this recognition from President Biden,” said Desulme. “Service is at the core of who I am; and I firmly believe that leadership is about making a tangible difference in the lives of others. This award is not just a reflection of my work, but of the incredible community I serve. I share this honor with the residents of North Miami, whose resilience and unity continue to inspire me every day.”

About Mayor Alix Desulme
Mayor Alix Desulme is a visionary leader, educator, and advocate whose lifelong dedication to public service continues to shape the future of North Miami. Elected to serve another term on December 3rd, 2024, Mayor Desulme is driven by a steadfast commitment to improving the lives of residents and fostering a city rooted in progress, equity, and opportunity.

With a background as an educator and entrepreneur, Mayor Desulme’s leadership is both dynamic and multifaceted. As a lifelong educator, he has inspired and empowered students from diverse backgrounds — from at-risk youth…to gifted learners — with his passion for education and personal growth. His entrepreneurial experience as a small business owner reflects his innovative spirit and deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing local businesses.

Mayor Desulme’s journey in public service began with historic milestones. In 2009, he became North Miami’s first Black City Clerk and the youngest Haitian American to hold such a position in the United States. His path-breaking leadership continued in 2015, when he was elected to the North Miami City Council to represent District 4. Over the years, he has earned the trust and admiration of residents, displayed in his landslide re-election in 2019. His tenure as Vice Mayor — in 2016 — solidified his reputation as a trailblazer and an advocate for the community.

Throughout his career, Mayor Desulme has championed innovative programs that enrich the lives of North Miami residents. His creation of the Golden Silver Senior Program provided critical support and resources to the city’s senior population. Through initiatives like “Let’s Eat Healthy,” he works to ensure residents have access to fresh, nutritious food. His efforts to establish North Miami’s first Housing and Social Services Department have transformed the city’s ability to address housing stability and social equity, laying the foundation for a thriving, inclusive community.

Passionate about preparing the next generation, Mayor Desulme founded the NoMi Leaders in Training Program — better known as L.I.T. — to inspire and equip future public servants. This program seamlessly integrates with the Youth Opportunity Board (YOB) Summer Internship Program, giving young leaders invaluable experience and insight into civic engagement.

In addition to his role as Mayor of North Miami — Mayor Desulme continues to inspire through his work as an Adjunct Professor at St. Thomas University and as an Educational Consultant. With a Doctoral Degree in Educational Leadership, his research on reducing truancy in public charter schools underscores his commitment to addressing systemic educational challenges and creating pathways for student success.

Since first being appointed as Mayor of North Miami in December 2022, Mayor Desulme has continued to lead with compassion, vision, and an unwavering focus on progress. Under his leadership, the city has embraced Transformative Initiatives in Economic Development, Infrastructure Improvements, Environmental Sustainability and Community Empowerment. His mantra, “Putting People First,” remains the guiding principle behind every decision and action. Mayor Alix Desulme is a champion of hope and a catalyst for positive change. With a deep connection to the community and a clear vision for the future, he remains dedicated to building a thriving North Miami for all.