President Seals turned the meeting over to CJ Stewart, AWER program Chair for February. CJ began by noting that he graduated from the FBI Citizens Academy in 2024. The FBI Citizens Academy is a 6–8 week program that offers community leaders an inside look at the FBI. Its goal is to educate and foster understanding of the role of federal law enforcement in the community.

CJ provided an interview format with AWER guest Mr. Peter Ellis, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Atlanta Office. Special Agent Ellis began with a short early life description of being one of three boys raised alone because their father abandoned the family. Peter described his mom as a remarkable lady, a single mother who worked multiple jobs to support her family, Agent Ellis watched and learned the values of hard work, integrity, and accountability from his mom. These principles have guided his 21-year career at the FBI, from being a field agent to his current leadership position. Ellis emphasized how these traits were instilled in him by his mother, despite difficult circumstances. He now passes these values to his own children and the people he works with at the FBI. Ellis also discussed how these principles apply to his leadership approach, including holding team members accountable and maintaining high standards of integrity throughout the organization. He highlighted the FBI's work in protecting Americans both domestically and internationally, including rescuing victims, preventing terrorist activities, and bringing perpetrators to justice. Ellis also addressed the perception gap between different communities and law enforcement, acknowledging historical issues while emphasizing the FBI's commitment to equal justice regardless of race, religion, or background.

Ellis Stressed that early engagement with communities is crucial for preventing conflict. He shared examples from his experience in Michigan, where he engaged successfully with the LGBTQIA+ community despite initial distrust. By explaining the FBI's mission and demonstrating that they work for all Americans, he was able to build trust that later proved valuable when incidents occurred. Ellis also stressed that understanding between different groups is essential, as conflicts often arise from fear and misunderstanding. Agent Ellis stated the FBI's mission to protect the American people and uphold the Constitution.

AWER member Mark Newman referred to a recent lead article in the New York Times Magazine alleging the Trump administration has undermined the FBI causing many agents leaving and hundreds of the previous top leaders being fired. Special Agent Ellis acknowledged that social media, articles and podcasts have provided platforms for disgruntled former employees to voice complaints but pointed out that this behavior hurts current employees and doesn't reflect the organization's actual work. In his experience working for several administrations the core AND difficult work of FBI continues to be done well. Ellis acknowledged historical issues but emphasized that the FBI investigates crimes based on evidence regardless of who committed them, with prosecution decisions ultimately made by the Department of Justice.

Agent Ellis was asked, “How do you lead with integrity and consistency in a role that exists across changing administrations and political climates?” Special Agent Ellis said he’s served under five administrations and four FBI directors during his 21-year career, he said FBI employees remain apolitical and focused on their core mission to protect the American people and uphold the Constitution. He expressed concern about former FBI employees who speak out against the organization, noting that this behavior damages the reputation of current employees who are doing important work. Significantly but not surprisingly, Special Agent Ellis stated that if ever asked to do something against the Constitution or FBI policies, he would leave the organization rather than compromise his integrity. He highlighted the FBI's continued work in areas like counterterrorism, victim services, and bringing criminals to justice, regardless of political changes and regardless of the administration in power in Washington D.C.

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AWER Keyway Speaker Reporter: Neil Shorthouse