MALIBU – The Malibu City Council honored former Parks and Recreation Commissioner and environmental advocate Suzanne Guldimann, Skate Park supporter Andy Lyon, and youth sports league volunteer Nick Shurgot as the recipients of the 2025 Jake Kuredjian Citizenship Award in recognition of their contributions to recreation in Malibu.
Mayor Marianne Riggins stated, “We are proud to honor Suzanne Guldimann, Andy Lyon, and Nick Shurgot with the 2025 Jake Kuredjian Citizenship Award. Their dedication to parks and open space, skateboarding, and youth sports has strengthened Malibu’s recreational programs and enriched our community. Their commitment, passion, and leadership embody the spirit of civic engagement and set a shining example for all residents.”
Since 2002, the Jake Kuredjian Citizenship Award has been presented annually to recognize outstanding individuals who give their time and resources to enhance the quality of recreation programs within the Malibu community. Past recipients have displayed a commitment to addressing some aspects of recreation in Malibu, demonstrating the highest level of citizenship while making a lasting contribution to the community.
Suzanne Guldimann, a lifelong Point Dume resident, has spent decades advocating for parks and open space while promoting recreation for the City of Malibu and other organizations. She served on the City’s Parks and Recreation Commission from 2017 to 2024. While serving on the Commission, Ms. Guldimann assisted with planning and advocating for the Temporary and Permanent Skate Parks, recommending shade structures at Malibu Bluffs Park, adding wildlife cameras at City parks, providing insight related to rehabilitating Charmlee Wilderness Park, and implementing the earth-friendly management program. Her knowledge of native landscapes, habitats, and protected lands provided the Commission with an understanding of their role as stewards of Malibu.
Andy Lyon spent over 15 years advocating for a permanent Skate Park. Mr. Lyon attended several City Council meetings to express his passion and determination for a world-class skating facility in Malibu. He gathered people of all ages to participate in the City’s outreach efforts, provided feedback, and encouraged the skate park design team to include beginner and intermediate-level skate elements. He organized groups to attend Council and Planning Commission meetings to ensure the City approved and financed a new Skate Park for its residents.
Nick Shurgot has supported various Malibu youth sports leagues while working with community leaders and City staff to find ways to enhance the experience for families. Mr. Shurgot has been involved in American Youth Soccer (AYSO) for over a decade. He coached and mentored volunteers to ensure successful seasons year after year. In 2021, he served as Malibu Little League (MLL) President and led the league through the Pandemic. Mr. Shurgot ensured that all safety measures were followed, athletes were safe, and protocols were communicated with the City and players to ensure a successful season. Additionally, Mr. Shurgot devised a plan to improve Malibu Bluffs Park’s baseball fields and amenities. He began upgrading the dugouts, improving field conditions, discussing the Snack Shack operations and new building, and raising funds for future improvements.
The 2025 Jake Kuredjian Citizenship Award was presented to the recipients at the September 8 City Council meeting.
For more information about the Jake Kuredjian Citizenship Award, visit: www.MalibuCity.org/JakeAward.