Citizens Academy has been a conduit of change and learning in CNY for 20 years!
Graduates join a strong network of over 675 engaged community members.
Join the Citizens Academy and immerse yourself in engaging dialogues with key government officials and community leaders. Build valuable connections with your fellow community members and empower yourself to play an active and meaningful role in shaping the future of your community. Your journey to making a positive impact starts here!
Applications for the Fall 2024 program are closed
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Meet the People Who Work In Your Community, For Your Community
Program Requirements
- Class size is limited.
- Citizens Academy is open to all who live and/or work in Onondaga County, and are age 18 and above.
- Program Tuition is $100.00 per participant. A limited number of needs-based scholarships are available.
Program Topics
Local History | Land Use & Transportation | Economic Vitality | Environmental Stewardship | Health & Human Services | Law Enforcement | Emergency Management | Local Education | Government Budget & Finance
Fall 2024 Program Information
Participants commit to attending a minimum of eight sessions. Tour attendance is optional.
- Wednesday, September 4, 6:00 pm to 7 pm
- Wednesday, September 11, 5:30 pm to 8 pm
- Wednesday, September 18, 5:30 pm to 8 pm
- Wednesday, September 25, 5:30 pm to 8 pm
- TUESDAY, October 1, 5:30 pm to 8 pm
- Wednesday, October 9, 5:30 pm to 8 pm
- Wednesday, October 16, 5:00 pm to 8 pm
- Wednesday, October 23, 5:30 pm to 8 pm
- Wednesday, October 30, 5:30 pm to 8 pm
- Wednesday, November 6, 5:30 pm to 8 pm
- (Graduation will be held on Wednesday, November 13, 5:00 pm to 8 pm)
Sessions & Venues:
- A light meal is provided for each session.
- Sessions are held at various government and community venues in Onondaga County. Each venue is situated along the bus route.
- Venue locations often include Skä·noñh: Great Law of Peace Center, Onondaga Community College, Onondaga County Emergency Management Center, Syracuse Community Health Center, and more!
Tours:
- Select sessions include an optional tour of the venue. Tours begin at 4:00-4:15 PM.
- Tour locations often include Onondaga County Justice Center, Syracuse Community Health Center, Metropolitan Wastewater Treatment Plant, and Syracuse City Hall.
Attendance & Graduation:
Participants commit to attending a minimum of eight sessions. Tour attendance is optional.
Distinguished Graduates attend a minimum of nine sessions and receive:
- A Distinguished Graduate badge on their graduation certificate
- Special acknowledgment during the graduation ceremony
- Eligibility to be chosen, by staff, as the Distinguished Student Speaker for the graduation ceremony
Graduates attend a minimum of eight sessions and receive:
- Graduation certificate
- Recognition during the graduation ceremony
“Being part of Citizens Academy was a great experience. Everyone learns so much, and it deepens understanding of news about important issues in our community.”
~ Stan Linhorst, Former Senior Managing editor Syracuse.com & The Post-Standard