Citizens Academy has been a conduit of change and learning in CNY for 20 years!
Participants join a strong network of over 650 engaged citizens. Join the Citizens Academy to connect with key government officials and community leaders! Engage in dialogue with the experts and network with fellow engaged citizens. Be an active participant in shaping your community’s future!
Applications for the Winter 2024 Citizens Academy have closed. Please join our mailing list to receive a notification when applications open for Fall 2024
Citizens Academy Winter 2024
Take the first steps to be informed about your community!
Program Requirements
- Class size is limited.
- Citizens Academy is open to all who live and/or work in Onondaga County and are 18+ years of age.
- Course Tuition is $100.00 per participant. Tuition can be paid in full or in two $50.00 payments. A limited number of needs-based scholarships are available.
Session Topics
Local History | Land Use & Transportation | Economic Vitality | Environmental Stewardship | Community Development | Law Enforcement | Emergency Management | Local Education | Government Budget & Finance
Session Information
Wednesdays, February 7, 2024 – April 10, 2024 | 5:30 PM – 8:00 PM
Information Session:
- A virtual session will be held on Wednesday, January 31, 2024, from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM to welcome the selected participants and introduce them to the program.
Sessions & Venues:
- A light meal is provided for each session.
- Sessions are held at various government and community venues in Onondaga County.
- Venue locations often include Skä·noñh: Great Law of Peace Center, Onondaga Community College, Onondaga County Emergency Management Center, and more!
Tours:
- Select sessions include an optional tour of the venue. Tours begin at 4:15 PM.
- Tour locations often include Onondaga County Justice Center, Metropolitan Wastewater Treatment Plant, and Syracuse City Hall.
Attendance & Graduation: Participants are asked to attend all sessions. Tour attendance is optional.
Distinguished Graduates attend a minimum of ten sessions and receive:
- A Distinguished Graduate badge on their graduation certificate
- Special acknowledgment during the graduation ceremony
- Eligibility to be chosen as the Distinguished Class 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