THE ACADEMY FOR 2020 IS IN SESSION
Now virtual! Scroll down for more about this program on local government.
FOCUS Greater Syracuse in partnership with Syracuse University’s Office of Community Engagement, Onondaga County, and the City of Syracuse, offers 15 to 40 selected applicants an 8-week interactive course of study on how local governments are organized and how services are funded and delivered. National Grid and FM Realty also provide support for the 2020 session.
This national award-winning program is a way to learn about citizen involvement through an integrated approach to economic vitality, social equity and a healthy environment. Class members meet with a panel of the people who work on these topics day-to-day to hear about their challenges and opportunities and then to participate in an open question and answer session. Classes meet at locations throughout the Greater Syracuse area and often include tours of the facilities, including the Lakeview Amphitheater, Justice Center, Metropolitan Wastewater Treatment Plant, and Syracuse City Hall. The 2020 session has switched many of these opportunities to a virtual format.
Citizens Academy is open to anyone 18 years or older who lives or works in Onondaga County. Classes for 2019 will run 5:30 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday evenings in September and October. There is a $50 fee, which can be paid in two payments. Scholarships are available.
Patterns of Government in Onondaga County – 2018 edition – is the text for the class and is available free online.
You can see some of the class activities in past academy CLASS PHOTOS.
“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, The Post-Standard leadership columnist and former senior managing editor