Citizens Academy

Citizens Academy Program

The Citizens Academy is an educational program that informs community members about how local governments are organized, and how services are funded and delivered. It's a place to learn about community involvement through an ingegrated approach to economic vitality, social equity, and a healthy environment. 

Session Topics:

• Local History
• Land Use & Transportation
• Economic Vitality
• Environmental Stewardship
• Community Development
• Law Enforcement
• Emergency Management
• Local Education
• Government Budget & Finance

Program Requirements:

• The Citizens Academy program runs twice each year. The next round of applications will launch in Summer 2024.
• Class size is limited.
• Applications are open to all who live and or work in Onondaga County, and are age 18 and older.
• Program 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 Information:  

• Sessions are held in-person, on Wednesday evenings from 5:30 to 8 p.m.
• A light meal is provided for each session.
• Sessions are held at various government and community venues in Onondaga County.
• Session 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 p.m..
• 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 nine 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