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Get to know your government: Civic Engagement Academy applications go live

Published on July 11, 2022

Do you want to help shape Huntsville’s future while learning more about the City’s government? If so, Huntsville’s Office of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (ODEI) is launching a new program just for you.

ODEI’s Civic Engagement Academy (CEA) is designed to introduce residents to City government through a series of integrated classes that are interactive, dynamic, fun and creative. Participants can engage with City leaders and learn multiple ways of getting involved with local government.

man in tan suit and glasses speaks at podium during news conference in chambers
Office of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Director Kenny Anderson announces the City’s new Civic Engagement Academy on Monday, July 11, at City Hall.

“The Civic Engagement Academy will help up-and-coming Huntsville residents build relationships with key City personnel while also making government more accessible,” Mayor Tommy Battle said. “You’ll leave the program better acquainted with municipal leaders while understanding how our departments enhance quality of life and welcome community involvement.”

CEA is a free, six-week program offered biannually that incorporates both classroom and interactive instruction. Following an orientation session Sept. 27, fall cohorts will meet every Tuesday from 6-8 p.m. Oct. 4 through Nov. 15.

To be eligible, citizens must be at least 19 years old; a Huntsville resident, business owner or student; an aspiring or established local influencer; and have a desire to increase community involvement. Those selected must also complete at least five out of six classes to graduate.

READY TO GET STARTED? Complete Your Application

The Fall 2022 Cohort will focus on the following topics:

  • Oct. 4 – Our City at Work at City Hall
  • Oct. 11 – Our City Growing & Playing
  • Oct. 18 – Our City Safe, Secure, Responding
  • Oct. 25 – Our City Communicating & Caring
  • Nov. 1 – Our City Maintaining
  • Nov. 15 – Our City Engaging

ODEI Director Kenny Anderson is working closely with Assistant ODEI Director U’Meeka Smith on the CEA, which is part of ODEI’s vision to promote community engagement, multicultural and social justice education, and leadership development.

“The CEA’s goal is to help close the gap between what citizens think the City of Huntsville does and what we actually do,” he said. “We encourage anyone who meets our eligibility requirements to apply for the fall cohort, which we expect will be the first of many to have far-reaching impacts among our diverse community.”

Citizens can apply here or visit our website at HuntsvilleAL.gov/CEA to learn more.

Need more details? Please contact the Office of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion at 256-883-3993 or email Anderson at Kenny.Anderson@HuntsvilleAL.gov.

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