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Civic Engagement Academy

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Civic Engagement Academy​

The Civic Engagement Academy is a hands-on discovery program for residents that desire to explore civic engagement behaviors and action steps for themselves, their families, and neighbors for the purpose of improving overall quality of life conditions. Participants will become acquainted with general City operations and an understanding of the work of various City Departments. ​The Academy is free of charge and will include:

  • Guest presenters
  • Civic simulations
  • Engagement activities
  • Facility tours

Graduates will earn a Certificate of Civic Leadership recognized by the City of Wichita and the Kansas Leadership Center.

This session will be conducted in person.

Questions?

Email Cory Buchta at cbuchta@wichita.gov or Becca Johnson at rejohnson@wichita.gov or call (316)268-4371 ​​

Upcoming Program Dates for Fall 2023​

Thursday evenings from 5:45pm - 8:30pm

  • November 2
  • November 9​​
  • November 16

​What is the Civic Engagement Academy?

The Civic Engagement Academy is an eight-week course that helps residents explore civic engagement behaviors and action steps to improve quality of life for their families, and neighbors. Participants become acquainted with general City operations and an understanding of the work of various City Departments. Opportunities to experiment with civic engagement ideas are built into the classroom instruction and optional homework assignments.

The academy is offered twice per year, typically in March and October.  Applications are accepted starting eight weeks prior to the Academy session.

Overall Program Objectives​

  1. Invite, inspire and empower individuals to civically engage with their municipal government.

  2. Teach individuals how and why to become civically engaged.

  3. Provide hands-on experience with specific civic engagement activities.

  4. Inspire regular voting habits.

Details

  • Days/Times: 8 sessions each 3 hours in length, on Thursday evenings
  • Class: 30-40 participants
  • Location: Rockwell Branch Library
  • Facilitation Methodologies: Classroom instruction, tours, simulations, class discussion, experimentation, small group activities.