To encourage community engagement, the City of Valparaiso has introduced a City Government Academy, an opportunity for residents to learn about how city government works in their own community. The City Government Academy (CGA) is a free seven-week program where participants meet in locations around the city and learn from members of the city’s leadership team. 

By participating in this program, residents will gain a deeper understanding of how local government works, meet government leaders and department heads, understand how citizens can become more engaged in public decision-making and serve as role models for other community residents. The City is hopeful that this program will engage residents in a unique way and help cultivate future leaders to serve on boards and commissions. The first CGA was completed in fall 2018. View a summary of the 2018 CGA and learn more about what participants had to say about the program!  

The city will be offering the City Government Academy again in spring 2019 from April 10 through May 22 on Wednesday evenings.  Residents are encouraged to "apply" to participate! Class size will be limited to 30-35 and we hope to have representation from each city council district. The application period will run until March 29 or until the class is full. Participants will be notified during the week of April 1 if they have a space in the class.  

Review the detailed schedule and guidelines/frequently asked questions before applying.  We ask that you only apply if you can make it to at least six of the seven sessions. 

APPLY NOW!

For additional questions or comments please contact Maggie Clifton, Community Engagement Director.