Citizens Academy to Promote Understanding of Local Government

 

Enrollment is now open for anyone interested in attending Citizens Academy, a new civic education course offered this fall through Weber State University (WSU). Community members and students are invited to learn from city officials about how city government works and ways to become involved.

Citizens Academy is offered as part of the College Town initiative through partnerships with Ogden City, the Olene S. Walker Institute of Politics & Public Service and Continuing Education at Weber State University. 

Walker Institute Director Dr. Carol McNamara said, “The Olene Walker Institute at Weber State University is delighted to partner with Ogden City to create a Citizens Academy. A knowledgeable populace is critical to the strength of American democracy. Low electoral turnout and public apathy are symptomatic of a civic education deficit concerning the function of government and the needs of the community. The Walker Institute’s aim is to encourage active leadership and civic participation.”

Citizens Academy is a four-session course that costs $95. Participants can register at: https://continue.weber.edu/citizensacademy or by calling WSU’s Continuing Education office at (801) 686-6600. Enrollment is limited.

Council Chair Richard Hyer said, “We are excited to partner with Weber State to offer a course for those interested in learning more about the functions of city government. Many people do not realize the substantial role local government plays by providing water, roads, parks and other services that are used on a daily basis. The city also works hard to provide a quality environment or residents to enjoy.” 

Classes will be held Sept. 17, Oct. 15, Nov. 19 and Dec. 10 from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. at Weber State Downtown (2314 Washington Blvd.) and the Ogden Municipal Building (2549 Washington Blvd.). 

For additional information, please contact Amy Sue Mabey, Ogden City Council Communications Manager, amymabey@ogdencity.com; 801-629-8164.