PHOTO #1: Communications & Public Affairs Director Ashley Strevel visits with former Citizens Academy participants during the Citizens Academy Alumni luncheon Nov. 21 at the Victoria Community Center annex.
PHOTO #2: City Manager Jesús A. Garza gives a presentation about City projects and initiatives during the Citizens Academy Alumni luncheon Nov. 21 at the Victoria Community Center annex.
Former Citizens Academy participants were able to connect with each other, learn more about the City of Victoria and receive updates about events and volunteer opportunities at the third annual Citizens Academy Alumni luncheon Nov. 21 at the Victoria Community Center annex.
At the luncheon, City Manager Jesús A. Garza gave a presentation about City projects and initiatives and answered residents’ questions.
Citizens Academy is a free, five-week educational program that gives residents a chance to learn about and engage with their local government through guest speakers, question-and-answer sessions, and hands-on activities and tours. The program is hosted by Communications & Public Affairs.
In 2022, Communications & Public Affairs created the Citizens Academy Alumni Association to help participants stay involved with educational, volunteer and networking opportunities.
“One of the primary goals of Citizens Academy is to encourage informed and engaged citizenship,” said Communications Director Ashley Strevel. “The alumni group gives our participants an avenue to continue applying the lessons they learned at Citizens Academy and get involved in their community long after the program ends.”
Applications for the 2025 Citizens Academy have closed. Applications open each year in October. To learn more about the program, visit www.victoriatx.gov/citizensacademy.
View more photos from the event.