PHOTO #1: Communications Director Ashley Strevel visits with attendees at the Citizens Academy Alumni luncheon Nov. 20 at the Victoria Community Center annex.
PHOTO #2: City Manager Jesús A. Garza gives a presentation during the Citizens Academy Alumni luncheon Nov. 20 at the Victoria Community Center annex.
Former Citizens Academy participants were able to connect with each other and hear updates about the City of Victoria during the Citizens Academy Alumni luncheon Nov. 20 at the Victoria Community Center annex.
At the luncheon, City Manager Jesús A. Garza gave a presentation on City projects and initiatives, including the fiscal year 2026 budget, infrastructure projects, compensation for first responders and growing Victoria.
Citizens Academy is a free, six-week educational program that gives residents a chance to learn about and engage with their local government through guest speakers, question-and-answer sessions, hands-on activities and tours.
“The alumni group gives our participants an avenue to continue applying the lessons they learned through Citizens Academy long after the program ends,” said Communications Director Ashley Strevel. “Keeping our alumni engaged helps them stay up to date and equips them to serve as ambassadors by sharing timely information with their communities.”
Stay connected
Applications for the 2026 Citizens Academy have closed. Please note that space is limited due to room capacity, and selected applicants will be notified after the Thanksgiving holiday.
To learn more about Citizens Academy, visit www.victoriatx.gov/citizensacademy.
To learn more about the fiscal year 2026 budget, visit www.victoriatx.gov/budget.
View more photos from the event.