The City of Albany is launching its first-ever Civic Leadership Academy this fall! This free, six-week program is designed to give community members an inside look at how local government works—and how you can get involved in shaping decisions that matter.
Whether you’re curious about City operations, interested in serving on a board or commission, or simply want to understand how your community runs, the Civic Academy is your front-row seat.
The Academy is a new initiative of the City of Albany, in partnership with Portland State University's National Policy Consensus Center.
Program at a Glance
Program at a Glance
When: Tuesday evenings, September 23 – October 28, 2025, from 5:30–8 p.m. and a guided tour of Albany city facilities and services on Friday, September 26, 2025, from 1–4 p.m.
Where: City Hall, 333 Broadalbin St SW
Who: Open to a maximum of 12 Albany residents, ages 16 and up.
Cost: Free
What You'll Gain
What You’ll Gain
By the end of the academy, participants will walk away with:
- A deeper understanding of how Albany city government works
- Hands-on experience through a real civic project
- Practical skills in collaboration, communication, and decision-making
- Connections with City staff, leaders, and fellow community members
- Confidence to step into leadership roles—on boards, commissions, or other civic opportunities
How It Works
How It Works
The Civic Academy is built on a “learn by doing” model. Each week, you’ll:
- Explore a different part of City government
- Hear directly from City staff and elected leaders
- Work with your cohort on a civic project chosen by the City
- Team up with a “City Buddy” for behind-the-scenes insight
- Present your final project and recommendations to the Albany City Council on November 19, 2025.
Why Participate?
Why Participate?
The Civic Academy is for anyone who wants to:
- Get Involved: Build the skills to serve on boards, commissions, or community projects
- Get Connected: Meet City staff, elected leaders, and neighbors with shared interests
- Get Informed: Understand how decisions are made and how you can influence them
- Give Back: Help shape Albany’s future by bringing your perspective and ideas
Apply
How to Apply
Applications will be accepted through 5 p.m. on September 1, 2025. Space is limited to 12 participants, so don’t wait!
Before you start your application:
- Participation is open to residents 16 and over verified as residing inside the city limits of Albany, Oregon, who can commit to attending all sessions.
- Participants are also asked to complete approximately 30 minutes of "homework" between sessions.
- Each session will include a meal for each participant.
- Applications will be evaluated anonymously (i.e., with your name removed) by a staff selection committee.
- A maximum of 12 Academy members will be selected, with priority given to individuals who are new to civic and community leadership.
- In addition to weighing the merits of individual applications, the selection committee will strive to select a cohort that, when viewed in its entirety, reflects Albany as a whole.
- Applicants chosen for this year's academy will be notified by September 9.
- Those not chosen will be placed on a waitlist if there are vacancies before the first class on September 23. Waitlisted applicants will receive an email notification ahead of time for next year's academy.
- If you require accommodations to participate, such as for ADA or dietary preferences, contact
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. as soon as possible after you receive an acceptance to the academy.
