Residents interested in learning how the City of Huntsville operates and how they can play a role in shaping local government are invited to apply for the spring 2026 Civic Engagement Academy.
Hosted by the City of Huntsville’s Office of Multicultural Affairs, the Civic Engagement Academy is a free program designed to provide participants with a behind-the-scenes look at city government while connecting residents with city leaders, department heads and fellow community members interested in civic involvement.
“CEA is a great way for residents to deepen their understanding of how Huntsville’s government works and to build connections with city leaders and neighbors,” said Dr. Randy Barbour, director of the Office of Multicultural Affairs. “This program empowers participants with the knowledge and tools to become active, informed and engaged community members.”
The program begins Tuesday, March 10, and will meet weekly on Tuesday evenings from 6 to 8 p.m. through April 28. Sessions will cover a range of topics related to city operations and services, including growth, public safety, infrastructure, community engagement and available resources.
Program topics include:
- March 10: Orientation and how the city operates
- March 17: City growth
- March 24: Public safety and emergency response
- March 31: City operations at City Hall
- April 7: City maintenance and infrastructure
- April 14: Community engagement
- April 21: Community resources
- April 28: Graduation
Participants must be at least 19 years old, live within Huntsville city limits and have an interest in becoming more engaged in local government and civic life.
Carol Gentz, program projects manager in the city’s Community Development Department and a graduate of the spring 2023 cohort, said the program influenced her decision to pursue a career in local government.
“I was impressed that all of the department heads came and spent an evening with us, and they all seemed very approachable,” Gentz said. “They all seemed to really be on the same team. That influenced my interest in working for the City.”
Applications for the spring 2026 cohort are due by 10 p.m. on Friday, February 13, and must be submitted online.
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