Morgantown Citizens Academy

Morgantown Citizens Academy Logo.Welcome and thank you for your interest in the Morgantown Citizens Academy! You've taken your first step to becoming a better informed citizen. You are the backbone of our community and your involvement is vital to maintaining a strong and healthy community. Citizen involvement in government helps us ensure that we are meeting the needs of our citizens. The next class of the Morgantown Citizens Academy is set to begin on September 29, 2022. Seating is limited and will fill up fast.

What is the Citizens Academy?

This eight-week course is free and open to the public. It is designed to give citizens a behind-the-scenes look at the inner workings of the city departments and how to effectively engage their local government. The academy will allow citizens to increase their knowledge of how municipal government works providing them with the power to create change in their neighborhoods.

The sessions, held on Thursday evenings from 6:00 - 9:00 p.m. at various locations, will feature unique activities and engaging discussions led by city staff. Each week, the participants will learn about different topics and get an inside look at how government functions. 

Course topics include:

  • How it All Works
  • Building a Better City and Stronger Neighborhoods
  • Streets, Signs, and Maintenance...Oh My!
  • To Give or Not to Give, That is the Question
  • Morgantown is Your Playground
  • Public Safety 1 - Police/Parking/Court
  • Public Safety 2 - Fire

Food will be provided prior to each class. A graduation reception and ceremony are held at the conclusion of the Citizens Academy and graduates are recognized at a City Council meeting. Enrollment is limited to 10 participants, 18 years of age and older. City of Morgantown residents will be given first priority. Participants are encouraged to attend all eight sessions, but miss no more than two. 

How Can I Participate?

Interested citizens must fill out an application form, which can be found here. The application can be submitted through the city’s website or sent via standard mail to the City of Morgantown Communications Department at 430 Spruce St. Morgantown, WV 26505. The deadline to apply is 5:30 p.m. on September 14. For more information, please email info@morgantownwv.gov or call 304-284-7426. Seating is limited and will fill up fast.