The city of College Station recently graduated its 30th class of Citizens University, a program designed to educate residents about local government and its operations. University and Community Relations Manager Barbara Moore noted that this significant anniversary reflects the growth of the community and its interest in the program.

Citizens University’s Impact

Citizens University allows residents to spend time with various agencies connected to local government, gaining in-depth knowledge, meeting city leaders, and getting hands-on experience. The program has successfully gained more participants over the years, with at least two city council members having participated since 2015. Neighborhood Services Coordinator Teitelyn Morris-Wise emphasized that the program helps people understand how much it takes to run a city, especially in regards to tourism.

Morris-Wise explained that many people do not see the tourism impact in the work that businesses do, but rather just see more traffic. However, she highlighted that tourism brings events to town, helping to build up local businesses. The program has also been beneficial for those interested in seeking public office, as it provides a baseline knowledge of the city they are seeking to represent.

Program Details

The 2026 Citizens University session wrapped up in April, and applications for the 2027 class will be opening later in the year. To participate, residents must live in College Station, attend at least nine of the 13 meetings, and not be actively seeking political office. The program has been successful in engaging residents and fostering a sense of community, with participants including congressional employees, district directors, case workers, and state Senate employees.

Original reporting: Community Impact — Houston — read the source article.