Citizens Academy
The Wake Forest Citizen’s Academy is a seven-week course designed to offer participants an educational and interactive experience on the workings of Town government.
The curriculum covers current Town programs, services, and procedures, and offers an inside look at several departments, including Public Works, Police, Fire, Communications, Finance, Planning, Engineering, Wake Forest Power, IT, Parks, Recreation & Cultural Resources, the Renaissance Centre, and Downtown Development.
Led by Town staff, each weekly session takes place at a different Town facility. The final session includes a graduation ceremony and reception.
“Our goal is to provide participants with a foundation of knowledge regarding town government programs and services,” said Strategic Performance Manager Lisa Hayes. “We believe this foundation, cultivated through interaction with Town staff, will serve to create a stronger, more informed community.”
Citizens Academy returns in 2025
The Wake Forest Citizen's Academy is offered every two years. The next installment is scheduled for fall 2025.
PLEASE NOTE: Applications will be available late spring/early summer. Please check back on this site and look for an announcement from the Town via Facebook, our weekly e-newsletter What's Up in Wake Forest, and the Town app.
Citizen’s Academy Selection Criteria
Must be 18 years of age or older
Must attend minimum of five sessions to graduate
Written statement of desire to participate
Satisfactory background check
Priority given to residents and business owners, residing or running a business within Town limits
An emphasis will be placed on geographic diversity within the Town of Wake Forest and its Extraterritorial Jurisdiction (ETJ)
Wake Forest Planning 101 is something different
Wake Forest Planning 101 focuses on the Town’s planning processes and practices.
Student Testimonials
“There was a wide range of people from different points of views. I found it very interesting listening to both men and women, young and seasoned. The time taken to structure and organize each session was well thought out and executed. My most liked aspect of the program has to be the leadership teams….So thank you to all of you that made this experience educational, eye opening, fun, and memorable.”
“It was very educational and a brilliant means to get to meet our town's officials, services workers and neighbors.”
“I want to thank you for the opportunity you've provided each of us. Going behind doors that would have otherwise remained closed. Job well done. This was an awesome experience. I'm going to take what I know and do more.”
“Most neighbors are new to NC. This would be an eye opener to see how fortunate they are to live in Wake Forest because of all that this town offers. We didn’t have a clue when we came here as to all the amenities Wake Forest offered.”
“This was a class act!! Thank you for the privilege of attending. Thank you, Shana and Lisa, and all of those involved in planning this Citizens Academy. I’m grateful and proud to live here.”
“It's a great opportunity to get to know the community, as well as town staff and other community members, especially for newcomers like so many of us were. It also provides avenues for getting more involved in the town itself. It was a great experience, and I am very grateful. Thank you all!”
“Very well organized. This is a direct result of the organizers and staff. Each session had an agenda. During each session the overview, goals, interactions, and opportunities to ask questions was always available. All presentations were well organized and presented.”