PHOTO #1: At the final Citizens Academy session, participants took part in a graduation ceremony and received certificates acknowledging their participation in the program. Shown from left are City of Victoria Mayor Duane Crocker, Citizens Academy graduate Tara Tinney and City Manager Jesús A. Garza.

PHOTO #2: From left, City Manager Jesús A. Garza, Councilman Mark Loffgren, Mayor Duane Crocker, Councilman Dr. Andrew Young, Councilwoman Jan Scott and Councilwoman April L. Butler answer questions from the participants of the 2026 Citizens Academy.

PHOTO #3: Victoria Fire Department firefighters demonstrate using the jaws of life to cut apart a vehicle during a tour of the fire drill field as part of the 2026 Citizens Academy.

The City of Victoria Communications & Public Affairs concluded the 2026 Citizens Academy on March 5 with a panel featuring the mayor and members of City Council.

During this free six-week program, leaders from various City departments and partner organizations taught participants about their local government. Participants also had the option of attending tours of the Victoria Office of Emergency Management, the Victoria Fire Department fire drill field and the Victoria Surface Water Treatment Plant. One session was held at the new Public Safety Headquarters before the official opening, allowing participants a sneak peek of the facility.

“Our goal is to create an impactful environment where residents learn and engage in two-way dialogue with the decision-makers who strive to enhance the livability of our community,” Communications & Public Affairs Director Ashley Strevel said. “I’m hopeful that our participants will stay engaged through our alumni program and use the many City tools we make available to them to stay informed and share information with others.”

At the end of the final session, residents participated in a graduation ceremony and received certificates acknowledging their participation in Citizens Academy.

The path to distinguished citizenship

Residents who complete all three City of Victoria educational programs: Citizens Academy, the Civilian Police Academy and the Civilian Responder Program—earn the title of Distinguished Citizen and are formally recognized during a City Council meeting in the fall. 

Seven of this year’s participants became Distinguished Citizens: Maria Cortinas, Sister Maria Garcia, Scott Martin, Sandra Maxwell, Karoyn Scogin, Kimberley Smullen and Tara Tinney.

Stay connected

Applications for the 2027 Citizens Academy will open in the fall. For more information about the program, visit www.victoriatx.gov/citizensacademy. 

View pictures from the 2026 Citizens Academy here.