BISMARCK, N.D. – The inaugural Bismarck Citizen Academy kicked off Thursday, January 20, 2022, at the City County building.
The goal of the program is to improve participants’ knowledge and understanding of municipal government operations while learning more about the City of Bismarck’s priorities, challenges, and services provided to the community. “This program will provide an opportunity for residents to learn about every department within our organization through hands-on facility tours and classroom-style learning experiences,” said Jason Tomanek, Assistant City Administrator. “We are excited to share what it takes to keep this tremendous community moving forward.”
The program will run weekly for eight sessions that begin at 6:30 p.m. Sessions are scheduled for two to three hours at various locations throughout the City. Each week will feature a specific topic and leadership from related City departments will be in attendance. Various City departments will be explored, and real-time group discussions and City facility tours will supplement different classroom presentations.
“We want participants to be equipped with the knowledge needed to become more engaged residents and to help develop and identify civic leaders in the community,” said Mayor Steve Bakken.
The Class of 2022 roster includes 12 participants selected from a pool of more than 60 applicants: Abby Ebach, Ellen Schafer, John Becker, John Bollinger, John Risch, Josh Olson, Nicole Gagner, Rachel McGill, Stephanie Starr, Tim Fischer, Todd Humphrey, and Vaughn Jund.
To learn more about the Bismarck Citizen Academy visit: