The 2025 Civic Academy concluded November 11 as 26 participants graduated equipped to make meaningful change in their communities using principles of civic engagement.

The academy featured seven, no-cost, two-and-a-half-hour Tuesday night sessions, each tied to a Metro Vision theme. Each session consisted of discussions with local subject matter experts, small-group interactions and networking.

In the fourth week, participants toured 16th Street to explore the art of creating and activating safe community spaces. Participants walked to the Daniels and Fisher Clock Tower, where they met with Molly Veldkamp of the Denver Department of Transportation and Infrastructure to discuss the newly completed 16th Street project.

The tour continued by Union Station and the Milk Market led by Logan Cimino, DRCOG assistant planner. Participants learned about development efforts and conducted a pedestrian safety evaluation around streets near DRCOG offices.

During the final session, participants presented individual action plans on topics including housing, transportation, accessibility, technology, sustainability and community enhancements. DRCOG Executive Director Doug Rex delivered opening remarks and congratulated the graduates in the final session.