MyCity Academy is a free program that teaches civic and leadership skills. It helps participants learn how city government works and how they can take part in it. Since it started in 2012, more than 200 people from over 50 countries have completed the program. Some graduates now serve on Metro boards and commissions. A few have even been elected to public office, like Mayor Freddie O’Connell.
Over the course of several months, participants will:
This 8 month program is open to all Davidson County residents, including new citizens, immigrants, and refugees. Each year, a small group of participants is selected. They meet for 5 hours once a month. Anyone who wants to join must submit an application during the open period.
MyCity Academy Participants must attend six of the seven 2026-2027 sessions.
Applications for the 2027 Cohort are currently closed. Please check back in the Spring of 2027 for new applications.
