The first Montgomery-Christiansburg Citizens Academy graduated on Sept. 19, 2011. Click here for pictures of the graduation! See pictures of the academy participants throughout the session here!

Here are some comments from participants in the 2011 Academy:

"We were impressed with the level of training requirements, qualifications and professionalism required for the Town and County police and emergency personnel. These training requirements are something we expected of those serving in a large city, and were quite surprised to find those same requirements imposed in our small community of paid, part-time, and volunteer services."

"We appreciate the open and close interworking of all those involved with Town and County Government positions that share in services, ideas, facilities, equipment, and manpower for the improvement and safety to the public. This is the reason that the New River Valley has the third largest population growth in our great State, and we applaud you. Being new to the area, our eyes have been opened by this Academy and we recommend this course to every taxpayer."
 
"I enjoyed learning about the different departments within the government. I enjoyed the hands-on demonstrations but I have to say the best was meeting [Police K-9] Dozer."

"It wasn't just a classroom setting. It was very hands on. The guest speakers were knowledgeable and entertaining and spoke on a variety of interesting topics. They kept us very engaged."