Palm Coast Celebrates 60th Citizens Academy Graduating Class

The City of Palm Coast is celebrating a milestone as residents from the 60th session of the Palm Coast Citizens Academy officially graduate, marking another class of community members who have taken the time to learn more about their local government and the services that keep Palm Coast running.

The fall 2026 session began on September 21 and brought residents together for seven weeks of interactive, behind-the-scenes learning with City staff and Elected Officials. Participants explored how city government operates, learned about the responsibilities of various departments, and gained firsthand insight into the people and processes behind the services residents rely on every day.

One of the highlights of the Citizens Academy is a mock City Council meeting, where participants step into the roles of City staff presenters, the City Manager, City Attorney, City Clerk, and City Council members. Some even take the opportunity to participate in the public comment portion of the meeting. During this session, 88-year-old Marilyn Millar took center stage as mayor, leading the mock meeting from the center of the dais. She and her daughter, Meryl Hether, who also participated in the academy, made the experience especially memorable. Meryl shared that her mom has been telling everyone she talks to about getting to be mayor for a day!

Graduates of the 60th session include: Kate Barry, Kathy Cinney, John Clouser, Dave DeSteno, Renee DeSteno, Elizabeth Fries, Meryl Hether, Suzanne Hughes, Joe Hughes, Glenn Johnson, Carol Johnson, Anouk Kluit, John Kvederis, Peter Kent, Sandrine Hugot-Kent, Cheryl McConnon, Marilyn Millar, Sean Reardon, Hank Stephan, and Brian Unger.

The class celebrated its graduation during its final session at Fire Station 25 on November 2. Traditionally, Citizens Academy graduates are recognized during a City Council Business Meeting. However, with no Council meeting scheduled on Election Day, the City brought the celebration directly to the participants at the fire station. Mayor Mike Norris presented each graduate with a certificate and lapel pin.

The Palm Coast Citizens Academy is a free, comprehensive program designed to strengthen connections between residents and their local government. Throughout the session, participants learned about a variety of City departments, including Utilities, Stormwater & Engineering, Financial Services, Parks & Recreation, Community Development, Public Works, and the Fire Department.

Organized by the City's Communications & Marketing Department, the academy features interactive presentations and discussions with City officials, including City Council members, the City Manager, and department directors. The program is offered twice each year, with an evening session in the spring and an afternoon session in the fall. Each session accommodates up to 30 participants.

“Congratulations to the graduates of our 60th Citizens Academy! It’s been such a pleasure getting to know this group and seeing their interest in learning more about Palm Coast,” said Communications & Marketing Director Brittany Kershaw. “We know our residents have busy lives, so we truly appreciate everyone who chose to spend their time with us, ask questions, and take a closer look at how their city works. An informed and engaged community makes Palm Coast stronger, and we hope each graduate walks away with a new appreciation for the people, services, and work that go into making this city a great place to call home.”

Residents interested in participating in an upcoming Citizens Academy session can learn more and register at palmcoast.gov/citizensacademy.

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