Bloomington Residents Academy | City of Bloomington, Indiana

Page last updated on August 22, 2025 at 11:02 am

Purpose

The Housing and Neighborhood Development (HAND) Department developed the City of Bloomington Residents Academy in 1999 to encourage civic engagement and to educate residents about City government. Participants will learn about the challenges faced by City government as it balances budget limitations with community goals and service needs. Sessions will also cover topics such as day-to-day operations, the structure and function of City departments, the role of City Council, resident involvement in boards and commissions, innovative approaches to problem solving, and goals for the future. There is no cost to participate.

In Residents Academy you will be introduced to City of Bloomington departments and programs, including:

Office of the Mayor
City Council
City Clerk
Public Works
Parks and Recreation
Planning and Transportation
Housing and Neighborhood Development
Police Department
Fire Department
Utilities
Community and Family Resources
Controller's Office
Bloomington Transit
Information and Technology Services
Economic and Sustainable Development

Applying for the Residents Academy

Applications for the 2025 session are now closed, however the electronic application form is available year-round, and you may complete it at any time. You will receive an email confirmation that your application has been received, and that you will be considered for the 2026 Resident's Academy.

Applicants must be:

At least 18 years of age, OR a member of the NextGen Advocacy Program, a student-led group that educates students from Bloomington high schools on the workings, importance, and logistics of local government.
A resident of the City of Bloomington (If space allows, residents who reside outside the Bloomington city limits will be considered for participation.),
Willing to commit to one evening per week for 11 weeks to participate in the academy.

If you are accepted into the program, you will be required to sign the Volunteer Participant Wavier, Release and Hold Harmless Agreement, as well as the Authorization, Agreement, and Release of Use of Image.

To apply online, please use the link below. To request a paper application please contact Angela Van Rooy at (812)-349-3505 or angela.vanrooy@bloomington.in.gov.