Citizens' Leadership Academy

The Town of Wellesley relies extensively on resident participation, with more than 200 volunteers serving on elected and appointed boards and working alongside staff to guide local decision-making. To strengthen this engagement, the Town created a Citizens’ Leadership Academy, a low-Wellesley Citizens' Leadership Academy logocost and proven program used successfully in many other communities.

The Academy is an 8-week series of classes and activities that gives participants an up-close view of local government services and operations. It's intended to help residents better understand how the Town of Wellesley operates, introduce them to senior staff and departments, and encourage informed participation in Annual Town Meeting, and on Town boards and committees. Key goals for the Academy are: to build a more knowledgeable and engaged citizenry, expand the pool of volunteers, and reduce misinformation by connecting residents directly with accurate sources of information. 

The Citizens' Leadership Academy takes place annually in early spring and is open to residents 18-years and older. Class size is limited to 24 participants.

Be Part of the Inaugural Class

Join Wellesley's first Citizens' Leadership Academy class! Applications are now available for residents who want to participate in the 2026 Citizens' Leadership Academy beginning in March. Requirements for participation are: 

  • Must be a current Town of Wellesley resident or employee 
  • Must be 18-years or older as of January 1, 2026
  • Must sign a liability waiver

Classes for the 2026 Academy meet on Thursdays from 6:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. and participants are expected to attend most sessions. The dates are: March 26, April 2, 9,16, 30, May 7, 14 and the graduation ceremony on Tuesday, May 19. 


Completed applications may be returned electronically or delivered in-person to the Select Board Office (3rd floor, Wellesley Town Hall). Applications are due by 5 p.m. on Friday, February 27. For questions or additional information, email Wellesley Assistant Executive Director Corey Testa.