In an age where trust in government (and indeed all institutions for that matter) is at an all-time low, the very future of local representative democracy requires leaders with a new skill – the ability to break through cynicism and mistrust to directly engage residents in local policy. In order to address this issue, the Davenport Institute for Public Engagement and Civic Leadership offers a three-day intensive workshop for local government leaders.

The inaugural class was held in July 2017 and offered participants the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the context, purpose, and best practices for engaging residents in the decisions that affect their lives and communities. Over three days, the cohort delved into open discussions on relevant topics and leading edge techniques with their peers as well as senior faculty members, receiving direct mentoring from experts on their successes and lessons learned.

Moreover, following completion of the program, the cohort was awarded a Professional Certificate in Advanced Public Engagement for Local Government.

This bi-annual intensive workshop benefits all local government practitioners who want to analyze and improve their current public engagement strategies. Past attendees have ranged from Public Information Officers and Associate Planners to City Managers and City Council Members. However, anyone with an interest in engaging community members from a local government standpoint can and should apply, including professionals from cities, counties, and special districts; private sector employees who serve local governments; and graduate students focused on local government.

The next Professional Certificate workshop will take place January 19 – 21, 2018 on the Pepperdine University Malibu campus. Prior to the program start, participants will identify a public engagement project they are currently working on, or one they are thinking about undertaking. The strategies and insights learned from group discussion with fellow participants and experts during the workshop will allow them to return to their work, ready to implement their substantive public engagement project.

More information, including cost of participation and how to apply, can be found here: https://publicpolicy.pepperdine.edu/certificate-public-engagement/

For questions, please contact Davenport Institute Executive Director Ashley Trim via email at ashley.trim@pepperdine.edu or by phone at (310) 506-6878.