Holland Ambassador Academy inspires residents to lead and get involved

In an era when many communities struggle with civic engagement, the city of Holland is tackling the issue by offering residents a deeper understanding of how their local government works and a path to get involved.

The Holland Ambassador Academy, in its second year, is already helping people become leaders in their community. The 10-week class teaches residents how city departments work and how they can get involved.

Applications for the 2025 session opened on July 1, and all 25 spots were filled within a few days.

“We’ve already stopped accepting applications for this year,” says Mayor Nathan Bocks. “City Manager Keith Van Beek said recently, we had received 35 or 36 applications. We want to make sure the group size allows for meaningful interaction.”

The program runs from Sept. 8 through Nov. 10 and meets Monday evenings from 6 to 9 p.m. Participants tour city departments, hear presentations from department directors and staff, and learn how services are delivered across the community. Sessions culminate in a graduation ceremony and reception for participants and their families.

Future leadership

City leaders created the program not only to educate residents, but also to address a long-term need: building a pipeline of civic leaders prepared to serve on boards, commissions, and possibly in elected office.

“We see this as a training ground,” Bocks says. “People get excited about local government when they have an opportunity to learn how it works. I wouldn’t be surprised if a future mayor comes out of one of these classes.”

The idea is already working. People who joined the first class in 2024 are still involved. They attend events, volunteer, and support city projects online and in person.

“I bump into participants around town. I see their social media posts and comments on things I’ve shared,” Bocks says. “They’ve become exactly what we hoped: ambassadors for the city of Holland.”

That excitement spreads to others. When people see how hard city workers try and how good they are at their jobs, it often makes them feel more proud of their city and more willing to help, Bocks says.

“They get a look behind the curtain,” he says. “They see that our staff truly care about what they do and who they serve. That energy is contagious.”

The program is free and open to City of Holland residents ages 18 and older. While this year’s session is full, those interested in future academies can find details and applications at cityofholland.com/haa. Non-residents may be considered if space permits.

“Holland is a well-run city with great leadership, dedicated volunteers, and talented employees,” Bocks says. “We want residents to see that firsthand and find ways to get involved.”

Photos courtesy of the city of Holland