Celebrating Civic Engagement: Holly Springs Citizens Academy Graduates Second Cohort
The annual Citizens Academy provides residents with hands-on sessions on key functions of town government.
Holly Springs, NC, Apr. 16, 2025 — In a ceremony marked by community pride and enthusiastic applause, 24 residents of Holly Springs graduated from the second annual Holly Springs Citizens Academy, a seven-week program designed to deepen understanding of local government and encourage civic engagement.
Held during the April 15th Town Council meeting at Town Hall, the graduation highlighted a diverse group of participants—some newcomers, others longtime residents—who all share a common commitment to Holly Springs’ future.
“This program shows what makes Holly Springs such a special place,” said the town’s Communications and Marketing Director, as she introduced the graduates. “Each participant brought their own perspective, but all were united in their desire to be more involved in shaping our community.”
The Citizens Academy, which began on February 27 after a brief winter delay, included hands-on sessions on key functions of town government. Participants learned directly from town staff about public safety, transportation, growth management, recreation, and infrastructure. Graduates toured facilities, witnessed firehouse operations, and discussed long-term planning and budget challenges with town leaders.
A short video presentation during the ceremony captured testimonials from participants. One graduate shared how the experience gave them insight into the complexity of town planning, stating, “It’s like turning a battleship—things are mapped out years in advance. That was eye-opening.” Another recounted an unexpected moment at the firehouse: “We were mid-sentence with the chief when a call came in. Everyone dropped what they were doing and jumped into action.”
The class also left with a strong sense of appreciation for the work being done behind the scenes. “Holly Springs accomplishes a lot with a lean workforce,” one graduate said. “The professionalism and dedication of staff are inspiring.”
Mayor Sean Mayefskie congratulated each participant and posed for a commemorative photo with the group, then gave each a certificate of completion.
2025 Holly Springs Citizens Academy Graduates:
Aradhya Sharma, Ashley Adams, Bikash Shakya, Cassie Richardson, Claudia Giraldo, Colleen Moody, Dustin Heffel, Eren Mendez, Glenn Wrap, Jameelah Jordan, Jenn Taylor, John Dullaghan, Katie Gailes, Missy Adams, Nick Magnini, Nicole Meggerson de Martinez, Paige John, Ram Ramakrishnan, Richard K. Ford, Robin Haney, Scott Crawford, Scott Ester, Siobhan Casey, and Yale Wedig.
The Academy, part of the town’s commitment to organizational excellence, will return for another session in 2026.