City of Concord Celebrates 2026 Citizen Public Safety Academy Graduates

The City of Concord celebrated 23 residents who completed the 2026 Citizen Public Safety Academy, recognizing their dedication to gaining a deeper understanding of the people, services, and teamwork that help keep Concord a safe and thriving community.

Concord is one of the largest and fastest growing cities in the state and despite its size, continues to be recognized nationally as one of the safest and best places to live, work, and raise a family. Earning these accolades is a testament to the dedication of the City's public safety professionals and to the community partnerships formed through programs like the Citizen Public Safety Academy. These programs help build relationships with residents and encourage residents to take an active role in strengthening their neighborhoods.

"We are incredibly proud of our graduates for their commitment over seven weeks to spend time with our public safety departments and learn more about the important work they do every day to keep us safe," said Mayor Steve Morris during remarks at the graduation ceremony held at City Hall.

"It takes all of us working together to create a safe and vibrant community and it would not be possible without our incredible first responders and residents like you," continued Morris.

During the seven-week Citizen Public Safety Academy, participants gain an inside look at what it takes to keep Concord a safe and thriving community. The program offers hands-on experiences and face-to-face interactions with the City's police, fire, and emergency communications departments, giving participants a better understanding of the challenges first responders face, and the critical services they provide.

Graduates leave the program with a greater appreciation for public safety and are equipped to serve as ambassadors for the City, helping share information and supporting a culture of safety across the City.

The 2026 Citizen Public Safety Academy graduates are: Bill Barbee, Lindsay Brown, Lori Clay, Corey Conner, Robert De Block, Joy Marie De Block, Elizabeth Dean-McClellan, Nichelle Fitch, Greg Francus, Fay Gonzalez, Doreen Hunter, Raghavendra Kooram Tirumala, Todd Lankford, Henry Lopez Ugarte, Clay Maguire, Bruce McCormick, Carol McCormick, Nancy McCullough, Marty Smith, Bettina Sowe, Luz Townsend, Jennifer Tyson, and Dale Woodruff.

The Citizen Public Safety Academy is offered annually. More information about the program is available at ConcordNC.gov/PublicSafetyAcademy.