JACKSONVILLE, FL—FBI Jacksonville is now accepting nominations for the 2023 FBI Citizens Academy. Over the course of seven sessions this spring, select business, religious, civic, and community leaders will be given an opportunity to go behind the scenes of local FBI operations and experience case-studies and demonstrations led by Special Agents. Topics will include how the FBI works to combat violent crime, human trafficking, cybercrime, and terrorism, and how teams train in forensics, firearms, evidence recovery, and more.

“The team at FBI Jacksonville works tirelessly, around-the-clock and in coordination with our partners, to protect communities across North Florida, and it’s important for community members to understand how we serve,” said Special Agent in Charge Sherri E. Onks. “The FBI Citizens Academy program is a unique opportunity for us to share our work one-on-one with community leaders of all backgrounds, and for them to provide us with feedback. Through frank discussion and information sharing, we can improve relationships and advance our mission to protect all Americans.”

Date: Every Thursday evening from April 6 to May 18, and all-day Friday, May 19 (Time TBD)

Location: FBI Jacksonville, 6061 Gate Parkway N. Jacksonville, FL 32256

Minimal Requirements:

• Business, religious, civic, academic/school board, or community leader
• Minimum 21 years of age
• No felony or serious misdemeanor convictions
• Cannot be under investigation as a subject in a criminal case
• Must live or work in North Florida
• Must agree to and pass a limited background check
• Must be able to attend classes in person (final schedule TBA)

How to Apply

The FBI Citizens Academy is open to anyone with an interest in learning how the FBI works to protect and serve the community. Candidates can be nominated by a program alumnus, former or current FBI employee, or self-nominated. The nomination form must be completed in full and returned by close of business on Tuesday, January 31, 2023. If selected, there is no cost to attend. Questions regarding the program or application process can be directed to outreach.jacksonville@fbi.gov. Nomination form: https://forms.fbi.gov/fbi-citizens-academy-nomination-form-jacksonville/

About FBI Citizens Academy:

The FBI Citizens Academy was established by the FBI Phoenix Division in 1993 to develop and enhance relationships between the FBI and various community groups. The program was later established in all 56 FBI field offices, including Jacksonville in 1999. Over 10,000 people across the country have graduated from the FBI Citizens Academy program since its inception.