Twenty-two Round Rock residents, employees and even residents of surrounding municipal utility districts recently graduated from UniverCity, the City of Round Rock’s citizen education program.
Designed to engage and educate residents on operations of the City, the 11-week UniverCity program showcases the work of City departments. Participants learn about the day-to-day operations of the City and future projects through presentations, tours or break-out sessions hosted by each City department.
UniverCity debuted in fall 2017. The most recent graduating class is its 13th.
“I’ve learned more about city government than in any of my civics classes in school,” said graduate Dave Rackley as the class was honored at the June 12 City Council meeting.
“I was impressed with the professionalism of every department that presented their work,” he continued. “I was even more impressed by the camaraderie that exists both within and among departments. It’s like one big family. Round Rock is a well-managed city, and I’m pleased to call it home.”
UniverCity participants commit 33 hours to the program.
“This class worked well with one another, had excellent questions and were very eager to genuinely learn,” said Community and Neighborhood Services Director Joe Brehm.
The following received UniverCity certifications of completion: David Rackley, Sharla Stover, Andrew Woodworth, Maria Gonzales, Homer Perozo Naveda, Edwin J. Price, Alexandro Ascencio, Jenn Griffith, Kathy Rutherford, Maya Rutherford, Harold McDonald, Dalonika McDonald, Coreyon Norris, Martha Little, David Little, Aneesh Doppalapudi, Cary Baur, Lauren Morreale, Denise Caron, Kim Pascarella, DeAnna Flores and Kevin Raper.
Mayor Craig Morgan and City Council members thanked the participants for their involvement in the program.
“Really the thanks ought to go to you for taking the time and investing in your community,” said Mayor Morgan. “I think it’s so important. We will always be stronger together.”
To inquire about the nomination process for upcoming classes or other questions about UniverCity, please email neighborhoods@roundrocktexas.gov.
