HUNTSVILLE —The FBI Birmingham hosted a completion ceremony for its spring Citizens Academy on Monday, May 18, 2026, at 6:00 p.m., held at Leidos Dynetics. This program brought together a diverse group of influential leaders committed to enhancing public safety and community engagement.
The FBI Citizens Academy is a fundamental aspect of outreach, designed to connect with community adults effectively. The FBI Birmingham Field Office hosts two classes per year, one in Huntsville in the spring and one in Birmingham in the fall. Each session typically meets once a week for six to eight weeks and culminates in a meaningful completion ceremony.
Participants engage in educational discussions focused on the FBI’s critical priorities, including counterterrorism, counterintelligence, cyber threats, and significant criminal matters. They also learn about recruitment, legal frameworks, and the essential roles of specialty teams such as bomb technicians, evidence response teams, and SWAT.
“The FBI cannot ensure public safety alone. Building strong partnerships with engaged citizens, community leaders, educators, business professionals, and local organizations is vital for fostering trust and enhancing security. Citizens Academy participants have directly experienced the complexities of today’s threat landscape, from violent crime and cyber threats to corruption, crimes against children, and national security threats. These challenges are ever evolving, and our partnerships must adapt accordingly,” said David R. Fitzgibbons, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Birmingham Office. “The relationships forged in this Academy are invaluable. We hope participants leave not only with a deeper understanding of the FBI but also as advocates for constructive dialogue, informed engagement, and resilient communities.”
Media Release/FBI Birmingham
