On Nov. 9, 18 residents, business owners, and civic-oriented community members graduated from the 2022 Loveland U citizens' leadership program.
Loveland U offers a hands-on experience that focuses on issues that are important to Loveland citizens.
“I have really enjoyed every class outing and have gained an invaluable amount of insight into our Loveland ecosystem. For me, as a local business owner, the class has provided answers, explanations, and insight to most of the common questions I receive about the ‘whats and whys’ of Loveland. Now, I can give an educated explanation to most of the questions I get from customers,” explained Brian Maxon, owner of Railway Barber Shop, 106 Railroad Ave.
Participants interact with city departments to learn what goes on behind the scenes to keep the city operating. The class is put into real-world situations, asked to identify issues, become educated on how to address them, and then join a team of fellow participants to apply that knowledge. Loveland U includes field trips to community organizations including the Loveland Museum Center, Little Miami Conservancy, Loveland Stage Company, and Loveland City Schools.
“Whether you are a newcomer or have lived here many years, Loveland U offers a perspective on the city’s structure and local organizations,” said Mayor Kathy Bailey. “City Council is committed to finding ways to help our residents understand the decisions we make, become more involved, and connect with the community. This program accomplishes all those goals and more.”
Interested? Loveland U runs from September through November and includes 10 evening sessions. Enrollment for 2023 will begin in the spring. Applicants must live or work in the City of Loveland or be a member of a civic organization based in Loveland. For more information, please visit the website or contact Loveland U Director Rob Weisgerber at lovelandu@lovelandoh.gov.