The FBI Citizens Academy is a stimulating program that gives business, religious, civic, and community leaders an inside look at the FBI. During the academy, students gain insight into the structure and operation of FBI field offices and resident agencies and learn the services the FBI provides to local and state law enforcement agencies. It is the goal of the FBI Citizens Academy to foster a greater understanding of the role of federal law enforcement in the community through frank discussion and education.

The spring FBI Indianapolis - Merrillville Citizens Academy class will be held at the Indianapolis Field Office's Merrillville Resident Agency on April 23-25, 2025, from 6 to 9 p.m.

Nominations for the Spring 2025 Indianapolis Citizens Academy class may be submitted by past and/or present FBI employees, Citizens Academy graduates, or any individual wishing to nominate themselves. Individuals nominated must be in good standing in the community.

Candidates must meet the following criteria:

• Be a recognized business, religious, or community leader
• Live and/or work within the division's jurisdiction
• Be at least 21 years old
• Consent to a limited background investigation, to include fingerprint checks
• Agree to attend all sessions, with no more than one excused absence

To nominate a candidate or self-nominate, please complete the nomination form and provide a narrative stating the reasons for nomination. If you plan to nominate more than one candidate, please provide one form per nominee. Please note: The selection process is competitive, and not all nominees will be selected.

Selections of the final candidates for the Spring 2025 Citizens Academy class are to be determined by the field office.

At the conclusion of the program, graduates are encouraged to join their local FBI Citizens Academy Alumni Chapter for the purpose of strengthening relationships and improving understanding between the FBI and the community. Graduates, while not official spokespersons for the FBI, may be called upon to share their understanding of the role of federal law enforcement, specifically the FBI.

The deadline for nomination form submissions is January 17, 2025.