SEATTLE—The FBI Citizens Academy in Seattle is now accepting applications for a stimulating six- to eight-week 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 FBI Seattle Field Office will hold its spring Citizens Academy April 16, 2026 – May 28, 2026, for seven consecutive weeks, meeting each Thursday evening of the week between 6:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. at FBI Seattle Headquarters downtown. Graduation/Range Day will be held on Saturday, June 6, 2026.
Nominations will be open from January 30 through March 18, 2026. Nominations for the 2026 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. The selection process is competitive, and not all nominees will be selected.
Selections of the final candidates for the 2026 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.
Author: Lynnwood Times Staff
