On July 12, 2011, the Washoe County Board of County Commissioners proudly recognized the Spring 2011 graduating class of the Washoe County Engaged Leadership Academy.

Washoe County and the University of Nevada Cooperative Extension developed an 8-week training program of interactive sessions designed to cultivate a partnership between citizens and their County government. The participants develop skills to be more active in their communities and County government. The Washoe County Leadership Academy began in 2004 and focuses on providing information on the vast services the County provides through personal contact with elected officials and department heads, simulated trials, planning and emergency simulations and tours to behind-the-scenes of the Washoe County jail and other venues. Nearly 200 citizens have graduated from the program since 2004, with 33% returning to Washoe County to serve in some type of volunteer capacity.

The graduation class of Spring 2011 include: Shyrl Bailey, Ryan Bayfield, Christine Cavalier, Maureen Collins, Thomas Cornell, Rebecca Medicine Eagle, Petra Gonsalves, Kurt Gottschalk, Eric Hasty, Ryan High, Billy Howard, Dorothy Hudig, Douglas Kaller, Matthew Ong, Suzanne Ramos, Marlene Reynolds, Michael Salerno, Heidi Smith, James Smith, Maite Smith and Catherine Stitser.