Registration Opens For Rockville University

Two years ago I enrolled in Rockville University and I can’t recommend it enough. As I explained,

You may not need to know how many street lights stand in Rockville or how many arrests were made for burglary, but the whole Rockville University experience will make you feel more connected. Places, names, and faces will be familiar. When you turn on the tap, you’ll picture exactly where that water has traveled since it left the Potomac River. You’ll know why the police reach out to our community and how inspection services protects you (even when they constantly tell you “no”). When you study the population trends and learn about zoning with the planning department, you’ll picture the Rockville of the future. If you have ever wondered about something in Rockville, you can find out more by enrolling in Rockville University.

One of my fellow classmates, Mary Hillstrom summed it up best:

Sitting in on this Commission meeting, as well as attending Rockville University, transformed my impression of the city government from a huge anonymous entity to a collection of caring individuals, similar to me. My image of the commission members went from “Commissioners,” with a capital C, to citizens and neighbors – regular everyday people. The city became human-size in my mind. Now I can see myself volunteering for a Rockville commission or joining my neighborhood association or getting involved in some other aspect of Rockville city life. I’m excited. Watch out Rockville, here I come!

The new Rockville Latino Alliance was spearheaded with the help of two Rockville University graduates. This is a true example of residents finding out how to get involved and meeting a need in our community.

If you want to learn and be inspired, register for Rockville University. It’s a free citizen-awareness program run by the City of Rockville. Anyone can join as long as you are older than 16 years.

Registration is available online or via phone at 240-314-8344.

Rockville University allows residents to:

• Hear about the history and demographics of Rockville.
• Learn about the Council/Manager form of government.
• Visit City facilities such as the Water Treatment Plant, Gude Drive Maintenance Facility, Rockville Senior Center, Rockville Swim and Fitness Center, community recreation centers, and City parks.
• Discover ways to get involved in the community and City Hall.
• Find out what each City departments does and how it impacts residents.

Because of safety concerns, you really can’t visit the Water Treatment Plant any other way. The tour really gives you a complete understanding of the challenges involved with bringing water to our residents. As I read the Municipal Growth Element report, I knew exactly what our City is facing.

The next session of Rockville University begins Wednesday, October 13, 2010. Classes will be held on October 13, 23, 26, and November 6, 10, and 17. Wednesday classes will be held in the evening and most classes last two hours. The time flies!

Rockville University is only offered once per year with a class limit of 25 people.

For more information about Rockville University visit the website or contact Hjarman Cordero, neighborhood resources coordinator, at

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