Thrive Citizens Leadership Academy Graduates Largest Class Yet, Doubling Participation

Excelsior Springs, Mo. — Thrive Excelsior’s Citizens Leadership Academy marked a major milestone this spring, graduating 29 community members, the largest cohort since the program’s founding in 2023. With this group, the total number of alumni doubled (now 58 total graduates), a sign of the growing momentum behind civic engagement in Excelsior Springs.

Due to overwhelming interest, this spring’s program included both daytime and evening sessions. The expansion helped make the academy more accessible to working professionals, retirees, and parents, while also fostering a wider cross-section of residents committed to the community’s future.

A Behind-the-Scenes Look at the City

Structured as a seven-week course, the academy gives participants hands-on exposure to the systems and people that power Excelsior Springs. Graduates toured key departments, met with city staff and civic leaders, and explored topics ranging from economic development to public health.

Many participants noted that their understanding of Excelsior Springs shifted dramatically over the course of the program.

“I just—I am more impressed with the community, and I didn’t really think that was possible,” said Jeff Algie. “The amount of resources that Excelsior has is amazing.”

“I think the one thing that stood out the most is that Excelsior Springs rises to the occasion every time,” said Kristen Mosley. “Being here, I found people who stepped up and volunteered without hesitation. That kind of spirit really stayed with me.”

Others were struck by how much they didn’t know—even longtime residents.

“I served on the Thrive steering committee and decided it was time to participate in the program,” Martha Buckman said. “I’ve learned a lot. There’s so much going on in our community, and I hope more people will participate in the Citizens Academy.”

Meaningful Connections and Renewed Pride

The cohort included both newcomers and lifelong residents. Participants shared their hopes for the city’s future and reflected on what made Excelsior Springs feel like home.

“I hope this community continues to be the same—or better—for my kids,” said Tiffany Danneman. “We’re proud to be raising our children here. My parents, both of my brothers, and my sister-in-law have all moved here. That says something.”

Several alumni also returned to share their perspectives, including some who first became involved years ago after a single conversation.

“My leadership in the city began with just sitting down with the city manager,” said Gary Renne, who now serves on the city council. “I wasn’t part of a ‘good old boys’ club,’ but I showed up. I voiced my concerns in a constructive way, and before I knew it, I was serving on Capital Improvements.”

That message, of simply “showing up,” resonated throughout both graduation events.

“Leadership can mean a lot of things,” Renne continued. “It could be organizing a block party or volunteering for a committee. The city needs all kinds of leaders.”

Graduation and Recognition

At the closing ceremony, Mayor Mark Spohn congratulated the graduates and highlighted research showing the benefits of civic engagement.

“National studies show that communities with high levels of civic involvement experience lower crime rates, stronger local economies, and better public health outcomes,” he said. “As you graduate today, know that your leadership does not end here—it begins.”

He noted that the Knight Foundation found resident attachment to community to be the strongest predictor of economic growth. “That one blew me away,” he added. “You can actually find the health of a community by looking at how engaged its citizens are.”

With the addition of this spring’s class, the program celebrated its 50th graduate. That honor went to Stephanie Conyers, who received a jar of gold-wrapped chocolates and a hearty round of applause from her classmates.