Public officials are often caught in the crosshairs of community tension, but the most effective leaders know that conflict is simply an invitation for better strategy. Instead of reacting to the loudest voices in the room, it’s time to shift your approach. The Davenport Institute for Public Engagement and Civic Leadership is offering its premier Professional Certificate in Public Engagement to help you move beyond traditional public hearings and toward a culture of authentic, productive civic participation.

A practitioner-led incubator

Designed for entry-level and mid-career local government professionals — including managers, PIOs, and clerks — this 6-week program isn’t just about theory. Each week, you will learn from Davenport Institute trainers who have served in local government and understand the modern pressures of the public square.

Key takeaways from the curriculum:

  • Strategic stakeholder partnerships: Learn to identify the right level of engagement for any project from day one to ensure long-term success.
  • Engaging the “quiet majority”: Gain specific tools to reach beyond the “Same Twenty People” and include marginalized or diverse community voices.
  • Conflict de-escalation: Master techniques for facilitating difficult conversations and managing high emotions during public meetings.
  • Institutional change: Learn how to weave engagement into your organization’s DNA so it becomes a standard operating procedure, not an afterthought.

Build your own strategy

The program is built around your real-world needs. When you apply, you will bring a project currently on your desk. Over six weeks, you will build a personalized engagement strategy for that project, culminating in a public engagement summit to workshop your plan with peers.

Program Logistics

  • Dates: Thursdays, February 12 – March 19, 2026
  • Time: 12:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. (PT)
  • Format: Interactive live sessions via Zoom
  • Tuition: $1,195 (Group discounts available for 3+ participants)

Final Call: Apply by February 5

Space is limited to ensure a highly interactive cohort experience. Don’t miss your chance to position yourself as a civic leader committed to strengthening local democracy.

Interested to apply? Click here to fill out your application! Applications are due February 5th!

Questions? Reach out to the Davenport Institute at davenport.institute@pepperdine.edu.

About the Davenport Institute for Public Engagement and Civic Leadership 

The Davenport Institute for Public Engagement and Civic Leadership, based at Pepperdine University’s Graduate School of Public Policy, is a recognized leader in promoting healthy public engagement to strengthen local democracy. Through its work as a trainer, advisor, and convener, the Institute supports local government professionals, emerging community leaders, and public policy students by offering both academic insight and hands-on guidance. Its mission is to advance public engagement and civic education that fosters productive interaction between communities and local government.