Hickory 101
Learn and Connect
Have you ever wondered about the inner workings of local government? Join Hickory 101 and learn about the city departments and functions that help make Hickory a great place to live. Hickory 101 is a condensed version of the City’s popular Neighborhood College program. Participants will tour facilities, see demonstrations, and hear presentations about a variety of areas, including the council-manager form of government, boards and commissions, fire and police, communications, airport, human resources, planning, community and business development, library, parks and recreation, public works, public utilities, and more. Don’t miss this opportunity to receive a broad overview of how Hickory’s local government works for you! The class runs five consecutive Thursdays in October, from 1:30-5 p.m.
Why Participate?
You will learn about your city's government - how it works and how it impacts your community.
You will be able to take that knowledge back to your neighbors and have the ability to be an effective leader in your neighborhood.
You will be able to take this knowledge back to your business and when there are questions that you need answered from the city, you will know the right person to call.
Are You Eligible?
Hickory 101 participants must live or work in the City of Hickory city limits and be willing to commit the time to this informative and interesting program. The City of Hickory will strive for diverse participation in this program.
What is the Cost?
There is no cost to participate in the program.
What is Expected of Participants?
Participants must be willing to commit the time to attend the sessions and coordinate their own transportation to the various class locations.
Program Calendar
The 2026 Hickory 101 program will run Thursday afternoons from 1:30-5 p.m., Oct. 1-29, with the following schedule:
October 1: Council-Manager Form of Government | City Administration | Fire Department
October 6: City Council Meet & Greet | City Council Meeting (optional)
October 8: Public Utilities
October 15: Public Works | Parks, Recreations & Sports Tourism
October 22: Library | Police
October 29: Airport | Department Expo
A 10-week program is offered through the City's popular Neighborhood College program, which is next scheduled to run in Fall 2027. The Hickory 101 and Neighborhood College programs run every other year, respectively.
Enrollment Process
Registration is now open for the 2026 Hickory 101 program. Space is limited to 30 participants, and applications are considered on a first-come, first-served basis. Registration closes Friday, Aug. 28, 2026. Class participants will be emailed additional information about the program schedule and instructions prior to the start date. If you have questions, please contact Senior Communications Specialist Sarah Killian at (828) 261-2290 or email skillian@hickorync.gov.