Neighborhood University Kicks Off a New Season of Learning and Connection

Neighborhood University is back in session, and the energy is inspiring. Last month, a new group of neighbors began their journey to better understand how Colorado Springs works—who makes decisions, how systems operate, and most importantly, how each of us can play a part in shaping the future of our city.

The season began with a visit to the Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum, where Leah Witherow, curator and storyteller extraordinaire, guided participants through the fascinating history of the Pikes Peak region. Her engaging stories set the stage for a season of learning, connection, and community leadership, reminding us that to understand where we’re going, we must first understand where we’ve been.

The following week, students dove into the world of local governance with Sam Friedman and Thomas Thompson, who delivered an incredible session on how our city is structured and operates. Their clear explanations, paired with their willingness to answer the many questions that poured in, gave participants a strong foundation for understanding how government systems affect everyday life.

Most recently, the group heard from Colorado Springs Utilities, beginning with a fun icebreaker: If you had to live without one utility, which would it be? From there, participants explored what it takes to keep our city running—from electricity and gas to water and sewer—gaining a deeper appreciation for the infrastructure and people that keep Colorado Springs functioning.

Every week, we’re reminded how eager our neighbors are to understand how decisions are made and how much potential there is when more people feel equipped and inspired to engage. Neighborhood University continues to show that informed and connected residents are the heart of a thriving city.