Thirty-Two Community Members Graduate from the 2026 LEAD Goleta Academy 

The City of Goleta is proud to announce the completion of its 7^th LEAD Goleta Community Academy. LEAD stands for Learn, Empower, Advocate, and Discuss. For six consecutive weeks, 32 participants have met every week to learn about how the City of Goleta is run. The evening of February 19, 2026, the group completed its final class which included participants receiving a graduation certificate and a City of Goleta pin from the Mayor and City Council. The ceremony was held at the Goleta Community Center and included family and friends of the graduates.

This six-week class provides a unique up-close look at how local government works. Participants will walk away from the experience more connected to the City with a deeper understanding of how to get involved in shaping the future of Goleta – whether it’s staying informed, volunteering, applying for a Board or Commission, or even running for City Council.

Read the full press release here. You can also enjoy our video recap here and view a photo album here.