City of Columbia Accepting Applications for Fall 2026 Columbia 101 Program
Columbia, TN (July 14, 2026) - Have you ever wondered how the City of Columbia operates or wanted to learn more about the people and services that keep our community running? The City of Columbia is now accepting applications for the Fall 2026 session of Columbia 101, an interactive civic engagement program that gives residents an exclusive, behind-the-scenes look at their local government.
Designed to educate, engage, and inspire, Columbia 101 offers participants the opportunity to meet City leaders, tour municipal facilities, and experience firsthand how the City's 12 departments work together to serve the community. From public safety and infrastructure to parks, planning, and public services, participants will gain a deeper understanding of the essential work happening every day to make Columbia a great place to live, work, and visit.
The Fall 2026 session will take place Tuesday, September 22, and Wednesday, September 23, 2026. Participants will begin each morning at City Hall before visiting City departments and facilities throughout Columbia, with opportunities to ask questions, engage with City staff, and learn about current projects and future initiatives.
"Columbia is an incredible community because of the people who call it home," said Mayor Chaz Molder. "Columbia 101 gives residents a chance to see firsthand how their local government works, meet the people behind the services they rely on every day, and discover new ways to get involved. Whether you've lived here your entire life or recently made Columbia your home, this program offers a unique opportunity to connect with your city."
A Spring 2026 participant shared their experience, saying, "I loved everything about Columbia 101! It absolutely filled me with community pride to learn all about not only the departments that keep us all running, but to meet the people who are so passionate about what they do. Such an honor!"
Columbia 101 is open to all City of Columbia and Maury County residents and is offered twice each year. Whether you're simply curious about local government, interested in becoming more involved in your community, or looking to build relationships with fellow residents and City leaders, Columbia 101 provides an engaging and informative experience for participants of all backgrounds.
"Columbia 101 creates meaningful conversations between citizens and City staff while helping participants better understand the services, planning, and teamwork that go into serving our community every day," said City Manager Tony Massey.
Program Director Lexi Dearborn added, "Participants consistently tell us they leave with a greater appreciation for the work being done across the City and a stronger connection to their community. If you've ever wanted to know more about how Columbia works, this is the perfect opportunity."
A $25 program fee is required for accepted applicants to help cover the cost of meals, transportation, and program materials.
Applications are available now at www.ColumbiaTN.gov or at the reception desk on the third floor of City Hall. The application deadline is Friday, August 7, 2026.
For questions about Columbia 101, contact Program Director Lexi Dearborn at LDearborn@ColumbiaTN.gov. Follow the City of Columbia on Facebook and Instagram at @CityofColumbiaTN for additional updates and program information.
ABOUT COLUMBIA, TN
The City of Columbia is the county seat of Maury County, located 45 miles south of Nashville, Tennessee. Columbia is experiencing a renaissance of new industry, residential development, a bustling historic downtown square, and emerging arts district while attracting companies, residents, and visitors looking for affordability, quality of life, and a Main Street experience, all in a convenient location. Columbia is a Southern Living ‘Top 10 Best Small Town’ and the ancestral home of the 11th U.S. President James K. Polk.
