Urban Leadership Institute: First Responder Academy
August 18–22, 2025 | 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM Daily
📍 Utica, NY
🎓 For Utica High School Students
💰 Free to Accepted Students
Transportation, lunch, and snacks provided.
If you’re enrolled in the Oneida County Summer Youth Employment Program, you may be paid to attend!
Don’t miss the 14th Annual Urban Leadership Institute – now featuring our First Responder Academy!
Spend five unforgettable days learning what it takes to lead and serve, while gaining real-world insight into careers in emergency services. ULI helps teens strengthen communication, decision-making, and teamwork skills — with a special focus this year on First Responders.
- Get hands-on, interactive training from real first responders
- Visit locations like the Utica Police Department (UPD), Utica Fire Department (UFD), and the 911 Call Center
- Participate in realistic activities led by experienced local experts from UPD, UFD and Emergency Medical Technicians (EMT).
- Build lifelong leadership skills and earn a completion certificate for your resume
- Foster appreciation for the vital work of emergency responders
- Be inspired to pursue a career in public safety!
For questions, contact Melanie Adams: (315) 733-7768 x204
Made Possible With Support From
Assemblymember Marianne Buttenschon
This year’s ULI First Responder Academy is proudly funded in part by a New York State Legislative Member Item from Assemblymember Buttenschon.
Her generous contribution plays a critical role in making this no-cost leadership opportunity available to Utica teens. We thank her for her continued commitment to youth development and public safety in our community.
Stewart’s Shops
The 2025 Urban Leadership Institute – First Responder Academy is made possible in part by a Stewart’s Holiday Match Grant.
Since its start, the program has donated over $39 million to support children under 18 in local communities. We’re grateful for their contribution, which helps provide meals, transportation, and enriching experiences for Utica teens.
Learn more at stewartsshops.com/community-giving
