Fall 2025 RPVLA Application Period Closed

The Rancho Palos Verdes Leadership Academy (RPVLA) is an engaging five-session program that opens the doors of local government to the community. RPVLA provides participants with a behind-the-scenes look at the City of Rancho Palos Verdes' operations, including programs, services, departments, and facilities. It is designed for residents who want to learn about local government and play a more active role in our community. 

RPVLA sessions feature hands-on activities, guest speakers, classroom discussion, networking opportunities, and information regarding commission advisory boards and volunteer positions. We are committed to providing each RPVLA participant with a valuable and enriching experience.

The RPVLA is comprised of four Wednesday night sessions and one Saturday session. Enrollment is limited on a first come, first-served basis, with 25 openings available. The deadline to apply was August 20, 2025. Each session has specific areas of focus, including (not in any order):

• City Administration
• Community Development Department
• Recreation and Parks Department
• Finance and Public Works
• Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness

Dates for the 2025 RPVLA Cohort

• Wednesday, September 3, 2025, 6 p.m. at Ladera Linda Commuuity Center 
• Wednesday, September 10, 2025, 6 p.m. at Point Vicente Interpretive Center
• Saturday, September 13, 2025, 9:30 a.m. at Ken Dyda Civic Center, with transportation to Lomita Sheriff’s Station and Fire Station 53 (transportation provided)
• Wednesday, September 17, 2025, 6 p.m. at Point Vicente Interpretive Center
• Wednesday, September 24, 2025, 6 p.m. at Point Vicente Interpretive Center

Participants will

• Learn how decisions are made, how City funds are allocated, and how departments operate.
• Meet the Mayor and City Council members, the City Manager, and Department directors.
• Discuss important issues such as planning, traffic, growth, City finances, and more.

Program Guidelines

• Participants must:
  • Be a minimum of 14 years of age
  • Reside in Rancho Palos Verdes
  • Complete RPVLA online application and sign associated waivers
  • Express interest in enhancing neighborhood advocacy and community leadership skills
• Those who attend 4 of 5 sessions will receive an official RPVLA certificate of completion, signed by the City Manager and the Mayor.  

If you have questions about RPVLA, please contact Deputy City Manager Catherine Jun at cjun@rpvca.gov.

If you are a person with a disability and need an accommodation to participate in programs, services, activities, and meetings, contact the City's ADA Coordinator/Risk Manager at 424-327-3982, adarequests@rpvca.gov 30940 Hawthorne Blvd., Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275, at least 48 hours in advance to request an auxiliary aid or accommodation.