Conyers University is a great way to get to know your city!

Conyers University is a pilot program created to accomplish two main goals: 1) put a face on, or personalize, local government, and 2) further inform and engage citizens who will ultimately become ambassadors for the city of Conyers.

Who Can Apply

Local citizens who want an inside look at their city government are encouraged to sign up for Conyers University in the fall of 2026. The program, an initiative of the Conyers Mayor and City Council, is limited to no more than 20 participants who must be a resident of Conyers or Rockdale County. Registration is free and will be available starting the week of August 24, 2026. Stay tuned to the city's social media pages and this site for a link to apply.

How to Apply

Stay tuned for a link to go live here so you can register for Conyers University 2026! Registration opens the week of August 24, 2026.

The Program

Participants will attend and participate in a six-week session of classes on Monday evenings from 6:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m. beginning October 12, 2026. All sessions with the exception of Protecting in Conyers (Open HQ) and Playing in Conyers and will take place in the Conyers City Hall Training Room or City Council Chambers. Sessions will be led by city staff and officials on a variety of topics and departments relevant to citizens living and working in Conyers. A light supper will be served. Topics are subject to change, but the outline of sessions is below:

Session 1: Living in Conyers: A foundational introduction to Conyers’ identity, leadership, and civic structure.

This opening session orients participants to the story and structure of Conyers. Attendees will be welcomed by city leadership before exploring the city’s history — from its railroad‑town origins to its modern role as Rockdale County’s only municipality. The session explains Conyers’ form of government, the responsibilities of the city manager, and how decisions flow through elected and appointed bodies. Participants will learn the boundaries of the city limits, how annexation works, and service areas, and receive a practical walkthrough of how to run for elected offices, including qualifications, timelines, and campaign basics. The session closes with ways residents can engage directly with their government through boards, committees, and volunteer opportunities.

Session 2: Protecting in Conyers: A behind‑the‑scenes look at how Conyers keeps residents safe.

This session immerses participants in the operations of the Conyers Police Department (CPD). Attendees will meet department leadership and learn about CPD’s major divisions — Patrol, Criminal Investigations, Special Operations, Community Outreach, and Support Services — and how each contributes to public safety. Participants will observe demonstrations, tour the Real Time Crime Center to see how technology supports policing, and watch or participate in a hands‑on training exercise that highlights officer readiness. The session emphasizes transparency, modern policing strategies, and the department’s commitment to building trust.

Session 3: Planning in Conyers: How planning, permitting, and long‑range vision shape the city’s future.

This session explains why planning is essential to a thriving community. Participants will learn how the Planning & Inspections Department manages zoning, development review, permitting, and building safety. The session introduces GIS mapping and how geographic data guides decisions about land use, infrastructure, and growth. Attendees will meet code enforcement staff to understand how ordinances protect quality of life. The session also includes an overview of Public Works, highlighting roads, stormwater, sanitation, and capital projects. Finally, participants will explore Conyers’ long‑term vision — future development areas, redevelopment priorities, and how residents can shape the city’s next chapter.

Session 4: Working in Conyers: A look at the people, systems, and services that keep the city running.

This session introduces participants to the internal operations of city government. Attendees will meet Human Resources, learning how the city recruits, trains, and supports its workforce. The IT Department will showcase the technology infrastructure that powers city services, cybersecurity efforts, and digital innovation. Participants will learn about business development initiatives that support local entrepreneurs and attract new investment. The session also covers Court Services, including municipal court operations, case processing, and public access. Finally, attendees will learn more about Conyers Security Alert, the security monitoring system, and how residents can enroll in monitoring services.

Session 5: Playing in Conyers: Exploring tourism, recreation, and the places that make Conyers fun.

This session highlights Conyers’ role as a regional destination for recreation and tourism. Participants will learn about major attractions such as the Georgia International Horse Park, Cherokee Run Golf Club, and signature city events that draw visitors year‑round. The session also covers parks and recreation offerings — playgrounds, trails, community programs, and special events — and how these amenities support wellness, community pride, and economic activity. Attendees will see how tourism and recreation fit into the city’s broader development strategy.

Session 6: Investing in Conyers: Understanding how the city manages money, collaborates with partners, and plans for the future.

This session demystifies the city’s financial operations. Participants will learn how Conyers builds its annual budget, including departmental requests and capital planning. The session explains the millage rate, how property taxes are calculated, and how the city balances revenue sources such as fees, grants, SPLOST, and intergovernmental partnerships. Attendees will explore how the city collaborates with Rockdale County, the State of Georgia, and federal partners to fund major projects and maintain fiscal responsibility. The session highlights transparency, stewardship, and the importance of investing wisely in community priorities.

Graduation and recognition for Conyers University students will take place at the November 18, 2026 Conyers City Council meeting at 6:00 p.m. 

Questions?

Do you have questions about Conyers University? Contact Jennifer Edwards at 770-929-4299 or jennifer.edwards@conyersga.gov or Casey Duren at 770-929-0453 or casey.duren@conyersga.gov.