The University of Nebraska’s Department of Agricultural Economics, in partnership with Rural Prosperity Nebraska, announces its online, non-credit course “Public Participation and Engagement” for the third semester running, beginning Feb. 1. With the course open the public, the curriculum focuses on helping community leaders and those involved in their communities enhance their work and locally-focused projects through public engagement planning knowledge and skills.
“We’re excited for round three of this course,” said Cheryl Burkhart-Kriesel, the Rural Prosperity Nebraska Extension Specialist and course co-teacher instructing the class. “By the time the course concludes, most of our students are already using what they’ve learned in the class in their jobs. This course is about giving participants knowledge and confidence to implement community engagement strategies, and it’s been inspiring to see their plans in action.”
The eight-session course, Feb. 1 to March 29, consists of self-paced, online modules, homework assessments, interactive discussion boards and optional Zoom sessions with the two instructors, Burkhart-Kriesel and Marilyn Schlake, Extension educator emerita. The coursework takes 10-15 hours to complete, upon which participants receive a microcredential badge and certificate of completion.
“It was a great opportunity to learn more about public engagement, and making the plan was helpful!” wrote one student from the 2025 spring course.
Another student wrote, “This was exceptional! I will take much away with me as I continue engaging with partners and communities to participate in providing input and/or participating in project planning and implementation.”
The course aims to address the needs of those working in chambers of commerce, tourism and economic development. It also covers material for nonprofit leaders, such as those working with civic groups and parks and recreation; event coordinators; and youth and church group coordinators. Elected officials, public service employees, educators and private-sector professionals (such as consultants and business leaders engaged in public initiatives) will also find material focused on their needs.
“After seeing the momentum our students left with in the spring and fall courses, we’re looking forward to keeping that momentum going,” said Schlake. “This course really does act as a springboard for continued, informed, collaborative decision-making.”
Burkhart-Kriesel has 30-plus years of experience in rural community collaboration, focusing on workforce development and community engagement. Schlake has 25 years of experience in community development, focusing on entrepreneurship, community visioning and facilitation techniques.
The course costs $250. Participants must register by January 30.
Click here for more information and a schedule.
Click here to register for the course.
If you have additional questions, contact Burkhart-Kriesel at cburkhartkriesel1@unl.edu or Schlake at mschlake1@nebraska.edu.
