Local Civic Engagement: How it Works, Why It Matters
4-weeks (first 4) | Registration opens 8/28/2026 9:00 AM EDT
Local government should be, and can be, a stage on which people can play meaningful roles in the resolution of issues they find important for their lives and communities. Using the City and the Town of Poughkeepsie as case studies, we will examine how ordinary citizens have shaped, and continue to shape, crucial local decisions, from the design of Raymond Avenue to efforts addressing climate change. Despite national authoritarian trends, these examples suggest that local civic life can be participatory, democratic and effective.
Jim Challey
Jim Challey taught in Vassar’s Physics Department and the Program in Science, Technology and Society for 40 years, retiring in 2013. From 1986 to 1992 he was the 8th Ward Alderman on the Poughkeepsie Common Council, also serving briefly as Acting Mayor. After moving to the Town, he was elected to the 6th Ward seat on the Town Board in 1999. Most recently he has served on the Joint Water Board, the Master Plan Committee and the Zoning Board of Appeals. Jim has also served on many local boards, including as a founding member of the Friends of Peach Hill.
Janet Gray
Janet Gray taught at Vassar College for over 35 years, predominantly in the programs in Neuroscience & Behavior, and Science, Technology and Society. For the past 25 years, she has been actively engaged in the public discussion over the science relating exposure to common chemicals in our environment and negative health impacts. She has served on the Boards of Breast Cancer Prevention Partners and Clean + Healthy, two environmental health organizations. During this time, she has also volunteered as staff, including as field director, for several local political campaigns.