Now accepting applications; Academy begins April 10

CUYAHOGA COUNTY, OH – Cuyahoga County Medical Examiner Dr. Thomas Gilson announced the return of the popular Citizens Academy program. The Cuyahoga County Medical Examiner's Office is now accepting applications for the academy, which is set to begin on April 10, 2025.

“The Cuyahoga County Medical Examiner’s Office Citizens Academy is a unique program that offers our county residents an opportunity to see the inner workings of the death investigation process and crime laboratory. Participants join members of the agency one night a week for about three months to learn about the many services the office provides,” said Dr. Gilson. “From DNA to the overdose epidemic, forensic science has seen dramatic advances over the course of my career. I am proud to work with the wonderful staff we have in Cuyahoga County and pleased to share their expertise with the citizens who make it possible.”

The academy, held at the Cuyahoga County Medical Examiner's Office, will meet Thursday evenings from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm. Residents can expect to participate in lectures, case reviews, and hands-on demonstrations from doctors, scientists, and investigators. Some of the topics include:

• Forensic Pathology
• Toxicology
• Death Investigation
• Trace Evidence
• And more

“If you are interested in forensic science or learning how investigations work, I strongly encourage you to apply to this popular program,” said Christopher Harris, External Affairs Manager for the Cuyahoga County Medical Examiner's Office. “Our academy has received overwhelmingly positive feedback, and we continue to strive to make each session better than the previous one.”

The Citizens Academy is free of charge and open to all eligible residents. Eligibility requirements include:

• A resident of Cuyahoga County
• At least 21 years of age
• No felony convictions

For more information or to download the application, please visit: cuyahogacounty.gov/medical-examiner/resources/citizens-academy.

All applications should be completed and submitted to the Cuyahoga County Medical Examiner's Office by February 28, 2025. Applications may also be submitted via e-mail to cbharris@cuyahogacounty.gov.