Many public agencies have experimented with citizens academies - structured learning programs that aim to give everyday residents a taste of the agency's public responsibilities, programs and impact – but some fall short of expectations. In 2023, the Port of San Diego launched its first-ever academy, a pilot program aimed at building awareness of the Port’s clean air objectives, an understanding of its maritime operations, and trust among community members. With project management provided by PRM Consulting, Inc., the Portside Community Academy program was designed as a five-session learning experience including a narrated boat tour of San Diego Bay. This effort harnessed the expertise of dozens of staff within the organization to design a curriculum around efforts to improve air quality by reducing emissions from trucks, ships, industrial equipment and other sources of pollution. Participants, invited from communities adjacent to the Port, were required to commit to attend the majority of sessions, and received a certificate at a graduation ceremony. Through rigorous data collection and real-time feedback from participants, the Port was able to shape the program as it progressed. The results exceeded expectations, with multiple participants pledging to become passionate "ambassadors" for the Port and eager to engage with the agency. More than 300 people are currently on a waiting list for the next cohort.