Midland 101 Class of 2026 graduates, receives certificates

May 12-The city of Midland recognized the graduating class of Midland 101, a program designed to familiarize residents with city operations. Mayor Lori Blong gave each graduate a certificate at the Midland City Council meeting Tuesday, May 12.

"We recommend Midland 101 to all residents of Midland to become more familiar with what happens inside the city of Midland, especially for those who want to take leadership positions," said the city of Midland's strategic communications officer and former Reporter-Telegram editor Stewart Doreen, who led the program with a dedicated team. "The program is an engaging way to meet people who are passionate about what they do and to network with other Midland 101 participants who share similar interests and diverse backgrounds."

Applications for the course were accepted through Sept. 19, 2025. To be eligible, participants had to be at least 18, live within Midland city limits, be registered to vote in Midland County, not hold or be running for elected office in any governmental body and commit to attending meetings. A total of seven meetings were held between October and April, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Topics discussed included Midland International Air and Space Port, downtown revitalization, water supply and public safety.

Members of the Class of 2026 who received certificates at the City Council meeting were Brittney Garcia, Samuel Gonzalez, Ashley Jackson, Mikey Jacquez, Lindsay Johnson, Claudia Loucks, Jana Manley, Keifer Alexander Rippee, Frederick J. Silhanek III and Christy Paige Weis. The remaining graduates are Jillian Luebke, Sean McLaughlin, Breanna Oakley, Jamie "Brie" Ragland, Shawn Sanchez and Garrett Watkins.

Enrollment details for the Class of 2027 will be announced later.

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This story was originally published May 12, 2026 at 9:58 PM.