It's a wrap: Fifth Mineta Summer Academy finishes with a flourish

This summer marked a major milestone for the Norman Mineta Bay Area Summer Academy: its fifth year of empowering and inspiring the next generation of Bay Area leaders.

With more than 250 high school students completing the program—a new record—the 2025 Academy was the largest and most dynamic yet.

High school students from the 2025 cohort came together at the Bay Area Metro Center for a capstone presentation event on Aug. 1.

Named in honor of the late Secretary Norman Y. Mineta, a champion of equity and public service, the Academy continues to build on his legacy by offering students a deep dive into regional government, public policy, and civic engagement. 

Hosted collaboratively by the Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC), the Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG), the Bay Conservation and Development Commission (BCDC), and the Bay Area Air Quality Management District (BAAQMD), the Academy provides a unique opportunity for students to learn directly from those shaping the Bay Area’s future.

This year’s program featured an inspiring lineup of speakers, including:

• Congresswoman Lateefah Simon
• California State Senator Scott Wiener
• MTC Chair Sue Noack
• Commissioner Dorene Giacopini
• Inspirational speaker Rob Paylor, who shared his powerful story of resilience and purpose
• Staff from MTC, ABAG, BCDC, and BAAQMD, who led engaging sessions on transportation, housing, climate, and environmental justice

Throughout the Academy, students participated in interactive workshops, heard from public servants and policymakers, and explored how regional agencies collaborate to address complex challenges. From climate resilience to equitable transportation planning, students gained firsthand insight into the work that keeps the Bay Area moving forward.

Five years into the Summer Academy, there continues to be growing interest and enthusiasm from students across the region. The students' curiosity, passion, and commitment to public service are a testament to Secretary Mineta’s enduring legacy—and a hopeful sign for the future of Bay Area communities.