Public Administration Faculty Selected for NASPAA NEXT 2025–2026 Cohort
Dr. Jiwon Suh, a CAPPA Associate Professor of Public Administration, has been selected for the NASPAA NEXT 2025–2026 cohort, a prestigious year-long leadership development program organized by the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration (NASPAA). This selection places her among a distinguished group of early-career faculty dedicated to advancing accessible, ethical, and globally engaged leadership in public service education.
Recognized globally as the standard-bearer in public service education, NASPAA developed the NEXT program to foster strategic leadership, mentorship, and collaboration among emerging scholars and changemakers. This year’s theme - “Building the Bench: Cultivating the Next Generation of Public Service Leaders” - underscores NASPAA’s commitment to strengthening leadership pipelines across institutions and generations.
Dr. Suh shared her enthusiasm for the opportunity, stating:
“I found that the program deeply aligns with my leadership goals and professional trajectory. I am committed to advancing public service education through mentorship and strategic innovation. The theme resonates strongly with my vision for leadership, making this program a must-go item for me.”
As coordinator of the Urban Nonprofit Management Certificate Program, Dr. Suh is already leading transformative efforts. She has transitioned the program to a fully online format and is launching a CEU-based track to better serve working professionals, thereby enhancing accessibility and extending the program’s impact beyond traditional academic settings.
“Considering the rapid changes in technology that are significantly impacting higher education and public and nonprofit organizations, it’s time to revisit traditional practices with fresh eyes,” Dr. Suh said. “The NASPAA NEXT program will provide strategic insights needed to successfully implement this renewal and position the program as a model for innovative public service education.”
In addition to program development, Dr. Suh is eager to strengthen her leadership competencies through the NEXT experience.
“Communication skills are essential, especially in leadership roles. I hope to further develop my interpersonal communication, public speaking, and strategic development skills through this program,” she added.
As NASPAA continues to cultivate academic leaders equipped to navigate the evolving landscape of public service education, Dr. Suh’s participation marks a promising step forward, not only for her own career but also for the broader mission of public service education. Her selection reflects a shared commitment at the Department of Public Affairs and Planning to empower future leaders through innovative, collaborative, and forward-thinking approaches.