News
Unleashing the Power of Improv in Civic Fellows
April 22, 2024
Improvisational theater is not often connected to the office environment, but it takes center stage in the Civic Fellows program.
A workshop on improvisational acting has long been a part of the Fellows’ curriculum, and Paula Pazderka and Andrew Aghapour have led emerging leaders through the activities for the last several years. “Improv is not only fun; it’s a way to train our minds to become more present when collaborating with others,” said Aghapour.
Leisha DeHart-Davis wins the 2024 Herbert Simon Award
April 14, 2024
The School of Government extends its congratulations to faculty member Leisha DeHart-Davis upon her receipt of the 2024 Herbert Simon Award.
UNC MPA again earns ranking among nation’s top 25 public affairs programs
April 14, 2024
The UNC School of Government is proud to share the continued success of its Master of Public Administration program. Now in its 27th year at the School, the UNC-Chapel Hill MPA has once again been named one of “America’s Best Graduate Schools” by U.S. News & World Report in its 2025 rankings.
LFNC fosters professional development, cohort-building for Fellows across North Carolina
April 8, 2024
The Lead for North Carolina (LFNC) program continues to lead the way in preparing its Fellows for successful careers in public service.
Triumphs in Affordable Housing Development
April 8, 2024
It’s December 1, 2023. Five Points Crossing is weeks away from opening, and all its apartments are already leased. Fifty households will soon be moving into brand-new, energy-efficient units in downtown Rocky Mount, with amenities like a playground, fitness center, and a covered rooftop terrace with views.
UNC MPA student aspires to serve people of NC
April 4, 2024
UNC-Chapel Hill introduces Richard Livingston, UNC MPA student, in video about his drive toward public service.
There are many numbers and statistics floating around in Richard Livingston’s mind each day, but one stands out among the rest.
“The statistic is that 50 to 75% of local government workers are nearing retirement age,” he said. “So there’s definitely a dearth of young people interested in local government.
MPA Student Angelica Foster Receives UNC Harvey Beech Scholarship
March 22, 2024
This year, an MPA student with a record of service and dedication to the public interest was recognized with the prestigious Harvey Beech Scholarship.
Exploring the Sports Betting Tax Dynamics for Governments in North Carolina
March 21, 2024
If you’ve turned on the TV, streamed music, or logged onto social media in North Carolina recently, you’ve likely seen ads for online sports betting companies inundating your feed. This is because legal online sports betting went live in North Carolina for the first time this month, on March 11, 2024.
Sara DePasquale and Jacquelyn Greene discuss work advising Chief Justice Newby’s Task Force on ACEs-Informed Courts
March 19, 2024
A study commissioned by the American Journal of Prescriptive Medicine examining the impact of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) found that (1) the ten traumatic childhood experiences included in the study are common experiences and (2) that increased exposure to ACEs was related to increased risk for negative health and well-being outcomes and
Professional Work Experience Gets Students Out of the Classroom and Into the Workplace
March 18, 2024
UNC Master of Public Administration students gain the opportunity to apply their skills and knowledge in the real world by completing the Professional Work Experience (PWE). A required part of the MPA curriculum, the PWE helps students explore new projects and experience working at different public service organizations, while also deciding what areas of public service are the best fit for them.
Celebrating 20 Years of PELA, With an Eye Toward the Future
March 14, 2024
More than 20 years ago, members of the North Carolina City/County Management Association (NCCCMA) identified a need for advanced professional development. They envisioned a program that would serve the state’s senior executive leaders in local government: department heads, assistant managers, and managers. And when North Carolina’s local governments are in need, the UNC School of Government answers the call.
UNC Board of Governors names Dean Emeritus Mike Smith winner of 2023 Governor James E. Holshouser, Jr. Award for Excellence in Public Service
February 29, 2024
UNC School of Government Dean Emeritus Mike Smith has been named a winner of the 2023 Governor James E. Holshouser, Jr. Award for Excellence in Public Service.