Senior Manager of Leadership Curriculum DevelopmentCenter for Public Leadership and Governance, UNC School of GovernmentOver the years, the core set of competencies taught in the MPA program allowed me to pivot to a variety of professional leadership roles in local government, community college system, nonprofit, and university teaching and administration. When my personal path took me in a different direction, the degree’s flexibility enabled me to find the professional path forward.
Director of Social ServicesBurke County “The MPA program at UNC equipped me with the knowledge, skills, and leadership insights crucial for navigating the complexities of public administration. It was the cornerstone in preparing me to serve as a County Director of Social Services, where every decision impacts lives and every action drives community welfare.”
Mayor & AttorneyThe Van Winkle Law Firm, Asheville, North Carolina“In the MPA program I learned how to listen to and understand where others are coming from. These skills are required to be an effective leader—and are helping me to navigate my community into the future.”
Supervisory EconomistBureau of Economic Analysis“I wanted to gain additional skills and knowledge to become an administrator not just at a statistical agency, but anywhere in government.”
Deputy Director of ElectionsDavidson County Board of Elections The MPA program provided me with the tools, knowledge, and confidence to operate my department efficiently and effectively. Keeping public administration values in the forefront of my mind allows me to serve the public ethically and lead my team towards being the best we can be for our citizens.
CoordinatorAmerican Rescue Plan Act (ARPA)“I am so thankful that the UNC School of Government has an online option for the MPA. As a first-generation college student and someone who grew up in a low-income family, I was worried about not being able to work while I studied, to pay for my graduate studies.”
Executive DirectorLead For North Carolina, UNC School of Government“The UNC MPA Program gave me the tools, network, and skills we needed to co-create and launch Lead for North Carolina. This is where I first studied the silver tsunami and human capital pipeline concerns in public management.”
Town ManagerTown of Cape CarteretThe education, experiences, and professional connections that I gained through the MPA at UNC program have played an integral role in shaping my career in public service. The MPA at UNC program provided the relevant skills, knowledge, and developmental opportunities to enable me to excel in my role as Town Manager.