Jenny Heckscher is the director of innovation programs for the Center for Innovation Strategies at The Ohio State University, where she manages programs, operations, and outreach to support education, research, and applied practice in innovation. She has been an adjunct faculty member with the UNC MPA program since 2016. She earned a B.A. from Ohio State and an M.A. in public policy and management from the John Glenn College of Public Affairs.
Q: How did you find your way into teaching with UNC MPA?
I knew Dr. Amy Wade from her work with Glenn College at Ohio State, and she had wonderful things to say about the online MPA program at UNC-Chapel Hill. She mentioned she taught Organization Theory, and I mentioned that was an area of expertise and interest for me; she later approached me about my interest in interviewing for an adjunct instructor role. I interviewed and fortunately was hired in 2016 and have thoroughly enjoyed teaching in the MPA program. The UNC School of Government is the nation’s largest university-based training, advisory, and research organization for public officials. We have highly experienced faculty and staff, and inspiring students who bring impressive background to every class. I enjoy the opportunity to share learning, knowledge, and leading practices with our students each term.
Q: How did your career in public administration lead you to academia?
A great deal of my background is in higher education working for a large public research university. I also worked for over a decade in the private sector in financial services, where I worked extensively with our federal regulatory agency. I have always loved learning; teaching in a public administration program aligns many of my interests—teaching public service leaders, continually learning how to make organizations more effective, and helping to serve our communities.
Q: Can you share a bit about your career outside of academia and how it influences your teaching?
All of my roles, even in the private sector, have had high integration with the public sector; in class, we discuss the blurring of the sectors. Many roles and organizations collaborate across sectors, and that is why the MPA degree offers such actionable knowledge and skills for students from all sectors. And this informs my teaching; students come away from Organization Theory and their many other courses in the program with a highly valuable toolkit they can draw on throughout their careers.
Q: What are some of the key skills and experiences that have shaped your approach to public administration?
Here I will draw on Organization Theory; I may be biased, but Org Theory can help you in so many ways, both professionally and personally. Dr. Jacobson, the lead faculty member for the course, provides a comprehensive approach to understanding organizations and diagnosing challenges and opportunities within those organizations. For example, we use the Bolman and Deal text, Reframing Organizations, which employs a four-frame model to help us apply a structural, HR, political, and symbolic lens to holistically understand a situation. The approach of considering a variety of mental models based on decades of research and practice can be applied to many situations to inform decision-making and create a path forward. I emphasize to my students that we cannot know all the answers when we take on a new role or face a new challenge, but Org Theory provides skills and knowledge so you’ll know where to start, how to diagnose what is happening, and how to create a path forward. I hope that provides a level of confidence to us all as public service leaders.
Q: What types of roles or organizations have you worked with in the public sector, and how do those experiences inform your teaching?
I also work at The Ohio State University, which like UNC, is a large research university. Large research universities pose intriguing organizational challenges and opportunities; they are highly decentralized organizations, with many talented faculty and staff in subunits each with its own structure and culture, all working hard to meet the needs of students and other stakeholders while making progress in their respective missions as research and teaching institutions. I have many examples from working in higher education of successful organizational practices, and of course, examples of how things might have been done better, that I can draw on while teaching.
In my current role, I’m the director of innovation programs for the Center for Innovation Strategies at Ohio State. We help organizations explore and validate new programs and services. Innovation is closely tied to Organization Theory. For example, in Org Theory, we discuss the importance of strategic planning; innovative ideas often arise out of the strategic planning process and the need to respond to environmental factors the organization is facing. And that planning process requires thinking about collaborating with stakeholders, another topic we discuss at length in the course. Any new program or service also needs to be integrated into the organization, which requires thinking across the organization’s structure, HR, political, and symbolic or cultural framework using the Bolman and Deal four frame model I mentioned earlier.
I have also served on a board for a national nonprofit focused on diversity in higher education recruiting. In all of my roles, I have learned the importance of collaboration, active listening, empowering others, continually learning from each other, and helping others to succeed so that the organization can pursue its mission and goals. And these are all skills and concepts we discuss extensively in Organization Theory.
Q: What advice do you have for students looking to pursue a career in public administration or become more involved in the legislative process?
Pursuing an MPA offers an excellent foundation, and I’m so impressed with the students, faculty, and staff at the School of Government; my advice would be to soak up as much as you can from everyone. Our students, faculty and staff bring a wealth of expertise; we can learn from each other every day. And stay in touch with those you meet through the program and any other professional development activities you engage in. There are so many talented public service leaders doing great work; we can all learn from and support each other to best serve our communities.
Q: What are some of your personal interests or passions outside of public administration?
My husband and I have two young adult daughters whom we love to spend time with. Now that we are recent empty nesters, we’re enjoying more time for long walks and exercise, and more time with family and friends and for travel. A few years ago, I decided to learn guitar. I put myself in the category of “not awful” as a guitar player for the foreseeable future. I also enjoy reading widely, both fiction and non-fiction.
Immersion weekend is a yearly event where we invite all of online students to campus for a weekend intensive course, which counts for 1.5 credit hours of electives. Each year, we invite one faculty member to select the topic (usually in his or her area of expertise), and they are responsible for planning the course and all the parts of the weekend. This year, Professor John Stephens presented his course on ‘Artificial Intelligence in Public Administration’. One of our current students Ushni Gupta sat down with current student Kevin Fulbright to talk about his experience coming to campus for Immersion. Here’s what we learned.
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Ushni Gupta: Kevin, thank you so much for joining me today. I’m excited to dive into your experience with the UNC MPA program, especially the recent immersion. I’ve heard amazing things about it, and I have to say, I had a bit of FOMO since I couldn’t attend this year. Can you share your experience with the immersion program?
Kevin Fulbright: Honestly, I was set on attending the immersions right from the start. I first discovered the immersion program while going through the course catalog during my admissions research, and it immediately stood out to me. I didn’t need any convincing—it was a no-brainer. I knew this experience was something I wanted to take full advantage of, so I made sure to attend both eligible sessions, including the one that just passed this Fall.
Ushni Gupta: That’s fantastic! It’s great to hear how committed you were from the beginning. What do you think sets the immersion program apart from other online MPA or even other online graduate programs?
Kevin Fulbright: That’s a great question. From my experience and from talking to others in our cohort, I haven’t heard of any other online MPA programs that offer something quite like this. The immersion program at UNC is unique because it bridges the gap between online flexibility and in-person engagement. It’s not just another Zoom session or online discussion; it’s an intensive, hands-on experience that deepens your understanding of public administration topics and connects you with your peers on a much more personal level. It brings together the best of both worlds, which is rare to find in online education.
Ushni Gupta: That sounds incredible! I heard that the focus of this immersion was on artificial intelligence, which can be a pretty complex topic. How was that experience for you, especially since AI is becoming increasingly relevant in various sectors?
Kevin Fulbright: The AI focus was both challenging and fascinating. The structure of the immersion was exceptionally well-organized. It was packed with enriching interactions and diverse content, all centered around artificial intelligence. We had subject matter expert lectures, including sessions led by Dr. Stephens, who really broke down complex AI concepts. What made it even more impactful was that some of our own cohort members, who already work with AI in their respective fields, shared their expertise. They gave us real-world examples of how AI is being integrated into government operations, preparing us for the inevitable changes AI will bring to our own workplaces.
Ushni Gupta: I also heard there were some special events during the immersion, like the Deil Wright Public Sector Forum and the networking reception. How were those experiences?
Kevin Fulbright: Oh, those were definitely highlights! The Deil Wright Public Sector Forum was a standout for me. We had North Carolina public officials discussing how AI impacts their governance areas. It was a fantastic opportunity to hear directly from leaders about the challenges and opportunities AI presents. Then, we had the Regal All Hands reception, which was this amazing mix of faculty, alumni, current students, and even folks who weren’t officially part of the immersion but wanted to join in. The atmosphere was electric, with everyone networking, sharing stories, and just enjoying the vibe. We even had people drive in from Charlotte just for that evening!
Ushni Gupta: Now, circling back to AI, I’m curious—has your immersion experience influenced how you approach your current role with the Indian Health Service?
Kevin Fulbright: That’s a great question. AI hasn’t fully integrated into my current role yet, but it’s on the horizon. At our recent annual IT conference, we learned that Microsoft Co-Pilot, powered by GPT-4, will soon be coming to our agency. It’s not a matter of if, but when. So, everything I’ve been learning about AI through the UNC immersion and my personal exploration is preparing me for those changes. The immersion experience, especially, has given me a head start in understanding how AI can enhance our work in federal healthcare.
Ushni Gupta: What was the part of the immersion weekend that you really enjoyed the most?
Kevin Fulbright: You’re gonna love this. So, besides the food and beverages at the School of Government, seriously, I did not have a bad meal or drink the whole time I was there. They’ve got this amazing coffee machine that makes like 15 different varieties. You can be completely caffeinated the whole time you’re there. And the coffee’s top-notch—nothing like those quick-stop gas station machines. This place knows how to brew. But honestly, beyond that, what I really took away from the immersion was the genuine care and the vibe of the place. The energy from everyone—from the Dean, the faculty, to the students, even the alumni—was just so welcoming. It’s a unique atmosphere, and you’ll feel it soon enough.
Ushni Gupta: That sounds incredible! What would you say was the biggest lesson or takeaway from the weekend for you?
Kevin Fulbright: Well, speaking specifically about AI, it’s clear that artificial intelligence is already reshaping industries, and we’re on the brink of that coming into public administration, especially in agencies like the Indian Health Service, where I work. The immersion taught me that it’s on us, as public administrators, to make sure AI benefits all stakeholders equitably, safely, and without bias. It’s about crafting policies and guidelines that ensure the technology is used responsibly.
Ushni Gupta: How was it connecting with classmates, faculty, and alumni for the first time?
Kevin Fulbright: Ah, this is my favorite question. The immersion really solidified the friendships and bonds we had already started forming in class. When we came together in person, it was like this huge reunion. There were smiles, hugs, and so many memories made—people told me they’ve made lifelong friends here. That’s something special.
My mom, who’s a Buddhist, always emphasizes the importance of making others happy. Seeing the joy on everyone’s faces during the immersion, it made me feel like I was in the right place. Everyone just genuinely cared about each other, and that positive energy really extended to everyone—faculty, staff, students, and alumni alike. It’s not just about the degree; it’s about building these authentic connections.
Ushni Gupta: Do you have any recommendations for any prospective students thinking of joining the MPA Program?
Kevin Fulbright: To anyone considering the UNC MPA program—whether online or in person—I highly recommend it. The experience is one that exceeds expectations in every way. And I’m not just saying that because I’m in the program. I’ve told people that if given the chance, I’m going to be the biggest ambassador for this program. So, to anyone who’s thinking about it, go for it. It’s not just about earning a degree; it’s about finding a community that genuinely cares about you and your growth. If you have the opportunity to attend the immersion sessions, absolutely do it. The connections you make, the knowledge you gain, and the memories you create are invaluable. The immersion is a chance to step out of your comfort zone, meet incredible people, and see the real-world applications of what we’re learning. It’s an experience that truly enriches your journey in the MPA program.
This past September, I had the privilege of attending the 2024 ICMA Annual Conference in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, as part of my MPA program at UNC Chapel Hill. The International City and County Management Association (ICMA) is the world’s leading organization for local government employees, and through my membership in the UNC-Chapel Hill ICMA student chapter, the university sponsored my registration along with about 30 other MPA students.
The 2024 ICMA conference attracted over 4,800 attendees, featured 262 educational sessions, hosted 528 speakers, showcased 211 exhibitors, and was supported by 18 sponsors. As a student attendee, I had the opportunity to connect with numerous local government professionals and strategy teams, gaining a comprehensive understanding of career paths available to me after graduation.
One of the standout sessions for me was “Engagement in the Digital Age: Leveraging Social Listening and Analytics for Enhanced Community Engagement,” presented by Jason Grant, ICMA’s Director of Advocacy, and Trever Johnson, Deputy Director of Prince William County, Virginia Department of Economic Development. This session explored innovative strategies for using digital tools and data analytics to strengthen engagement between local governments and their constituents. The presenters emphasized the importance of social listening, insightful analytics, and strategic engagement to create more informed and involved communities. As someone who works in social media and community outreach, I found this session particularly valuable, equipping me with new tactics and tools to improve community building efforts.
Additionally, UNC’s MPA program hosted a Happy Hour and a NCCCMA Dinner (North Carolina City and County Management Association), fostering a supportive networking environment that allowed students to connect with North Carolina professionals in public service.
Being part of UNC-Chapel Hill’s ICMA student chapter has been a rewarding experience, and I look forward to continuing the connections I made and applying the knowledge I gained in my educational and professional career.
Interview with current student Ushni Gupta
Welcome to the Carolina MPA@UNC program Ushni! Tell us a bit about yourself.
I was born and raised in Los Angeles, California, and lived there I began pursuing my undergraduate degree at Syracuse University in New York. In 2022, I earned a bachelor’s degree in Policy Studies, Political Science, and International Relations and relocated to New York City. I am currently in my third semester of the MPA@UNC program, which I joined in January 2024. In my free time, I enjoy practicing yoga, dancing, and knitting.
What made you decide to pursue the MPA? Was public service or leadership a part of your upbringing, or was it something you were exposed through school and other work experiences?
After graduating from Syracuse University, I decided to enter the workforce, and began my professional journey as a Field Director for Governer Kathy Hochul. This experience sparked my passion for political advocacy and organizing, as I discovered the fulfillment of engaging with and supporting my community. I chose to pursue an MPA to deepen my expertise in service, leadership, and nonprofit advocacy and have goals of developing equitable policy.
As you probably know, the MPA is a very versatile degree. There is no ‘1’ career path. Looking forward to your future and your time in the program, what do you look forward to learning or improving about yourself or a specific community or issue.
I was drawn to pursuing an MPA because of its versatility. My professional background varies from grassroots organizing to corporate lobbying, and I am eager to learn what field best suits me and my skill set. I look forward to improving my leadership and communication skills, developing a solid network, and learning about grant writing.
What is the last thing you read?
I am a voracious reader (add me on Goodreads!) and make the most of my New York Public Library card. The last book I read was The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho. It follows the main character, a Spanish shepherd boy named Santiago, on his search to find his purpose in life. I loved this book because it emphasized the values of determination, advocacy, and grit.
What was the highlight of your summer?
The highlight of my summer an incredible 11-day road trip across the beautiful country of Iceland. I caravanned around the island with three friends, staying in remote campsites and living out of our van. The experience was surreal and was my favorite trip thus far! We snorkeled between tectonic plates, hiked across a glacier, and rode horses along the iconic Reynisfjara beach.
What has surprised you the most since classes started?
Even though I opted for an online-exclusive platform, I have had the privilege of developing strong friendships with my professors and peers. My cohort is incredibly close-knit, and I have been lucky to develop a valuable, supportive network with them.
What advice would you give to someone who is just graduating undergrad and thinking about graduate school?
I think joining the workforce before pursuing a graduate degree is vital. It is valuable to learn what interests you professionally and then decide if graduate school is a good fit for you. There are many different programs and degrees that you can pursue, and it is essential to do your research to ensure that you choose the degree that best suits you.
What motivates you?
I am motivated by my desire to serve my community and amplify the voices around me. I want to be proud of the work I produce and want to ensure that I am making this world a better place for the next generation.
Are you currently working while in the program? If so, what do you do?
I am based in Manhattan, New York, and work full-time as a Community Engagement Manager for Metropolitan Strategies and Solutions, a public affairs firm.
Meet new student Ryan Campbell!
Hometown: Boston, MA
Alma Mater: Western Carolina University with a BS in Criminal Justice. Arizona State University with a MA in Emergency Management.
Current job title/Employer: Administrative Division Manager, Town of Chapel Hill Fire Department
Public Administration Interest Areas: Smarter Cities, Housing Affordability, Safety & Security,
Q: Why the MPA? How did you decide it was the right degree for you and your career goals?
Throughout my career, I’ve been passionate about making a positive impact on my community and contributing to effective governance. I decided to pursue an MPA to deepen my understanding of the field and practice of public administration. I recognized that an MPA would provide me with the specialized knowledge and skills necessary to excel as an aspiring leader in government. The program’s focus on local government leadership, policy development, and public finance aligns closely with my career goals and will enable me to develop a deeper understanding of the intricacies of municipal management.
Q: There are lots of places out there to get your MPA. How did you end up at Carolina?
While I looked at almost every online (and many in person) MPA programs over the last few years there were three main reasons I decided to attend Carolina. Most important to my decision was the program’s faculty and concentration in local government. I have worked in government for over a decade and I can’t speak highly enough about the various experiences I’ve had with UNC’s School of Government. The ability to take more in-depth courses with industry leaders was an opportunity that I felt was too good to pass up. Additionally, the programs national ranking ensures that my degree will have recognition and value to me professionally wherever my career takes me. Finally, several members of our town’s senior leadership team are alumni of Carolinas’ MPA program. As I evaluated programs and talked with my colleagues about their experiences, every one of them shared overwhelmingly positive experiences and feedback.
Q: Is there a class or professor or experience you are looking forward to in the program?
There are two main academic experiences I’m looking forward to. The first is the MPA immersion course offerings. These in person deep dive courses are appealing both in their specialized topics as well as the opportunity for online and in person students to come together. The other experience I am looking for is a bit more personal and selfish in nature. The UNC MPA program allows for a few elective courses that give students a chance to explore an area of interest. While an MPA made the most sense for me professionally I’m really excited to take a public policy class with Professor Jess Anderson. Had I not gone the MPA route, I would’ve gone MPP. The flexibility to take a class with someone whose is so well educated, practiced, and regarded in the world of public policy will be an amazing opportunity.
The Authority Gap by Mary Ann Sieghart! It started as a TED talk I found and got hooked on after hearing that female supreme court justices are interrupted 3x as often as males and that women are 6x more likely to be dismissed in group meetings than their male counterparts. I’m now doing the full book (okay, as an audio book while I drive to and from work). It’s a really interesting deep dive into the largely unconscious and systemic quantitative and qualitative ways the world takes women less seriously than men. I think as a husband and as a leader It’s such an impactful book to continue to shape how I support the people in my personal and professional life. That…or Taylor Swift.
Welcome to the Carolina MPA@UNC program Ushni! Tell us a bit about yourself.
I was born and raised in Los Angeles, California, and lived there I began pursuing my undergraduate degree at Syracuse University in New York. In 2022, I earned a bachelor’s degree in Policy Studies, Political Science, and International Relations and relocated to New York City. I am currently in my third semester of the MPA@UNC program, which I joined in January 2024. In my free time, I enjoy practicing yoga, dancing, and knitting.
Are you currently working while in the program? If so, what do you do?
I am based in Manhattan, New York, and work full-time as a Community Engagement Manager for Metropolitan Strategies and Solutions, a public affairs firm.
What made you decide to pursue the MPA? Was public service or leadership a part of your upbringing, or was it something you were exposed through school and other work experiences?
After graduating from Syracuse University, I decided to enter the workforce, and began my professional journey as a Field Director for Governor Kathy Hochul. This experience sparked my passion for political advocacy and organizing, as I discovered the fulfillment of engaging with and supporting my community. I chose to pursue an MPA to deepen my expertise in service, leadership, and nonprofit advocacy and have goals of developing equitable policy.
As you probably know, the MPA is a very versatile degree. There is no ‘1’ career path. Looking forward to your future and your time in the program, what do you look forward to learning or improving about yourself or a specific community or issue.
I was drawn to pursuing an MPA because of its versatility. My professional background varies from grassroots organizing to corporate lobbying, and I am eager to learn what field best suits me and my skill set. I look forward to improving my leadership and communication skills, developing a solid network, and learning about grant writing.
What is the last thing you read?
I am a voracious reader (add me on Goodreads!) and make the most of my New York Public Library card. The last book I read was The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho. It follows the main character, a Spanish shepherd boy named Santiago, on his search to find his purpose in life. I loved this book because it emphasized the values of determination, advocacy, and grit.
What was the highlight of your summer?
The highlight of my summer an incredible 11-day road trip across the beautiful country of Iceland. I caravanned around the island with three friends, staying in remote campsites and living out of our van. The experience was surreal and was my favorite trip thus far! We snorkeled between tectonic plates, hiked across a glacier, and rode horses along the iconic Reynisfjara beach.
What has surprised you the most since classes started?
Even though I opted for an online-exclusive platform, I have had the privilege of developing strong friendships with my professors and peers. My cohort is incredibly close-knit, and I have been lucky to develop a valuable, supportive network with them.
What advice would you give to someone who is just graduating undergrad and thinking about graduate school?
I think joining the workforce before pursuing a graduate degree is vital. It is valuable to learn what interests you professionally and then decide if graduate school is a good fit for you. There are many different programs and degrees that you can pursue, and it is essential to do your research to ensure that you choose the degree that best suits you.
What motivates you?
I am motivated by my desire to serve my community and amplify the voices around me. I want to be proud of the work I produce and want to ensure that I am making this world a better place for the next generation.
Are you currently working while in the program? If so, what do you do?
I am based in Manhattan, New York, and work full-time as a Community Engagement Manager for Metropolitan Strategies and Solutions, a public affairs firm.
We sat down with new student Rebecca Gilbert to learn more about why she’s here and where she’s going. Rebecca is a mid-career professional looking to gain new skills to take her career to the next level. She is taking two classes this semester and will be at our upcoming weekend Immersion in October.
Hometown: Charlotte, North Carolina
Undergrad Degree and Alma Mater: Government and Politics, University of Maryland
Current job title/Employer: Associate State Director of Advocacy & Outreach, AARP North Carolina
Areas of Interest: Nonprofit Management, Local Government
Q: Why the MPA? How did you decide it was the right degree for you and your career goals?
I have worked for various nonprofits, focused on public service at the local level, throughout my 14+ year professional career. I always felt that there was a missing piece of educational expertise that would take me to the next level, enabling me to develop new public programs and scale existing ones. The MPA degree will allow me to learn how to more effectively improve the lives of the people in the communities I serve.
Q: There are lots of places out there to get your MPA. How did you end up at Carolina?
I have lived in Charlotte, North Carolina for five years, and upon moving here it immediately felt like home. Obtaining the MPA degree at UNC Chapel Hill feels like a natural fit. It will allow me to form lasting North Carolina based connections and relationships to become more engrained in the state advocacy and local government framework.
Q: Is there a class or professor or experience you are looking forward to in the program?
I am most excited about the immersion courses, and am signed up for the Fall 2024 immersion class “AI and Public Administration”. As an online student who lives just a two hour drive from Chapel Hill, the immersion classes seem like a great way to connect to other students and campus, while feeling like part of the larger UNC Chapel Hill student body. I look forward to learning in a traditional classroom setting as well as the opportunity to work with students of varying backgrounds and work experiences.
Q: Last question for fun, what are you currently reading or listening to?
As a hobby jogger and perpetual multitasker who likes to learn as they run, I always have a podcast playing in my AirPods. I love NPR’s “How I Built This” with Guy Raz, because I’m fascinated by innovation. He interviews individuals who have started businesses, nonprofits, and pursued ideas that many thought would fail. He always asks a question of the interviewee at the conclusion of each episode that goes something like “How much of your success is due to your skill and hard work and how much is due to luck?” Usually, interviewees attribute most of their success to being in the right place at the right time, solving a specific problem that no one had found a solution for yet. I equate this to work in local governments and nonprofits. One has to be willing to be creative, seek out opportunities, and sometimes fail, before achieving eventual success. The resilience of the entrepreneurs in each episode is inspiring, and empowers me to never give up as I try to solve both large and small scale public issues.
My PWE at The Recycling Partnership was spectacular to say the least! This experience has been an extension of my learning in the MPA program. It allowed me to apply classroom concepts to the real world. It also allowed me to immerse myself within my career interest of nonprofit work. This was an opportunity to dip my toes in the water of the nonprofit world and it solidified my career aspirations. My PWE at TRP was also great for my professional development as I did not have nonprofit experience prior to working there.
TRP graciously allowed me to attend their annual All-Hands Staff Retreat in Denver, Colorado. Which allowed me to connect with the broader organization and learn about all the amazing things the partnership is doing. I was also able to network with partnershippers that I have not met previously. These connections educated me on the various roles of nonprofit employees and provided me with lasting relationships to help with future employment opportunities.
For a mostly remote organization, like TRP, in-person events are crucial to an organization’s functioning. Face-to-face interactions with coworkers establish stronger connections than chatting on a zoom call. Having full staff retreats allows for better organizational collaboration and cohesiveness. They also allow for the organizational culture to flourish. Events such as these are important for an organization to keep moving forward, but they also allow employees to feel more fulfilled in their career choice as the retreat was a mixture of fun and work.
Overall, my experience at The Recycling Partnership encouraged me to continue pursuing a career in nonprofit management. Everyone at TRP was extraordinarily nice and welcoming, and they wanted me to succeed in my future career. My time this summer not only gave me experience working in a nonprofit, but also the tools necessary to succeed. I knew from the very first week that I had made the right choice in my career path and I am excited for the journey to follow.
This Fall we are excited to get back at it! We have students returning and new students joining us. It’s been a quiet few months at the School of Government as summer rolled by, but classes will be back in full swing starting next week. We are excited to welcome 64 new students to the program – 29 on-campus students and 35 online students. Today, we had a chance to talk to one of our new online students, Christopher Chabrier. Christopher graduated Summa Cum Laude with a major in Political Science and a minor in History from Fayetteville State University. It is also worth mentioning that Christopher is originally from Levittown, Puerto Rico and is currently serving as a Targeting Officer, XVIII Airborne Corps for the U.S. Army. With his dedication to public service leadership background, his well-rounded educational pursuits, and his educational interests focused in Public Leadership, Public Administration, Public Policy, Government, Politics, and Social Progress, we were so happy he chose to attend our program. We asked him a few questions about his decision to return to school.
1. Why the MPA? How did you decide it was the right degree for you and your career goals?
As a service member, I have enjoyed life in public service, and want to continue serving as a civilian. As I look to serve in local government after I retire from the military, I want to ensure I obtain the right education to serve in leadership roles, and use my experience to make public organizations better. An MPA will provide the tools to think critically, make informed decisions, and provide innovative solutions.
2. There are lots of places out there to get your MPA. How did you end up at Carolina?
I wanted to be part of a program that values ethics, critical thinking, and has a comprehensive curriculum that prepares young leaders for life in public service. As I searched for schools, Carolina ranked among the best for government studies, and its reputation and prestige made it my top choice!
3. Is there a class or professor or experience you are looking forward to int he program?
I look forward to professional writing and communications. English is my second language, therefore I value any opportunity to enhance my communication skills. I also look forward to the Immersion Course. I have worked with Artificial Intelligence for the past three years, so it will be interesting to learn a new perspective on it.
4. What are you currently reading?
I just finished Cien Años de Soledad (One Hundred Years of Solitude) by Gabriel Garcia Marquez. I will now begin reading Three Days in January by Bret Baier.
Classes begin next week, and we are excited to welcome Christopher as well as the other new students to the MPA program at UNC. Stay tuned later this week for a chance to meet some more of our new students!
by current UNC MPA student Hallie Springer
Hi! I am Hallie Springer, an almost-second year in the UNC MPA program. I was born and raised in Winston-Salem, and I completed my undergraduate degree here at UNC-Chapel Hill in 2022. In undergrad, I studied economics and public policy. After graduating, I spent one year in DC working for a teacher’s union. Although I loved the work, the city wasn’t for me, and I am very glad to be back in my home state of NC! That experience, along with my public policy work in undergrad, helped me realize I wanted to get my MPA. I found that while I enjoyed working for a national organization, I wanted to be closer to the people who I was working for. The MPA degree’s focus on local organizations (local government, community nonprofits, etc) would give me the education and experience I needed. A key part of this experience that I sought is the Professional Work Experience (PWE). This summer, I have been working with ncIMPACT for my PWE. ncIMPACT is an entrepreneurial initiative with the UNC School of Government. This organization, which focuses on collective action and bridging policy with practice across the state of North Carolina, could not have been a more perfect fit for my PWE. The first project I was able to work on was the Statewide Summit for Suicide Prevention. This event was the culmination of 18 months of hard work by the ncIMPACT team as well as 15 community-led teams all working in the mental health and suicide prevention space. Personally, I had no background in the mental health field, but I had experience in research and event coordination.
From this experience, I was able to meet people all over the state working on suicide prevention and awareness. I heard presentations from DHHS Secretary Kody Kinsley, CDC Advisor Charlene Wong, and other state leaders. Additionally, I was able to present on the work that the ncIMPACT team had done prior in the year, with the 2024 POV Challenge. One of the best experiences, though, was the “We See You” art installation, created by my fellow student researchers and I. The concept for the art project was to take polaroids of summit attendees and display them all on a board that says “We See You.” This piece was meant to show people at the event who were struggling with their mental health that they were not alone and that people and resources were available to them. Attendees were able to take pictures with the art piece, find their pictures in it, and walk away knowing that the over 400 people at this summit were as dedicated to suicide prevention and supporting mental health as they were. It was a visualization of the sense of community found at this event. I have, and will continue doing interesting and impactful things with ncIMPACT, but I am especially grateful this organization encourages creativity throughout their work.
