This spring UNC MPA awarded diplomas to 41 graduates. We reached out to a few of them to find out what they’re up to this summer and post graduation. Each year the UNC MPA program graduates leaders ready for public service work. Our graduates are employed across all levels of government, non-profit organizations, and even the private sectors. Read about a few of them below.
Cady Cooper – Legistlative Assistant, US Senate
Phillip Matthew Dellinger – Budget Analyst, City of Hickory
Matthew Rowe – Wildland Firefighter, US Forest Service
Avangelyne Padilla – Project Coordinator, Fountainworks
Former School of Government faculty member David Ammons, Albert Coates Professor Emeritus of Public Administration and Government, has authored a new publication. Published in May 2025, Improving Local Government Performance through Benchmarking describes the two types of benchmarking used by local governments—metrics benchmarking and best practice benchmarking—and cites examples and lessons learned across the nation and around the globe, including prominently lessons from the North Carolina Benchmarking Project.
Below, Ammons answers questions about the inspiration behind writing this book, expands on the complex nature of benchmarking for governments, and more.
What drove you to write this publication?
“I have been engaged in benchmarking projects throughout most of my career, including 25 years as a faculty advisor to the North Carolina Benchmarking Project. From experience and study, I have come to recognize and appreciate an array of considerations that shape the design of a benchmarking project and important issues that can affect its success. Writing this book was my opportunity to share what I have learned from my own research and experience, and from the research of other scholars in this field.”
What aspects of benchmarking are misunderstood by governments?
“Several aspects of benchmarking are not fully understood by many governments, but here I will mention two big ones. First, when done properly, benchmarking focuses on performance, not community or organizational characteristics or policies. A comparative inventory of characteristics or policies is not really benchmarking. Second, metrics benchmarking—the most common type of benchmarking in local government and the one most people think of—is not their only choice. Best practice benchmarking is an excellent choice as well.”
What can readers expect to learn from this publication?
“Many decisions are made, initially, in selecting a benchmarking type and, subsequently, in designing a benchmarking project without full consideration of the ramifications of those choices on the ultimate success of the project. Reading this book will help remove these blind spots.”
What are the two major types of benchmarking used by governments, and does one have advantages over the other?
“Most people are familiar with metrics benchmarking, the most common type in local government. Metrics benchmarking is a superb tool for diagnosing a department or program’s performance strengths and weaknesses. But if a manager or supervisor wants prescriptions for improving their unit’s performance, metrics benchmarking won’t do that. Best practice benchmarking will.”
by Katie Geith
New UNC School of Government faculty member Dylan Russell was recently recognized with three distinguished honors, which underscore his contributions to public service, higher education, and leadership at UNC-Chapel Hill and across North Carolina.
In March, Russell was inducted into the Order of the Golden Fleece, Carolina’s oldest honor society.
Founded in 1904, the Order fosters connections among students, faculty, and alumni and selects members based on extraordinary service to the university in scholarship, motivation, creativity, loyalty, and leadership in academic and extracurricular pursuits. Russell was nominated by Richard Stevens, former state senator, UNC MPA alumnus, and Chair Emeritus of the UNC Board of Trustees.
“I believe deeply in the promise of UNC-CH and what it means for North Carolina,” said Russell.“To be inducted into the Order of the Golden Fleece—and to join the ranks of giants from the School of Government like Mike Smith, John Sanders, Albert Coates, and Anita Brown-Graham—is a profound honor. Their commitment to service and leadership has shaped this state, and their example continues to inspire me every day. I’m humbled to carry that legacy forward and grateful to be part of a tradition that recognizes the power of public service to unite, elevate, and transform communities through Carolina’s work.”
Also this year, Russell received the Chancellor’s Award for Student Undergraduate Teaching, which honors outstanding faculty and teaching assistants who demonstrate excellence in instruction and impact on student learning. The Student Undergraduate Teaching Awards were established to recognize outstanding undergraduate instruction by both faculty and teaching assistants. Teaching nominations are reviewed based on demonstrated and consistent teaching excellence, success in positively affecting a broad spectrum of students both in and outside the classroom, and the creation of a dynamic learning environment.
Russell was recognized for his work teaching State and Local Government (PUBA 401), a service-learning course placing undergraduate students in nonprofits and local governments across the state. In the class, students work with community partners to create policy briefs that address issues faced by the community. The course also serves as a gateway to public service careers: six of Russell’s former students have gone on to enroll in the UNC MPA program, and many now serve in local government leadership roles across the state.
One nomination for the award read, “Russell embodies the highest standards of undergraduate teaching excellence. Through his commitment to experiential learning, mentorship, career preparation, and fostering an inclusive and dynamic classroom, he inspires students to pursue meaningful careers in public service.”
In May, Russell received an award from Engaging Local Government Leaders (ELGL) or top influencers in local government. ELGL is a national organization that celebrates innovation in local government. The award honors public sector professionals making a difference in their communities and who demonstrate joy, creativity, connection, dependability, and equity through their work and public activities. Russell was one of three honorees from UNC, alongside UNC MPA alumnus Pat Madej and PELA graduate Jonathan Russell.
About Dylan Russell
Dylan Russell joined the School as a teaching assistant professor in May 2025. He serves as the faculty co-lead of Lead for North Carolina at the UNC School of Government. Lead for North Carolina facilitates high-impact fellowships for recent graduates in local government throughout the state. Under Dylan’s leadership, Lead for NC has connected over 150 young leaders with fellowships and secured over 10 million in funding to support these initiatives. Dylan’s research explores strategies for workforce development, talent retention, and institutional capacity in government organizations.
Meg is a current student from Naperville, Illinois, a suburb of Chicago. She graduated from Butler University in Indianapolis where she studied Political Science, Geography & Global Societies, and Peace & Conflict Studies.
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Q1: Why are you pursuing an MPA?
I chose to pursue an MPA because I have always been drawn to high-impact work that shapes communities in meaningful ways. Through my experiences working with local governments, nonprofits, public-private organizations, and private companies in college, I recognized the value of an MPA in bridging my work in these sectors and equipping me with the skills to advance my career. I chose UNC because of its welcoming community, the School of Government’s strong reputation both in North Carolina and nationally, and the opportunity to be part of a growing region with dynamic economic development and local government opportunities.
Q2: Can you share a bit about your background before joining the program?
Before joining the program, I gained diverse internship experiences. My first internship was with Project C.U.R.E., an international nonprofit, where I researched potential funders and drafted letters of intent to secure grant funding for medical supplies distributed to Ukraine and other countries in need. I also interned with the City of Indianapolis, where I worked across multiple departments, including the Office of Education and Innovation, the Department of Metropolitan Development, and the Office of Public Health and Safety. I then joined VOX Global, a public affairs agency, where I supported over 25 accounts, ranging from national banks to local nonprofits. Finally, I interned with Downtown Indianapolis Inc., where I contributed to the establishment of an Economic Enhancement District and led a survey assessing the impact of events on local businesses.
Q3: What has been the most valuable course or experience in the MPA program thus far?
One of the most valuable experiences in my MPA journey has been the opportunity to apply public administration theories to real-world challenges. Whether it’s engaging stakeholders or developing strategic policies, the program has provided a hands-on understanding of how effective leadership and collaboration drive meaningful change. A key part of this has been the variety of guest speakers in different classes, who bring class concepts to life and demonstrate their real-world applications in the public administration field. This exposure to practitioners has deepened my understanding of course material and reinforced the program’s practical focus. Building on this, the most impactful experience so far has been attending the NCEDA Career Trek. This event featured panels of incredibly knowledgeable professionals who provided context for much of what I learned in my Managing Economic Development elective in the fall. I also formed connections with professionals who have become mentors and have supported me with class projects. These relationships have been invaluable in shaping my academic and professional journey.
Q4: How do you balance the program with other commitments?
I have found it manageable to balance coursework with personal and professional opportunities. The class schedule provides ample time to fully commit to assignments while allowing flexibility for networking, attending conferences, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance—whether that means going to UNC sporting events, spending time with friends, or working out. This flexibility has enabled me to attend the ICMA National Conference, where I connected with local government professionals from across the country, and the NCEDA Career Trek, which deepened my understanding of economic development in North Carolina.
Q5: What is your favorite part about the program?
My favorite part of being in the UNC MPA community is, broadly, the people. This program has given me meaningful friendships that I truly cherish and know will be long-lasting. We are also fortunate to learn from professors who are both experts in their fields and dedicated mentors, making classes engaging, fun, and impactful. Additionally, the strong alumni network has been an invaluable part of my experience—alumni have been incredibly generous, offering guidance, support, and insights that have enriched my journey in the program.
Q6: What is your advice to someone considering the program or graduate school in general?
To anyone considering this program, my advice is to stay open-minded and curious. You may enter with a clear career path in mind, but some of the most valuable growth comes from exploring new perspectives and opportunities. Build relationships with peers, professors, and alumni, and take advantage of the opportunities that come your way. Staying flexible will help you make the most of this experience and uncover new passions along the way. I also thought two years would feel long, but now that I’m nearly halfway through, I can say it flies by—so embrace every moment and enjoy the journey!
Q7: What will you be doing this summer?
I’m spending my summer with the Granville County Manager’s Office, where I’m supporting County Administration in coordinating agency activities and aligning departmental work with the vision of the Board of Commissioners. I’m also assisting individual departments—especially economic development and budget—through various research projects, data analysis, content creation, and more. The role allows me to contribute to ongoing initiatives while gaining a deeper understanding of how county government operates across departments.
Outside of school, I enjoy barre and other fitness classes, exploring new coffee shops and restaurants, attending sporting events, listening to The Mel Robbins Podcast, and traveling whenever I can.
James Quackenbush embarked on his Master of Public Administration (MPA) journey at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in January 2020. With a two-decade-long career in law enforcement, he sought to broaden his understanding of public service beyond policing. Initially enrolled in an emergency management program at Arizona State University, he transitioned to UNC’s MPA program, drawn by its practical and comprehensive approach to public administration.
At the time, Quackenbush was serving as a lieutenant in Portland, Oregon. He later moved to Boise, Idaho, and eventually settled in Washougal, Washington, where he currently serves as the police chief.
Reflecting on his career trajectory, he noted, “I went from a 1,200 to 1,500 full-time employee agency, to 400, to now I’m down to like 30.”
This progression to smaller agencies provided him with unique insights into the varied operations of different municipalities.
Balancing full-time work with academic commitments, Quackenbush opted for a slower pace in his studies, typically taking one class per semester.
He emphasized the importance of this approach, stating, ” I feel like I was able to really, truly absorb and really dive into the information.”
This method allowed him to apply his coursework directly to his professional responsibilities, enhancing his capabilities in areas such as budgeting, staffing models, and capital projects.
Quackenbush found that the MPA program’s curriculum was highly applicable to his work.
He remarked, “I’m hard pressed to think of something that I didn’t find a way to tie into the work that I was doing.”
The skills he acquired made him a valuable asset in administrative roles, leading to increased responsibilities and recognition within his field.
Among the courses he took, the budgeting classes stood out as particularly impactful. He also appreciated the law class, which expanded his knowledge beyond criminal law to include personnel law and collective bargaining: areas crucial for effective management. Quackenbush credited professors like Chris Cody for their support and expertise, noting Cody’s willingness to assist students and his proficiency in guiding them through complex concepts.
Participating in an immersion experience focused on economic development further enriched Quackenbush’s education.
He valued the opportunity to collaborate with peers in person, stating, “It was just great to be in a room with everybody.”
This experience, along with hybrid classes, enhanced his engagement with the program and provided practical applications of his studies.
For prospective students, Quackenbush advises prioritizing self-care and maintaining a manageable workload.
He suggests, “I would encourage making sure you’re taking care of yourself and keeping things balanced.”
This approach, he believes, allows for a deeper understanding of the material and a more meaningful educational experience.
Quackenbush’s journey through the UNC MPA program exemplifies the integration of academic learning with professional practice. His commitment to public service and continuous growth underscores the value of lifelong learning in enhancing one’s ability to serve and lead effectively in the public sector.
By Andy Bradshaw
The UNC School of Government congratulates Master of Public Administration faculty member and James E. Holshouser Jr. Distinguished Professor of Public Administration and Government Carl W. Stenberg on his recent receipt of the 2025 Elmer B. Staats Lifetime Achievement Award for Distinguished Public Service from the American Society for Public Administration (ASPA).
Stenberg was presented as this respective year’s winner at the ASPA Annual Conference. As stated by the nominating body’s requirements, candidates for the honor should demonstrate commanding public service careers with significant:
As a longtime scholar on the subject, Stenberg’s publishing career has seen him make several key academic contributions to the field of federalism; he is considered a leading national expert on local government management and structure. Many peers in the field consider his publications to be sources of record on the topic. His co-authored publication, Managing Local Government: An Essential Guide for Municipal and County Managers, is considered a foundational resource for top public office executives seeking a practical introduction to the changing structure, forms, and functions of local governments.
In accepting the honor from ASPA, Stenberg spoke of the meaning behind winning the award as a career-defining achievement in his decades-long commitment to public service.
“This recognition for lifetime contributions is the capstone of my public service career, which spans over 50 years,” he said. “I’ve worked at the federal, state, and local levels and served as chief executive officer of a national non-profit organization. I’ve also spent 35 years in 3 universities. I was really honored to receive this award and am thankful to my School of Government colleagues for nominating me.”
Stenberg’s career accomplishments in public administration are numerous, even separate from his tenure at the School. He served as dean of Yale Gordon College of Liberal Arts, the University of Baltimore; director of the Weldon Cooper Center for Public Service, University of Virginia; executive director of the Council of State Governments; and assistant director of the United States Advisory Commission on Intergovernmental Relations. He has served in editorship capacities for The Regionalist, Public Administration Review, The Journal for Public Managers, and the University of Virginia News Letter.
Willow S. Jacobson, director of the School’s Master of Public Administration (MPA) program, expressed admiration for her colleague’s public service impact in her nomination for his candidacy.
“His work in intergovernmental relations leaves a lasting legacy to students, the field of public administration, and communities across North Carolina. He also is a true mentor to his students—both academics and public professionals—as they seek to expand their public service footprint. I count myself as extremely lucky to have him on my Master of Public Administration faculty.”
Stenberg spoke during his remarks about the honor behind carrying on the legacy of the award’s namesake, who was a founding member of ASPA and its national president from 1961-1962.
“I’m also honored to receive the lifetime public service award named for Elmer Staats, who was one of my heroes,” he remarked. “Elmer was a proud and passionate supporter of good governance as well as of national organizations that stood up for the public service – the American Society for Public Administration and National Academy of Public Administration.”
At the School, Stenberg embraces the objective of connecting public administration theory with practice and making a meaningful impact on the public management field. In 2004, he led the creation of the School’s top leadership program, the Public Executive Leadership Academy. For two decades, he served as its lead faculty member, working to educate the state’s senior executive leaders in local government. It is a legacy of combining public administration scholarship with tangible, positive outcomes that he spoke of in his acceptance remarks.
“As I reflect on the different platforms from which I’ve been able to engage in public service, I feel confident that my “pracademic” perspective has been of value to those who I’ve served – chief administrative officers, elected officials, colleagues, and students. I’ve found that bridging the worlds of theory and practice to apply knowledge that works to improve governance and service to the public has been truly rewarding.”
“With respect to what I hope to have accomplished during my public service career, my focus has been on helping governments better serve their people through teaching and training public officials. I also hope that I’ve encouraged students to pursue public service careers, shown them how government service can be both transactional and transformative, and enabled them to be effective boundary spanners and respected public servants.”
Stenberg has a long service history to the American Society for Public Administration. He was instrumental in the origins of its Section on Intergovernmental Administration and Management (SIAM), having joined in its founding and playing an instrumental role in advancing its mission to study, understand, and improve federal systems and other forms of intergovernmental relations. Like Elmer Staats, he has also served the ASPA organization as its president, at-large member, and president of a regional chapter. Last year, SIAM awarded him the Legacy Award for his advancement of the study and practice of federalism in government. In 2020, the Section recognized his service with the receipt of the Donald C. Stone Distinguished Scholar Award.
Published April 22, 2025
Graduates of the UNC Master of Public Administration program gathered Saturday, December 14 to celebrate commencement. Friends, faculty, and staff convened to honor the 16 graduates as they begin the next phase of their public service journey.
During the ceremony, graduates were hooded and pinned by UNC MPA Director Willow Jacobson. In her remarks, she congratulated her former students on their successful completion of the program and urged them to remain passionate in their pursuit of public service—a hallmark trait of UNC MPA graduates.
“Congratulations to the Master of Public Administration graduates. Your dedication, hard work, and passion for public service have brought you to this momentous achievement,” she said. “The mission of the MPA program is ‘to prepare public service leaders and create useable knowledge that improves governance.’ The leaders graduating today join an amazing alumni base that continues to have meaningful and impactful change in the organization and communities in which they work. We are incredibly proud of you and excited to see the remarkable contributions you will make in the future.”
Congratulations to our December graduates:
Alexander Canan
Mariya Carrier
Stacey Conner
Natalee Dally
Laura Gomez-Nichols
Olivia Jessup
Jenna Kubiak
Malasia McClendon
Madeline Milligan
Cristina Ortiz
Thomas Persico
Mary Propst
Fernando Santillan
William Summer
Krystal Wallick
Audrey Wheeler
Read about two of our recent graduates – Madeline Milligan and William Summer as they tell us about their post-graduation plans and how the MPA has helped shape their career.
Hear from employers who recruit MPA students during the Employer Pitch Session, as part of the MPA Career and Networking Fair. Each organization will have the opportunity to share information about their work, organization, and positions they are hiring for now and in the future.
While this event is for current students in the program who will be entering the job market soon, this is a great opportunity for prospective students to learn more about the MPA job market and experience our career service offerings.
Attendees will have the opportunity to hear from employers representing local governments, state governments, the federal government, non-profits, and private sector employers.
Connect with MPA alumni, students, faculty, and staff for drinks, lite bites, and great conversation in Winston-Salem for our annual Happy Hour Hub held in conjunction with the NCCCMA Winter Seminar.
Meet us at Tate’s Craft Cocktails – 279 W 4th St, Winston-Salem, NC 27101
Ian Wheeler, 2nd year student
Hometown: Hampton, VA
Academics: Bachelor of Social Work from Virginia Commonwealth University in 2013 and MA in Teaching and ESL Edication in 2015 from College of William and Mary.
We asked Ian a little about what he’s up to with his research assistantship.
Q: Why are you getting your MPA?
I am a dual-degree student in Library Science and I wanted an MPA to give me the leadership skills and understanding of public systems needed to serve citizens in library settings more effectively and efficiently.
Q: What are you currently working on for this assistantship?
Recently, Dr. Stephens recognized a need to explore the impacts of artificial intelligence on the public sector, so he taught an immersive, weekend-long intensive class on the topic this semester. I served as his teaching assistant and evaluated hundreds of articles as a part of our work together.
Q: How is it working with Dr. Stephens?
Dr. Stephens is an expert on mediation and conflict resolution. My major responsibility involves analyzing, summarizing, and synthesizing research articles pertaining to all kinds of citizen and government interaction including food policy councils, coproduction, and law enforcement advisory boards.
Q: What has this research assistantship experience opened your eyes to?
It has opened my eyes to the breadth of topics that can be covered under the umbrella of public administration. Further, I have learned how everyday citizens can impact public services through a variety of volunteer and advisory board roles.
Q: Where do you see your career going?
After graduation, I initially want to be a school librarian where I work with youth on civic engagement. Eventually, I would like to use the leadership skills I have developed in the MPA program to be a director of school libraries or youth services director for a large local or state library system.