Fall 2024 Newsletter
FROM THE CHAIR
I have just returned from the annual conference held by our accrediting body, the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration (NASPAA). It is always a useful trip to learn about how our fellow MPA programs are doing across the world. It is a difficult time for many programs. Many are seeing increasing competition from unaccredited programs. Others are simply seeing a reduction in enrollment from pre-career students. The programs that have traditionally focused on federal administration are experiencing these challenges most acutely.
I am happy to report that we are relatively steady in enrollment and seem to be adjusting to the new environment well. We, too, have seen greater difficulty recruiting pre-career students but are developing some new strategies to address this. Many other programs have simply given up on educating pre-career students. We will continue to support both mid-career and precareer students.
Two shifts in our program are intended to help us weather this storm. First, we have moved all our in-person classes to the Naperville campus. This move has enticed some mid-career students to sign up for some in-person classes. This helps support in-person enrollment; gives the mid-career students the unique experience of in-person instruction and support; and improves discussion within the classroom as the students then have a broader mixture of experiences.
Second, we are developing a cohort model for organizations that want training for a set of their employees. I have negotiated an MOU with our college that allows us to keep more of the revenue generated from our cohort program than we would get with individual enrollment. I hope that these additional resources will help us invest further in recruiting and advertising about the greatness of our program.
We are happily not involved in what became the largest conversation at this meeting. Many programs are unsure whether they are even allowed to seek accreditation or have any options to meet accreditation standards in states that have laws now banning programs required to meet the accreditation standards (particularly, standards related to diversity, equity and inclusion). Something on the order of 40% of programs are facing these issues.
Our path is a simple one. We will continue to teach administration in a way that avoids partisan politics. We want to provide options for students to develop careers to serve their communities — wherever they are. There will always be a need for administrative training, and we will continue to provide that to serve our community. We will continue to take students to the ICMA meeting (including 14 this year in Pittsburgh) and serve as a model for training the next generation of administrative leaders. We will rely on the wisdom and guidance of our 60 years of history and vast alumni network. Thank you all for your support over the years and I look forward to keeping you updated on the triumphs we have ahead of us.
Sincerely,
Scott Robinson Chair, Department of Public Administration
ANNOUNCING OUR NEW ONLINE GRADUATE CERTIFICATE AND INSTRUCTOR
We are excited to introduce our new graduate certificate in public budgeting and financial management, designed for mid-career professionals in the public sector who are looking to advance their careers as ethical and effective financial leaders.
Program highlights:
• Five eight-week courses (15 credit hours).
• 100% online format.
• Complete in as little as one year.
• Credits count toward the 39-credit-hour online MPA degree.
In addition, we are pleased to introduce Michael Belsky, a new instructor who will join our program to support the launch of our online certificate in public budgeting and finance.
Belsky currently serves with EKI Digital, overseeing local government financial analysis. He brings with him
extensive experience, having previously served as the executive director of the Center for Municipal Finance at the University of Chicago and as the former mayor of Highland Park. These diverse roles have provided him with a rich background in public finance, making him well-equipped to teach and inspire the next generation of public budgeting and finance professionals.
We are thrilled to welcome him to our team and look forward to the impact he will have on our student's education and professional growth.
GREEN OFFICE INITIATIVE
Our department recently joined NIU’s Green Office initiative, an eco-friendly program aimed at building a more sustainable campus through small, impactful changes in office practices. This initiative aligns with NIU’s Sustainability and Climate Action Plan, a campuswide strategy fostering practices that address environmental concerns like energy use, waste reduction and mindful purchasing.
Through this voluntary program, departments earn Green Office Certification at varying levels based on their
sustainable efforts and progress, with our department aiming to achieve certification soon. Not only does this initiative provide a framework for improvement, but it also aligns with the broader campus goal of achieving a STARS (Sustainability Tracking, Assessment and Rating System) certification upgrade, ultimately showing our commitment to NIU’s sustainable future. Stay tuned for updates as we make strides toward certification, contributing to a healthier, greener campus for current and future Huskies.
PETERS WINS INTERNATIONAL CITY/COUNTY MANAGEMENT ASSOCIATION AWARD
For nearly a quarter century, NIU’s Dawn Peters has been supporting, training and connecting local government professionals with one another in her roles as executive director of the Illinois City/ County Management Association (ILCMA), the Wisconsin City/County Management Association (WCMA) and the Midwest Leadership Institute.
This year, the International City/County Management Association (ICMA) recognized Peters for her passionate work advancing the profession with their inaugural Advocacy for the Profession Award in Honor of Martha Perego. This award honors outstanding contributions to the field of local government management. Peters has been instrumental in:
• Advancing awareness of the council-manager form of government, a system that separates legislative and administrative functions for more efficient governance.
• Promoting the ICMA Code of Ethics, ensuring ethical conduct among local government leaders.
• Supporting professional development by helping local government managers excel in their roles and improve their communities.
“I am extremely honored to be acknowledged by my colleagues at ICMA,” Peters says. “I’ve had the privilege to serve city and county managers and administrators with the goal of helping them make their communities and organizations thrive. I always hoped that I was making a
difference in their ability to serve.”
Peters’ colleagues praise her “unwavering dedication to diversity, inclusion and professional ethics” and esteem her as “a true and tireless ambassador in service to professional local government management.” The team of four city managers who nominated her for the award added that Peters “skillfully provides advice, recommendations, and constructive and practical feedback.”
ILCMA president and Glencoe, Illinois, village manager Phil Kiraly noted, “Dawn Peters is one of the truest and best advocates anywhere for the value and importance of professional local government management. Dawn’s talents are valued and much recognized by ILCMA members, and also by our colleagues around the country and the world.”
Peters joined the Center for Governmental Studies at Northern Illinois University in 2001 as a research associate in the areas of economic and community development and association management. She currently serves as an assistant director and oversees the association management team. Prior to joining CGS, Peters was the coordinator of our Master of Public Administration program. Peters holds a Master of Public Administration (MPA) and a bachelor’s degree in political science from Northern Illinois University.
Peters says she’s dedicated her career to supporting local government managers because of the positive difference they can make in communities.
“Local government management is a career in which you are the closest to the people you serve,” she says. “It’s a noble career and one not for the faint of heart, but you can truly make a positive difference in the lives of others.”
U.S. NEWS RANKS NIU MPA PROGRAM FOURTH NATIONALLY FOR LOCAL GOVERNMENT MANAGEMENT
U.S. News & World Report has named NIU’s Master of Public Administration (MPA) program fourth in the nation in the specialty field of local government management.
NIU’s perennially ranked MPA program — which produces about one-third of city managers in Illinois — is the top-ranked local government program among public and private university programs in Illinois.
Additionally, NIU’s MPA program ranked 11th nationally in the specialty of public finance and budgeting, and 57th in overall public affairs among the 271 ranked programs.
“We are continuing a strong tradition in the program’s 60th anniversary,” said Scott Robinson, chair of our Department of Public Administration. “The recognition of our excellence in local government management and financial management speaks to decades of work of faculty, staff and students in our program.”
Our MPA program has a 95% job-placement record within six months of graduation. Robinson credits the paid internship program that ensures students are well prepared for the job market.
Many NIU MPA program alumni go on to become city or county managers, finance directors, park directors, as well as police and fire chiefs. Both NIU MPA faculty and alumni have played a major role in efforts to
professionalize municipal staffs statewide and advance the national good government movement. Some alumni work for the federal government and the private sector — serving as consultants to help private industry with public service needs.
“The Northern Illinois MPA program has been essential to the trajectory of my career,” said Alex Arteaga, a 2021 MPA graduate who serves as assistant village manager for the village of Willowbrook. “Having joined the program in transition between professional roles, I gained both the experience and knowledge required to succeed in the local government space. NIU’s MPA program provided me with a critical skill set and vast professional network that I have been able to utilize time and time again.”
In addition to the traditional in-person experience, NIU offers a fully online MPA program. It is exclusively designed for employees who have worked at least two years in local governments of all types. Public service professionals can also opt to take just five courses and earn a graduate certificate in public management that is focused only on local government management or strategic public management and leadership. Credit hours earned from the graduate certificate can be applied toward the pursuit of the MPA degree.
AI ADOPTION AND USE IN LOCAL GOVERNMENT: OPPORTUNITIES
AND
As local governments explore innovative ways to enhance operational efficiency and service delivery, the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies presents both significant opportunities and potential challenges. Eunju Rho, Ph.D. and Jaehee Jong, Ph.D. interviewed 18 managers across 13 Illinois municipalities between June and September 2024 to reveal critical themes for AI strategies.
POTENTIAL OPPORTUNITIES
Efficiency gains: AI applications such as chatbots and document automation can significantly reduce administrative workload and lower operational costs. By automating routine tasks, local governments can allocate resources more effectively and focus on higher-value strategic tasks.
Enhanced citizen service: AI can enhance citizen engagement by providing instant responses to inquiries, thereby improving overall user experience and satisfaction with government services.
Data-driven decision-making: AI analytics can enhance resource allocation and policy development by leveraging data collection and analysis to provide insights that shape informed policy decisions.
POTENTIAL CHALLENGES
Privacy and security risks: Mismanagement of sensitive information can lead to breaches of trust and potential legal ramifications.
Ethical concerns: The ethical use of AI, including bias in algorithms and transparency in decision-making processes, poses significant challenges. Local governments must prioritize ethical standards to maintain public confidence in their operations.
Need for upskilling : To effectively implement AI technologies, local government employees may require training and development. Addressing skill gaps is crucial to ensure that staff are equipped to leverage AI tools effectively.
Lack of established policies: Many local governments lack formal AI policies, leading to inconsistent practices and unclear accountability. Developing AI strategies that comply with regulations and ethical guidelines is essential for smooth implementation.
CHALLENGES
AI offers local governments a path to more efficient operations and informed decision-making. However, success depends on addressing data privacy, workforce implications and ethical concerns. By fostering a culture of transparency, investing in staff training and prioritizing ethical considerations, local governments can harness the potential of AI while mitigating risks. Tailored strategies that align with each municipality’s context will maximize AI’s potential benefits.
Acknowledgments: We extend our heartfelt thanks to all participants in this study for their valuable insights and contributions. If you are interested in participating in the ongoing interview study on AI adoption and use, please contact Eunju Rho, Ph.D. at erho@niu.edu
CALL FOR ADDITIONAL PARTICIPANTS FOR 2025 INTERVIEWS
We are conducting another research study in 2025 to explore the use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools in local government operations (IRB Approved — #HS24-0436). This study aims to understand how local government officials perceive AI integration in public service delivery, focusing on opportunities, challenges and public values.
Who can participate:
• Public managers and administrators in local government.
• Individuals with experience or interest in AI technologies in public service.
What to expect:
• One-on-one interview (30 to 45 minutes) via Zoom.
• Share your insights on AI in government operations.
• Flexible scheduling from October to December.
Confidentiality:
• All information will be kept confidential. Audio/video recording will be used for research purposes only, with no identifying information attached.
• For more information or to receive the Informed Consent Form, please email us.
How to sign up:
Use our online form or click either of our email addresses to the right.
Eunju Rho, Ph.D. Associate Professor erho@niu.edu
Jaehee Jong, Ph.D. Associate Professor jjong@niu.edu
Recent Events
A WARM WELCOME TO THE MPA CLASS OF 2026
We officially welcomed our Master in Public Administration class of 2026 at orientation Aug. 16. With over 30 students in attendance from both online and in-person orientation groups, students gathered to meet their classmates, learn about our curriculum and have the opportunity to network with faculty and staff.
Many thanks to Jarell Blakey, Anne Mitchell and Yates McLaughlin, representing IAMMA, for taking the time out of their busy schedules to share their experience and encourage students to get involved with professional organizations.
The orientation on the NIU campus was followed by a reception at Fatty’s, a local DeKalb restaurant. This offered the students the opportunity to connect with
their peers, faculty and the IAMMA guests in a more relaxed atmosphere.
“The MPA class of 2026 is ready to take on issues in local government. They quickly got to know each other and are excited to start their professional journey as students and interns,” said Denise Burchard, assistant to the chair. “It has been a pleasure getting to know these students and have them all successfully placed in internships where I know they will excel!”
We are thrilled to have the MPA class of 2026 join our community, and look forward to supporting their academic and professional growth throughout the program.
In background: Denise Burchard. Front row: Nicole Wolski, John Burner, Cooper Lloyd, Morgan Kaiser, hidden student and Shawn Jeffers.
J.D. Barrett.
Haley Holtz and Nolan Allen.
Jacob Uhlmann and Caroline Menzer.
Events
A NIGHT OF FUN AND FUNDRAISING
Our annual fundraising event held at TopGolf in Naperville was a hole-in-one, bringing together alumni, faculty, sponsors and students for an evening full of swings, food and fun. Together, we make a positive impact in our department and community. The event raised $11,000 that will be used to provide funds for students’ professional development and faculty research.
We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to our generous sponsors whose support made this event possible and helped us create a memorable evening. We could not have done it without you.
We would also like to express our sincere gratitude to our alumni who sponsored students: Marty Bourke, ‘81, Richard Frampton, ‘85, Shawn Jeffers, ‘82, Ryan Johnson, ‘15, John Klaiber, ‘82, Kimberly Richardson, ‘04 and Brad Townsend, ‘99. Your contributions directly support our students’ academic and professional journeys. Your support is invaluable, and we are truly grateful for your partnership. Thank you to our dedicated fundraising committee: Cochairs: Debbie VanSickle and Ryan Johnson. Members: Dawn Peters, Michael Peddle, Julie Langer, Kimberly Richardson, Ethan Hoffman, Scott Robinson, Jason Blumenthal, Jon Pape and Denise Burchard. Their support is what makes this event successful.
MPA students at Topgolf Event. Front row: Caroline Menzer, Haley Holtz, Emily Brier, Ayisha Attah. Back row: Gabriel Lopez, Kenneth Wolfrum, Vida Tsaras, Micah Eradiri.
MPA alumni Rich Frampton, Eric Tison, Brad Townsend and student Emily Brier.
MPA alum Peter Burchard.
Recent Events
ALUMNI SUPPORT BRINGS MPA STUDENTS TO THE ICMA ANNUAL CONFERENCE
Thanks to the generous support of MPA alumni, our department was able to cover transportation and accommodations for 14 MPA students to attend the 2024 ICMA Conference in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Among these students was Micah Eradiri, an international student from Nigeria in his second year of the MPA program. Eradiri, who is currently interning with the village of Roselle, Illinois, shared his reflections on his conference experience:
Celebrating 100 years of the ICMA Code of Ethics, the 2024 ICMA Annual Conference brought together global experts and emerging leaders to explore innovations and address the ethical challenges central to local government management. Attending alongside 13 other NIU MPA students, I gained valuable insights into the evolving landscape of public administration.
Sessions highlighted the transformative role of AI in public service, ethical governance and effective leadership practices. Presentations by speakers such as Shawn Kanungo
on AI, Brigid Schulte on work-life balance and Jason Dorsey on generational dynamics provided thought-provoking perspectives that bridged academic theory with real-world applications. One standout session, “Youth Voices in Your Community,” emphasized the value of inclusive governance, especially in engaging younger stakeholders.
This experience enhanced critical competencies from the MPA program, effective communication, ethical decision-making and stakeholder collaboration. Particularly impactful were sessions on navigating the integration of AI in local government, motivating teams and recognizing generational perspectives, all of which underscored the need for adaptive leadership while maintaining a human-centered approach.
The networking opportunities set the stage for future mentorships and professional growth. Overall, the ICMA conference equipped me with the knowledge and skills to be an innovative leader in public service. As I advance in my career, I hope to continue integrating these insights into more effective, equitable and responsive governance.”
Front row: Denise Burchard, Caroline Menzer, Vida Tsaras, Scott Robinson, Emily Brier, Ayisah Attah, Alaina Murphy, Astri Indirawati.
Back row: Alex Wall, John Burner, Haley Holtz, Zander Jones, Nolan Allen, Jacob Uhlmann, Micah Eradiri, Kenneth Wolfrum.
Pittsburgh Pirates baseball game vs. Milwaukee Brewers at PNC Park. Front row: Caroline Menzer, Haley Holtz, Emily Brier, Denise Burchard. Back row: Alex Wall, Kenneth Wolfrum, Jacob Uhlmann, Micah Eradiri, Zander Jones, Nolan Allen, John Burner.
Micah Eradiri, Emily Brier, Kenneth Wolfrum.
Emily Brier with the Pierogis.
Vida Tsaras, Micah Eradiri, Ayisah Attah.
Recent Events
FALL COLLOQUIUM RECAP
For our fall colloquium, we had the privilege of hosting Jay Rickbaugh, assistant professor of public administration at North Carolina State University’s School of Public and International Affairs. He provided a fascinating insight into the pressing environmental challenges posed by phosphorus pollution and the innovative solutions being developed to address them.
Rickbaugh began by explaining how the government’s end of Chevron Deference is impacting the ability to affect policy and then highlighted the critical role phosphorus plays in our ecosystems. While essential for plant growth, excessive phosphorus can lead to harmful algae blooms, water quality degradation and public health risks. He explained the Science and Technology for Phosphorus Sustainability (STEPS) Center’s research, which focuses on understanding phosphorus sources, developing effective management strategies and promoting sustainable practices to mitigate its negative impacts.
A particularly intriguing aspect of Rickbaugh’s presentation was his emphasis on the importance of partnerships between municipalities, agricultural
FALL 2024 GRADUATES
Congratulations to our fall 2024 MPA graduates. Your hard work and dedication have paid off. We are proud of your accomplishments and excited to see what you will achieve in the future. As you embark on your next chapter, remember that you are part of a strong and supportive alumni network. We wish you all the best.
communities and environmental organizations in developing and implementing effective nutrient management plans. By fostering collaboration, particularly with the end of the Chevron Deference, we can continue the critical role local governments play in addressing complex environmental challenges, driving positive change and improving the quality of life for communities.
If you would like to dive deeper into this topic or explore other related research, please feel free to reach out to our department for more information.
Jill Applebee
Wendy Bednarz
Victor DiVito
James Harter
Michael Harper
Mark Pietrowski
Graice Trajani
MPA faculty members and guest speaker. Front row: Thomas Skuzinski, Scott Robinson. Back row: Julie Langer, Chris Goodman, Jay Rickbaugh, Kurt Thurmaier.
By giving to our Department of Public Administration, you are playing an important role in supporting students and faculty. Through annual giving or planned giving and endowments, there is a method to fit just about any budget. For more information, please contact Laura Knight, senior director of advancement, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, Laura.knight@niu.edu
There are several ways to make your gift to Northern Illinois University’s Department of Public Administration.
Online: Make a credit card gift online (designate your gift to the Department of Public Administration).
Phone: 1-877-GIV-2-NIU.
Mail: One-time credit card or check gifts may be made using the Gift Form