School of Public Administration Hosts National Conference
Nearly two decades into the new millennium public administration scholars and practitioners, in America and globally, face a number of challenges in dealing with the ever more complex problems of changing workforce demographics, health care affordability, environmental sustainability, and social equity and inclusivity.
- contact: Megan Nelson - School of Public Administration
- phone: 402-554-4874
- email: megnelson@unomaha.edu
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Omaha – How do we successfully address these challenges? How can administrative success be enhanced through how public administration is taught? What competencies are needed to prepare students to be successful in public service?
These challenges and alternatives for addressing them were explored and best practices were demonstrated at the UNO School of Public Administration’s national conference hosted in Omaha, May 31-June 2, 2017. This was the first conference of its kind, combining the Midwest Public Affairs Conference, Teaching Public Administration Conference, and Social Equity Leadership Conference. Together, each organization joined forces in “Addressing Complexity in Public Administration: Identifying Issues, Crafting Innovative Solutions, and Celebrating Successes” as the overall conference theme.
The first-time conference gathered over 150 faculty members and practitioners from the Omaha metro and around the globe. Park University, Ball State University, University of Kansas, Virginia Common Wealth, and Tennessee State University were among the universities represented at the three-day conference. An award for the furthest traveled conference attendee was even presented—going to M. Jae Moon, Ph.D., from Yonsei University of Seoul, Korea.
Sessions focused on topics most relevant to the history of public administration, and the most-trending topics of the field today. Environmental policy, evaluation, economics, civic engagement, organizational behavior, and public-private partnerships were just the tip of the iceberg of topics covered throughout the conference.
Amidst the 90-minute, concurrent sessions, plenty of fun was had. Each evening of the conference kicked off with a lively reception. Some evenings were simple receptions peppered with good conversation. Others were more upbeat with the UNO Jazz Combo performing on the last night of the conference to send guests off with a pep in their step.
Conference attendees left with a lasting, impeccable perception of the University of Nebraska at Omaha, our great people, and our wonderful community. Many guests shared that this would not be their last trip to Omaha.