Professional Competencies

Enhancement through Coursework:This competency has been developed through leadership-focused coursework. Throughout the program, I have worked with cohorts of various backgrounds and experiences through group projects and class discussions. One specific example is from our first class, PSPA 600. We were assigned a group project to create an argument that was counter to our original beliefs on the topic of the “defund the police” movement.

Through the program, my courses emphasized the role of local government managers in ethical decision-making, strategic planning, and stakeholder engagement.

Work Application: As the Assistant Village Administrator of the Village of Antioch, Illinois, I have strengthened my ethical leadership principles and integrated them into my professional decision-making, particularly in community engagement and policy implementation.  The areas where I have strengthened relate to critical thinking skills related to work analyzing various decisions and paths forward for the village. Additionally, exercises related to inclusion have helped with my direction related to citizen engagement and the inclusion of as much of a diverse and inclusive representation of our residents as possible.

Enhancement through Coursework:Policy analysis and critical thinking exercises in our coursework have helped me develop skills related to thinking about the intended and unintended consequences of the decisions made by our village. In PSPA 634, we studied the Colorado River Compact. This exercise proved to be a great way for me to understand the need to make sure decisions are made with all stakeholders in mind, and also the need to review and update decisions based on new data. Overall, the MPA program showed the importance of data-driven decision-making, quantitative analysis, and stakeholder-driven policy.

Work Application: In my role, having stronger critical thinking and analytical skills related to solving public service problems has already proven to be a benefit for our community stakeholders. I have applied problem-solving techniques to assess community needs, propose solutions, and implement policies that improve public service delivery. I contributed to the evaluation of grant funding proposals, performed cost-benefit analyses for infrastructure projects, and used data analytics to provide strategic recommendations to our board. My ability to analyze public service challenges and implement feasible solutions has been enhanced through both classroom learning and practical experience.

Enhancement through Coursework:Studying the Naperville Citizen Survey in PSPA 608 was an important demonstration of strategic communication and stakeholder engagement and the usefulness of the data that was collected. Working to show the statistical relevance of the data showed that analysis can be done to establish any unintended bias with the collection or use of the information. 

Work Application: A year ago, I led an initiative to collect resident feedback related to the naming of a new park in our village. It was important to make sure that I used a method that would collect data only from residents. It was also important that I try to collect as much data as possible from diverse groups throughout the village, not just one group in particular, such as parents of small children. We wanted to make sure to engage with residents from various backgrounds to ensure buy-in and support from the entire village. Furthermore, effective communication has been a cornerstone of my role in other areas.  I have also developed crisis communication plans and engaged with residents through social media and public meetings. These experiences have reinforced the importance of clear, transparent, and strategic communication in public administration.

Enhancement through Coursework:The coursework in this program has helped strengthen my understanding of municipal operations, budgeting processes, and intergovernmental relations. This competency has been developed throughout all the courses, however, my work in PSA 634, PSPA 660, PSPA 610, and PSPA 611 has equipped me with a better understanding to use in my current and future roles. The very first class, PSPA 600 served to set the foundation of why these courses were necessary. I wish every local elected official and municipal staff could take this course to understand public management and its role within local government.

Work Application: In practice, I have contributed to securing grants for infrastructure projects, managed our budgeting process, and organized public meetings to engage citizens in decision-making. Additionally, my role involves resolving conflicts between various stakeholders, including residents, business owners, elected officials, and staff. I have successfully navigated challenges and improved local governance by understanding varying perspectives, stakeholder inclusivity, and fiscal concerns.