Can you tell us about your professional journey and current position?
I received my undergraduate degree in Criminal Justice from Appalachian. After completing an internship with the Public Defenders Office in the District of Columbia, I worked for six years in the Court System in Mecklenburg, Cabarrus, and Rowan Counties for a program called Sentencing Services. Sentencing Services was a non-profit and a partnership between the state and local communities to provide alternative sentencing to the court system. I served as the Executive Director for four of those years. While in that role, I went back to the MPA cohort in Hickory. Upon completing my MPA, I took a position with the Alliance for Innovation, an international association that researched and promoted innovative practices in local government. In that role, I was a Regional Director and a Strategic Initiatives Director. I administered our regional membership, our international learning program, marketing and communications, and our research program. After being in that role for 10 years it was time for a change and I took the position with McGill Associates as the Marketing Director. At McGill, I work with a team to manage the brand, oversee our content development, work with our grants administrator on program funding opportunities, and work with a team to develop statement of qualifications.
What contributed to your decision to pursue an MPA degree?
I was in a place in my career that I was ready for change but I wasn’t clear what path I wanted to pursue. I had some interest in local government and I knew obtaining my MPA would help me move forward.
How did the App State MPA program prepare you to work in government, nonprofit, or the private sector?
It helped me have a better understanding of the theories and practices in local government, specifically around budgeting, personnel, and organizational theory. Data analytics and surveying has been the greatest skillset I’ve utilized in all my positions. The network that I met while receiving my MPA was one of the greatest benefits.
What advice would you give to individuals considering the App State MPA program?
Not only do they have access to a top-notch education experience at App State but they have an established network in local government (ASULGAA), non-profit, and the private sector that can help them connect and explore career opportunities. They have the opportunity to try different paths with each making a real difference in communities. I would advise them on day one of the MPA programs to get connected and engaged with the ASULGAA and explore other networks for students such as ELGL and ICMA.
If hiring, what would you look for in new graduates of the App State MPA program?
I look for experience, passion, and an aptitude to learn. Experience is much broader than professional experience. It can be experience at the University, as a volunteer, or in their community.