School of Public Administration to Celebrate Launch of New Minor
September 7, 2023
It’s a busy and groundbreaking semester ahead for UNM’s School of Public Administration (SPA.)
On Sept. 26, SPA will be officially launching its first-ever undergraduate minor in public service. It’s not only the first at UNM, but the only of its kind in the state.
From 4:30 to 5:45 p.m., The University Club hosts SPA and its future public servants as the start of many events for the fall semester. Albuquerque Mayor Tim Keller will speak at the kickoff celebration and highlight the partnership this promotes between UNM and the city.
The minor was created in collaboration with The Volcker Alliance and its Next Generation Service Corps for any student, of any major, to gain values, knowledge, and skills to pursue a career in government, nonprofits, or tribal governance. It propels SPA further to a position of creating future leaders.
“We are grateful to Mayor Keller for agreeing to participate in launching the Minor in Public Service and introducing UNM’s first Next Generation Service Corps fellows,” SPA Director Patria de Lancer Julnes said.
The NextGen Service Corps program is available to all majors and provides additional opportunities and support outside of the classroom for students to build their professional skills and resumes.
“Careers in public service are more varied than many students realize. This minor and program help bridge students of any background and interest into careers that can make a difference using their specific interests and skills. There is a place in public service for all,” SPA Associate Professor Kate Cartwright said.
SPA hopes this multidisciplinary minor and the growing partnership with The Volcker Alliance will boost the number of public sector workers in New Mexico for years to come.
“I am thrilled to share the exciting events we have planned for this Fall to celebrate excellence and encourage undergraduate students to gain skills they can use in their communities as public servants and bring positive change,” de Lancer Julnes said.
Register with the SPA for the event, set for Sept. 26 at the University Club.
Credit: UNM Newsroom
