Master of Public Administration Program Celebrates 35th Anniversary
Like fine wine, the University of La Verne’s very successful Master of Public Administration (MPA) program keeps getting better.
To celebrate its 35th anniversary, an open house will be held Homecoming Friday, Nov. 6, at 5:30 p.m. in the historic Hanawalt House.
With each success, the MPA program is creating its own history. It was established in the early 1970’s as a response to the growing interest that professionals were expressing to improve their credentials, and through the years numerous important events have occurred.
In 1974, the first five students graduated, and five years later a Department of Public Administration was established. As an outgrowth, a Doctor of Public Administration was offered beginning in 1982. An undergraduate degree program also is available.
In 1992, the program moved to its own building at 2220 Third Street in La Verne. Two years later, an advisory board was established. In 1995, the department joined the prestigious National Association of Schools of Public Administration and Affairs (NASPAA) as a member. By 1998, yearly enrollment was up to 30.
Annual student enrollment has grown to about 100 students, and some 500 have completed the program. Notable alumni include Matthew Ballantine, city manager, San Marino; Paul Hubler, community relations project manager, Alameda Corridor-East; and assistant city managers and management analysts at various cities.
Most recently, the NASPAA accredited the program in 2000 and reaccredited it in 2007. Accreditation is largely a reflection of the renowned faculty who have joined the program and their continuing dedication to excellence.
“We remained small and very carefully coordinated for many years, but started taking off two or three years ago,” said Dr. Jack Meek, longtime professor of public administration. “Our mission is to help provide leadership and management expertise in the public services sector. About half of our students work for cities or counties and the other half work for other kinds of public services, including utilities and nonprofits.”
According to Meek, the program is unique for one overriding reason: the focus is on public services in Southern California. Its reputation is stellar.
“The university’s history is one of service and a deep sense of commitment to the community,” Meek said. “We have a great professional program history at La Verne, and we take pride in that. I think public administration is one of those programs, and I’d like to have us known for that.”
Related Posts from the Archives:
- Dr. Jack Meek publishes in Public Administration Quarterly
- Dr. Meek Publishes Co-Authored Article in Public Administration Quarterly
- Dr. Meek and MPA Graduate Publish Article in International Journal of Public Administration
- Dr. Jack Meek Publishes in Encyclopedia of Public Adm. and Public Policy
- Dr. Witt Presents at Public Administration Theory Network Conference