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Wilder School shines at NASPAA annual conference in Washington, D.C.
by Tiff Murray-Robertson
The L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University made a powerful impact at the 2024 Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration (NASPAA) Annual Conference, held October 23-25 in Washington, D.C. With nearly two dozen faculty and staff members presenting on panels, leading discussions, and sharing expertise, the Wilder School’s presence resonated across a broad spectrum of topics shaping today’s public service landscape. View our photo album from the conference.
NASPAA President RaJade Berry-James' theme of "leading by convening" speaks to her spirit of collaboration, inclusion and passion for transforming public service education.
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A central highlight of the conference was the celebration of Dr. RaJade Berry-James, Senior Associate Dean of Faculty and Academic Affairs at the Wilder School, in her role as NASPAA President. Under the conference theme, "Leading by Convening," Dr. Berry-James brought together voices from across the field, promoting dialogue on issues crucial to the future of public service. Honored during the President’s Reception, Dr. Berry-James was recognized for her contributions to NASPAA and her efforts to amplify diversity, equity, and inclusion within the field. Her presidency has marked a significant period of growth and resilience for the organization, and her leadership has been instrumental in guiding its mission to foster excellence in public affairs education.
One of the standout sessions was a Fireside Chat featuring Dr. Berry-James, Dr. Srirama Rao, Vice President for Research and Innovation at Virginia Commonwealth University, and Dr. Nakeina Douglas-Glenn, Director of the Wilder School’s Research Institute for Social Equity (RISE). This engaging discussion highlighted the importance of research and innovation in addressing contemporary public service challenges and illustrated the collaborative spirit at the heart of public affairs education.
In addition to Dr. Berry-James’ celebrated leadership, several Wilder School faculty and alumni were honored with awards at the conference. Dr. Lindsey Evans, an assistant professor of public administration, was recognized with the Social Equity Curriculum Award for her innovative curriculum advancing social equity in public service. Additionally, Mary Strawderman, a doctoral candidate in public policy and administration, was celebrated during NASPAA’s Phi Alpha Alpha 50th Anniversary Luncheon for her contributions to public administration.
A special highlight of the NASPAA Awards Ceremony and Luncheon on Thursday included a video presentation honoring Dr. Dietra Trent (MPA '95/Ph.D. '07), Executive Director of the White House Initiative on HBCUs and Wilder School alumna, recipient of the Alumni Spotlight Award. The presentation highlighted her achievements and unwavering commitment to public service, making her an inspiring figure for future leaders.
Wilder School faculty contributed to a wide range of panels, offering expertise on topics critical to advancing public service education. Dean Susan Gooden led discussions on diversifying leadership in public service and collaborative, data-driven approaches to equity challenges, underscoring her commitment to social equity in academia. Faculty participants showcased the school’s thought leadership across public administration, criminal justice, and homeland security, highlighting the Wilder School’s broad academic impact in public affairs.
In addition, Wilder School human resources, development, and communications staff played an integral role as presenters, engaging with attendees throughout the conference and supporting various conference activities. The Wilder School’s exhibit table offered a central place for attendees to connect with faculty, learn more about the school’s impactful work, and explore opportunities for collaboration.
View a full list of Wilder School presenters and presentations
The conference provided an invaluable platform for Wilder School faculty and staff to share research insights, exchange best practices, and foster new partnerships, furthering the school’s mission to inspire public service leaders and address social challenges with impactful solutions.
As the Wilder School delegation returns to Virginia, the insights and connections forged at NASPAA 2024 will indubitably continue to enrich the school’s community, contributing to its leadership in public affairs education. The Wilder School congratulates Dr. Berry-James, Dr. Lindsey Evans, Dr. Dietra Trent, and Mary Strawderman on their outstanding achievements and looks forward to building on the momentum generated at this year’s conference.
The Wilder School made a fantastic impression at last week’s NASPAA 2024 Annual Conference in Washington, D.C., with 18 faculty and staff sharing expertise and enthusiasm for advancing public affairs education. A major highlight was Dr. Jade Berry-James serving as NASPAA President under the theme "Leading by Convening." She was celebrated at the President’s Reception, underscoring her role in fostering impactful dialogue across the field. Wilder School faculty and alumni also received top honors, including Dr. Dietra Trent (Alumni Spotlight Award), Dr. Lindsey Evans (Social Equity Curriculum Award), and Mary Strawderman, a doctoral candidate in public policy and administration, who received the Phi Alpha Alpha Doctoral Manuscript Award.
The Wilder School’s 18 faculty and staff presenters covered a wide range of topics—from public administration and criminal justice to homeland security—sharing insights on leadership, equity, and innovation. Presentations from Wilder’s human resources, development, and communications teams demonstrated the school’s collaborative, cross-disciplinary approach and engaged attendees throughout the conference. A memorable Fireside Chat featured Dr. Berry-James, Dr. Srirama Rao, and Dr. Nakeina Douglas-Glenn, highlighting the importance of research and innovation in public service.