2026 CALL FOR NOMINATIONS FOR NASPAA EXECUTIVE COUNCIL MEMBERS & VICE PRESIDENT
In August 2026, the NASPAA Nominating Committee, chaired by Immediate Past President Mohamad G. Alkadry and including RaJade M. Berry-James, Erin L. Borry, Cullen C. Merritt, and Yuna Souza dos Reis da Fontoura, will present its slate of nominees for:
- Five members of the Executive Council
- Vice President/President-Elect of the Executive Council
The Nominating Committee welcomes nominations for these positions. Council positions require a significant commitment of time and effort on the part of the individual and travel support from their home institution.
This is a time of great opportunity for NASPAA globally. This cohort of the Council will play a vital role in cementing NASPAA’s position as a global NPO and accreditor. The Committee seeks nominations of individuals who have diverse experiences and provide a unique vision for the worldwide role of NASPAA and to help chart its future. Individuals from all regions of the world are encouraged to consider nominating peers and colleagues who can serve NASPAA in this capacity.
CANDIDATE PROFILE
NASPAA’s progress in various areas relies on the nomination of dedicated individuals with the necessary skills to serve the organization. In 2025-2026, the Council will continue to support the organization’s strategic plan, overseeing several key initiatives:
- Monitoring and evaluating progress on NASPAA’s current and future strategic plans
- Marketing efforts for NASPAA’s teaching and learning platform
- Supporting NASPAA’s global strategy as outlined by the Global Position Taskforce
- Supporting the Journal of Public Affairs Education (JPAE) editors
- Developing the next generation of annual student simulation competitions
- Enhancing career opportunities for graduates
- Strategizing to serve member programs in a challenging policy environment
The Committee seeks nominees who meet the following criteria:
- Engagement with NASPAA: Prior/Current Service and Roles in COPRA, Standing Committees, Ad-Hoc Committees, Sections, and special task forces or committees.
- Leadership & Governance: Strong understanding of nonprofit governance, fiduciary responsibilities, and board–executive boundaries
- Higher Education Expertise: Significant experience in higher education leadership, academic administration, faculty governance, or accreditation
- Integrity & Independence: Strong commitment to confidentiality and due process, and demonstrated ability to act independently and ethically and manage conflicts of interest
- Interpersonal & Representational Skills: Exceptional communication skills and professional presence
- Commitment: Ability to dedicate sufficient time to Executive Council work, including preparation, meetings, and external representation
Individuals with these qualities support NASPAA in continuing to drive progress and achieve its strategic goals.
The Nominating Committee strives to present a slate that reflects the diversity of NASPAA’s membership, considering program types, geographic and demographic representation (in alignment with NASPAA’s global mission).
Nominations are welcome from all NASPAA member schools. Council membership does not require NASPAA accreditation.
Council members serve in an individual capacity, not as representatives of their universities, and are expected to act in the best interests of NASPAA and its member institutions.
SERVICE DURATION
The Vice President will serve on the Council and Executive Committee for three years: one year as Vice President, then one year as President, and a final year as Immediate Past President.
Executive Council members serve a three-year term, which begins at the NASPAA Global Conference.
The Council meets in-person twice a year: in October at the Global Conference and in March. The Council also meets several times per year via Zoom. Council members are expected to attend every meeting. The first meeting for incoming Council members will be in Seattle, WA on the Saturday following the global conference.
SUBMIT A NOMINATION
Submissions of nominations are due by 11:59 PM ET April 1, 2026, using this form. Click here to preview the form questions in advance. Self-nominations are permitted.
Following this nomination, nominees will be contacted to confirm their interest, to submit their CV along with additional information to demonstrate how they meet the criteria listed above.
Please review the list of Frequently Asked Questions for additional information. Questions about the work and responsibilities of Council members may be directed to Mohamad Alkadry at malkadry@uconn.edu.
Join us in shaping the future of NASPAA - nominate someone today!