2026 INAUGURAL CALL FOR NOMINATIONS FOR NASPAA EXECUTIVE COUNCIL STUDENT REPRESENTATIVES

In October 2025, NASPAA members voted to adopt new bylaws that established two student seats on the Executive Council. 

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 new Council members, including the student members.

The Nominating Committee welcomes nominations for these student positions. According to the NASPAA new bylaws, nominations must be submitted by Principal Representatives. Council positions require a significant commitment of time and effort on the part of the individual, as well as travel support from their home institution.

The Committee seeks nominations from principal representatives of NASPAA member schools for students with diverse experiences and a unique vision for the worldwide role of NASPAA. Schools from all regions of the world are encouraged to nominate students who can serve NASPAA in this capacity.

Serving on the NASPAA Executive Council offers students a unique platform to shape international public service education while building a high-level professional network. Members gain invaluable leadership experience by collaborating directly with global academic and policy leaders. 

CANDIDATE PROFILE

The Committee seeks nominees who meet the following criteria:

• Enrollment: Enrolled in a degree program at a NASPAA member institution at the time of the nomination (Students may graduate prior to the end of their term, but are asked to complete their terms)
• Professionalism: Possess the maturity and professional insight to serve on a global board
• Integrity & Independence: Strong commitment to confidentiality and due process, and demonstrated ability to act independently and ethically
• Commitment: Ability to dedicate sufficient time to Executive Council work, including preparation, meetings, and external representation

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. At least one student member must be from a NASPAA-accredited program.

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 RESPONSIBILITIES

The student representatives will be full members of the Executive Council and will serve a one-year term.

The Council meets in person twice a year: in October at the Global Conference and in March. Zoom links may be provided to Executive Council members who cannot attend in-person. 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, Washington, on October 2, 2026. 

SUBMIT A NOMINATION FOR A STUDENT REPRESENTATIVE ON THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL

Submission of nominations are due by 11:59 PM ET May 1, 2026, using this form. Click here to preview the form questions in advance. According to the new NASPAA bylaws, nominations must be submitted by Principal Representatives. For more information on the nominations process for student members of the council, please see this policy document.

Questions about the work and responsibilities of Council members may be directed to Crystal Calarusse at calarusse@naspaa.org

Join us in shaping the future of NASPAA - nominate a student today!