Crystal Calarusse Appointed Executive Director of NASPAA

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Tuesday, January 6, 2026

Crystal Calarusse Appointed Executive Director of NASPAA

Washington, D.C. [Tuesday, January 6, 2026] The Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration (NASPAA) is pleased to announce that Crystal Calarusse has been appointed the next Executive Director of NASPAA, effective February 2, 2025. Calarusse brings more than 25 years of leadership experience in public service education, accreditation, and nonprofit management, including a long and distinguished history with NASPAA.

Calarusse previously served NASPAA in several senior roles, including Chief Accreditation Officer, where she led the global expansion of NASPAA’s accreditation portfolio, strengthened quality assurance processes, and supported hundreds of member programs in advancing excellence in public service education. She has also held leadership positions with national and international organizations dedicated to higher education and public administration and accreditation, earning a reputation as a strategic, collaborative, and mission-driven leader.

The NASPAA Executive Council voted to appoint Calarusse with engagement and extensive input from NASPAA staff, following an international search that included consultation with member institutions, governance leaders, and external stakeholders. NASPAA extends its sincere appreciation to Past-President Dr. Mohamad Alkadry for appointing the search committee. We are indebted to the search committee co-chairs, Drs. Rosemary O’Leary and Kathy Newcomer and the search committee for their thoughtful leadership, diligence, and commitment throughout the process. Their work ensured a robust, inclusive, and mission-aligned search that brought forward an exceptional slate of candidates - more than 150 applicants from across the globe.

This transition follows a period of interim leadership by Martha Bohrt, who has served with distinction since July 2024. NASPAA expresses its deep appreciation to Bohrt for her steady leadership, thoughtful stewardship, and unwavering dedication to the association. During her tenure, Bohrt provided clarity, stability, and a collaborative spirit that strengthened NASPAA’s global mission, operations, and supported staff and members through a pivotal period. Her commitment to NASPAA’s mission has left a meaningful and positive impact on NASPAA’s financial sustainability and membership services and growth.

“Martha has guided NASPAA with an exceptional commitment to our global public affairs mission,” said NASPAA President Sara Rinfret. “We are deeply grateful for her service and are excited to welcome Crystal into this role.”

Bohrt will remain involved with NASPAA in the coming months to advance member services and contribute to a smooth leadership transition.

As Executive Director, Calarusse will lead NASPAA’s strategic initiatives, support member schools, advance global accreditation standards, and champion the association’s efforts to prepare the next generation of public service leaders.

“I am honored to return to NASPAA in this capacity,” said Calarusse. “Our member institutions play a vital role in strengthening governance and public service around the world. I look forward to working with our community to advance excellence, innovation, and impact.”

NASPAA looks forward to a smooth transition and an exciting new era under Calarusse’s leadership.