NASPAA Statement Expressing Support for Public Service

The Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration’s (NASPAA) twofold mission is to ensure excellence in public service education and training and to promote the ideal of public service. 

NASPAA expresses unwavering support for the dedicated federal public servants in the United States who serve their country with professionalism, integrity, and a deep commitment to improving communities and contributing to the social and economic well-being of individuals. Recent attacks on public service professionals threaten the important work of these individuals and the very mission of public service in the U.S.

U.S. Public employees work tirelessly to ensure that their democracy thrives, the economy prospers, and communities remain resilient. Public servants are on the front lines of addressing the most pressing challenges in health care, environmental protection, national and homeland security, emergency management, education, and economic development. Their work improves lives, fosters equitable opportunity, and sustains the essential functions of government at all levels.

NASPAA stresses the need for U.S. elected officials to protect and defend the role of public servants. NASPAA’s partners and academic institutional members in the U.S. and worldwide take pride in training generations of competent, professional leaders who carry forward this vital work.

NASPAA calls on elected officials at all levels across the United States to protect century-old concepts like merit, nonpartisanship, and tenure, as these principles have been critical to elevating the nation’s economy and governance. Historically, U.S. public investment in research helped advance the internet, life-saving medical and pharmaceutical breakthroughs, clean energy, and climate innovation. Without a doubt, public investment is the backbone and engine of discovery and innovation in every society around the world.  

NASPAA stands in support of public service and calls on elected officials to reconsider their decision to shrink the public service, which would result in draining the U.S. federal public service from its most competent employees. NASPAA urges U.S. policymakers to reject actions that erode the strength of American public institutions and instead invest in the education, training, and support of the dedicated professionals who serve the public good.