Reflections on the value of practitioner-led teaching in Master of Public Administration (MPA) programs.

I’m biased.

I am a practitioner who has spent 20+ years in local government management.

I have also spent ~17 years in the classroom, mostly the virtual classroom, teaching students the intricacies of public administration.

To me, the integration of real-world experience enhances academic learning, bridges the gap between theory and practice, and equips future public-sector leaders with actionable insights. MPA programs nationwide should consider the unique benefits practitioners bring to the classroom, such as firsthand knowledge of public administration challenges, mentorship opportunities, and fostering connections to professional networks.

Managers in the classroom are not just about “war stories - this practitioner approach prepares students to meet the evolving demands of public service.

That’s why I often call myself a pracademic, and why I trademarked the name pracademic™ for my company. This aligns with Pracademic Partners' messaging about blending academic expertise and real-world leadership experience​​.