The Institute of Public Service

Russell M. Lidman, PhD, Institute of Public Service Director
Noreen Elbert, EdD, BPA Program Director
Danielle Potter, MPA, Deputy Coordinator

Objectives

The Institute of Public Service educates working professionals for positions of responsibility and leadership in the public service. The Institute, consistent with the mission of Seattle University is dedicated to educating the whole person, to professional formation, and to empowering leaders for a just and humane world.

The Institute offers a Bachelor of Public Affairs (BPA) degree. The BPA degree is designed for students interested in public policy, community planning, and advocacy. The BPA major encourages students to explore diverse perspectives, apply problem-solving skills, and engage in practical experiences that enable graduates to undertake important leadership responsibilities and challenging work in the public and nonprofit sectors. The Institute also offers an undergraduate minor in public affairs.

Students and graduates are expected to meet high standards of professionalism, trust, and stewardship. The Institute’s academic programs are responsive to the evolving character of public service and to the changing problems public leaders confront. The Institute serves neighboring communities and the region through applied research, collaborations, training, consultation, and public policy forums.