ASPA Founders' Fellows Program 2027–2028: Applications Open for Emerging Public Administration Leaders - Global South Opportunities

The American Society for Public Administration (ASPA) is inviting applications for its 2027–2028 Founders' Fellows Program, a prestigious professional development initiative designed to recognise and

The fellowship is open to emerging public administration professionals and students pursuing careers in public service, academia and research.

Eligible applicants include:

• Master’s degree students studying public administration or related disciplines.
• Doctoral students pursuing relevant academic and research programmes.
• Early-career professionals within their first three years of employment.
• Emerging public servants working at federal, state or local government levels.
• Professionals working in nonprofit organisations.
• Individuals pursuing academic or research careers in public administration.

The programme welcomes candidates from different professional backgrounds who demonstrate strong academic achievement, leadership potential and a commitment to advancing public service.

Selected Founders’ Fellows will receive access to professional development opportunities, mentorship and networking experiences throughout the fellowship year.

Key benefits include:

1. Participation in ASPA’s 2028 Annual Conference

Fellows receive guaranteed acceptance to attend and present at the ASPA 2028 Annual Conference.

The programme provides:

• Complimentary conference registration.
• A complimentary hotel room.
• An opportunity to present professional or academic work.
• Networking opportunities with established public administration professionals.

Fellows must attend the entire conference. However, travel to the conference and related expenses must be covered individually or by the fellow’s sponsoring organisation.

2. Year-Long Professional Mentorship

Each fellow will be matched with a senior mentor based on their academic interests, professional background and career aspirations.

The mentorship programme provides opportunities to receive guidance, strengthen professional networks and develop a clearer career direction.

3. Professional Development Webinars

Participants will benefit from specially designed online professional development sessions addressing their educational and career development needs.

These activities are intended to strengthen practical knowledge, professional competencies and leadership capabilities.

4. Publication Opportunities

Fellows will have the opportunity to author a contribution for PA Times Online, ASPA’s professional publication.

This provides an opportunity to share research, professional perspectives and insights on contemporary public administration issues.

5. Networking With Public Administration Leaders

Participants will connect with respected academics, senior public servants, researchers and professionals across different areas of public administration.

These connections can support long-term professional growth and collaboration.

To qualify for the Founders’ Fellows Program, candidates must:

• Be current members of the American Society for Public Administration (ASPA) in good standing.
• Be enrolled in a master’s or doctoral programme, or be within the first three years of their professional career.
• Demonstrate academic achievement, professional promise and an interest in public administration.
• Submit a recommendation letter from a current ASPA member.

Successful applicants must maintain their ASPA membership throughout the entire fellowship year.