KU School of Public Affairs & Administration to celebrate 75 years of excellence in public service
LAWRENCE — For 75 years, the University of Kansas School of Public Affairs and Administration has committed to serving as a cornerstone of public service education. In 2025, the school is commemorating its history and celebrating a vision for the public good today and into the future.
The celebration will include a slate of events throughout the year.
“For three quarters of a century, KU’s School of Public Affairs & Administration has set the gold standard for how a public university program can serve society," said Arash Mafi, executive dean of the KU College of Liberal Arts & Sciences. “Through dedicated teaching, innovative research and a commitment to public service, it has enriched our communities and strengthened our democracy. As we celebrate this amazing legacy, I am equally excited to see what SPAA accomplishes going forward."
From the graduation of the first Master of Public Administration (MPA) cohort in 1950 to its nationally recognized programs today, SPAA has focused on excellence, innovation and commitment to public service. The 75th anniversary will honor the leaders the school has cultivated, the challenges it has tackled and the communities SPAA and its alumni have transformed together.
“KU School of Public Affairs & Administration is paving the way to advance public service as a profession and commitment to democratic values and ethical governance to achieve sustainable public good,” said Maja Holmes, SPAA school director and professor.
Reflections on a legacy and the future of SPAA
SPAA has educated students not only through the highly ranked MPA program but also through its expanded public service education options. The Master of Urban Planning program celebrates 50 years of improving the quality of life in communities, and the doctoral program is a leader in in preparing scholars for the future of public service. Centering public service at the heart of democracy, SPAA’s professional development arm — the KU Public Management Center — has been training public sector practitioners and partnering with communities to cultivate excellence for more than 50 years.
Today, SPAA’s faculty, staff and students continue to publish research and offer professional development, furthering the practice of public service and generating policy solutions for communities and improved democratic governance. SPAA's faculty members include fellows in the National Academy of Public Administration and American Institute of Certified Planners.
Join the celebration in 2025
This yearlong commemoration will feature a series of events showcasing SPAA’s past, present and future. The School of Public Affairs & Administration invites the public to be part of these special moments:
- Hannesfest: Honoring Hannes Zacharias as the Inaugural Robert A. Kipp Professor
April 23, Kansas Union
Celebrate the achievements of a public service leader whose legacy continues to inspire others. - Kansas City/County Management (KCCM) Conference
April 24-25, The Oread Hotel
Dive into bold ideas and innovative solutions for local governance the dynamic annual gathering. - Inspiring Women in Public Administration (IWPA) Conference
Aug. 22, Overland Park Convention Center
Explore strategies and stories that empower women to lead and innovate in public service. - National Planning Conference (NPC)
April 23-25, Denver
Connect and network with KU urban planning alumni, students and faculty - ICMA KUCIMAT Reception
Tampa, Florida
Reconnect and reflect on the legacy of KU graduates in local government management.
Be Part of the Legacy and the Future of Public Service
Join the school in celebrating SPAA’s 75th anniversary throughout 2025. Whether you attend an event, connect with SPAA’s community, contribute to the Edwin O. Stene Program Fund for continued impact or reflect on SPAA’s legacy, you are part of a story that spans decades — and continues to grow.
Visit SPAA’s 75th anniversary website for details about upcoming events and initiatives.