The Profession
Professional Organizations
American Society for Public Administration (ASPA)
The American Society for Public Administration is the general professional organization for both professional practitioners and academics. They also have student membership since it is an important way to get into and learn the profession of public management.
West Virginia Chapter of ASPA
Your membership in the national organization will automatically make you a member of the West Virginia Chapter of ASPA-at no additional membership charge. Through active chapter participation you can build and expand a valuable professional network in the community and state. You can stay on the cutting edge of issues facing public managers in our area. You will grow from meetings, workshops and professional development activities. Students often find chapter activity to be a valuable source for career information and internship possibilities.
All WV ASPA chapters activities will be announced to MPA students. Notices of meetings are usually placed in student mailboxes. Students should join for full ASPA benefits, but non-members are also invited to attend meetings. As Chapter Council members, Dr. Gerber and Dr. Stalebrink can provide further information.
American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE) There is a student chapter of ACHE in the Division of Public Administration. Application forms can be obtained from the student chapter president or from Membership Division, ACHE, 840 North Lake Shore Drive, Chicago, Illinois 60611-9749.
Specialized Professional Organizations
There are a number of specialized professional organizations in the public sector. Please check with any professor about organizations in your area of interest. For example, note the following organizations:
International City Management Association --The ICMA is important for those interested in municipal management. In addition to job listings, the ICMA issues a journal (Public Management) and other helps. It may be contacted at ICMA 1120 G Street, NW, Washington, DC 20005, 202-626-4600.
Government Finance Officers Association --The GFOA is important for those interested in public finance and budgeting. It is a major information source as well as a setter of standards. It may be contacted at GFOA, 1750 K Street, NW, Suite 200, Washington, DC 20006, 202-429-2750.