Full Name: Nathaniel W. Spencer
Title and Organization: Legislative Aide, Connecticut State Senate Democrats
SPP Degree and Graduation Year: MPA, ‘26
Nathaniel Spencer is a graduate student pursuing a master’s degree in Public Administration from UConn’s School of Public Policy (SPP). He received his bachelor’s degree in Political Science in 2020 from Emmanuel College in Boston, Massachusetts. Since returning to Connecticut, Nathaniel has worked as a Legislative Aide for the State Senate Democrats, and has contributed to municipal and state campaigns in various communities. In 2023, Nathaniel successfully ran for a seat on the Planning and Zoning Commission in his hometown of Middletown. Additionally, he now serves as an alternate member on the Lower Connecticut River Valley Regional Planning Committee, highlighting his commitment to effective urban planning and regional development. Since 2021, Nathaniel has advocated for the involvement of young voices in state and local government. His goal is to foster an inclusive community that represents the interests of all its residents.
Albert G. Ilg Fellowship in Local Government Award
The Albert G. Ilg Fellowship in Local Government award is given to an MPA student who demonstrates interest in local government and public sector service. Awards (“Fellowships”) will defray living or academic related expenses. The award was established in 1998 to honor the distinguished service of Al Ilg as the Town Manager of Windsor for 32 years.
Albert G. Ilg: Prior to his service as Town Manager of Windsor, Connecticut, Al Ilg served as the Assistant City Manager of Oak Ridge, Tennessee, after serving as an officer in the U.S. Navy. In 2002, Al’s expertise was called upon to serve as an Interim City Manager of Hartford, and in September 2005, Al was appointed by the Governor to the “State Contracting Reform Standards Board.” Al received a B.A. in Political Science from Bucknell University and a master’s degree in Government Administration from The Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania. For many years, Al has been a friend of the School of Public Policy, speaking in our speaker series and connecting students and alumni with job opportunities. He also supports the Albert Ilg Award, presented annually to a student with outstanding interest in local government.