Paula Norato (MPA '22) enrolled in the School of Public Policy's graduate program during the start of Covid. Through her IPP placement with Partners for Educational Leadership, she saw how statewide support systems operate behind the scenes to support schools and began to understand the broader impact of public service.  “The MPA helped me not only with long-term, strategic thinking and relationship-building, but also with the confidence to show up for myself in all areas,” Paula says...

More than 100 attendees were on hand to celebrate the graduation of the School's latest Encore Class. 27 members of the class gathered to reflect on the program's impact and the beginning of their ‘next act’. Speakers reiterated the power behind the theme of this year's class: "Strength in Support."

School of Public Policy assistant research professor Dr. Lydia Wileden discusses her work in the classroom, in the community, and with IMRP’s statewide and international initiatives. Dr. Wileden will be instructing PP 5350 – Urban & Regional Policy - in the spring, 2026 semester...

MPA '22 grad Caesar Valentín credits several School of Public Policy courses and professors for shaping his approach to public service. As a success and strategy analyst at Connecticut's Social Equity Council, Valentín's thesis and early research connect directly to his current work...

MPA student Noah Hurt has always been drawn to spaces that educate and support the community. Through his IPP, Hurt serves as Intern for Advancement at COMPASS Youth Collaborative which works with vulnerable youth to provide them with tools to succeed in education, employment, and life.

Susan Camoroda is an MPA Fellow and research assistant with the Institute for Municipal and Regional Policy (IMRP), where she supports Connecticut State Legislative studies related to Military and Veterans Affairs. She's also a retired U.S. Army Colonel with 30 years of commissioned service driven by a sense of duty. On Veterans Day, Camoroda hopes people will take a moment to reflect on the deeper meaning of service. “What’s most meaningful is remembering what this country is about - the lessons of history, the honor, dedication, and sacrifice that military members and their families provide to support and defend the Constitution,” she says. 

Director of Engagement and self-described "civic nerd" Ryan Baldassario talks about his long history volunteering as a poll worker on Election Day and the importance of student involvement in local elections. "Whatever you do – don’t ignore local elections!" Ryan advises. "While national issues dominate our social media feeds, state and local elections have more direct implications for your daily lives."

UConn junior and 4+1 Fast Track student Ryan Engels promotes civic engagement among Connecticut youth through CYPAC, the non-partisan advocacy group he founded from his freshman year dorm room. He doesn't just suggest students get involved in local government - he models it. Ryan is the youngest chair of a town committee in his hometown of Westbrook. He's also interning this semester with the Institute for Municipal and Regional Policy.