SCHOOL OF PROFESSIONAL ADVANCEMENT

Public Administration Program Residency

Shaping the Future: Preparing Ethical, Innovative, and Inclusive Public Service Leaders 

Friday, October 23rd–Sunday, October 25th, 2026

Kendall Cram Room #213, Lavin-Bernick Center, Uptown Campus, Tulane University

" Leading with positive ethical values builds trust and brings out the best in people, which brings out the best in the organization, which leads to great results. "

— Linda Fisher Thornton

The Annual Public Administration Program Residency marks the culmination of curriculum for students in the Tulane School of Professional Advancement’s Master of Public Administration degree program. Students assemble on the Uptown campus of Tulane University in New Orleans for three days of in-person networking, learning, and dialogue centered around the year’s theme: Shaping the Future: Preparing Ethical, Innovative, and Inclusive Public Service Leaders (2026). The residency features several exciting panels and experiences that foster connection with program faculty, fellow students, Tulane University and the City of New Orleans.

Gigi Williamson

2026 Residency Agenda

FAQs

 

Please dress in business casual.

The purpose of the residency is to connect with leading experts, faculty, and your peers. We will not assign projects or homework because we want you to focus on making connections! All students will need to review some materials about the simulation exercise before they arrive in New Orleans. The program will provide these materials approximately two weeks prior to the start of the residency.

New Orleans is a great place to visit year-round. You can expect temperatures from the upper 70s to the mid-50s from October to November. Of course, be sure to check the local weather a few days before your trip.

Yes! We will provide breakfast and lunch at the residency.

If you’re planning to join us for the optional walking tour of the Tulane campus you should prepare for a 1.5 to 2 mile walk. You will need to walk a short distance from parking, or the ride share drop off location to the Lavin-Bernick Center for the residency sessions.

Experience New Orleans

New Orleans is a place like no other. It’s more than just a city. It’s a vibe! In this video, Tulane’s Guide to NOLA, Tulane School of Professional Advancement alumnus Jeff Schiffman offers tips on how to spend “one perfect day” getting to know New Orleans and Tulane University. Take notes as you learn all about what to see, where to go and what to eat during your visit to the Big Easy.

LBC

The Lavin-Bernick Center

The Lavin-Bernick Center for University Life and The Commons (Building #29) is more than just a building. It is a hub for campus life that houses meeting space, campus programming, dining options, the Bookstore, student involvement opportunities, and lots of student resources. It strives to enhance the Tulane student experience by creating an innovative, dynamic and inclusive environment through quality facilities, programs, and services.

2026 Planning Committee Members

Dr. Michelle Jackson – Chair
Dr. Brian McNamara – Faculty Representative
Kimberly O’Neil - Adjunct Faculty Representative
Kate Donaghey – JLPA Alumni Representative
Howard Davis – MPA Student Representative
Celeste Uzee – Program Administrator

Tulane University follows all applicable federal, state, and local authority guidance for health and safety. You are welcome to wear a mask voluntarily at any point during the residency, and we will respect your decision.