Public Administration Program Residency

8:30-9:30 AM
Registration & Breakfast

9:30-9:50 AM
Opening Remarks

9:50-10:15 AM 
Introductions & Icebreaker

10:15-11:00 AM
Fireside Chat
Moderator: Brian McNamara, Professor of Practice
Special Guest Speaker: Nora Ahmed, Legal Director, American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of Louisiana
Abstract: In this fireside chat, Legal Director Nora Ahmed will explore the intersection of law, public service, and social justice, examining how legal advocacy and ethical leadership can address systemic challenges, protect civil rights, and advance equity in our communities. The conversation will invite participants to consider what it means to make "good trouble"in today's complex social and political environment and how public administrators, policymakers, legal professionals, and emerging leaders can translate their values into meaningful action.

About ACLU Louisiana
The American Civil Liberties Union Foundation of Louisiana (ACLU of Louisiana) is a nonpartisan nonprofit
organization dedicated to protecting and advancing civil rights and civil liberties for all people in the state.
Through litigation, advocacy, and public education, the ACLU of Louisiana challenges government abuse,
defends individual freedoms, and promotes justice and equality.

11:15-11:45 AM
Solo Presentation
Title: “Leveraging AI to Streamline Operations & Deliver Citizen-centric Government Services”
Speaker: William “Bill” Rials, Ph.D., Associate Dean for Academic Affairs, Sr. Professor of Practice, Tulane SoPA
Abstract: In 2001, “digital government” meant moving paper forms to static PDF downloads. Today, it means
real-time, AI-driven resident services, “whole-of-state” cybersecurity, and cloud-native infrastructure that
never sleeps. This session will be a high-energy retrospective and a forward-looking strategy session that tracks
the evolution of the public sector's digital DNA. We will walk through the “waves” of transformation we've
navigated together and will provide a roadmap for the next quarter-century of innovation.

12:00–1:00 PM
Lunch

1:00–1:45 PM
Solo Presentation
Session Title: “Twenty Years After Hurricane Katrina: Building a More Resilient New Orleans”
Special Guest Speaker: Lamar Gardere, Executive Director, The Data Center
Abstract: Twenty-one years after Hurricane Katrina devastated New Orleans and exposed critical failures in the region’s flood protection systems, the metro area continues to confront increasing climate uncertainty and the threat of future disasters. This discussion will explore lessons learned, ongoing challenges, and innovative policy approaches to advance equitable recovery, protect vulnerable communities, and strengthen regional resilience and adaptability. Drawing on research, policy, and community perspectives, Lamar Gardere will examine how New Orleans' experiences can inform disaster preparedness, climate resilience, and recovery strategies in communities across the nation.

2:00-2:45 PM
Policy Pitch Presentations
Moderator: Michelle D. Jackson, Adjunct Professor, JLPA 
Presenters:

• Ashley Givens, MPA Student
  Topic: “From Blight to Support: Converting Vacant City Properties into Childcare and Family Resource Centers”
• Claire Reifschneider, MPA Graduate
  Topic: “A Long-term Funding Plan for Distributable Renewable Energy Resources in New Orleans”
• Danielle Martin, MPA Student
  Topic: “The Return on Mobility: Fast-Tracking Transit-Oriented Communities along the East-West BRT Corridor”

Abstract: The inaugural JLPA Public Policy Pitch Competition showcases innovative, evidence-based policy
solutions developed by Tulane University students, faculty, and alumni to address challenges affecting the Gulf
Coast region. Participants will present public policy proposals or philanthropic strategic plans addressing issues
such as economic development, public safety, sustainability, affordable housing, and community development.
Three participants will present their proposals to a review panel, with each presenter allotted six minutes to
pitch their idea, followed by four minutes of questions and answers. Awards will be provided.
Judges:

• Sharon Goldsmith, Executive Director of Innovation and Entrepreneurship Programs, Tulane University Innovation Programs
• Kimberly S. O'Neil, Adjunct Lecturer, Tulane JLPA
• Amiyah King, Juvenile Justice Policy Advisor, City of New Orleans Office of Violence Prevention

3:00–4:15 PM
Panel Discussion
Session Title: “Ethics and Inclusion in Action”
Moderator: Brian McNamara, Senior Professor of Practice
Panelists:

• Dr. Melissa Schigoda, CEO of Melissa Schigoda, LLC
• Lieutenant Commander Jacob Gamble, U.S. Coast Guard
• Mr. Marco Tejeda-Kemp, MPA Graduate

Abstract: Public administrators manage ethics and inclusion issues daily. Drawing upon their experience as
public administrators at the local, regional, and federal levels, panelists discuss how they have managed ethics
and inclusion in their professional practice. The discussion illustrates the myriad ways ethics and inclusion
issues arise in individual, organizational, and multi-sector settings.

5:00–7:00 PM
Networking Reception
📅 Friday, October 23, 2026
📍 204 Richardson Building | Tulane University

8:30-9:30 AM
Breakfast

9:30–11:00 AM
Philanthropy Workshop (Reading Requirements)
Session Topic: “Interactive Workshop Resourcing Resilience and Recovery: Cross-Sector Collaboration and Public Leadership After Hurricane Katrina”
Faculty Instructors: Dr. Halima Leak Francis, JLPA Director and Senior Professor of
Practice, and Professor Kimberly S. O'Neil, Adjunct Professor, Tulane JLPA
Abstract: Centered on Dr. Leak Francis' Brookings research on philanthropic investment in New Orleans' nonprofit sector after Hurricane Katrina, this interactive workshop explores the collaborative relationship among government, philanthropy, and nonprofits in community recovery. Professor O'Neil extends the conversation through her perspective as a former public administrator. Together, they examine public leaders' responsibility to prepare for crises, lead through them, and guide recovery. Following the opening conversation, participants will engage in small-group discussions, a gallery walk, and a closing discussion. They will consider how research and lessons from other communities help leaders plan rather than only react. They will also consider how cross-sector systems that center community needs and access to power, resources, and capital shape the future of communities of every size.
Required Preparation: During the session, students will work in small groups and share their responses in a gallery walk. Students should be prepared to draw on both the required materials and the opening discussion with Dr. Leak Francis and Professor O'Neil. Residency participants will engage in a hands-on, interactive session. To fully participate and meet residency engagement requirements, please review the required materials before the workshop. Reviewing the additional resource is optional and includes a link to all papers in the research series.
Required Course Readings & Videos: Workshop with Pre-Session Reading Requirements.

11:15 AM–12:15 PM
Film Screening & Q&A
Film Titles: Water Park and TIME II: Unfinished Business followed by a Q&A with the filmmaker.
Filmmaker: Joshua Montrel, JLPA Alumnus, Filmmaker and Policy Analyst 
Q&A Moderator: Michelle D. Jackson, Adjunct Professor, Tulane JPLA
Abstract: Experience filmmaker Joshua Montrel’s two original films, Water Park and TIME II: Unfinished Business, which explore pressing social issues affecting Louisiana and beyond.

• Water Park
  On the hottest day of summer, three young boys living in a town facing a water crisis embark on a journey to find a nostalgic place from their childhood, discovering the realities of a community grappling with water insecurity.
• TIME II: Unfinished Business
  Follow Sibil Fox Richardson and Robert Richardson, subjects of the Oscar-nominated documentary TIME, in the next chapter of their ongoing journey for love and justice. Together, they lead a deeply personal fight to free their incarcerated partner and nephew.

12:15 PM–1:15 PM
Lunch

1:15-2:00 PM
Fireside Chat
Session Title: “Leading Through Complexity: The Equal Justice Initiative, the Spirit of John Lewis, and the Future of Public Leadership”
Moderator: Dr. Halima Leak Francis, JLPA Director & Senior Professor of Practice
Special Guest Speaker: Theron Pride, Senior Attorney, Equal Justice Initiative (EJI)
Abstract: Leading through complexity requires public servants to build trust, work across sectors, and embrace innovative approaches to challenging community issues. The work of the Equal Justice Initiative (EJI) offers a powerful example of ethical and inclusive leadership—using history, advocacy, research, and community engagement to confront inequity and strengthen institutions. This discussion will explore how public leaders can bridge institutions and communities, challenge conventional approaches, and use partnership and innovation to create more equitable, responsive, and trusted public institutions.

About the EJI
The Equal Justice Initiative is a Montgomery, Alabama–based nonprofit organization founded in 1989 by Bryan Stevenson to challenge mass incarceration, excessive punishment, racial and economic injustice, and violations of basic human rights. EJI provides legal representation to people who have been wrongfully convicted, unfairly sentenced, or abused in jails and prisons, while also pursuing broader criminal justice reform through litigation, research, advocacy, and public education. The organization reports that it has secured relief, release, or reduced sentences for more than 140 people sentenced to death and has helped expose systemic problems contributing to wrongful convictions and excessive punishment. EJI also operates the Legacy Museum, the National Memorial for Peace and Justice, Freedom Monument Sculpture Park, and Montgomery Square, using history and public education to connect slavery, racial terror, segregation, and mass incarceration. Its research documents the scale of these challenges: more than 3,175 people have been exonerated nationally since 1989, representing more than 27,200 years of wrongful imprisonment.

2:15–3:30 PM
Panel Discussion
Session Title: “Building Strategic Economic Development Initiatives for Thriving Cities”
Moderator: Marco Tejeda-Kemp, MPA Graduate
Panelists:

• Michael Ince, Director, New Orleans Mayor’s Office of Nighttime Economy
• Philip C. Harris, Tulane Adjunct Professor and Director of Economic Development, City of Greenacres, Florida
• Robin Barnes, Tulane Adjunct Professor and Economic Recovery and Resilience Expert

Abstract: Thriving cities require thoughtful, collaborative, and inclusive economic development strategies. This panel will examine how cities can leverage their local assets, attract investment, support businesses and entrepreneurs, strengthen workforce systems, and create opportunities for residents. Panelists will share their perspectives on the role of public-private partnerships, innovation, infrastructure, and inclusive policies in fostering sustainable economic growth and building resilient communities.

4:00-4:30 PM
Solo Presentation
Session Title: “Collaboration in Action—A Coast Guard Perspective”
Special Guest Speaker: Captain Melanie A. Burnham, Commander, Sector New Orleans, U.S. Coast Guard
Abstract: Captain Melanie A. Burnham, Sector Commander for U.S. Coast Guard Sector New Orleans, shares her perspectives and lessons on collaboration and relationship building with public-and private-sector stakeholders.

4:45-5:15 PM
Fireside Chat
Session Title: “The Future of Public Administration: Where Do We Go From Here?”
Moderator: Robin Barnes, JLPA Adjunct Professor
Speakers: Dr. Halima Leak Francis, JLPA Director & Dr. Brian McNamara, Senior Professor of Practice
Abstract: Learn how public administration must adapt to technological change, evolving community needs, fiscal challenges, and a changing workforce. Participants will explore the skills and leadership practice needed to navigate these challenges, with a focus on innovation, ethics, equity, collaboration, and community engagement. The presentation will help participants understand the future of public service and how they can contribute to building more responsive, inclusive, and effective government.

5:15-5:30 PM
General Discussion
Session Title: “Overview—New Orleans Bus Tour: Where History Shapes Policy & Public Service Preparation”
Speaker: Michelle D. Jackson, Adjunct Professor, Tulane JLPA

8:30 AM–2:00 PM
New Orleans Bus Tour: Where History Shapes Policy

This required activity is for each student and one guest. Through driving and walking tours, we’ll explore New Orleans’ history and role in economic development, cultural preservation, racial equality, disaster recovery, and equitable community redevelopment. Breakfast will be provided at Tulane, with lunch at the historic Tate Etienne and Prevost Center in the Lower Ninth Ward. At TEP, we’ll complete our community service project by presenting a special gift to senior residents.

Show Your Tulane Pride! Wear Tulane gear to represent our MPA Program and university throughout the city. Comfortable shoes are recommended.This required activity is for each student and one guest. Through driving and walking tours, we’ll explore New Orleans’ history and role in economic development, cultural preservation, racial equality, disaster recovery, and equitable community redevelopment. Breakfast will be provided at Tulane, with lunch at the historic Tate Etienne and Prevost Center in the Lower Ninth Ward. At TEP, we’ll complete our community service project by presenting a special gift to senior residents. Show Your Tulane Pride! Wear Tulane gear to represent our MPA Program and university throughout the city. Comfortable shoes are recommended.

Traveling students: You may check out of the hotel that morning. The hotel has agreed to store your luggage until we return, and the bus will bring you back to the hotel following the tour. Therefore, we strongly recommend scheduling flights after 5:00 PM.

New Orleans Bus Tour Itinerary (*Sites where guests depart bus):

1. Leland College – 7000 block of St. Charles Avenue
2. Christ Church Cathedral – 2919 St. Charles Avenue
3. Flint-Goodridge Hospital 2425 Louisiana Avenue & Lasalle Street
4. Dew Drop Inn – 2836 Lasalle Street
5. New Zion Baptist Church – 2319 Third Street
6. A.L. Davis Park (former Joseph Shakespeare Park) – 2600 Lasalle Street
7. People’s Defense League – 2500 block of Lasalle Street
8. Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committeee (SNCC) – 1800 block Jackson Avenue
9. Congress of Racial Equality (CORE) – 1800 block Jackson Avenue & Oretha C. Haley Blvd.
10. Dryades Street Young Men's Christian Association (YMCA) – 2220 Oretha C. Haley Blvd.
11. Ashe Cultural Arts Center – 1712 Oretha C. Haley Blvd.
12. Free Southern Theater – 1332 Oretha C. Haley
13. Free Southern Theater – 1240 Oretha C. Haley
14. *Mechanics Institute Massacre - Roosevelt Waldorf Astoria Hotel – 100 Roosevelt Way
15. 300 Canal Street next to Caesars Palace Casino
16. *White Supremacy Monument/ Congo Square – 100 Iberville Street
17. *Homer A. Plessy - Marker – 2800 block Plessy Way
18. *World War 1 Arc – 3800 block Burgundy Street
19. Tate Etienne Prevost Interpretive Center (TEP) – 5909 St. Claude Avenue