Public Service Leadership at All Levels
We believe that Public Service lies at the heart of democracy, and through intentional leadership training, we strengthen the organizations that serve our communities. This blog has been crafted to provide a platform for exploration, development, and growth, all the while ensuring access to the latest best practices and research.
Leadership and Management Information
Why Systems Thinking Is the Key to Breaking Down Organizational Silos
Systems thinking helps break down organizational silos by encouraging a big-picture view that focuses on relationships, patterns, and root causes rather than isolated issues. By fostering collaboration, revealing leverage points, and promoting long-term thinking, it enables organizations—especially in public service—to work more cohesively and effectively.
Investing in Talent at All Levels
The Emerging Leaders Academy cultivates influence, confidence, and collaboration across the public sector.
In the fast-paced world of public service, leadership is less about hierarchy and more about behavior, mindset, and impact. The Emerging Leaders Academy, hosted by the University of Kansas Public Management Center, embodies this modern philosophy. Designed for early- to mid-career professionals in government, the academy is redefining what it means to lead — at any level.
Navigating Sustainability: Local Officials Share Community-Based Approaches
The study “How Do Local Officials Conceptualize Sustainability as Practiced in Their Communities?” explores how municipal leaders define and apply sustainability in their local contexts. Co-author Rachel Krause, a professor at the University of Kansas, highlights the variation in how communities approach sustainability—some seeing it as a broad goal, others emphasizing specific actions. Key findings include varied local definitions, a focus on measurable projects, and the importance of com
Building a Better Leadership Network: Gender, Communication, and Inclusion in Public Administration
In today’s evolving public sector landscape, building strong leadership networks is essential for fostering innovation, collaboration, and trust across organizations. But how those networks form — and who gets included in them — can be deeply influenced by gender. Nicole Humphrey, assistant professor at the University of Kansas, offers critical insights into this intersection through her research on organizational behavior and communication in local government.