Master of Public Administration Program Announces New Director

Published: November 04, 2016 | Read Time: 2 minutes

The Master of Public Administration (MPA) program at Southern Utah University is pleased to announce Dr. Angela Pool-Funai as its new director. The NASPAA-accredited program currently serves nearly 100 graduate students from across the state of Utah – and beyond – who are training for careers in the public and nonprofit sectors. SUU offers emphasis tracks in State and Local Government or Higher Education Administration, as well as a general MPA degree.

“Thanks to the dedication of those who came before me, our MPA degree already has a strong reputation among our peer institutions, and it is the fastest growing graduate program at SUU,” said Pool-Funai. “Our Bridge program even provides an opportunity for qualified undergraduates to get a head start on their graduate studies.” 

Pool-Funai joined the SUU faculty as an assistant professor of political science and public administration in 2014. She received a Doctor of Public Administration (DPA) degree from Valdosta State University, a Master of Public Policy and Administration (MPPA) from Baylor University, and a BA in Communication from Stephen F. Austin State University.

She succeeds Dr. Ravi K. Roy, who is transitioning into new responsibilities at the university as the W. Edwards Deming Fellow in Public Affairs. Prior to joining the SUU faculty, Pool-Funai worked in research and grants roles for more than 15 years. Her scholarly interests include experiential learning, virtual currency, tax policy, and philanthropy.

“I would like to see our MPA program become the unquestionable top choice for students throughout Utah and the intermountain west who seek careers in public service,” said Pool-Funai. “One of our program's core values is "lead through change," and we can accomplish that goal by engaging students with a practitioner-oriented approach in the classroom, through experiential learning opportunities beyond the university campus, and staying connected with alumni. We are currently brainstorming recruitment and mentorship ideas in collaboration with alumni, and we have a brand new endowed scholarship fund that continues to grow.” 

Pool-Funai serves on the advisory board of the Michael O. Leavitt Center for Politics and Public Service and is an avid supporter of T-Bird athletics and the Orchestra of Southern Utah. She is also a columnist for PA Times, a quarterly periodical published by the American Society for Public Administration.

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