A recent review of Master of Public Affairs (MPA) graduates of the Truman School of Government and Public Affairs from 2024-2025 found that the large majority are working in government, nonprofits, and other public-interest roles. The review concludes with an incredible 95% placement rate of MPA graduates into work or further education. 

Undergraduate students in the Truman School of Government and Public Affairs’ Emerging Leaders in Public Service program spent two days in the field, meeting with state policymakers in Jefferson City and then examining how public needs are met locally at the Voluntary Action Center in Columbia.

The Future of Data Workshop, held at the University of Missouri on October 1st and 2nd, examined the growing risk that important federal data and reporting systems may be reduced, substantially altered, or discontinued. Many academic, policy, and public sector projects depend on federal information infrastructures that have been built over decades. When those systems change or disappear, the problem is not simply the loss of a dataset.

Recent reflections from MPA students at the Truman School offer a small but instructive data point for those studying the theory-practice divide in public affairs education. Kali Michael's internship led her to conclude that core MPA competencies, communication, leadership, strategic thinking, ethical decision-making, collaboration, are not merely pedagogical constructs but operational variables that shape organizational effectiveness and service delivery.

Two Truman School doctoral graduates are beginning new chapters this academic year, each stepping into tenure-track faculty roles at institutions known for strong research and teaching cultures. Michael Powell has joined the faculty at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, and Aryanna Hyde has taken a position at Purdue University, Fort Wayne. Their placements mark another strong year for the Truman School's PhD program and its record of preparing scholars for careers in higher education.

Research that advances governance and public policy around the world is central to the mission of the Truman School.  To produce high impact research, scholars need opportunities to engage with colleagues and build connections across universities. Strong professional communities provide essential opportunities to collaborate, receive feedback, and strengthen research. 

The University of Missouri's Open Minds Initiative, in partnership with Mizzou's Heterodox Academy Campus Community, will welcome politi

Dr. Henderson draws from personal experience and academic research to examine identity, outlook, and opportunity.