Who or what inspired you to pursue a career in public administration?

From an early age, I believed that collective action was required to solve big problems and ensure that society functioned effectively and equitably. I admired exemplary public servants and wanted to help educate future generations for public service.

Who has been a key mentor or source of inspiration for you?

My most important and inspiring academic mentor was Robert Backoff at Ohio State--he modeled intellectual rigor, concern for students, and commitment to the public good that exemplified the PA academy at its best. Frank Sherwood, who was my first chair at Florida State, showed me that there were many paths to excellence and that there could be a powerful synergy among research, teaching, and public outreach.

Who has been a key mentor or source of inspiration for you?

My most important and inspiring academic mentor was Robert Backoff at Ohio State--he modeled intellectual rigor, concern for students, and commitment to the public good that exemplified the PA academy at its best. Frank Sherwood, who was my first chair at Florida State, showed me that there were many paths to excellence and that there could be a powerful synergy among research, teaching, and public outreach.

What advice would you give to those interested in pursuing a career in public administration?

Stay committed to the values that brought you to public service.

What would you currently consider the most critical challenge for public administration and why?

The loss of confidence in our institutions and the competence of those who serve in them as well
as the politicization of critical functions of public service carried out by neutral public
officials.

What is your favorite cuisine?

I was probably a Korean in a previous life and Korean food is a favorite.

What is your favorite hobby or activity that you enjoy doing in your free time?

I'm principally a reader (of everything from three daily newspapers to current affairs and noir mysteries.

What was your dream job as a child?

Although I don't if this is apocryphal, but my parents claimed that I settled on becoming a professor at an early age. For a long time, I thought I'd be a lawyer.