James-Christian Blockwood, One of Washington D.C.’s 500 People Influencing Policy

In a year marked by shifting political priorities and rapid policy change, The Washingtonian has released its annual list of the 500 professionals wielding the greatest influence in Washington in 2026. Selections are based on several factors, including expertise in specific policy areas, the ability to drive action in DC, and navigating changes under the current administration. 

New to this year’s list is James-Christian Blockwood, President and CEO of the National Academy of Public Administration. A staunch advocate for public service, his career is underlined by a passion for improving public administration and leading the charge to solve our nation’s grand challenges.

Prior to joining the Academy, Blockwood served as Executive Vice President at the Partnership for Public Service, was a member of the Senior Executive Service, and has led transformation efforts across multiple federal agencies. He also serves as an adjunct professor at Syracuse University Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Service. Throughout his career, Blockwood has been a leading advocate for strengthening government effectiveness and advancing solutions to the nation’s most pressing challenges.

“It’s an honor to be included among Washingtonian’s Most Influential People Shaping Policy, but I’m even more proud of the Academy's resolve to maintain its nonpartisan approach in elevating public service and helping our government leaders during this pivotal year for our country,” said James-Christian Blockwood.

Blockwood’s commitment to strengthening effective government is reflected throughout his career in public service, and especially in the Academy's landmark initiative: Celebrating the American Public Servant. The initiative recognizes the individuals whose work often happens behind the scenes and highlights the essential role public servants play in strengthening communities, institutions, and democracy itself.

As part of this year-long effort, the Academy is advancing several key initiatives focused on honoring service and shaping the future of government, including:

1. Reimagining Government for the Next 250 Years — a national conversation and research initiative informed by insights and ideas emerging from the Academy’s 2025 annual conference. 
2. Honoring 250 Champions of Public Service — recognizing individuals across the country whose leadership and dedication exemplify the very best of public service.  
3. Celebrating the American Public Servant Gala and Awards Ceremony — taking place this June at the Library of Congress and bringing together leaders from federal, state, and local government, civic organizations, emerging public servants, and Academy Fellows from across the country to celebrate those making a lasting impact through service. 

We congratulate James-Christian Blockwood on this recognition and celebrate the countless public servants across the country who work every day to strengthen our communities, institutions, and democracy.

Alongside Blockwood, Academy Fellows Georges Benjamin, Sue Gordon, and Max Stier were also included on Washingtonian’s 2026 list of the 500 Most Influential People Shaping Policy.

To read the full list, visit Washingtonian’s 500 Most Influential People Shaping Policy.

Pictured: Academy Fellows James-Christian Blockwood and Georges Benjamin.