Stories of Service at the Celebration of the American Public Servant

On June 22, the National Academy of Public Administration will host a landmark gala at the Library of Congress as part of its Celebrating the American Public Servant initiative. The Celebration of the American Public Servant 250 Gala will honor the people who make our government work through their exemplary public service. Attendees will include leaders from all levels of government, dedicated public servants, and the Academy’s civic partners who share a commitment to strengthening democracy through service.  

“A strong government depends on a capable and committed public service,” said James-Christian Blockwood, President & CEO of the National Academy of Public Administration. “Celebrating the American Public Servant is about sharing the stories of people whose leadership, expertise, and dedication make the lives of Americans better every day. As our nation looks ahead to its next 250 years, we should honor the public servants who are stewards of our institutions, strengthen communities across the country and ensure we prosper as a nation.” 

For the first time in history, six public service award programs will be united under one title and celebration, Celebrating the American Public Servant. The gala’s “Stories of Service” panel speakers will be the distinguished recipients of awards who represent a variety of public servants across federal, state, and local sectors. 

• Service to the Citizen Award: Honors public servants who excel in delivering impactful, efficient, and effective government services and rebuilding public trust in government.  
  • Honoree: Kenneth Corbin, Chief, Taxpayer Services, Internal Revenue Service 
• Partnership for Public Service, Service to America Medal: Honors federal workers who make our nation safer, stronger, healthier, and more prosperous. Sheds light on stories that show how government makes a difference in our lives. 
  • Honoree: David Lebryk, Former Fiscal Assistant Secretary and Acting Secretary of the Treasury  
• Arthur S. Flemming Award: Honors outstanding federal employees. Recognized by the president of the United States, agency heads, and the private sector. 
  • Honoree: Dr. William Phillips, Katharine Blodgett Gebbie Fellow and Nobel Laureate in Physics, NIST  
• Government Executive Hall of Fame: Honors individuals who have profoundly shaped the federal government and the American people. Highlights people who have demonstrated unwavering dedication and sustained excellence in public service. 
  • Honoree: Major General William J. Walker (Ret.), Former Sergeant at Arms, U.S. House of Representatives  
• Leadership Connect Next Generation Leader Spotlight: Spotlights individuals who have shown passion and purpose while working in and with the U.S. Government. 
  • Honoree: Kaity Wolfe, Deputy Assistant Secretary for House Affairs, U.S. Dept. of State  
• Governing Public Official of the Year: Recognizes state and local officials who have brought about significant changes to their communities, no matter their political party. Highlights individuals who carry out programs and policies that make a difference at home and provide lessons to leaders everywhere. 
  • Honoree: Andrew J. Ginther, Mayor, Columbus, Ohio  

The academy invites all to come and join in celebrating these public servants and all that they have done to serve their communities. For more information about attending the Celebration of the American Public Servant 250 Gala: https://napawash.org/caps