Most of our doctoral students are mid-to-late in their careers and have significant experience in the public, private, and/or nonprofit sectors. Some hold administrative positions in these sectors, and many are closely involved in developing and evaluating public policies at the federal, state, and/or local levels.
These students are completing their doctoral coursework, preparing for their qualifying exams, or working on their dissertations.
BPNA students are encouraged to complete their degrees following the provided program/course plan templates. The plans are based on course offering patterns. If you need to deviate from these plans, please consult with your academic advisor.
Our alumni have completed all program requirements, including successfully writing and defending their dissertations. They represent some of the most promising and accomplished social sector leaders in the region.
DPA students must complete their core coursework as outlined in the program/course plans and trackers. They are also encouraged to complete the rest of their degree requirements as outlined in these plans. If you need to deviate from these plans, please consult with your academic advisor.
Take a deep dive into the theories, frameworks, research skills, and methodologies necessary to advance knowledge and solve problems in your area of interest.
Bio: Crystal E. Snodgrass, DPA Doctoral Candidate, is investigating whether the extent to which health care partners collaborate in a Medicare Accountable Care Organization (ACO) affects ACO performance on federal quality and cost measures. An ACO is a formal partnership established by health care providers willing to be accountable for the cost and quality of care for their patients in exchange for a share in the cost savings associated with improving care.
Hometown: Springfield, IL
Undergraduate Institution and Major: University of Illinois at Springfield, Business Management
Graduate Institution and Major: University of Illinois at Springfield, Public Administration
Hometown: Marion, IL.
Undergraduate Institution and Major: University of Southern Illinois at Carbondale, Administration of Justice.
Graduate Institution and Major: University of Southern Illinois at Carbondale, Administration of Rehabilitation
Bio: Brent Todd is a member of the 2015 cohort. He has served in faculty, support, and administrative positions in higher education since 2002. He is currently dean of instruction at Lincoln Trail College in Robinson, Illinois. Mr. Todd’s research interests include community college faculty teaching load and its implications for management and policy.
Degrees: B.S. Botany and M.S. Biological Sciences, Eastern Illinois University
Email: btodd3@uis.edu
Bio: Keyria Rodgers is a member of the 2015 cohort. Her professional experience extends across 11 years in government and 5 years in academia as Director of Millikin University’s Criminal Justice Department, Director of the Teen Justice Diversion Program, Instructor of Criminal Justice, grant writer, program manager, independent consultant, and Restorative Justice trainer for multiple government and community-based programs. Ms.