DAPA’s Spring Networking Program: Strengthening the Foundation

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photo of Dr. James PerryDAPA co-hosted the SUAPP alumni event, which featured a presentation by Dr. James Perry, Messick Scholar and Distinguished Professor from the Indiana University-Bloomington’s School of Public and Environmental Affairs. Dr. Perry’s presentation was part of a week-long visit week with SUAPP faculty, staff, and students. His presentation “Public Service is the Bedrock of American Society” touched on the importance of public service, how it is perceived, and ways to ensure our public institutions are protected for future generations.

Public Service Week graphicThe event was held to commemorate the annual Public Service Recognition Week—a time set aside to celebrate the nation’s government employees and “educate citizens about the work they do, why they have chosen public service careers, and the many ways that government services make life better for all of us.”

In keeping with this year’s theme, “Government Goes Green,” DAPA showcased the work of a first-grade class from John R. Downes Elementary School in Newark, Del. A full-color-illustrated booket titled “Earth’s Best Jobs” was created by the class to honor and recognize public service workers in the community—people the kids think deliver important services while having a positive impact on the earth.

photo of participants mingling before the program   photo of teacher Jo Anne Deshon and two of her students
Participants network in the lobby before the formal presentation by Dr. James Perry. Michelle Eichinger (center) talks with Michael Gamel-McCormick, dean of the University of Delaware’s College of Human Services, Education & Public Policy.
 
 		   Dr. Jo Anne Deshon, first-grade teacher at John R. Downes, and two of her students show off their work.
 
photo of attendees examining the kids' public service book   photo of James Perry giving his presentation   photo of James Perry looking at the gift he received
SUAPP faculty member Audrey Helfman examines the booklet of kids’ illustrations of public service workers.   Dr. James Perry discusses the many facets of public service in his presentation titled “Public Service is the Bedrock of American Society.”   Dr. James Perry marvels over his new University of Delaware clock, which was presented by SUAPP director Maria Aristigueta.

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