Organization of Doctoral Students in Public Administration and Policy

In the late 1990s, a small group of committed doctoral students formed a university-wide student organization at Portland State University, called the Organization of Doctoral Students in Public Administration and Policy (ODSPAP).  The purpose of this organization, then and now is to:

  • Develop an academic community of doctoral students,
  • Provide ongoing support for Public Administration and Policy Ph.D. students,
  • Provide a forum for discussion of issues related to the degree program,
  • Participate as required and as requested in decision making processes within the University, the College of Urban and Public Affairs, and the Public Administration and Policy Ph.D. Program,
  • Be an advocate for students in the Public Administration and Policy Ph.D. Program,
  • Promote and support professional development and involvement of the members.

 

Over the years, ODSPAP has made significant contributions to the program, largely by organizing and helping to support a number of annual activities. Some of the ongoing activities include:

  • Fall term welcome potluck for new incoming members of the PAP cohort,
  • Maintain PAP student listserv (papphd@lists.pdx.edu) to inform students of important changes in the program, upcoming events, job openings, and other related professional development activities and opportunities,
  • Participate in the annual Hatfield Community of Scholars Luncheon,
  • Facilitate other various social events.

 

Any currently admitted student of the Public Administration and Policy Ph.D. Program at Portland State University may become a member of this organization. Student representatives are elected by the PAP students with the goal being to provide support for PAP students and the doctoral program, in general. The organization is governed by a Constitution, has a formal election process, and is supported by five PAP student representatives. The term of office for student representatives is two years.

 

If you are interested in additional information, have any questions, or would like to contact current ODSPAP Representatives, please email: ODSPAP@pdx.edu.