Center for Ethics in Public Service Planned
The University of Scranton announced plans to establish a Center for Ethics and Excellence in Public Service, with a full launch planned during the fall semester 2021. Housed in the University’s Political Science Department of the College of Arts and Sciences, the Center will work to foster the development of ethical and competent public officials and civically knowledgeable, responsible, and engaged community members. It will develop new educational and networking opportunities for incumbent and aspiring public servants including training in the legal and ethical obligations of public servants as well as the knowledge, skills and capacities essential to just and effective governance. Moreover, the Center will be a clearinghouse for information on local and state governments and officials in NEPA, and relevant educational and training opportunities for public servants provided by other public and professional entities.
In addition to its community offerings, the Center will offer students internships (both on-campus and in the community), training programs, networking events with state and local government officials, and research opportunities, all of which will be focused on ethics and public service.
“The programming and research created and shared by the Center for Ethics and Excellence in Public Service will offer new and meaningful opportunities for students who wish to pursue a career in public service or are interested in findings ways to pursue justice and contribute positively to their communities,” said Jean Harris, Ph.D., professor of political science and co-director of the Center for Ethics and Excellence in Public Service.
Dr. Harris noted that Northeast Pennsylvania is uniquely positioned to study “swing state” politics, since the region is one of the central focal points of federal races, where presidential, congressional and senate candidates visit and focus their attention. This will provide additional opportunities for the Center’s programs and initiatives.
“We are excited to partner with local and state public officials, the University’s Office of Community Engagement and Government Affairs, and NEPA communities to offer education and resources to foster good governance and create a more knowledgeable and engaged citizenry” said JoyAnna Hopper, Ph.D., assistant professor of political science and co-director of the Center for Ethics and Excellence in Public Service. “The Center will provide students with opportunities to be an active part of improving the lives of NEPA residents.”
“This kind of Center will be one-of-a-kind in Northeastern Pennsylvania. The University works regularly with local and state government agencies and officials in a range of ways. The Center provides something unique – bringing academic, government and community stakeholders together to pursue just and effective governance. The kinds of resources, tools and networking that will be available fill a gap when we look at other parts of the Commonwealth and nation,” said Julie Schumacher Cohen, assistant vice president for community engagement and government affairs at the University.
The Center for Ethics and Excellence in Public Service at the University will launch fully in the fall semester. For additional information, contact Dr. Harris or Dr. Hopper at the Political Science Department at CEEPS@scranton.edu or 570-941-6326.