Message from the Director | | |
This month, Team PPMC had the opportunity to visit Anchorage, Alaska for the Consortium of University Public Service Organizations (CUPSO) Annual Conference hosted by the University of Alaska Anchorage Institute of Social and Economic Research. The conference theme was "Public Service on the Frontier," and I have found myself thinking about that phrase since returning home.
When most people hear “frontier,” they probably think of Alaska’s rugged landscapes, remote communities, and incredible distances. But as I listened to colleagues from across the country, I was reminded that Kansas is no stranger to the frontier. Trailblazing is in our DNA.
Our frontiers may look different than they did 150 years ago, but public servants continue to venture into the unknown every day. Whether you are addressing housing challenges, strengthening literacy outcomes, improving behavioral health systems, or building trust in your community, you are navigating territory without a clear map. The challenges are complex, and there are rarely easy answers.
At CUPSO, I participated in a panel on public service leadership while James and Christian shared how the PPMC has adapted to significant organizational change through stronger systems and sustainable practices. Yet one of the greatest reminders from the conference was that none of us are navigating these challenges alone.
Public service has always required curiosity, courage, and a willingness to move forward when the path is uncertain. What challenge are you helping your community navigate? What path are you helping create for those who come after you?
Thank you for continuing to do that work.
| | Applied Research & Collaboration | | Old Cowtown Museum Landscape Analysis | |
The PPMC conducted a landscape analysis for Old Cowtown Museum using a question‑driven approach to better understand current conditions, strengths, and opportunities.
The Access & Engagement team engaged a wide range of internal and external stakeholders through interviews and focus groups, including staff, volunteers, and community partners, to capture both operational and external perspectives. In addition, the Applied Research & Collaboration team administered a stakeholder survey that reached more than 250 respondents, providing broader insight into perceptions, experiences, and priorities. This combined approach offered a comprehensive view of Cowtown’s current position and helped inform the next phase of strategic planning.
| | Wichita Symphony Orchestra Strategic Planning | | |
Over the past few months, our Access & Engagement team has been working closely with Wichita Symphony Orchestra to develop a new strategic plan.
Through close partnership with their executive director and appointed leadership team, the PPMC has helped them review existing plans, develop a vision for their new plan, identify key stakeholders, and engage with them through focus groups to learn about their experience with WSO and how they see the future of the organization. These stakeholders have given us a rare glimpse into the passion, talent, and training needed for the Wichita Symphony Orchestra to thrive in our community. We’re grateful for their dedication to both their craft and their strategic plan!
| | Talent & Organizational Success | | International Institute of Municipal Clerks (IIMC) Conference | | |
The Talent & Organizational Success team recently traveled with several Kansas clerks to the International Institute of Municipal Clerks (IIMC) Conference in Reno, Nevada.
The conference provided valuable opportunities to learn from municipal leaders across the country, exchange ideas with peers, and explore best practices in local government administration. During the event, the Kansas association (CCMFOA) was also honored with the 2026 Association Donor Award, recognizing its continued leadership and support within the profession.
| | | Student Assistant Highlight: Nazjai @ Networked 2026! | |
Last week, PPMC Student Assistant Nazjai Dickson had a wonderful time serving as a visual scribe for the Housing Huddle at the 5th annual Networked Conference from Network Kansas!
We’re proud to see our student team members helping support important community conversations and engagement efforts across Wichita.
| | WSU Public Policy & Management Center invites you to join the following groups or organizations: | | |
Professional Development Series: Our Next Session is June 22nd with Brenda Dietzman!
Set yourself up for success with the Professional Development Series, a practical, high-impact learning experience built for entry to mid-level leaders in any industry. Our next session, "Leading by Feel," is instructed by Brenda Dietzman of Wayfinder Consulting and will take place at Alford Library.
Discover the value of emotional intelligence in everyday leadership. This session helps supervisors tune into intuition, empathy, and awareness to guide decisions and strengthen relationships.
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Technical Assistance for Sustainable Water Infrastructure and Community Resilience
For many local governments, small utilities, and tribal communities, the barrier to a cleaner, more resilient environment is not a lack of vision- it is a lack of administrative and financial capacity. This includes addressing challenges related to water, wastewater, and stormwater infrastructure.
Get expert help—at no cost—from the Environmental Finance Center at Wichita State University. Our team offers practical and personalized technical assistance to help communities meet their environmental and financial goals, including:
- Identifying infrastructure needs and funding opportunities
- Navigating complex grant and loan programs
- Improving utility financial planning, rate-setting, and asset management
- Assisting with leadership communication and community engagement
- Conducting feasibility studies and stakeholder engagement
With tailored, one-on-one support, the EFC can help you turn ideas into actionable, fundable projects—strengthening public health, environmental outcomes, and quality of life. Contact john.colclazier@wichita.edu for more information!
| Registration is now open, and KU is offering an early bird discount of $3,900 for those who register by April 30, 2026. This is a great opportunity to plan ahead and secure a spot at the reduced rate. | | |
KU PMC and WSU PPMC are partnering to bring Heartland Certified Public Manager (CPM) Program back to Wichita!
CPM cohorts continue to fill quickly, and the strong response to last year’s launch confirmed what we’ve been hearing from the field: public service professionals want flexible, timely opportunities to build leadership and management skills.
In response, WSU Public Policy & Management Center and KU Public Management Center are teaming up to bring a CPM cohort to Wichita from July 8th, 2026, to May 6th, 2027.
| | Registration is now open, and KU is offering an early bird discount of $3,900 for those who register by April 30, 2026. This is a great opportunity to plan ahead and secure a spot at the reduced rate. | | |
Women in Public Service (WPS) 2026
Join or renew your membership for 2026 with Women in Public Service (WPS).
WPS is a place where we inspire current and future generations by addressing topics relevant to women in public service while instilling knowledge through education, networking, and professional development that strengthens the leadership in our local government and communities. While WPS programming focuses on topics relevant to women in the field, all public service professionals are welcome to attend and contribute.
We encourage you to continue (or start!) your journey with WPS. Throughout 2026, we will continue to have our bi-monthly luncheons, mentoring opportunities, and our annual conference.
Our 2026 theme: Engaging Others
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ICTNext: Inspiring the NEXT Generation of Civic Talent
Introducing ICTNext, a new organization crafted just for young professionals in public service. If you are a young public service worker, this is your invitation to join our mailing list and recieve notifications for all future group updates and events featuring vibrant networking, engaging conversations, and collaboration!
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Mental Health & Substance Abuse Coalition (MHSAC)
The Mental Health & Substance Abuse Coalition (MHSAC) aims to develop a sustainable, accessible, and integrated system of care that serves people with mental health and substance abuse disorders who are in crisis, in order to efficiently and effectively deliver services that create positive outcomes.
Join our newsletter mailing list to recieve monthly emails regarding local updates in the areas of mental health, substance abouse, homelessness, relevant legislation, and more.
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Local Government Network (LGN) 2026
The Local Government Network (LGN) is designed to strengthen leadership and collaboration among city and county governments across Kansas. Through monthly learning and networking opportunities, LGN connects public servants who are passionate about effective, ethical, and community-driven local governance.
When your city or county joins LGN for 2026, all employees and elected officials can take part in a full year of engaging programs. Members gain access to workshops, webinars, and in-person events that foster connection, share best practices, and build capacity for stronger local government. Learn more or check your membership status using the links below.
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