Crystal Calarusse MPP ’05, a doctoral student in the School of Public Policy, has been appointed the next executive director of the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration (NASPAA), the global accrediting body for public service education. Her appointment takes effect February 2, 2025.
Calarusse has spent more than 25 years in public service education and accreditation, including a long history with NASPAA. In her previous roles at NASPAA, including chief accreditation officer, Calarusse helped expand their global accreditation efforts and worked with hundreds of member programs on quality standards.
In addition to her work with NASPAA, Calarusse has held leadership positions with national and international organizations focused on higher education and public administration accreditation.
The NASPAA Executive Council voted to appoint Calarusse following an international search that included extensive engagement with NASPAA staff, member institutions, governance leaders and external stakeholders. As executive director, Calarusse will lead NASPAA’s strategic initiatives, support member schools, advance global accreditation standards and champion the association’s efforts to prepare the next generation of public service leaders.
“I am honored to return to NASPAA in this capacity,” said Calarusse. “Our member institutions play a vital role in strengthening governance and public service around the world, and I look forward to working with this community to advance excellence, innovation and impact.”
