Public Policy and International Affairs - PPIA Program

Still feeling the energy from Rutgers University–Newark. ⚡

At National Academy of Public Administration's 25th Annual Social Equity Leadership Conference, PPIA Executive Director Josh Diosomito moderated a panel on a question that feels especially urgent right now:

Who gets to lead when public service careers feel risky?

The conversation featured Madam Secretary Stacy L. Rodgers, MPA, Steven Francisco, and Dr. Anika A. E. who brought honesty, experience, and real wisdom to the room.

They talked about the turns, pivots, mentors, and moments that shape a public service journey. No one had the same path. That was the point.

This is why PPIA exists.

To help more students see a future in public service.
To connect them with people who have walked the path.
To remind them that leadership does not start when everything feels certain. Sometimes it starts when the stakes feel highest.

Thank you to our speakers, NAPA, and everyone who joined the conversation.

The next generation is ready. Let’s make sure they know there is a path forward. 🚀

Last night in NYC was special.

Our PPIA Town Hall, hosted by Josh Diosomito at the Austin W. Marxe School of Public and International Affairs at Baruch College brought together alumni, students, partners, and friends who care deeply about public service and where this field is headed next.

Thank you to Dean Sherry Ryan, Angelina S. Delgado and the entire Marxe team for hosting us, and to Pulitzer Prize Winning Journalist Carla Robbins for a conversation that was honest, thoughtful, and incredibly timely.

But honestly, the best part of the night was seeing the PPIA community together again. Conversations picking up where they left off. Alumni reconnecting. New faces walking into the room and realizing they belong here too. And to every PPIA alum and current Junior Summer Institute '26 participants who showed up, including Zakia Safsaf, Rafael Escalante, Steven Francisco, Chris Tirado — THANK YOU the stories, the laughter, and the purpose you bring into every space.

That’s what PPIA has always been about.

KEEP GOING.

Your public service journey continues.

The PPIA Future Leaders Summit Expo is open to all students and alumni interested in public policy, public affairs, international affairs, and global affairs.

Connect with graduate programs, fellowship opportunities, and career pathways that can help shape your future in public service.

📍 George Washington University | Washington, DC,
📅 Friday, July 10, 2026
⏰ 3:00 – 5:30 PM
🎟️ Free to attend

Scan the QR code or click this link: https://www.ppiaprogram.org/future-leaders-expo

Bring your ambition.
Bring your curiosity.
Keep going.

Today, the Public Policy and International Affairs Program remembers and honors the men and women who gave their lives in service to our country. On Memorial Day, we pause in gratitude and reflection for those who made the ultimate sacrifice. 🇺🇸

Our May issue highlights the students, alumni, partnerships, and institutions helping shape the future of public service leadership.

Explore the May issue: www.ppiaprogram.org/momentum-may-2026

PPIA is coming to the Big Apple! 🔊🍎 🏙️

NY + NJ + CT community — we’re coming together.

Public Policy & International Affairs (PPIA) Fellowship Program is hosting a New York City Town Hall at Austin W. Marxe School of Public and International Affairs at Baruch College to create space for real conversations, meaningful connections, & next‑gen leadership. 💬 🤝🏾 🧗🏾‍♀️

In a moment when the world feels complex and the headlines feel heavy, we’re gathering to cut through the noise — to ask better questions, build community, and explore what leadership looks like in times of uncertainty.

This free, in‑person event will feature:

✨ Carla Robbins, PhD — Pulitzer Prize–winning journalist, Senior Fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations, and Director of the Master of International Affairs Program at the Marxe School

✨ Moderated by Josh Diosomito — Executive Director of PPIA and former Senior Homeland Security Analyst

Whether you’re an emerging leader, a PPIA alum in the tri‑state area, a community partner, or part of the Next Generation Service Corps, this is your space to connect, reflect, and strengthen the public service pipelines.

📍 Baruch College, Marxe School — Room D301
🗓️ Wednesday, May 27, 2026
⏰ 5:00–7:00 PM
💬 Free event | Networking | Community building
✅ RSVP: https://www.ppiaprogram.org/townhallmarxe

Let’s show up for each other — and for the future of public service.

We hope to see you there.

For almost 50 years, PPIA alumni have opened doors, built community, and helped shape pathways into public service.

That legacy continues through the students, alumni, institutions, and partners carrying this work forward today.

We’re excited to reconnect with the PPIA community and share more stories, opportunities, and moments ahead.

PPIA alumni built this legacy. The next generation will carry it forward.

Public Policy and International Affairs - PPIA Program

PPIA is excited to announce that Josh Diosomito has been appointed Interim Executive Director, effective June 1.

A proud PPIA alumnus, Josh brings a deep history of leadership and service to the role. As a former member of the PPIA Executive Committee and Board of Directors, Josh has long championed pathways into public service for emerging leaders.

His leadership comes at a pivotal moment. As the landscape of public service and higher education continues to evolve, PPIA remains future-focused—strengthening pathways to impact-driven careers, driving innovation, and uplifting future leaders.

The months ahead will offer powerful opportunities for connection and community building in Washington, D.C.:
🔹 Public Service Expo – July 11
🔹 Alumni Reception – July 10
🔹 Support the Mission – as a mentor, donor, or partner in purpose

Josh leads with intention, experience, and a strong belief in the power of investing in the next generation. We’re excited for the work ahead!

Please join us in congratulating the newest class of PPIA Fellows!

Out of a highly competitive pool, 83 future leaders have been selected for the 2025 PPIA Junior Summer Institute (JSI)!

Over six weeks, they’ll gain:
* Public policy & leadership training
* A powerful professional network
* Grad school support & scholarships

We’re excited to welcome them to the PPIA community and support their journey toward impactful careers in public policy and international affairs.

Tag a Fellow and help us celebrate their achievement!

hashtag hashtag hashtag hashtag hashtag hashtag