Connecting foundational theories with the challenges facing today's public and nonprofit organizations. What makes an organization effective? How do organizational structures, leadership, and decision-making influence the work organizations do? These questions are at the heart of Organization Theory and Governance for the 21st Century: A Practical Public Service Approach, the newly revised second edition coauthored by Ju Won Park, Sandi Rideout, and Eric K. Austin, forthcoming from Routledge on November 30, 2026. This updated edition brings organization theory to life by connecting foundational concepts with the practical realities of today's public and nonprofit organizations. It incorporates new theories, updated examples, case studies, and reflection questions to help readers better understand how organizations function, adapt, and respond to changing environments. The book also emphasizes evidence-based decision-making and ethical considerations, encouraging readers to think critically about organizational practices and their impact on public service and democratic governance. Designed for students, educators, and public service practitioners, this book offers a valuable resource for understanding organizational behavior, leadership, change, and the theories that shape effective public and nonprofit organizations. Congratulations to Ju Won Park, Sandi Rideout, and Eric K. Austin on this exciting publication! Book Information Title: Organization Theory and Governance for the 21st Century: A Practical Public Service Approach Authors: Eric K. Austin, Sandi Rideout, and Ju Won Park Publisher: Routledge Edition: Second Edition Publication Date: November 30, 2026 ISBN: 9781032938615 Interested in learning more? Preorders are available now through Routledge. Explore the book and preorder your copy.

Join the School of Public Affairs on October 27, 2026, from 5:30–7:30 p.m. at the Hinckley Institute of Politics as we celebrate the MPA Program’s 50th anniversary. Visiting Professor Dr. Jennifer Alexander will lead a timely discussion on the challenges facing nonprofit organizations, the role of civil society, and the future of democratic governance. A community panel featuring leaders from Utah Global Diplomacy, Alliance Community Services, and Unsheltered Utah will follow, exploring strategies for strengthening nonprofits and building resilient communities. Whether your interests are in public administration, public policy, nonprofit leadership, or advocacy, this event offers an opportunity to connect research with real-world impact. Please register using the link below—we look forward to celebrating with you!

The University of Utah School of Public Affairs congratulates Phil Dean, SPA adjunct faculty member and Chief Economist and Public Finance Senior Research Fellow at the Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute, on his election as a 2026 Fellow of the National Academy of Public Administration (NAPA). This prestigious recognition honors individuals who have made significant contributions to public administration and public policy. Dean brings extensive expertise in economics, public finance, and state and local policy to the classroom, helping prepare the next generation of public-sector leaders. SPA is proud to celebrate this well-deserved national recognition.

The University of Utah’s School of Public Affairs is introducing a new Nonprofit & Nongovernmental Organization (NGO) Concentration for graduate students in the Master of Public Administration (MPA), Master of Public Policy (MPP), and Master of International Affairs and Global Enterprise (MIAGE) programs.