Partnership with the Volcker Alliance will help to prepare students for public service
The University of Central Arkansas has partnered with the Volcker Alliance to join the Next Generation Service Corps (NextGen Service), a nationwide network of higher education institutions committed to preparing undergraduate students for public service. UCA is the first institution of higher education in Arkansas to join this network to inspire and prepare students to serve their communities.
The Volcker Alliance awarded a $41,485 grant to the Department of Government, Public Service, and International Studies (GPI) in the College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences to design and launch the NextGen Service program on the UCA campus. Dr. Kim Hoffman will lead the development of the program along with Dr. Joe Howard and Dr. Kisha Hardwick. The first cohort of students will begin the program in January 2027.
“The Department of Government, Public Service, and International Studies is committed to preparing students for careers in public service and inspiring them to become active participants in their community,” Hoffman said. “We envision UCA as the place where young people come to learn about public service and gain practical skills to become the next generation of leaders, policymakers and public administrators.”
The NextGen Service program will be open to all students, regardless of major, who express an interest in public service, civic engagement and solving public policy problems. Students in the program will engage in experiential activities including internships and community service activities, enjoy access to exclusive events and activities, network with public service professionals, and engage with other students from across the country who are dedicated to public service.
About the Next Generation Service Corps
The Next Generation Service Corps (NextGen Service) is a network of programs at universities across the country that inspire and prepare students to serve their communities and nation. Led by schools of public service, NextGen Service programs introduce undergraduates from all majors to public service values and support them in building practical, collaborative leadership skills. NextGen Service opens the door to careers in public service for college students. Additional information about the Next Generation Service Corps Program at the Volcker Alliance is available here.
About the UCA Department of Government, Public Service, and International Studies
The Department of Government, Public Service, and International Studies is home to the political science, public administration, and international studies degree programs at the University of Central Arkansas. Originally established in 1971, the department currently has eleven full-time faculty members with expertise in all of the major fields of political science and public administration. The department, which is located within the College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences at UCA, offers on-campus and online courses during Fall and Spring semesters, as well as during the summer sessions. Additional information is available here.