Celebrating the American Public Servant


Nearly two hundred and fifty years ago, on Thursday, July 4, 1776, the colonial rebels to the British empire committed their lives and liberty to the ideals of a democratic republic and launched the creation of the United States of America through the Declaration of Independence. Today, the National Academy of Public Administration's over 1,000 Fellows proudly carry forward that sacred legacy. Through a bold, year-long "Celebrating the American Public Servant," culminating in a powerful National Awards Gala at the Library of Congress on June 22, 2026, we honor the torchbearers of our democracy.

Celebrating the American Public Servant 250 Gala & National Awards Celebration

This celebration will serve as the ceremonial centerpiece of Celebrating the American Public Servant partnership and a national stage to honor the people who make our government work through their exemplary Public Service. The Celebrating the American Public Servant 250 Gala & National Awards Celebration will take place at the Library of Congress in Washington, DC, on June 22, 2026, during the peak of America’s Semi-quincentennial commemorations. Attendees will include leaders from all levels of Government, emerging Public Servants, and civic partners who share a commitment to strengthening democracy through service.

Support Celebrating the American Public Servant Through the People’s 250 Fund

Invest in Celebrating the American Public Servant

The National Academy of Public Administration is raising support for The People’s 250 Fund, which sustains and advances the Celebrating the American Public Servant offerings. Contributions to the Fund power the full scope of Celebrating the American Public Servant activities and enable the Academy to honor, elevate, and invest in public servants across the country

Organizations and institutions are invited to explore meaningful partnership opportunities by downloading the Celebrating the American Public Servant Sponsorship Partnership Packet, which outlines available sponsorship levels, year-long recognition and visibility extending through 2027, and engagement benefits aligned with your mission and impact goals.

Individuals may also take part in this national effort. All supporters who contribute at the Upholders of Liberty level will receive an individual invitation to attend the Celebrating the American Public Servant National Awards Gala on June 22, 2026, at the Library of Congress. A limited number of Upholders of Liberty sponsorships are available, and early registration is encouraged.

Whether as an organizational partner or individual supporter, your investment in The People’s 250 Fund helps ensure the long-term growth, visibility, and national reach of this work and the advancement of excellence in good government.

Make A Donation

Program Overview


Celebrating the American Public Servant will feature a curated, reframed selection of existing Academy offerings, as well as bold new programming designed to recognize emerging leaders, shape the future of the field, and bring the nation together in celebration of Public Service. Together, these efforts form a cohesive campaign that will build momentum throughout 2026.


Reimagining Government:
The Next 250 Years

This forward-looking effort will explore how the field of public administration must evolve to meet the complex challenges of the next 250 years. The Academy will bring together leading voices in governance, public administration, and foresight. Through keynotes, scenario-building, and collaborative design sessions, participants will begin co-creating a shared vision for the future of Public Service grounded in the nation’s founding principles of good Government.
 

This work will culminate in a convening in September 2026, where participants will finalize and launch a comprehensive roadmap for the field’s continued relevance, adaptability, and impact.

Local Gov 250

In honor of the America 250 celebration, Local Gov 250 and the National Academy of Public Administration are excited to announce a campaign to recognize and celebrate the exceptional individuals, from all levels of government, who make a significant impact in their work in cities, counties, regional councils, states and the Federal Government. You've submitted hundreds of individuals who exemplify “democracy at the doorstep” through dedication, innovation, and the highest sense of public service. Your submissions will help us shine the spotlight on the unsung heroes who are making positive changes across America.

Watch this space for the official list of awardees!

Fellows for Democracy and Public Service Initiative

The National Academy of Public Administration and the Bridge Alliance have launched a landmark initiative to strengthen American democracy and public service by bringing together the Academy’s Fellows and the Bridge Alliance’s cross-sector network.

Fellows’ Challenge—Solutions for Advancing American Democracy and Public Service

Through research, dialogue, and collaboration, the initiative will create actionable plans to modernize public service, strengthen electoral integrity, encourage constructive engagement, and celebrate America’s diversity. Selected Fellows’ work will be featured in national campaigns and publications to help restore public trust and inspire future civic leaders.

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