My early experiences shaped who I am and made it clear that I wanted a career centered on helping my community. The Founders' Fellows program reinforces that commitment.
Ruba Abukhdeir, a candidate in The University of Baltimore's Doctor of Public Administration program in the College of Public Affairs, has been named a 2026 American Society for Public Administration (ASPA) Founders' Fellow. The fellowship "recognizes the exceptional accomplishments and promise of the next generation of public servants in both the academic and practitioner communities," according to the ASPA. Abukhdeir, who is studying at the University in preparation for a career in public service, is one of 35 members of the organization's latest cohort, and the only student from Maryland chosen to receive the recognition.
Dr. Ivan Sascha Sheehan, interim dean of the College of Public Affairs, called Abukhdeir's selection for the honor an "expression of the values of public service, intellectual rigor, and impact-driven leadership that define our College."
"We are immensely proud of Ruba's selection as an ASPA Founders' Fellow," Sheehan said. "This highly competitive honor speaks volumes about her leadership potential and the exceptional foundation she has built in the Doctor of Public Administration program. The College of Public Affairs is proud of our partnership with ASPA; together we're committed to connecting students with transformative professional development opportunities and equipping them with the skills and insights they'll need to lead in today's complex public sector environment. Programs like the Founders' Fellows are vital for shaping the next generation of public service leaders."
Abukhdeir said her inclusion in the Founders’ Fellows program offers "a meaningful opportunity for me to connect with other public administrators, exchange ideas, and receive feedback on my research."
"I am especially excited about learning through conversations and networking, as well as working closely with a mentor," she said. "This opportunity came at exactly the right time in my career, and I am truly excited and grateful to be part of it."
She noted that public service has been a part of her life "for as long as I can remember."
"Growing up, I volunteered in soup kitchens and hospitals, helping people in need," Abukhdeir said. "Those early experiences shaped who I am and made it clear that I wanted a career centered on helping my community. The Founders’ Fellows program reinforces that commitment by allowing me to grow as a public servant while learning from others who share the same values."
ASPA Executive Director and CEO Bill Shields said, "ASPA's Founders' Fellows program is a meaningful way for public administration students and early-career practitioners and scholars to expand their networks, participate in groundbreaking work and learn from some of the most significant names in the field. We are pleased to introduce the 2026 cohort as one of our most dynamic and diverse classes yet. We look forward to their year ahead in this exciting program and hold great expectations for their future impact on the profession."
The 2026 Founders' Fellows will receive a complimentary 2026 Annual Conference registration, a year-long mentorship with a seasoned practitioner or senior scholar, and professional development opportunities throughout their year as a Fellow.
Learn more about UBalt's DPA program.