Fully Funded Richardson Public Service Leadership Lab

The National Academy of Public Administration runs the Richardson Leadership Lab, an invitation-only half-day leadership experience in Washington, D.C. for undergraduate and graduate students interested in public service and government. Students cannot apply themselves: a professor, dean, advisor or supervisor at their college or university has to nominate them. Selected students have their travel and accommodation covered and can stay on for the Academy's National Conference at no cost.

What you get:

• Travel and accommodation covered by the Academy
• A complimentary place at the Academy's National Conference, November 8 to 10, 2026
• Mentorship and direct conversations with senior public administration scholars and practitioners
• A network of peers and public service leaders

What you'll do:

• Attend a signature fireside conversation on ethical leadership and public trust
• Hear fast-paced leadership snapshots on crisis leadership, rebuilding trust in institutions, innovation and learning through failure
• Join small-group roundtables with experienced public servants
• Work through interactive exercises and real-world leadership scenarios

• Undergraduate or graduate student
• Studying public administration or a related field
• Must be nominated by your college or university (a professor, dean, advisor or supervisor fills in the nomination form); students cannot self-apply
• Demonstrated leadership potential and serious interest in public service, government or civic engagement
• No age range or nationality rule is stated on the Academy's page