From Contributed Reports JEFFERSON CITY – Carson-Newman University officials and the University of Tennessee, Knoxville’s Howard H. Baker, Jr. School of Public Policy and Public Affairs announced this week a new academic partnership in public administration.

The initiative allows Carson-Newman political science undergraduate students to take three additional courses in pursuit of a master’s degree in public administration. Upon earning their bachelor’s degree from C-N, the courses will then transfer seamlessly into UT’s Baker School program, where students can complete their graduate degree.

“We are very pleased with the program and the collaboration with the Baker School,” said Carson-Newman Provost, Dr. Jeremy J. Buckner. “This agreement allows students to enter the program with nine hours of credit, earned at Carson-Newman, already under their belt. This is a win for both universities and for cities in East Tennessee looking for tomorrow’s leaders.”

Additionally, Carson-Newman announced that C-N students pursuing this path to a career in public administration now have the opportunity to qualify for scholarships thanks to the new “Bud and Cindy Ogle Scholarship for Public Administration.”

Cindy Ogle, who initiated the partnership, served in public administration for more than 50 years, 35 of it as city manager for Gatlinburg. She says it has been a vision of hers to see the two universities offer such an opportunity to students.

“I have been blessed to be involved with both universities. My alma mater, the University of Tennessee and Carson-Newman University, where I serve on the Board of Trustees, both have made an impact on my life.” she said. “This program, connecting the two schools with high quality students pursuing careers in public administration has been a goal for nearly two years. I spent my career in public administration and see the need these two wonderful schools can help fill and am looking forward to seeing the results of what graduates are able to accomplish.”

Dr. Su, professor and director of graduate studies at UT’s Baker School, says the partnership is one that will benefit students looking to further their education.

“This agreement reflects the strong alignment between our two institutions,” said Su. “Carson-Newman’s academic rigor and commitment to developing principled leaders make its students exceptionally well prepared for graduate study. We are excited to build on that foundation and welcome them into the Baker School’s MPA program.”