The Straayer Center for Public Service Leadership provides public-service oriented professional development opportunities for students; facilitates applied research on policy issues and governance processes linking academics and practitioners; and provides thought leadership on public issues through university and community partners. The Center will have three main areas of activity:

Student Experience & Experiential Learning

The Center connects students to internships and professional development opportunities in local, state, and federal government. There are also opportunities for students in community non-profits, international development, law, and more. The addition of a Washington D.C. semester is one of the many ways that the Center is developing stronger linkages to federal agencies and elected officials for CSU students. The Center facilitates the creation of a practitioner-in-residence program and provides opportunities for guest speakers in class.

Applied Research & Practical Application

The Center enhances class-based and service-learning projects by working directly with public sector partners. Research and policy analysis with public sector and university partners is coordinated and conducted through the Center.

Community Outreach & University Engagement

The Center serves as a conduit for governmental and public sector partners to access university resources. Workshops, lectures, and keynotes on relevant public issues are developed for students by working with the university and community partners.