5 MPPs Named Presidential Management Fellows Finalists

Five Sanford Master of Public Policy (MPP) graduates and students have been named finalists for this year’s prestigious Presidential Management Fellows (PMF) Program, the federal government’s flagship leadership development program for advanced degree holders across all academic disciplines.

There were 10 finalists selected from Duke University. The five MPP finalists are:

• Gabriela Antonova, MPP’22
• Jessica Au, MPP’21
• Chandlee Jackson, MPP’23          
• Laurie Elizabeth McDowell, MPP‘22
• Abigail Sherman, MPP’22

The PMF Program aims to recruit and develop the next generation of Federal government leaders from all segments of society. The 2023 finalists represent approximately 98-degree programs across 249 academic institutions worldwide, demonstrating the diversity and breadth of expertise the program seeks to attract. The 850 finalists were selected from over 10,000 applicants through a highly competitive selection process, making it a remarkable accomplishment to be recognized.

The PMF Program is administered by the U.S. Office of Personnel Management. Finalists have the opportunity to apply for PMF appointments with participating Federal agencies for a 12-month period. As Presidential Management Fellows, the finalists will have the opportunity to interview with Federal agencies and find placements that align with their career aspirations and expertise. This program offers advanced degree holders a pathway to a permanent career appointment at a federal agency, providing them with a unique opportunity to apply their skills while engaging in leadership development training.

Congratulations to these MPP students and graduates on this achievement!