Public Service Leadership Program  

Mission 

The Public Service Leadership Program was founded in 2006 by Ambassador Nancy Soderberg, a Distinguished Visiting Scholar at the University of North Florida. As the current Director of the program, Ambassador Soderberg has used her extensive contacts in government and the nonprofit world to build a network of opportunities for UNF students to gain first-hand experience in the field, building their resume and contacts —keys to future employment. This program builds lasting skills for students and transforms the students' vision and career goals.  Contact Information: Ambassador Nancy Soderberg (n.soderberg@unf.edu)

  

Internships  

UNF students have the opportunity to gain personal experience in the field of public policy through internships in political arena, government, United Nations, national & international organizations. Student's Testimonials [Link]

Public Service Leadership Program has placed nearly 100 students in exceptional positions:   

• Tallahassee
• Washington, D.C.
• New York City, as well as internationally. 
• Senators Bill Nelson, Marco Rubio;
• The Department of Education
• The Department of Defense
• The Department of State in Washington, D.C.
• Embassies abroad: Paris, Brussels, Berlin, Sophia, Bulgaria, Geneva, Quito, & Ankara.
• NGOs in DC, NY, & beyond.
• United Nations World Food Program in Bangkok, Thailand, Tanzania, & Rome.    

Global Issues in Contemporary Politics (INR3016) | this course promotes the understanding and analysis of significant trends in the emerging new world system and relates those trends and events to domestic politics and society in other nation states. The course also compares and analyzes comparative trends in political institutions, systems and changes in public policies in the world community.  Real Policy World (POS3931) | This course explores selected major political issues of the day. After the end of the Cold War and 9/11, the role of the United States in the world has fundamentally changed. The course also examines how the United States will continue to interact in a new world order.  Also, a chance to visit Washington D.C.

During the Fall and Spring semesters, Ambassador Nancy Soderberg teaches "Real Policy World". Upon completing this course, students will gain confidence in a leadership role along with the potential to seek a political career. Brief review of course details:   Review current national policy issues then, select one for research  Visit Washington, D.C. & meet with Senior U.S. official(s)   In Washington D.C., students will review their key policies of recommendation with Senior U.S. official(s) such as.  The White House’s Deputy National Security Adviser  Senior State Department officials Senior Pentagon officials Capitol Hill staff members Senior CIA officials   Presidential campaign staff members   Embassy officials    Upon return to Jacksonville, students will write an op-ed article on their topic for the local paper, the Florida Times Union. Our Student's Testimonials [Link]