James-Christian Blockwood to Lead National Academy of Public Administration

October 28, 2024

The adjunct professor for Maxwell’s D.C. programs will succeed Terry Gerton as president and chief executive officer.

James-Christian Blockwood

James-Christian Blockwood, adjunct professor for Maxwell’s Washington, D.C., programs, has been named president and chief executive officer of the National Academy of Public Administration, effective Jan. 1, 2025.

Blockwood has taught Maxwell students in the nation’s capital since 2022 and served as executive vice president at the Partnership for Public Service. He also previously served in the U.S. Government Accountability Office and the departments of Defense, Homeland Security, and Veterans Affairs.

Blockwood will succeed Terry Gerton, the Academy’s longest-serving leader.

“In our search for our next president and CEO, the board of the Academy was looking for a combination of broad and deep experience in public administration, outstanding leadership skills, and a demonstrated commitment to the Academy’s unique role and mission” said Janet A. Weiss, Academy board chair. “Terry Gerton has been an extraordinary leader for the Academy and in James-Christian Blockwood we have identified a leader we believe will build on Terry’s legacy, the reputation of the Academy and our capacities for the future.”

“In our search for our next president and CEO, the board of the Academy was looking for a combination of broad and deep experience in public administration, outstanding leadership skills, and a demonstrated commitment to the Academy’s unique role and mission”

Janet A. Weiss

Chair of the board of the National Academy of Public Administration

As one of only two congressionally chartered institutions of its kind, the Academy has a mandate to advance the field of public administration and provide nonpartisan expertise to Congress and the next presidential administration.

The Academy has 1,000 fellows from all levels of government, academia and the private sector. Fellows include public managers and scholars, business executives, current and former cabinet officers, members of Congress, governors, state legislators and diplomats. Among them is Maxwell Dean David M. Van Slyke.

Van Slyke said Blockwood advances the field of public administration through his work with the University. “He helps students and executive professionals hone critical skills and prepares the next generation to be the future leaders our country needs,” he said, adding that his course on strategic foresight is a valuable experiential learning opportunity for students and builds on his strong reputation in strategy, management and public affairs. “He is very well-equipped to lead an organization focused on advancing the practice of public administration.”

Blockwood said it is a “privilege to have the confidence of the board of directors to lead the Academy into its next era—especially with the Academy's 60th and our nation’s 250th anniversaries as milestones ahead."

By Jessica Youngman