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Penn State ICMA Student Chapter

Penn State ICMA Student Chapter

The Penn State ICMA student chapter connects students with the field of local government management and practice. Through professional development, networking, and hands-on learning opportunities, the chapter helps prepare future public managers to lead effectively with integrity.

About the Chapter

The chapter supports undergraduate and graduate students interested in local government, public administration, and community leadership. As part of the International City/County Management Association (ICMA) network, the Penn State ICMA student chapter offers a way for students to engage with local government practitioners, learn from current trends in public management, and build relationships that can support their careers.

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Penn State students Will Moser, Paige Myers, Kylie Hickoff, McKenna Fox, Mia Schneider, Elly Miller and Ella Radakovich gather with Amy Farkas, Patton Township manager, and Jess Whitley, assistant to the State College borough manager, at the Association for Pennsylvania Municipal Management Annual Conference in Pittsburgh.
Penn State students Will Moser, Paige Myers, Kylie Hickoff, McKenna Fox, Mia Schneider, Elly Miller and Ella Radakovich gather with Amy Farkas, Patton Township manager, and Jess Whitley, assistant to the State College borough manager, at the Association for Pennsylvania Municipal Management Annual Conference in Pittsburgh. Credit: Provided. All Rights Reserved.

Our Mission

Our mission is to:

  • Promote interest in local government management and public service careers
  • Connect students with professionals and alumni working in the field
  • Provide opportunities for leadership, professional growth, and civic engagement
  • Encourage ethical, effective, and community-centered public management

What We Do

The chapter hosts activities such as:

  • Guest speakers and panel discussions with local government professionals
  • Networking events with alumni and practitioners
  • Career preparation sessions, workshops, and resume support
  • Service projects and community engagement opportunities
  • Events focused on current issues in public policy and local governance

In addition, the ICMA student chapter helps plan and host the School of Public Policy’s annual Local Government Expo, which brings students together with local government professionals and organizations for networking, learning, and career exploration.

Penn State students Elise Borelli and Ashley Carmona speak with representatives from College Township, during the recent career fair at a recent Local Government Expo.
Penn State students Elise Borelli and Ashley Carmona speak with representatives from College Township, during the recent career fair at a recent Local Government Expo. Credit: Kate Kenealy. All Rights Reserved.

Why Join?

Membership in the Penn State ICMA student chapter gives students the chance to:

  • Explore careers in local government
  • Learn directly from experienced professionals
  • Strengthen leadership and communication skills
  • Expand their professional network
  • Get involved in a community of students who care about public service

All chapter members receive a free student membership to the International City/County Management Association (ICMA) network and access to a vast array of online resources.

Get Involved

All Penn State undergraduate and graduate students at University Park are eligible to join the Penn State ICMA student chapter. We welcome students from a variety of academic backgrounds (i.e., all majors) who are interested in public policy, public administration, and local government service. 

If you’d like to learn more about the Penn State ICMA Student Chapter or join the chapter, please contact icmachapter@psu.edu or fill out the following interest form.