O’Neill School – Bloomington

Meet O’Neill’s Newest Undergraduate Student Ambassadors

Posted on December 16, 2025 by katmelbe

The O’Neill School recently welcomed its newest members of the Undergraduate Student Ambassador Team. Representing different class years, academic interests, hometowns, and even countries, these ambassadors serve as enthusiastic guides for prospective students and their families visiting campus.

This incoming cohort joins six returning ambassadors in supporting recruitment efforts, sharing their O’Neill experiences, and showcasing what it means to “lead for the greater good.”

Choosing O’Neill

Students arrive at O’Neill from many different pathways, but a commitment to service and impact connects them all.

Ambassador Addison Rosenberg aims to be a leader in social advocacy.

Freshman Addison Rosenberg knew early on that they wanted to work in the nonprofit sector. Addison chose O’Neill because they “really resonated with the motto ‘lead for the greater good.’ I want to work in a field that allows me to make a positive impact on the world, specifically through social advocacy.”

For senior Abby Beathea, the path began with an initial interest in law. Over time, she discovered policy analysis could better help her address systemic issues in criminal justice. “I want to change policies directly and work on a government level,” she said.

Sophomore Iva Bojadziska was drawn to the law and public policy major and appreciated finding a school focused on public affairs from day one.

Freshman Akshitha Perala sought a collaborative, mission-driven environment. “I gravitated towards approachable faculty, small class sizes, and a community that genuinely cares about service,” she said.

Finding Community

Community plays a major role in each ambassador’s O’Neill journey.

Ambassador Abby Beathea is grateful for her O’Neill community.

Abby found her people “through my classmates that I became close friends with, professors that I have developed relationships with, and my advisor who has helped me through my years at O’Neill!”

Iva emphasized getting involved early and leading with a friendly face. “Being the first to smile goes a long way!”

For Addison, the Civic Leaders Center (CLC) made IU feel like home. “The people in the CLC are my first and closest friends on campus and truly made me feel welcomed, especially as an out-of-state student. Everyone is passionate about civic engagement, and it is a very mutually uplifting environment that has allowed me to thrive at IU.”

Inspiring Future Leaders

O’Neill ambassadors are not only involved on campus, but they also model the school’s mission through their aspirations and role models.

Addison dreams of becoming a program manager for a social justice nonprofit, focusing on organizing and community-building.

Jamison envisions a future in health law or healthcare consulting, using policy and management to improve patient-centered systems.

Ambassador Jamison McDole hopes to make meaningful change in healthcare policy.

Akshitha aims to launch her own economic and sustainability consulting firm to help corporations adopt more responsible practices.

Holy Grail Study Tips

When offering advice to future Hoosiers, ambassadors were quick to share what helps them succeed.

Jamison recommends, “Find one or two consistent study spots where you can feel focused. A familiar environment makes it easier to get into the right mindset.”

Ambassador Iva Bojadziska studies best when she leaves plenty of time to dive into course material.

Iva says, “The key to studying lies in your organization. Make sure to always leave yourself enough time to study and utilize your professors’ materials.”

Akshitha’s strategy is to “Dive into case studies. When I learn real examples first, the concepts become unforgettable.”

Can’t-Miss O’Neill Courses and Professors

Whether it’s a foundational class or an inspiring instructor, certain O’Neill experiences stand out among our ambassadors.

Addison recommends courses with Professor Paul Helmke, noting his wealth of real-world experience.

Abby highlights impactful classes on advocacy, policy change, and government relations, along with Professors Shrock, Desai, and Schrader.

Iva encourages students to take V182: Policymaking Around the World with Professor Susan Siena.

Ambassador Akshitha Perala credits course E183 for influencing her views on the environment.

Akshitha found E183: Environment and People particularly influential in reshaping her understanding of environmental issues.

Welcome, Ambassadors!

O’Neill’s newest ambassadors bring enthusiasm, curiosity, and a commitment to the greater good. From hometowns across Indiana, Maryland, and India, our ambassadors reflect the diversity of experiences and passions that make the O’Neill School special.

We’re excited to see the impact they’ll make on prospective students, on campus, and throughout their careers in public and environmental affairs.

From the lab to the Little 500, Environmental Science student Claire Swigart is making the most of her time at IU

Posted on December 2, 2025 by Caroline Rourke

Whether she’s in the lab studying climate impacts, training on the track for the Little 500, or learning about sustainability abroad, Claire Swigart approaches every challenge with focus and determination. The Carmel, Indiana, native is pursuing her Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science and the Accelerated Master’s in Environmental Science, combining research, global learning, and leadership experiences that reflect her commitment to growth both inside and outside the classroom.

Exploring environmental science through research

Swigart’s O’Neill journey began with the Sustainability Scholars program, which pairs undergraduates with faculty mentors for hands-on research. Partnering with Professor Sarah Commodore in the School of Public Health, she initially focused on how wildfire-type events impact air quality in Bloomington. After receiving an ESSI Sustainable Research Development Grant, she expanded her project to southern Indiana, examining how prescribed burns in the Hoosier National Forest influence air quality in nearby communities.

“We’ve been working together ever since then, studying how wildfires and wildfire-type events such as prescribed burns impact air quality in Bloomington and in southern Indiana,” she said.

That experience became a turning point for her, showing how curiosity in the classroom could evolve into meaningful, applied research.

“Sustainability Scholars was a pivotal point for me in my major because it really solidified that I wanted to be in environmental science and I wanted to be in research.”

Eager to learn more about how ecosystems respond to climate change, Swigart joined Professor Kim Novick’s RESH Lab (Regional Ecosystem Soil Hydraulics Lab). Her work now centers on the Regional Ecosystem Soil Hydrological (ReESH) Project, where she measures water retention in soil samples from across the country to estimate soil water potential in different landscapes. Instead of studying how water moves, her research focuses on understanding how well various soils are able to hold water.

“We’re looking at how soil samples from all over the country hold water, in order to create a database that researchers can use in the future, most likely for climate change and drought studies,” she said.

Beyond the lab, she applies her curiosity to field research at IU’s Research and Teaching Preserve, helping track how climate patterns affect tree growth.

“We have about 100 trees that are marked, and we’re watching how the leaves change over the course of the fall… seeing if the leaves are changing a little bit later due to the climate staying warmer a little bit longer,” she said.

A global perspective on sustainability

Swigart’s next step took her far from Indiana, as she joined O’Neill study abroad programs in both Costa Rica and Portugal to explore sustainability on a global scale. Each experience offered a different lens on how people and systems work together to protect the planet.

In Costa Rica, she gained a new perspective on sustainability by studying how communities interact with the environment. Working from Elinor Ostrom’s Nobel Prize winning social-ecological framework, her class combined lectures with field visits that showed how environmental systems and human systems rely on one another. The experience reinforced O’Neill’s emphasis on connecting environmental science with people and policy.

In Portugal, Swigart built on that foundation, exploring sustainability through the lens of global development and economic growth.

“That program was really influential to me…I got to learn a lot about the global growth and business side of sustainability,” she said. “It gave me a very hopeful perspective on climate change and environmental science, because it allowed me to see that there is hopeful work being done for our future.”

Cycling, leadership, and community

Outside the classroom, Swigart channels her focus and energy into cycling, a sport that has shaped both her community and her confidence at IU. What began as a new challenge soon became one of the most rewarding parts of her college experience.

“I bike for a Little 500 team called RideOn,” she said. “We are training to compete in the Little 500 in the spring. I’m also on Rider’s Council, which is the IU Student Foundation organization that oversees and leads everyone who rides in the Little 500. I serve on the Outreach Committee within Rider’s Council.”

Through training and teamwork, Swigart has discovered how collaboration and accountability can drive personal growth.

“The cycling community has given me a smaller group setting, which has been really helpful to make friends, but also to grow my network of connections that may be helpful in the future.”

Why Claire chose O’Neill

Swigart said she was drawn to O’Neill because it bridges the gap between science and policy, a combination she believes is essential for driving real change.

“I personally think the O’Neill School is really special because it exists at the intersection of policy and the environment, which I think is a really, really important intersection to be focused on, especially today,” she said. “You can’t really have one without the other.”

That same balance of guidance and independence has defined her academic journey. Swigart credits her advisor, Rick Mulcahy, with helping her shape a path that fits both her goals and her curiosity.

“My advisor is Rick Mulcahy for environmental science, and he has been incredibly helpful. He’s helped me plan my major around completing the accelerated master’s and given me options alternatively to that, if I decide to choose a different path,” she said.

Looking ahead, Swigart said her time at O’Neill has left her confident about her direction and inspired by the people around her.

“Even in times of stress or fear, there’s always hope,” she said. “There are always people who are passionate, professors who want to see you succeed, and classmates who are just as driven to make meaningful change.”

O’Neill HR Students Earn Second Place at Purdue Case Competition

Posted on November 21, 2025 by ebatman

Human resource management students from O’Neill earned an impressive second-place finish at the annual HR Case Competition hosted by Purdue University’s Mitch Daniels School of Business earlier this month. This marks the third consecutive year O’Neill students have placed in the top two, a testament to the program’s culture of excellence and strong student leadership.

Seven student in professional dress standing outside — The 2025 O’Neill HR case competition team, led by co-captains Ashlyn Brown and Zelyah Barajas

Led by co-captains Ashlyn Brown and Zelyah Barajas, the team included Ashley Gilmer, Sara Hasan, Manali Mukherjee, Katherine Biber, Ella Markley, and Tara Corra. Members were selected through a competitive and thoughtful audition process which emphasized problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills.

Putting in the Work

A top-tier finish doesn’t happen by chance. In the weeks leading up to the competition, the team committed to an intense preparation schedule designed to strengthen their HR expertise and polish their presentation skills.

“In the month leading up to the competition, we held weekly meetings focused on strengthening our analytical abilities and refining our HR knowledge through sample case exercises,” Brown said. “We also dedicated time to presentation development, ensuring each member was able to communicate insights confidently and cohesively.”

As the competition neared, the pressure increased.

“One week before the competition, we received the official case from Purdue. During that final stretch, we met daily to conduct in-depth research, develop our recommendations, design the presentation, and practice our delivery,” she shared.

Their hard work paid off—not only with a second-place finish, but with a $1,000 award recognizing their strong performance.

The Competition Experience

Despite their preparation, competing before expert judges still brought its share of nerves.

“The most challenging aspect is managing pre-presentation nerves, especially knowing how much dedication and preparation led up to that moment,” Brown said. “However, the most memorable and rewarding part is watching our team present with confidence, professionalism, and pride in the work we produced. Seeing our ideas come to life and sharing them with the judges consistently makes the experience worthwhile.”

Eight students in professional dress surround one faculty member — Senior Lecturer Cheryl Hughes poses with HR students at the Purdue case competition.

Skills for the Future

More than just an academic challenge, the case competition provided a hands-on opportunity for professional development.

“The skills I gained through this experience are recruitment evaluation, analytical problem-solving, professional communication, presentation delivery, time management, creativity, and a strong work ethic,” Brown shared. “These skills are directly transferable to both my remaining coursework and my future career in HR and public policy. Participating in the competition has strengthened my confidence, sharpened my professional skill set, and prepared me to excel in fast-paced, high-stakes environments.”

Faculty lead Cheryl Hughes echoed that sentiment, praising the team’s professionalism and talent.

“The fact that this team was composed of traditional undergraduate students and still outperformed teams with significantly more work experience speaks volumes about their professionalism, preparation, and talent. These strong, intelligent, and driven women represented IU with distinction and embodied the excellence that sets our program apart.”

The O’Neill School proudly congratulates the HR case competition team for their excellent performance, which showcased their discipline, teamwork, and dedication to excellence.

O’Neill students, faculty, and alumni shine at the 2025 ICMA Annual Conference

Posted on November 20, 2025 by Caroline Rourke

O'Neill students and professor at ICMA conference.

Ten O’Neill School students traveled to Tampa, Florida, to attend the 2025 International City/County Management Association (ICMA) Annual Conference. As one of the most influential gatherings for local government professionals, ICMA brought together more than 5,200 attendees from 24 countries. For O’Neill students, the experience offered front-row access to the strategies, innovations, and leadership approaches guiding public service nationwide.

The trip was led by Mitchell Berg, Ph.D., clinical assistant professor and faculty advisor for the Local Government Management Association. With O’Neill scholarships and partner support, both graduate and undergraduate students were able to attend without financial barriers.

Student perspectives on a transformative experience

For MPA candidate Caitlyn Cotter, president of the Local Government Management Association, ICMA offered a blend of responsibility, networking, and professional growth.

“As the current president of the Local Government Management Association, a student chapter of ICMA, I felt a responsibility to attend the conference and represent O’Neill. More than that, I saw it as an opportunity to connect with local government practitioners from across the country and around the world, gaining valuable insights and learning from their experiences.”

Cotter said the O’Neill alumni network made an immediate impression.

“IU alumni in particular were unbelievably kind and enthusiastic. They made us feel welcomed and supported throughout the conference.”

She emphasized the importance of financial support in helping students take part.

“O’Neill’s funding made it possible for me to attend without worrying about how it would impact my ability to support myself through the rest of the semester. That peace of mind meant a lot.”

MPA candidate Iyanuoluwa Bolarinwa said the conference helped connect classroom concepts with real-world challenges

“It was a surreal moment when I learned directly from people working to ensure that grassroots citizens have a direct impact on the federal government.” Conversations with practitioners helped Bolarinwa see how his policy analysis coursework directly connects to real public service challenges.

“I gained insight into how the role of a policy analyst impacts decision-making processes within local government. In summary, I recognized the critical need for policy experts at the grassroots level.”

He noted that sessions led by O’Neill faculty made the experience even more meaningful.

“Professor Berg’s presentation at the academic symposium focused on the residency status of local government workers. A general assembly honoring heroes for their exceptional contributions to local governments and discussions on how cities are planning to address the needs of the unhoused population helped me realize the rewards of local-level work.”

He also shared appreciation for the financial support that made his attendance possible.

“O’Neill’s scholarship funding made it possible to attend the conference by covering travel and accommodation costs. This opportunity provided access to resources that I wouldn’t have obtained within the confines of the classroom.”

Faculty leadership on the national stage

Berg presents new research on residency retention and its impact on recruiting and retaining city managers.

O’Neill faculty were visible throughout the week, sharing research, leading conversations, and creating spaces for students and professionals to connect. Berg presented research conducted with alumni Heidi Voorhees and Ian James titled “Residency Retention and the Impact on Recruitment and Retention of City Managers.” He also strengthened O’Neill’s presence at the conference by hosting a coffee and donuts conversation hour, facilitating practitioner roundtables, and coordinating an IU table in the main hallway that became a consistent gathering point for students and alumni.

In addition to these faculty-led engagements, the conference also featured a dedicated O’Neill gathering. With support from the IU Paul H. O’Neill Foundation and the Indiana Municipal Management Association, IU hosted an alumni and student reception that brought together more than 35 members of the O’Neill community and created space for meaningful conversations among attendees.

O'Neill table at the conference. — O’Neill table at the conference.

David Swindell, the director of the IU Public Policy Institute, contributed his own scholarship with a presentation titled “A model to encourage citizens to re-engage in the act of governance in cities” and facilitated a session focused on developing a national local government research agenda with the National Academy of Public Administration’s Local Government Working Group.

A global governance perspective

The conference also highlighted international approaches to public service. MPA candidate Gilbert Tindaana presented during the Global and Good Governance Meet Up and shared insights from his research on how Ghana structures and delivers local governance.

“Decentralization and local government in Ghana represent a cornerstone of the country’s democratic governance framework.”

He also discussed challenges facing the system today.

“Persistent challenges such as inadequate fiscal transfers, capacity gaps among district officials, and overlapping mandates with traditional authorities remain.”

O’Neill alumni leading the profession

O’Neill alumni were recognized throughout the week for their leadership and contributions.

Paul G. Grimes, MPA’94, City Manager of McKinney, Texas, received the Award for Career Excellence in Memory of Mark E. Keane for his significant impact on community development, organizational culture, and service delivery.

Heidi Voorhees, MPA’82, reflected on her nearly four decades attending ICMA and the progress she has witnessed.

“When I first started attending, there were very few women in leadership roles and I desperately wanted to see female city managers, so if a woman was on a panel, I went to it.”

She reflected that this year’s experience at the conference represented a powerful shift.

“This conference showcased so many accomplished women doing amazing work for their communities. There was no way to attend all of the sessions with women in leadership roles.”

Voorhees was honored with the League of Women in Government’s Navigator Award, celebrating her decades of leadership and impact in the field. She described the recognition as especially meaningful.

“I was incredibly honored by the Navigator Award and even more thrilled that we had 350 women at the SheLeadsGov luncheon. The first women’s luncheon I attended was 20 of us with brown bag lunches in a room we were not authorized to use.”

Support from our community helps students take part in future ICMA conferences and other professional development opportunities. Learn more about the Neil Nielsen Scholarship Fund.

Looking ahead

Students returned from Tampa motivated and inspired. Cotter encouraged future students to take part in the experience.

“If you’re considering attending the ICMA Conference, absolutely go for it. It’s an incredible opportunity to learn, connect, and grow.”

Bolarinwa shared similar advice.

“Maintain an open mind, be prepared to make lifelong connections, and embrace the ability to learn as you go. The opportunities are vast.”

The 2025 ICMA Conference showcased the power of experiential learning and reaffirmed O’Neill’s role in preparing the next generation of public service leaders committed to leading for the greater good.

Finding your Academic Home: O’Neill Student Jude Kincaid’s Transfer Story

Posted on October 23, 2025 by ebatman

In honor of National Transfer Student Week, we’re celebrating students who take a brave step to find the right academic fit. For Jude Kincaid, a Bloomington native majoring in law and public policy, that step ultimately took him in a familiar direction: back home.

Jude Kincaid, O’Neill student majoring in law and public policy student

After completing his freshman year as business student at Notre Dame, Jude decided to transfer to Indiana University.

“Moving both campuses and majors was definitely interesting to say the least,” he said. “I would be a fool to tell you it was ‘smooth sailing,’ but I also know that having made it to the position where I am currently at IU there is no better place to be.”

He found comfort in the connection between the university and the Bloomington community he’s always loved. “IU’s provided not only me but many of my peers (and even faculty) the greatest resource of being a university that is interwoven with its community, and vice versa. Given it truly is a twofold decision when considering colleges to attend, it is a peaceful feeling knowing that both Indiana University and Bloomington are one.”

An Authentic Approach

Jude eventually found his way to the O’Neill School—though not before a little soul-searching.

“After completing my freshmen year at Notre Dame, I was certain I did not want to study business,” he said. “I learned a lot, but I wanted my work on a day-to-day basis to have a commitment to the betterment of myself.”

That realization led him to switch majors and pursue law and public policy. “I think the biggest thing for me in switching majors into O’Neill was gaining a better understanding of what it means to learn,” Jude said. “Looking back, being authentic in your approach to who you are as a student is the most important thing at the end of the day.”

Support that Makes a Difference

Jude credits Brett Reardon, O’Neill’s Assistant Director of Undergraduate Student Servies and Transfer Coordinator, with helping him adjust. “His guidance in navigating the transfer process has given me confidence and clarity in finding my academic path,” Jude said.

Jude’s law-related courses have also helped him shape his goals. “These classes have helped me develop a strong interest in how legal frameworks and policy intersect, and I’ve already begun to see how I can use what I’m learning as a foundation for my future career,” he said.

“Brett’s advice was more than welcoming for a student who didn’t quite know what was next, and the insight gained through my courses has set me on a trajectory toward where I want to be.”

A Community Rooted in Real-World Impact

One of the things Jude values most about O’Neill is its emphasis on practical learning. “Through my coursework and the supportive environment created by the faculty and peers, the O’Neill School emphasizes practical, solution-oriented learning,” he said. “In doing so, it has encouraged me to think critically about the impact I want to make in my field and understand the reason for it.”

That experience has given him clarity about his purpose. “Transferring back to IU, I was unsure on what life after graduation would entail,” he said. “Having gotten the chance to work through O’Neill, I can confidently say I understand my why.”

Finding Her Path: How Transfer Student Allie Wiley Found a Home at O’Neill

Posted on October 23, 2025 by ebatman

As we celebrate National Transfer Student Week, we’re highlighting the incredible students who joined the O’Neill School community after starting their college journeys elsewhere.

Meet Allie Wiley, BSPA’25, who studied law and public policy at O’Neill before starting law school IU McKinney in Indianapolis.

Professional woman with glasses in a black suit. — Allie Wiley, BSPA’25, transferred to IU and studied law and public policy at O’Neill.

Transferring to IU and Finding O’Neill

For Allie, transferring to Indiana University felt like the right next step, both for her goals and her sense of belonging.

“IU is close to home, but I also knew that it had many unique classes available that would help me figure out what I wanted to do, which was law,” she said.

That exploration led her to the O’Neill School, where she discovered courses that connected directly to her interests. And while her studies took center stage, she still found time for adventure.

“I even got to take SCUBA my last semester,” she said.

Adjusting to Life at IU

Transferring to a large university can be daunting, and Allie admits that one of her biggest challenges was simply having less time left in her undergraduate career to experience everything IU has to offer.

“The biggest challenge of transferring was having less time on campus,” she said. “IU has so many things to do all of the time.”

But she quickly found support among the O’Neill faculty, who helped her feel connected and confident in her new environment.

“All of the professors at O’Neill want to help students get adjusted to the big campus,” Allie said.

Discovering Her Passion

One class in particular confirmed that Allie was on the right path: Cultural Heritage Law and Policy, which she took with faculty from IU’s Maurer School of Law.

“It was one of the two classes I got to take through Maurer which helped me to prepare for law school,” she said.

Putting O’Neill Lessons to Work

Now, as she continues her journey as a first year law student, Allie is seeing just how much her O’Neill experience prepared her for what’s next.

“A lot of the classes at O’Neill really helped me improve my writing skills that I use now at McKinney,” she said.

Allie’s story is a great reminder that there’s no single path to success—and that transferring can open the door to new passions, new skills, and a community that helps you thrive.

From Bloomington to the backcountry: How O’Neill prepared David Diamond, MPA-MSES’99, to facilitate collaborative grizzly bear conservation

Posted on October 22, 2025 by Caroline Rourke

When David Diamond, MPA-MSES’99, was deciding where to earn a graduate degree, he had several top programs on the table. But after one visit to Indiana University, he knew the O’Neill School was the right place for him.

Today, Diamond leads collaborative efforts to protect and recover grizzly bears across the Northern Rockies. His work fulfills the goal he set at O’Neill: to build a career at the intersection of science and policy.

“I chose O’Neill over Michigan and Yale. After my visit to Bloomington, it was clear that O’Neill was superior in every way. Each individual program by itself is top-notch. I feel like being a dual degree student, you experience even more than the sum of those two parts—it is one community. These two degrees together gave me a lot of confidence heading out into the job market. My goal going in was to build a career at the intersection of science and policy, and I am very fortunate to have worked in that intersection now for 25 years.”

Building a career at the intersection of science and policy

After earning his degrees, Diamond launched his federal career through the prestigious Presidential Management Fellowship (PMF) program—a competitive pathway that opened doors to federal service and created opportunities for diverse experiences and rapid promotions.

“I started as a PMF in the Secretary’s Office at the Department of the Interior. From there, I was able to move around the country and around different agencies.”

From 2001 to 2010, he worked with scientists, attorneys, and decision-makers in the Klamath River Basin of Oregon and California. He helped bring together federal and state agencies, tribes, farmers, and environmental NGOs to reach an agreement that led to the largest dam removal in US history. The dams finally came out in 2024.

“That experience sold me on interest-based negotiation and collaborative large-landscape conservation.”

He later served as an advisor to the highest-ranking career official at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and then became coordinator for the Greater Yellowstone Coordinating Committee, where he worked with eight scientific subcommittees to preserve ecosystem health and connect people to these iconic public lands.

June 2024, Montana Conflict Reduction Consortium (ranchers, NGOs, agencies working on reducing wildlife conflict on working lands)

Leading the future of grizzly bear recovery

After several years coordinating work across the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, Diamond shifted his focus.

“Four years ago, I traded that one ecosystem with all its many issues for a larger four-state (WA, ID, MT, WY) region and a single topic—grizzly bear conservation.”

Today, he serves as the executive coordinator for the Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee, a collaborative group of federal, state, and tribal agencies working together to ensure grizzly bear recovery continues to be one of America’s greatest conservation success stories.

“I often call myself the ‘reminder-in-chief.’ The group has committed to collaborative action, but true collaboration is really difficult in practice.”

Diamond describes grizzly recovery as a model of science informing management and of federal, state, and tribal collaboration. Thanks to decades of work, grizzly populations are expanding into areas where they have not been seen for more than a century— raising new conservation questions about coexistence between people and wildlife.

The O’Neill training that continues to guide him

Diamond credits his O’Neill education with shaping how he approaches his work today. The programs pushed him to think critically, solve problems with data, and work effectively with people from different backgrounds—all skills that have been essential in his career bridging science, policy, and collaboration.

“Believe it or not, in this field you really do need to be able to write a crisp and clear decision memo. No one loves group projects, but it turns out that most of life actually is a group project. You need to learn how to function as part of a team. And finally, both degree programs rightly emphasize quantitative analysis. You would be surprised how often these quantitative skills can positively differentiate your standing on a team—it is a superpower!”

Advice for future O’Neill students

When asked what advice he would give to students interested in environmental work, he emphasized the variety of ways to serve.

“I think public service is a noble calling and that the scientific and policy minds at O’Neill have a lot to offer our society. What you learn at IU is relevant and applicable. But I do think the job market is totally different than when I came out. State and local government may be more impactful today. Also consider the private and non-profit sectors. There isn’t (just) one right path out there.”

The lasting impact of an O’Neill degree

Diamond believes O’Neill graduates have what it takes to lead in any sector.

“It is a great program, and I am glad to see the consistency of approach toward graduate education that builds a lasting reputation. That reputation is worth a lot in the job market!”

Diamond’s career—spanning federal agencies, state and tribal partnerships, and multi-agency collaborations—demonstrates the power of an O’Neill graduate degree to shape leaders who drive change and lead for the greater good.

Maya Benysh finds community, leadership, and purpose at O’Neill

Posted on September 25, 2025 by Caroline Rourke

When Maya Benysh started visiting colleges during her junior year of high school, she had no idea what “public affairs” was. She was considering everything from international business to journalism, looking for anything that would let her pair her interest in people and problem-solving with a meaningful career. That changed when she toured Indiana University and discovered the O’Neill School.

“Before even touring IU, I didn’t know that public affairs was a field that you could go to school for,” she says. “So I think that’s what drew me in. Not only could I study something I’d never heard of before, but I could also do it out in the field, during my undergrad experience, while learning in the classroom as well.”

Benysh ultimately chose O’Neill’s law and public policy major, calling it “the perfect combination.”

That decision set her on a path that would be shaped by hands-on learning, leadership opportunities, and the guidance of a close-knit community. From joining the Civic Leaders Center her freshman year to studying abroad with the Global Leadership Program during her master’s, Benysh has continually enriched her O’Neill education through a wide range of experiential learning opportunities.

Building community and confidence

Arriving at a Big Ten university from a small town felt intimidating, but Benysh quickly found her place.

“The Civic Leaders Center definitely gave me community on campus,” she said. “Coming in and having mentors and peers all working toward the same goals of professional development and student experience gave me a community that set me up for my next four years at O’Neill.”

Those early experiences made Benysh feel at home and gave her the confidence to try more opportunities. She joined multiple leadership programs that deepened her skills and helped her discover what she wanted her future career to look like.

“The leadership programs definitely shaped my experience. They gave me the opportunity to apply what I’m learning… and I always had the support from the staff as well.”

Turning classroom lessons into action

Benysh’s undergraduate years were full of moments that brought her education to life. Through the O’Neill Leadership Program, she worked first at the Boys and Girls Club and later at Beacon’s Shalom Center, a day shelter for people experiencing homelessness.

“Learning how the money moves around, where we need to allocate things, how we prioritize things, and donor relations…those were skills I had heard about in class, but the O’Neill Leadership Program definitely helped fill in those gaps along the way.”

Those real-world lessons prepared her to take on even bigger challenges off campus.

Taking her education to D.C. and abroad

Benysh’s O’Neill journey led her far beyond Bloomington. She spent a semester in Washington, D.C., as part of the Washington Leadership Program, interning with the Child Welfare League of America.

“You really learn about the processes of the nation’s capital and what actually goes on behind the curtain,” she says. “That semester taught me that I want to go to grad school, and I knew I wanted to go right after undergrad.”

Her perspective widened even more when she joined O’Neill’s Global Leadership Program in Guatemala, spending eight weeks working with a poverty-alleviation nonprofit.

“I learned a lot about financing and the international development side of nonprofits. For me, it was about meeting people from all different walks of life, practicing my Spanish, and learning a new working style and how to communicate across cultures. I also gained practical skills, reaching out to donors in the U.S. and Europe and planning a visit for my supervisor. That opportunity heavily contributed to my professional growth and made me certain that I’m on the right path here, and O’Neill made that happen.”

Developing skills for the future

Benysh continued to challenge herself through programs like NextGen Leadership Program and the O’Neill Honors Program, which helped her strengthen her leadership skills and complete an undergraduate thesis project.

“I definitely learned about a different aspect of public affairs there,” she says. “Not just the jobs and internships, but what academia would look like if I choose to pursue that.”

These experiences taught her how to balance multiple commitments, manage her time, and grow as both a student and a leader.

Looking ahead

Today, Benysh is pursuing a dual Master of Public Affairs–Master of International Affairs at O’Neill and the Hamilton Lugar School, combining her passions for policy and international development.

“Both of those schools have their own expertise that, when combined, give you a high-level experience,” she says.

For Benysh, the journey has been one of exploration and growth and she encourages other students to take advantage of everything O’Neill offers.

“Nobody really knows what they want to do when they’re coming in freshman year of college,” she says. “I think that O’Neill is the most nurturing environment for answering these big questions and creating pathways toward what you want to do.”

Benysh’s story is a powerful example of what’s possible when students fully engage with the opportunities at O’Neill. From finding community through the Civic Leaders Center to working on policy in Washington, D.C., and addressing poverty alleviation in Guatemala, Maya has used every experience to grow as a leader. At each step, she has embodied O’Neill’s commitment to preparing students to lead for the greater good in Bloomington and beyond.

Leading for the Greater Good: O’Neill Interns help strengthen IU’s mission at the IU Foundation.

Posted on September 3, 2025 by Caroline Rourke

IUF cohort group photo at Memorial Stadium — IUF intern cohort at Indiana University Memorial Stadium.

O’Neill students make an impact at the IU Foundation

When passion for public service meets the power of philanthropy, the results can be transformative. This summer, that impact was driven entirely by O’Neill School students, who made up the full Indiana University Foundation intern cohort. IUF works to maximize private support for Indiana University by fostering lifelong relationships with key stakeholders and providing advancement leadership and fundraising services.

Placed in departments such as planned giving, stewardship, prospect research, museum development, and regional campus advancement, the interns put their education into action on projects that strengthened IU’s fundraising efforts and deepened connections with donors. Guided by O’Neill’s value of leading for the greater good, they brought that vision to life and showcased the real-world power of their education.

A cohort experience

From the start, the interns found an instant connection with one another. Their shared O’Neill background made collaboration seamless, allowing them to share insights, compare strategies, and offer encouragement throughout the summer.

“Being in a cohort with other O’Neill students has truly shown the impact of an O’Neill education and the diverse knowledge and experiences that can be brought from the classroom into the professional setting,” said Shelby Dolley, MPA’26.

That foundation fostered both trust and camaraderie. “When we discovered that we were all O’Neill students, it instantly bonded us as a group,” said Anna Erdosy, BSPA’26.

Projects with lasting impact

The interns took on projects with tangible outcomes. They developed a fundraising plan for the IU School of Nursing Student Outreach Clinic, created systems to help non-technical staff run data queries, designed stewardship strategies for top donors, and researched ways to engage visitors at the Eskenazi Museum of Art.

For Lillian Rogers, MPA’26, this meant building a data process from scratch.

“I became an expert at querying and using IU’s CRM and ultimately produced a procedural document so that non-technical people can run my script, gather data, and be able to interpret and use it easily,” Rogers said.

At the Eskenazi Museum of Art, Lucia Walker, BSAM’25, worked to strengthen audience engagement.

“This internship has been the perfect complement to my academic degree and career goals. Not only have I expanded my skillset as a fundraiser, but I’ve also gained hands-on experience in an art museum setting,” Walker said.

Chelsie Lindauer, BSPA’25, worked on a key stewardship project capturing decades of generosity from one of IU’s top donors, creating a commemorative book to honor their impact.

“A book showcasing the lifetime of giving and philanthropic partnership between IU and one of its top donors was incredible to work on. It was amazing to see why philanthropists make their gifts and what fuels their desire to make a change,” Lindauer said.

For Erdosy, contributing to the Student Outreach Clinic plan was especially meaningful.

“Knowing that the work we created will soon be implemented by the School of Nursing excites and motivates me to continue my work in the nonprofit sector,” she said.

O’Neill learning in action

The skills that made these projects possible were sharpened in O’Neill classrooms. Courses in nonprofit management, fund development, information systems, and policy analysis equipped them to manage projects, think strategically, and communicate effectively.

For Walker, lessons from Fund Development with Professor of Practice Karen Gahl-Mills were immediately applicable.

“The course shaped my perspective on philanthropy and taught me that we can all have active roles in advancing the common good. The skills I learned in that course—creating gift tables, developing capital campaigns, writing solicitation material, composing professional thank you notes, formatting gift acknowledgments, and preparing memos—have all been highly useful in my work at the IU Foundation,” she said.

Rogers drew on problem-solving approaches from the Data Science in Public and Environmental Affairs course in the information systems concentration.

“It helped me think about how to approach problems and solve them,” she said.

In Management in the Nonprofit Sector, Dolley gained both foundational knowledge and professional connections.

“It laid the foundations of nonprofit management and connected me with professionals in the field,” Dolley said.

Lindauer applied the strategic thinking she developed in the O’Neill Honors Program to donor engagement work.

“My participation in the O’Neill Honors Program, specifically the thesis component, made me feel confident in my ability to strategically think through various ideas and opportunities that may arise and apply the best solution. This has proven to be valuable while here at IUF as we are constantly exploring new ways to engage and passionately steward donors, without creating carbon copy stewardship plans for each,” she said.

Advice for future interns

The interns encouraged future participants to view an IUF placement as more than a summer job—it’s a chance to grow professionally and see the power of philanthropy in action.

“Consider how higher-ed fundraising has impacted your own life. Being able to work and give back to a school that has provided me financial support and academic opportunity has been incredibly rewarding,” Dolley said.

“Trust that your experience is valuable in one way or another and make the absolute most of it. Network. Shadow. Ask questions. Be who you would want future interns to look up to.” Lindauer said.

“Having the opportunity to meet and hear from those directly involved in community work is always deeply inspiring and meaningful,” Erdosy said.

As the summer wraps up, the interns have strengthened IU’s mission and their own professional skills. They leave prepared to step into careers where they can continue leading for the greater good and creating positive change in the communities they serve.

From the Classroom to Capitol Hill: .O’Neill students prepare to head to D.C.

Posted on July 30, 2025 by Caroline Rourke

2025 D.C. Accelerator Program cohort.

For students pursuing careers in public affairs, there’s no classroom quite like the nation’s capital. Through the O’Neill School’s D.C. Accelerator Program, Master of Public Affairs students spend either a semester or a full academic year in Washington, D.C., combining their second-year coursework with a meaningful internship experience. Students complete a mix of online and in-person classes, all taught by world-renowned O’Neill faculty, while interning at federal agencies, nonprofits, and other public service organizations across the city.

The D.C. Accelerator gives students the opportunity to build on their O’Neill education in one of the most influential cities in the world. It’s a launchpad for meaningful careers in public service. Students grow their professional networks by connecting with O’Neill alumni, industry leaders, and policy professionals working at every level of government, the nonprofit sector, and other public service organizations. They gain access to behind-the-scenes experiences and have a front-row seat to the policymaking process.

During their time in the program, students strengthen their résumés, expand their perspective, and build relationships that will support them long after they graduate.

Meet a few members of this year’s cohort and get to know who they are, what brought them to the program, and what they’re looking forward to as they prepare for this transformational experience in D.C.

Asrorbek Parpiev, MPA Candidate’26

“I’m an international student from Uzbekistan, currently pursuing a Master of Public Affairs with concentrations in Policy Analysis and Public Financial Administration. I’m passionate about data-driven policymaking and creating smart, practical solutions to public challenges. I’m excited to join the D.C. Accelerator Program and look forward to learning, connecting, and growing through this experience in the nation’s capital.”

Cheyenne Lee, MPA Candidate’26

“I’m a second-year MPA student concentrating in Community and Economic Development. As a first-generation college student from New Castle, Indiana, I’m passionate about advocating for affordable housing and eager to get involved in that work during my time in D.C. Outside of my professional goals, I’m also on a mission to visit every museum in the city!”

Jayvee Del Rosario, MPA Candidate’26

“I’m spending my final year in Washington, D.C., through the D.C. Accelerator Program, pursuing an MPA with concentrations in International Sustainable Development and Finance. Originally from the Philippines, my perspective has been shaped by academic and professional experiences across Asia, Europe, and the United States. With a background in banking and finance, I approach public affairs and international policy with a data-driven mindset and a strong commitment to sustainability and inclusive development. I’m currently interning with the United Nations Environment Programme Finance Initiative (UNEP FI), supporting global implementation of the Principles for Responsible Banking. I’ve also had the chance to take part in events like the World Bank Youth Summit, where my team was named a Top 6 Finalist in the Global Innovation Lab Case Competition. I’m passionate about advancing climate-resilient, equitable futures, and driving solutions that uplift underserved communities across the Global South.”

Kate Burnett, MPA-MSES Candidate’25

“I’m a second-year dual master’s student at the O’Neill School, earning degrees in Public Affairs and Environmental Science with a concentration in Energy and Climate Change Solutions. I’m excited to return to Washington, D.C., for the first time since eighth grade—this time to fully immerse myself in the world of policy, civic engagement, and environmental leadership. On my personal bucket list: visiting the National Gallery of Art and seeing the cherry blossoms in full bloom.”

I’m currently pursuing a Master of Public Affairs at Indiana University, with a concentration in Environmental Policy and Natural Resource Management. I’m especially interested in the intersection of environmental protection and human well-being, and I’m passionate about using economic-based rationale—such as Benefit Cost Analysis and Valuation methodology—to advocate for more just and sustainable policies. My previous experience includes data analysis and community engagement roles with the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities in the Office of the Economist, the Gnarly Tree Sustainability Institute, and ECHO, Leahy Center for Lake Champlain. I’ve also studied abroad in Costa Rica and South Korea, where I focused on environmental policy, energy systems, and sustainable community development. These international experiences deepened my understanding of global sustainability strategies and strengthened my commitment to community-centered, data-driven environmental solutions.