About SWPA

SWPA origins can be traced to the 1973 American Society for Public Administration (ASPA) National Convention. At this convention, the National Committee on Women in Public Administration (NCWPA) was formed under the direction of Joan Fiss Bishop. The committee worked to promote the leadership of women in public administration and support local chapters. 

As time went on, members realized there should be a formal Section with ASPA. In 1982, an application was approved to form SWPA with SWPA leaders aiming to continue the work of supporting and expanding efforts to support and train women in the field. SWPA remains a strong and active force, celebrating over five decades of advancing women’s contributions to the profession. 

Learn more about our history.