The Reflective Administrator: A Leader-Centered Focus

The Reflective Administrator takes the well-grounded theories of reflective thought out of the classroom setting and delivers them into the public sector workplace.

The intentional practice of reflection is useful not only with regard to experiential learning in public administration education but also within the profession itself. The text dispels misconceptions about what reflective practice entails and offers the reader practical tools to implement in both the classroom and professional environments. The book begins by walking the reader through a foundational overview of reflective thought theory, cultivates understanding of reflection in practice, then closes the loop by helping the reader to conceptualize the ideas presented and offering applicable takeaways for both students and practitioners. Chapters utilize real-world case studies which detail work environment interactions, planning, and outcomes. These provide opportunities to examine and dissect individual and group dynamics using a reflective practice lens.

The Reflective Administrator offers a fresh perspective on the utility of reflective thought in public service for professional growth and leadership development, and it will be a key resource for students as well as public administration practitioners.

Angela Pool-Funai serves as the Assistant Provost for Academic Programs and Dean of the Graduate School and Office of Scholarship and Sponsored Projects at Fort Hays State University (FHSU) in northwest Kansas. Her academic appointment is in the Department of Sociology at FHSU. Among other publications, she is the author of Ethics in Fiscal Administration: An Introduction (2018, Routledge). Dr. P-F holds degrees from Valdosta State University, Baylor University, and Stephen F. Austin State University. In her spare time, she enjoys canoeing and tinkering on cars.

Tony E. Summers, retired, served as the Chief Executive Officer of the University of the District of Columbia Community College. He previously served as the Vice President for Student Development at the Dallas College, Richland Campus. He completed doctoral studies in Adult Learning and Higher Education at Walden University. An experienced lecturer, educator, facilitator, writer, and consultant, Dr. Summers is also active in numerous community organizations and serves as a board member for several national and local organizations, including the National Council on Student Development, The National Campaign to Prevent Teen and Unplanned Pregnancy, and the Parkland Hospital Community Health Advisory Board. In addition, he was selected to receive a fellowship from the W.K. Kellogg Community College Leadership program.