ICMA 2026

ICMA 2026

Bookmark this page for information on SPAA's activities during the International City/County Management Association Annual Conference in Long Beach, CA! Details on the KUCIMAT reception (in person and virtual), Eldon Fields Colloquium, and more will be posted here as they come available.

Register for the in-person reception

KUCIMAT Alumni Reception

We look forward to you joining us for the 2026 KUCIMAT alumni reception at the ICMA Annual Conference in Long Beach, CA on Sunday, October 18th, 2026 from 6pm - 9pm. This year, we will meet at The Reef On The Water for an evening filled with networking, laughter, and meaningful programming to celebrate our fellow alumni and their accomplishments. The early-bird cost to attend is $100, which includes a full dinner and two drink tickets. This rate lasts through Sept. 1, after which it will increase to $125. Intentional programming will include presentation of the award recipients, recognition of the KUCIMAT board (new and outgoing members), an introduction to the Class of 2028, and updates from the Class of 2027, as well as updates from the School of Public Affairs and Administration.
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Register for in-person reception Register for in-person reception

Presenting at ICMA?

Are you presenting at ICMA? We'd love to highlight your session in the condensed ICMA schedule we make for our SPAA alumni and hand out at our table in the conference center.
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SPAA friends and alumni presenting at ICMA

2026 ICMA Long Beach Conference
DayTimeSessionPresenter
Saturday, October 17, 20268:00 am-12:00 pmMicrocredential | Politics, Administration, and Civility - Bridging the GapMichelle Ferguson
Monday, October 191:15-2:15 pm

Eldon Fields Colloquium

The Promise of Good Governance

The Good Governance Award (established in honor of Jan Perkins, Robert J. O'Neill Jr., and John Nalbandian, PhD) recognizes an exemplary partnership between governing bodies and professional local government managers who embody ethical leadership, transparency, accountability, and effective governance. Rooted in the council-manager form of government, the award honors collaborative leadership that builds trust, promotes political neutrality, and strengthens resilient communities. Established in 2026 in honor of Jan Perkins (KU MPA alumna), former ICMA Executive Director Bob O’Neill, and John Nalbandian (KU Emeritus Professor), it celebrates their lasting contributions to advancing the principles and practice of good governance. The Eldon Fields Colloquium will feature these distinguished local government leaders and explore the enduring partnership between governing bodies and municipal managers highlighting how collaborative leadership strengthens communities and advances democratic governance. Join us for an engaging discussion on the future of good governance.
Monday, October 197:30-9:30 pmCivicPRIDE Mixer at ICMA at Hamburger Mary'sAll Aboard! CivicPRIDE Mixer at ICMA 
Tuesday, October 208:15-10:15 amShifting Democratic Norms and Public Trust: A Discussion and Toolkit
  • Chris Koliba (Edwin O. Stene Distinguished Professor)
  • Kate Nygren (PMC Associate Director, Education Programs)
  • Noel Rasor (Assistant Director, Curriculum)
Tuesday, October 2012:45-2:45 pmPreparing and Equipping “burn-out-resistant” Civic LeadersKristi Northcutt (PMC Director)
Tuesday, October 201:30-2:30 pmLeadership Begins with Belonging: Helping Emerging Leaders Find Their Voice in Local GovernmentLogan Masenthin (MPA 2018 & KUCIMAT Board President)

KUCIMAT Alumni Reception Sponsors 2026View as gallery page