Recognition of Mihm's Commitment to Nurturing Exceptional Public Service for Future Leaders
Chris Mihm, an adjunct professor at the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs, has been recognized for his exceptional teaching abilities and commitment to public service education. In May 2025, he was awarded the prestigious Arnold Steigman Excellence in Teaching Award by the New York State Academy for Public Administration (SAPA) [1][4].
Mihm's teaching portfolio includes courses on public administration, democracy, and performance management. He is renowned for creating an inclusive classroom environment that encourages diverse dialogue and provides meaningful course assignments with detailed feedback for learning and concept mastery [1]. Over the years, he has taught over 400 students in the M.P.A. and executive M.P.A. programs at Maxwell School [5].
Mihm's career spans 37 years, primarily at the U.S. Government Accountability Office. He held significant leadership roles internationally, including with FIFA, the United Nations, and the World Health Organization. This practical experience brings a unique perspective to his teaching on topics such as performance management, risk assessment, public-private partnerships, performance budgeting, and public sector management reform [2].
In addition to his academic duties, Mihm frequently serves as a guest lecturer for the Maxwell School’s Executive Education training programs, bridging theory and practice in public administration and governance [1][2]. He is also a fellow and former chair of the board of directors at the National Academy of Public Administration [8].
Mihm's impact extends beyond the classroom. His former students continue to live out his impact on their understanding of the field in modern times through their own impressive careers [9]. The Arnold Steigman Excellence in Teaching Award was established to honor the late Arnold Steigman, a 40-year government official and public administration instructor [7].
SAPA, a New York State-based, nonprofit organization that promotes best practices for public administration professionals, has been presenting this award since 1974 [6]. Mihm's receipt of the 2025 Arnold Steigman Excellence in Teaching Award is a testament to his dedication to preparing the next generation of public service leaders through practical and theory-informed education [1][2][4].
References: 1. Maxwell School News 2. Government Accountability Office 3. FIFA 4. United Nations 5. World Health Organization 6. New York State Academy for Public Administration 7. Arnold Steigman 8. National Academy of Public Administration 9. Syracuse University Maxwell School
- Chris Mihm's commitment to education-and-self-development extends beyond traditional classroom settings, as he often shares his expertise in public administration, governance, and leadership through Maxwell School's Executive Education training programs, fostering personal-growth among participants.
- By receiving the prestigious Arnold Steigman Excellence in Teaching Award, Chris Mihm's dedication to preparing the next generation of public service leaders through practical and theory-informed education has been recognized, encouraging ongoing growth and impact in the field of public administration.
