Seton Hall Master’s in Public Administration Program Hosts Deputy Mayor of Newark

The Department of Social Work and Public Administration (MPA) Program Director La'Tesha Sampson recently hosted an inspiring kickoff event that brought together faculty, staff, students and alumni for an evening of networking, learning and a shared meal. The event featured three dynamic guest speakers, each sharing powerful insights into social justice, personal resilience and community healing.

Jamila T. Davis, Ph.D., a self-made millionaire and social entrepreneur, opened the event with her remarkable story of redemption. After serving a 12 1/2-year prison sentence, Davis reclaimed her success and now runs a purpose-driven social enterprise that is dedicated to transforming lives. Her journey from adversity to triumph served as a beacon of hope, inspiring attendees with the message that it’s possible to rise stronger, no matter the challenges faced.

Attorney Angelo Pinto followed, bringing his extensive experience as a social justice warrior, policy expert and movement lawyer to the forefront. Pinto shared the impact of his work, including co-founding Justice League NYC and playing a pivotal role in the Raise the Age campaign, which reformed the treatment of youth in the criminal justice system. His advocacy in movements like the fight for Justice for Breonna Taylor and his efforts in criminal justice reform demonstrated his ongoing commitment to creating systemic change and elevating key social issues.

The Honorable Lakeesha Eure, Newark's First Deputy Mayor for Public Safety and Director of the Office of Violence Prevention and Trauma Recovery, concluded the series of speeches. Eure shared her deep knowledge of trauma, domestic violence, and community violence, as well as her vital work in reducing crime and homicides in Newark. Her leadership in community healing and public safety provided valuable insights into how social work and public administration can be powerful tools for change. 

The event was a resounding success, offering attendees the chance to engage with these influential leaders, share ideas, and cultivate connections that will inspire action in their own work. It set an energizing tone for the year ahead, leaving participants motivated and ready to make a positive impact in their communities. Seton Hall University is proud of its numerous M.P.A. scholars that continue to serve and spread service minded leadership throughout the community.

Seton Hall University offers both the Master of Public Administration (M.P.A.) and Master of Social Work (M.S.W.) degrees, with both programs offering several different options and concentrations. The M.PA. program currently offers concentrations in Public Service: Leadership, Governance and Policy, Nonprofit Organization Management and Data Visualization and Analysis, as well as the opportunity for students to choose between a final thesis, internship or practicum. The M.S.W. program offers concentrations in Behavioral Health and Forensic Social Work and an accelerated option for students with an accredited B.S.W. degree. For questions about either program, please contact Michael Dooney, Ph.D., associate dean for Graduate Academic Affairs, at michael.dooney@shu.edu.

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