July 2024 Alumni Spotlight

In this month’s spotlight, recent Master of Public Administration graduate Indira Kersellius talks about her new position as an Emergency Management Specialist at FEMA, how the knowledge she gained through the MPA program bridges with the skills used at her current role, her career aspirations, and much more.

Congratulations on your new position as an Emergency Management Specialist at FEMA. Tell us a bit about your goals for this role and any challenges you’ve come across thus far.
In this role, I am eager to develop a comprehensive understanding of FEMA operations by gaining in-depth knowledge of each division, including Hazard Mitigation, Recovery, Response, Mission Support, Grants, External Affairs, and National Preparedness. I aim to enhance my professional skills through active participation in training programs, focusing on project management, strategic planning, and crisis communication, while also seeking continuous feedback and mentorship. Building a strong professional network within FEMA is a key goal, as I believe that establishing connections with colleagues, mentors, and leaders will be crucial for my growth and effectiveness. Additionally, I am committed to contributing to division projects and making meaningful impacts by improving processes and delivering successful outcomes. Promoting diversity and inclusion within the workplace is another important objective for me, as I strive to bring a unique perspective to discussions and projects. Ultimately, I see this role as a platform to prepare for future leadership positions within FEMA, and I am dedicated to continuous learning and staying updated with the latest developments in emergency management. While I am just starting out and still acclimating to the organization, I am enthusiastic about the opportunities ahead and ready to tackle any challenges that come my way.

What drew you to pursuing a Master of Public Administration degree at the Marxe School?
What drew me to pursuing a Master of Public Administration degree at the Marxe School was my deep-rooted passion for helping people and the invaluable experiences I gained from working in my community. With over a decade of hands-on experience, I have had the privilege of leading initiatives at Queens Community House and Commonpoint Queens, two prominent community-based organizations in New York City. My work there involved developing programs that addressed various community needs, such as youth development, senior services, housing assistance, and workforce readiness, and community engagement. These roles allowed me to work closely with children and families in low-income communities, empowering them through various support programs and resources. My dedication to public service and community development has always been at the forefront of my professional journey.

The Marxe School’s commitment to public affairs education and its emphasis on practical, real-world applications of policy and administration were key factors in my decision to pursue my degree there. The comprehensive curriculum and supportive academic environment at Marxe have significantly shaped my understanding of public administration and deepened my aspirations to continue making a meaningful impact in the public service sector. This educational experience has provided me with the knowledge and tools necessary to contribute to a more resilient and equitable society, which aligns perfectly with my professional goals and personal values.

Have you learned anything at the Marxe School that’s been directly applicable to your role at FEMA?
At the Marxe School, I have gained a wealth of knowledge and skills that are directly applicable to my role at FEMA. The comprehensive curriculum provided me with a solid foundation in public administration, policy analysis, and strategic management, all of which are essential for effective emergency management. Courses on communication and public affairs have been particularly relevant, equipping me with the ability to effectively communicate and coordinate during emergencies. Additionally, the emphasis on practical applications and case studies allowed me to understand the complexities of public sector challenges and develop practical solutions.

The focus on community resilience and the importance of inclusive, equitable policies directly translate to my work at FEMA, where I am dedicated to supporting underserved communities and promoting resilience. The skills in data analysis and program evaluation that I developed at Marxe are invaluable for assessing the effectiveness of emergency management strategies and making informed decisions.

Overall, the education and training I received at the Marxe School have not only prepared me for the technical aspects of my role at FEMA but also reinforced my commitment to public service and community empowerment.

You’ve also recently graduated from the Marxe School. What was your MPA experience like? Any favorite classes/professors?
My experience at the Marxe School was incredibly enriching and transformative. The comprehensive curriculum provided a solid foundation in public administration, which was essential for effective emergency management. Core classes such as Public and Nonprofit Management, Economic Analysis and Public Policy, and Budgeting and Financial Analysis have been instrumental in honing my skills for my current role. The course on Race, Inequality, and Public Policies, in particular, deepened my understanding of the critical need for equitable and inclusive policies in emergency management. My training in data collection and analysis has proven invaluable for assessing the effectiveness of emergency management strategies and making informed decisions.

My favorite class was my capstone course, where I had the opportunity to integrate and apply everything I have learned throughout my entire Marxe program. For my capstone project, research was conducted on the disparities faced by BIPOC women in leadership roles, a topic that deeply resonated with me as an ethnic woman who understands the importance of diversity and inclusion. This research was not only academically rigorous but also personally meaningful, underscoring the critical need for representation and equity in leadership positions. The experience of working on this project solidified my commitment to advocating for diversity and provided me with a profound sense of purpose and motivation as I move forward in my career.

Additionally, collaborating with many other students throughout my time at the Marxe School was an amazing experience. The support services provided by the school were exceptional and made my MPA journey truly remarkable. I always felt as if I was at the right school and in the right program, which greatly enhanced my educational experience.

The professors at Marxe were not only knowledgeable but also deeply committed to their students’ success, providing mentorship and real world perspectives that greatly enhanced my learning experience. Overall, my MPA journey at Marxe was instrumental in preparing me for my role at FEMA and reinforced my dedication to public service and community empowerment.

What are your career aspirations?
My career aspirations center around making a meaningful impact in public service by fostering resilience and equity in underserved communities. I intend to continue growing in my current role by developing expertise in emergency management and contributing to policies that support vulnerable populations during crises. By actively engaging in professional development and seeking mentorship, I aim to enhance my skills and broaden my understanding of the challenges faced by these communities. My ultimate goal is to create lasting positive change, empowering communities and building a more resilient and inclusive society.