About The Conference
What is the Atlantic Conference on Public Administration?
The Atlantic Conference on Public Administration (ACPA) is a graduate student-run event established as the premier annual gathering of public policy thinkers in the Atlantic Canadian region. ACPA supports learning and growth in the public sector by enabling attendees to share, learn, discuss, and connect on issues impacting the Atlantic region.
Register now to join the conversation.
Conference History
Conference Origins
The ACPA Conference is in its 20th year. It began as a joint function of L’Université de Moncton, and Dalhousie University where students from both universities showcased their research and generated cutting-edge public policy ideas.
Today, it draws public service professionals, non-profit and business stakeholders, faculty, and alumni. This diverse community gathers to share ideas and develop solutions around the biggest problems facing the Canadian public service.
Dalhousie's School of Public Administration now coordinates the planning and delivery of the annual conference and maintains a commitment to engaging universities and public service professionals across Atlantic Canada.
Previous Conference Highlights
2018: Stronger Together: Indigenous Reconciliation and Sustainable Growth in Atlantic Canada
Key Speakers:
- Mayor Mike Savage
- Patricia Doyle-Bedwell
- Gerald Gloade
2017: When Stars Align: Creating Opportunities
Key Speakers:
- The Honourable Dominic LeBlanc
- Andrew Noseworthy
- Senator Dan Christmas
- Mayor Mike Savage
2016: Remaining Relevant: Adapting for Tomorrow
Key Speakers:
- Avrim Lazar
- Rosalind Penfoud
- Debate Resolution: Be it Resolved that Government Should Regulate the Sharing Economy (more)
2015: Models for Success: Leading in Atlantic Canada
Key Speakers:
- Danny Graham
- Dan Christmas
- Catherine Woodman
2014: Supporting Symbiosis: Bridging the Public/Private Sectors and Civil Society
Key Speakers:
- Richard Florizone
- Paul MacMillan
- Mayor Mike Savage
2013: Intergovernmental Affairs: Challenges and Opportunities
Key Speakers:
- Sir John Elvidge
- David Darrow
- Catherine Blewett
- Graham Flack
Graduate Student Showcase
In addition to an exciting conference program, ACPA is a platform where graduate students in Public Administration have an opportunity to showcase some of their cutting-edge research and projects related to issues and challenges in the Canadian public service. In 2021, the competition will be held nationally, inviting papers from top Canadian programs in public administration.
