MPP Student Quotes: Class of 2006


"I applied to the CSUMB MPP program to learn how I might use my talents and experience to leave the world better than I found it. I discovered a setting that combines a challenging academic environment with a very practical focus. Students and teachers together provide an incredible range of life experience that offers additional insights. As a result, I learn so much that I often come home too excited to sleep. For me, it's like Disneyland, only with ideas not rides. I can hardly wait to see what happens next."

Captain Martha Diehl
Monterey County Planning Commissioner

"Though I've spent my career working in politics and policy arenas, I never received a comprehensive grounding in public policy. The CSUMB MPP program has provided that foundation, emphasizing substantive achievement in a collaborative setting. My peers are all accomplished community leaders, making the experience even richer, and the opportunity to study with Leon Panetta is phenomenal. I recommend the program for anyone who is passionate about creating positive change in their community."

Greg Sellers
Mayor Pro Tem
City of Morgan Hill
Principal, Sellers/Associates

"Participating in the MPP graduate program continues to be an invigorating, enlightening experience which has given me the impetus to become a more efficient, informed, and knowledgeable public servant for the community. The superior quality of the professors and my fellow students has created an enriched learning environment with engaging discussions and first class presentations. Needless to say, learning from the Honorable Leon Panetta is both a privilege and an inspiration. "

Janet Barnes
Salinas City Council Member

"Joining the MPP program has been the best self-development decision I have made in years. I am gaining the skills to take me to the next level in my policy work with communities. Being part of a new program and being able to help shape it for the future is dynamic and fun. Learning the insider's version of how policy is made at the national level from Leon Panetta has helped me to be more realistic about the policy environment and effective in my work. The small classes are terrific and the breadth of life and professional experiences that the other students bring make learning from each other as valuable as from the professors."

Judith Darnell
Director of Community Building
United Way of Santa Cruz County

“After completing my first year in the MPP program, I can honestly say that it is the most practical education I have ever received. As a manager in municipal government, I have new analytical skills with which to frame the issues confronting my agency and city, as well as new skills in ethical and collaborative leadership with which to address those issues.

The workload is intense and challenging. The faculty fosters a collegial atmosphere where active participation is not only encouraged, but expected. I have learned as much from the diverse viewpoints of my classmates as from the coursework. I strongly recommend this program to anyone interested in acquiring practical knowledge and skills with which to affect change in the public or political sectors.

Kelly J. McMillin
Lieutenant
Salinas, CA Police Department

"Having the Leon & Sylvia Panetta Institute affiliated with California State University, Monterey Bay, is an excellent resource and a valuable asset for the citizens of Monterey County. I am extremely fortunate to be able to attend this program and look forward to the upcoming semesters."

S/Bruce C. Martin
Lieutenant, Marina Department of Public Safety