Catherine “Kathy” Naczas, '92G
Current position: Executive Director, Manchester Housing and Redevelopment Authority
Previous position: Senior Community Investment Manager, Federal Home Loan Bank of Boston
Carsey Degree: Master of Public Administration
"Get the degree done ASAP so you can start making a difference!"
Can you share a few sentences that describe your capstone and/or internship experience at UNH?
In the early 90s, "aging in place" was a concept we were working hard on in New Hampshire. This was an initiative that would allow seniors to receive the supportive services they needed at home rather than being prematurely institutionalized in nursing homes.
I was fortunate enough to be able to work with a colleague at the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services on my capstone to conduct a state-wide survey that would lead to the development of policies, programs, and funding needed to accomplish this initiative. Many wonderful programs were advanced at that time, and I believe our survey data and analysis helped in achieving success for New Hampshire's seniors.
How did the MPA better position you to succeed in your career and career goals?
After building a good foundation of experience – some 6 years in assisted/subsidized housing – I knew that getting my MPA was the next step in furthering my career. The MPA program put me in contention for the executive director position with the Laconia Housing Authority. I got that position, in part, because I was almost finished with my master’s degree.
Good, relative experience and education build the foundation you need to then go forth and really make a difference in your community!
Can you describe your most valuable takeaway from the MPA program:
Theories are taught in the classroom but not in real-world public agencies. Those theories need to be challenged in the classroom, and I was very fortunate to have professors who did just that. But most importantly, the MPA program taught me to think, to be ethical first, and to understand what being a steward of the public trust means.
Have questions or want to discuss if the Master of Public Administration program is right for you? Schedule a time for us to talk:
Dan Bromberg, Director of Academic Programs
Robin Husslage, Program Manager
Have questions about admissions, tuition costs, or financial aid?
Contact Sanjeev Sharma, Carsey Admissions & Academic Advisor
Meet Other MPA Alumni
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With MPA Alum Jennifer Thompson '02"The professors are extremely knowledgeable on the content and subject matter and really great to learn from... I am also starting my public health certificate at the same time and the fact that I can finish with both a degree and a certificate in the same amount of time is an incredible opportunity.Learn More -
With Alum Catherine Naczas '92G (MPA)"After building a good foundation of experience – some 6 years in assisted/subsidized housing – I knew that getting my MPA was the next step in furthering my career. The MPA program put me in contention for the executive director position with the Laconia Housing Authority." ~(MPA) Alum Catherine Naczas '92GLearn More -
With Alum Megan Brabec '19G (MPA)"The program allowed me to meet people doing great work around the state, and it helped me build up tangible skills that allow me to serve my community more effectively and efficiently." ~(MPA) Alum Megan Brabec '19GLearn More -
With Alum Brittany Weaver Matthews '10, '15G (MPA)"The MPA gave me a deeper understanding of not only how public policy was developed, but how those policies are implemented, and provided me with necessary tools to avoid unintended consequences and understand what may be needed to make policy improvements." ~ Alum Brittany Weaver Matthews, '10, '15G (MPA)Learn More -
With MPA Alum Sharon Tarleton"My vision encompasses more diversity in organizational leadership throughout the state of New Hampshire as well as less duplication of services." ~(MPA) Alum Sharon Tarleton — Somersworth, NHLearn More
