Certified Public Manager ® Alumni

2025

*Proposal to Create a Middle Management Development Program for the Philadelphia Water Department by Jillian Simmons, Unit Director, Philadelphia Water Department

*Askew Award winner

Implementing Smart Meters to Change Operational Process at Lewisberry Borough Electric by Yvonne Allard, Lewisberry Borough Manager

Volunteer Fire Service Preservation through Consolidation and Coordination by Diane Garber, Assistant Manager/Emergency Services Coordinator, East Hempfield Township

Community Benefits Prompted by the Implementation of the New Location of the Lancaster Township Woody Waste Facility by Devin Groff, Public Works Superintendent, Lancaster Township

Reconstructing Behavioral Mortality: Integrating Psychological Autopsies and the  Behavioral Mortality Intelligence Platform for Prevention and Policy by Jeffrey Lange, Administrator, Delaware County Office of Medical Examiner

Strategic Planning for a Second-Class Township by Neil Lovekin, East Marlborough Township Manager

Leveraging Artificial Intelligence for Community-Specific Messaging by Anthony McLaughlin, Chief of Innovation and Effectiveness, Philadelphia Department of Behavioral Health and Intellectual Disability Services

Addressing Passive Leadership to Change Unfavorable Behaviors in an Organizational Culture Change Initiative by Col. Frank Shoaf, PAANG, Group Commander, PA Air National Guard

 

 

Purpose. This award, established in 1998, is given to acknowledge an exemplary capstone project, a vital component of each participant’s training. 

The award-winning project should demonstrate the following criteria:

• Be innovative in its approach
• Demonstrate an improvement in quality within the work unit as a result of the project
• Show cost savings if the result of the implementation of the project
• Be an outstanding demonstration of CPM principles
• For recognition of other significant contributions

The Askew Award was named in honor of George C. Askew due to his unwavering commitment to exceptional management practices. Mr. Askew was a constant leader in the Georgia CPM Society, serving as President on two separate occasions, Board Chair, and numerous other offices and committee chair positions over nearly two decades. He served as American Academy of Certified Public Managers President in 1992-1993 and is a recipient of the Henning Award for professional excellence in public service. 

"When I completed the Certified Public Manager® program, I walked away with a certificate, yes—but also with something far more powerful: a new lens through which I saw my work, my leadership, and my purpose in public service."

Christopher M. Slaymaker, CPM

Leacock Township Manager

 

“The CPM program has strengthened my professional credibility by enhancing my communication skills, encouraging innovation in problem-solving and providing insight into my personality strengths and weaknesses.” 

Neil Lovekin, CPM

East Marlborough Township Manager

 

“My skills, knowledge and abilities are very diverse. This credential allowed me to add a certification specifically associated with municipal government and public sector work to my tool belt. It filled a void that I didn’t realize existed.” 

Diane Garber, CPM

Assistant Township Manager/Emergency Services Coordinator, East Hempfield Township

The newly formed National CPM Alumni Society is a groundbreaking initiative that establishes a national registry of CPM graduates from across the country and outside our borders as well.  By creating this registry, we aim to strengthen the professional network of CPM graduates, provide opportunities for continued engagement, and highlight the collective contributions of our alumni to public service excellence.

This new Society provides a unifying platform to celebrate the achievements of our alumni, foster connections across state lines, and amplify the impact of the CPM program nationwide.  This society represents more than just a registry —it is a testament to the enduring impact of the CPM program and the remarkable individuals who have completed it. By connecting our alumni, we are building a vibrant network of leaders committed to excellence in public service. Together, we will create opportunities for collaboration, celebrate the achievements of our graduates, and amplify the influence of the CPM program on a national scale.

By joining the National CPM Alumni Society, you can:

• Be part of the only nationwide registry of CPM Alumni.
• Expand your professional network by connecting with fellow CPM alumni nationwide, offering opportunities for professional growth, collaboration, and the exchange of innovative ideas.
• Access exclusive resources and virtual professional events designed to support your ongoing leadership journey.
• Contribute to the CPM legacy by sharing your expertise and experiences with peers and future leaders.

A Lifetime Membership in the National CPM Alumni Society is $100. Click here to register or for more information.

Pennsylvania CPM Alumni: Please contact hope.schmids@millersville.edu for your CPM program code.