Certified Public Manager ® Alumni
2026 Graduation
On August 18, 2026, a cohort of six talented public sector managers completed Pennsylvania's CPM program and received their nationally recognized designation as Certified Public Managers®. Interim Warden at George W. Hill Correctional Facility Jeffrey Lange, CPM reflected upon his experience in the 2025 CPM cohort and the opportunities it has opened for him. Millersville Borough Mayor Philip Lastowski, CPM instructors and program staff, colleagues, and family members were in attendance as Dr. Victor DeSantis, Vice President for University Relations & Strategic Initiatives, presented this nationally accredited credential to each student.
Graduation
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Capstone Projects
2026
*Fixing Route 611: A Traffic and Safety Plan for Pocono Township by Jerrod Belvin
*Askew Award winner
Township Manager, Pocono Township
Designing the Framework for a Citizens Academy in the County of Delaware by Danielle Floyd
Director of Public Works, County of Delaware
Creating Workflows and Digitizing Processes in Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP)
Software by Karen Gerhart
Borough Manager, Ephrata Borough
Proactive Solutions to a Public Parking Shortage in Atglen Borough by Cristi Hahn
Borough Manager, Atglen Borough
Proposal to Implement Rental Registration and Inspection Program by Jenna Reigle
Township Manager, West Earl Township
Aligning Municipal Services, Staffing, and Organizational Sustainability: A Service-Based Organizational Assessment for New Freedom Borough by Andrew Shaffer
Borough Manager, New Freedon Borough
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George C. Askew Award
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.
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Testimonials
"One of the biggest lessons I took away from CPM is that leadership isn't measured by what you accomplish while you're in the chair. It's measured by who is ready to take that seat when you're gone."Jeffrey Lange, CPM
Interim Warden, George W. Hill Correctional Facility
"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
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National CPM Alumni Society
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.