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Professor Gina Scutelnicu-Todoran, PhD, has dedicated her career to exploring the intersections of gender equity, social justice, and public administration. As a professor in �������’s Master of Public Administration (MPA) program and chair of the , she combines her research with real-world advocacy to drive meaningful change. In this conversation, she shares insights into her latest projects, her passion for mentoring students, and the impact of hosting NECoPA 2024 at �������.

A Passion for Equity and Public Service

For Scutelnicu-Todoran, the study of gender and social equity isn’t just academic—it’s personal. “My research sits at the intersection of balancing democratic values—like accountability, transparency, and equity—with economic values such as efficiency and effectiveness,” she explains. Her recent work examines how gender impacts faculty career trajectories in academia, culminating in her book, Managing Gender Inequity in Academia.

Through her research, she has uncovered unsettling patterns. “Women in academia often face higher tenure and promotion standards, particularly in the emotional labor of teaching and service, which is valued less in promotion decisions,” she notes. Additionally, she found that women’s research, particularly when it diverges from traditional public affairs topics, is cited less and their achievements are often overlooked. “Even those who break through into leadership roles often encounter the ‘glass cliff’—being placed in positions with limited resources and support,” she adds.

Research That Shapes Policy

Beyond academia, Scutelnicu-Todoran is using research to influence public policy. She is currently working on a grant-funded Hispanic Population Community Needs Assessment for Westchester County, New York. In collaboration with Rebecca Tekula, PhD, and Adrian Rivero, she is gathering data to help inform policy recommendations that address the specific needs of Hispanic residents. “Approximately one-third of Westchester County’s population is Hispanic,” she explains, “and this research will ensure that policy decisions are shaped by the voices of those directly impacted.”

Mentorship and Student Collaboration

Teaching and research go hand in hand for Scutelnicu-Todoran, and she actively involves students in her work. “I’ve mentored graduate students in presenting their research at conferences, co-authored publications with them, and advised on numerous master’s theses and doctoral dissertations,” she says. Her collaborative approach models lifelong learning and emphasizes the power of working together to solve complex problems.

Bringing NECoPA to �������

As the current chair of NECoPA, Scutelnicu-Todoran played a pivotal role in bringing the 2024 conference to �������’s New York City campus. “It was an opportunity to showcase our MPA program to peers from across the Northeast and beyond,” she says. The conference theme, Building a Flexible Public Service through Innovation and Collaboration, addressed the evolving challenges in public administration.

The event brought together approximately 120 attendees, including faculty, professionals, and graduate students. “Fourteen MPA students volunteered, and several presented research on issues ranging from social equity to the role of social media in government relations,” she shares with pride. “It was inspiring to see their work recognized in a professional setting.” Scutelnicu-Todoran also credits her MPA departmental colleagues and chair, who were very supportive and worked closely with her to navigate logistics and handle the last-minute surprises on the day of the event. She adds, “I am thankful to our Department Chair Rebecca Tekula, Adrian Rivero, Professor Tiffany Henley, Professor Steve Rolandi, and Professor Ric Kolenda for all their contributions to the conference.”

Looking Ahead

Professor Scutelnicu-Todoran remains driven by a deep commitment to public service. Whether shaping policy, mentoring students, or leading professional organizations, her focus remains on creating opportunities for meaningful change. As she looks to the future, she is excited about writing a second book, incorporating AI into her research and teaching, and perhaps even completing a 5K open water swim.

Her motivation? “My family, my students, and my belief in leading by example,” she says. “Researching gender inequity isn’t just a professional pursuit—it’s my lived experience. And I want to continue making a difference.”